But it Hurts - by Bec Bonython

Recently, I have been fearing a visit to the dentist. The last time I went my mouth hurt for days, I couldn't eat, and so it has really put me off my next visit. My dentist has been asking me to make an appointment and I have been actively avoiding it. It was a welcome relief when Covid came along and I was able to reschedule to 'another time'. When I go to my next appointment, I just know it is going to hurt. I don't want to have that pain, and it is going to be tough and unpleasant.

I think we all have a tendency to shy away from pain. No-one likes it. It’s not something we put our hand up and say with excitement “pick me”! But often it is for our own good. As they say (whoever ‘they’ is!!) - no pain, no gain. To journey through a rough patch or to have some discomfort or an unpleasant repercussion in our conversations because of our convictions and integrity teaches us and grows us more than we realise. In my heart I know that I will benefit from going to the dentist because it will prevent future and unnecessary drastic suffering, but it’s gotta get from my heart to my head…

John 17:1 says “Father the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you.”

In those hours leading up to his death, Jesus knew what was going to come next. He knew He was going to experience such agony, excruciating suffering and pain. He knew it was going to cause Him separation from His Father. Jesus knew – no pain, no glory. Yet He didn't try to reschedule. He didn't delay or use any stalling tactics. He didn’t blame Covid. He just knew His time and purpose had come. Though the pain and agony was upon Him, He was resolute as He continued His journey to the cross. What was in His heart to do was also in His head. The greater purpose of glorifying His Father was the goal… the purpose… It was more important than any pain or suffering He would bear. His pain had eternal glory.
How awesome God is!

My challenge is to ask ourselves, when God asks us to so something and we know there may be some anticipated pain or discomfort involved, what is our response? Do we try to delay or stall, or are we resolute in our purpose; in the pursuit of glorifying God no matter what?

I guess I’d better go and make that dentist appointment.