I loved the book “Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day” by Judith Viorst.

It is the story of all the bad things that happen in Alexanders day that children find humorous because everything that happens to poor Alexander is relatable and relevant to the reader's life.

Have you ever wondered why bad things happen in our lives?

A year ago I had to take the sad journey to the vet with our beloved pet dog Kasey.  She had been with us for 15 years as part of the family.  It was one of the hardest experiences I have faced.  The vet suggested it was in her best interest to be put to sleep.  I would go as far as to say that I suffered deeply at her passing.  Why?  Why do bad things happen to good people?

This week I came across a text that I now view in a different light. 

The text is found in Corinthians 1:3-4.

“All praise to God and the Father of our Master, Jesus the Messiah! Father of all mercy! God of all healing and counsel! He comes alongside us when we go through hard times, and before you know it, he brings us alongside someone else who is going through hard times so that we can be there for that person just as God was there for us.  We have plenty of hard times that come from following the Messiah, but no more so than the good times of his healing comfort- we get a full measure of that, too.” The Message Bible.

This text shows me that the hard times I have experienced provides a way that I can be there for others and comfort as God showed comfort to me.  Will others be able to see the reflection of God through the way I serve when they are hurting? I hope so.

Chaplain Phil