We know that when this earthly tent we live in is taken down
(that is, when we die and leave this earthly body), we will have a house in heaven, an eternal body made for us by God himself and not by human hands. We grow weary in our present bodies, and we long to put on our heavenly bodies like new clothing. 2 Cor. 5:1-2 (NLT)
Heavenly Father, many of my friends are dealing with health issues, body aches, and hard-to-diagnose maladies. These things lead us to fear, sadness, anger… and you.
Thank you for the gift of lament, Father. If we’re unwilling to grieve our losses before you, our compassion for others gets significantly stunted. Rather than succumbing to self-pity, denial, or “snake-oil,” may our weaknesses tune our hearts to trust you, and care for others in their struggles.
Indeed, an eternity of perfect health is looking better and better, Father. Our healing will be complete, and never again will we experience sickness and pain in any form. No more cancer or allergies, joint replacements or runny noses; no more “gut” issues or heart disease; no more memory loss or even hiccups.
We are grateful Jesus’ first advent secured, not only the perfection of our spirits, but also the resurrection of our bodies. We groan now, but will be whole forever. These “light and momentary troubles” are incredibly inconvenient and bothersome, Father, but our rejoicing will be loud and eternal. Hallelujah!
Until that Day, we will seek to take care of ourselves, and trust you for healing and health. And we praise you for those who serve us in health-care callings. May we get to know you better as the “Father of mercies and God of all comfort.” By the power of the Gospel, help us be the kind of friends from whom the weak and weary find understanding and encouragement. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ tender and triumphant name.
