Webster Miriam dictionary describe Misery as this:
. a state of suffering and want that is the result of poverty or affliction
. a circumstance, thing, or place that causes suffering or discomfort
. a state of great unhappiness and emotional distress
Misery is also a small village in France!
While we may voluntarily visit a small French village, usually misery is not a favourite place or condition for anyone. We do not usually choose to be miserable. But yet misery is a place that many people visit on and off for various reasons. Even Jesus experienced misery. Think of Jesus’ state of mind when face on the ground he prayed to his Father: My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Yet not as I will, but as you will. What might he be thinking and experiencing at the time?
Many people live miserable lives under miserable circumstances. For most parts we cover it well – it’s not a fashionable space to be: “Down on misery farm”. As children our misery is often more visible. As we grow older we develop disguises for the misery we experience. It could be said that sin causes misery – our own sin and the sin of others. But is there a way beyond misery?
Antidotes to misery include truth, forgiveness and love (among other things). They all have their source in the love of God through our Saviour Jesus. Ironically, Jesus’ own misery at the cross finally proves to be the loving action of our God that can lift us all out of misery into life and light.
Shining that same light of God’s love into the lives of lost and miserable people can bring them back to life.
