Hope for the Hopeless

Rejoice with those who rejoice, and weep with those who weep. Romans 12:15 This verse, in the context of the chapter where it's found, is full of wisdom designed to call Christians to be a people set apart--living differently from the rest of the world.  We are to be a people of compassion and conviction, blessing even those who curse us.  But, this verse has often confused me when it comes to dealing with a loved one who suffers from depression.  How are we called to react to an individual whose season of weeping is deep and prolonged?  When the sadness doesn't ease, and joy seems out of reach, I don't believe it is our duty to join them in the pool of despair.   I have had times of pain, anger and frustration.  But, in all honesty, I have never really had to "suffer".  I haven't buried a child or parent.  We haven't had cancer or other potentially terminal diagnosis hit our home.  I know the Lord has spared me from troubles beyond what I can bare.  However, I'm not ignorant in thinking that we are somehow immune from the potential of great pain.   Does the absence of a horrifically tragic experience in my own life cause me to lack sympathy for those walking through the fire?  I don't think so.  My heart breaks with those whose hurt is so deep that it brings them to their knees.  But if I'm not careful, I can be swept up in the torrent of grief and forget the ultimate truth (and promise) of hope. I often get desperate for the Lord to fix the hearts, minds and spirits of those that are stuck in this cycle of depression.  This blog is in no way intending to address the issue of clinical depression, medication, or medical intervention.  Rather, it's more of a contemplation of what my role is to be as I stand by and watch those I love fight (or give up) in the midst of it. While I was working on this blog, my daughter came in to share with me the fact that Pluto's year is equivalent of 248 Earth years. That makes for some very long seasons on the Dwarf Planet!  But, it struck me as an appropriate picture for this very issue.  Our seasons in life are all unique.  Some cycle through them quickly while other have years before something else crosses the horizon.  Unfortunately, that is how if often goes for those in depression.  It is a long, hard road to travel and can takes years for any relief to come into view. So, rather then immerse myself into their grief, I have to stand firm on the Word of the Lord and remind them, and myself of the hope we have.  If you are in the company of someone who is in a long season of grief, don't give in and don't give up.  Drench yourself in the truth and remember that we are called to be a peculiar people.  You and I Do have a hope to offer and a role to play. Romans 12:10-12  (NASB) 10 Be devoted to one another in brotherly love; give preference to one another in honor; 11 not lagging behind in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer