A Promise of Hope for When We Hurt

And then He speaks words that infuse hope: “This is a painful process, but I am at work. Trust Me. Plant the seed, and a joyful harvest will come.”

As Christmas approaches, I’m doing all the necessary things—checking off the gift list, planning our holiday menu, and preparing our house for overnight guests and for a couple of parties with friends and neighbours. I’m even making more time this year than in the past to attend various Christmas productions to help keep me focused on the reason for the season.

My heart feels heavy

But—in the midst of celebration—my heart feels heavy. A relationship I’ve held precious for a decade has changed, and I don’t know how to get it back. I’ve prayed, cried, talked with the people involved, sought forgiveness for my role, tried to give space while at the same time trying to build a bridge, but the pain remains.

Jesus—the One we celebrate this season—bears the name “Wonderful Counselor.” And so, I pour out my heart to Him. Like the psalmist, I cry,

“Restore our fortunes, LORD, as streams renew the desert” (Psalm 126:4 NLT).

My Wonderful Counselor responds with these words:

“Those who plant in tears will harvest with shouts of joy. They weep as they go to plant their seed, but they sing as they return with the harvest” (Psalm 126:5-6).

What seeds to plant?

I ask, “What seeds am I to plant?”

He answers, “Love demonstrated in action and attitude. Kind words. Words of truth spoken in gentleness. An ear to listen without becoming defensive. And patience.”

And then He speaks words that infuse hope: “This is a painful process, but I am at work. Trust Me. Plant the seed, and a joyful harvest will come.”

Maybe you can relate. Your circumstances might not be the same as mine, but you’re facing a difficult situation that leaves you heavy-hearted at the very least. You’re crying for restoration, too. For streams to flood the desert and bring renewed life and vision and energy and hope.

Plant the seed, my friend

Weep as you sow seeds of love, faithfulness, patience, and prayer. Add seeds of worship and praise. And know that God will replace your weeping with a song of joy when the harvest comes.

That harvest might look different than what you anticipate and it might appear later than you wish, but it will come. And you will sing again.

Know you are loved,

Grace