Hear my prayer, Lord, listen to my cry for help; do not be deaf to my weeping. Psalm 39:12 NIV
 
A woman, who was a sinner, stood behind him at his feet, weeping, and began to bathe his feet with her tears and to dry them with her hair, kissing his feet and anointing them with the ointment. But Jesus said to the woman, "Your faith has saved you; go in peace." Luke 7:37-38, 50
 
One of the great gifts of being a Christian is knowing, no matter how deep the despair and sadness is, God is there and listens to every cry, even those from which we might feel there is no escape. 
 
There are the times when one sits at the bedside of a loved one who is dying. There are times when one is shocked at hearing of an unexpected tragedy happening to someone close. There may be a time when one's own guilt and remorse seem overwhelming. There are innocent citizens caught in the cross-hairs of war and conflict. There are natural disasters that bring havoc and destruction on whole communities. 
 
Where is God when such tragedies happen to his children? God knows all, sees all, and has experienced all that can plague anyone. His understanding is boundless. He provides the comfort and  forgiveness that assures each one of us, his beloved children, that we are his, that we are precious in his sight, and that we will be with him in the heavenly home he has prepared for us.
 
Dear Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,
Thank you that even though our eyes may be blurred with tears, we know that you listen to our cries for help. Thank you for your faithfulness and for answering our prayers. Although we are not worthy of your grace, we accept the grace only you can give. We trust in your love. Amen.
 
Florence Smallfield        
Ministries
Teaching Mission Party