Sorting is so demanding! I am in the middle of going through my possesions, getting ready to move, and at times it is overwhelming. There is so much to look at, and decisions to make about each item. I realise that I own too many things, and that I need to let many of them go. I know this process will have a good outcome, and that at the end of it I will feel lighter and more free- just not yet… 

So many times in life, we trust that one day things will get better, but we have to be patient meantime. The in between bit is the tough time. We can feel a bit like Job, when so much was taken from him- his family, his health, his livelihood. We just sit in the dust, pondering why our life turned out the way it did. Sometimes there are no easy answers. It seems important to he honest, when we ask why? So much is incomprehensible in this earthly life.

Another bible character that had many questions was Joseph. He was sold into slavery in Egypt, was thrown into prison for something he didn’t do, and for many years was estranged from his family. Yet God used Joseph to help many during a time of famine, and in the end in chapter 50 of Genesis, Joseph says to his brothers:                                                          ‘ You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good, to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.’

Joseph must have experienced times of resentment and anger at what his brothers had done, and the unfair way he was treated. Yet with God’s help, over many years,  he found it in his heart to forgive them. He didn’t let his heart grow bitter or hold a grudge. Later in his life, he had the opportunity to be reconciled with his family, and he rejoiced.

In life, we go through in between times- times of transition, letting go of the old and not quite sure what the new looks like. It can be unsettling and scary. I believe that Jesus sits with us in these messy uncertain times, and his presence brings consolation and hope. We are blessed, even when we understand very little. We trust that the best is yet to come.

Eternal Father, You are there at the beginning of our lives, and when we are ready to be reunited with You once more, You call us to be with You through the grace of Jesus Christ. We are so thankful that we can trust You for that amazing heavenly eternity.                                                  Meanwhile we live in the in-between, a time of messiness and confusion, questioning and loss. At times we just have to sit with it, to experience the heartbreak and pain. But this is only tempory. Holy Spirit speak to our hearts so even in times of turmoil, we can forgive, keep trusting, and can find peace. In Jesus’ name, Amen