Those who sow in tears will reap with songs of joy. He who goes out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with him. Psalm 126:5-6
(As I offer this prayer for a friend of mine this morning, think of someone(s) you know in a similar situation. Let’s bring our entrapped friends to Jesus, and hang in with them.)
Gracious Jesus, I’m a grieving weepy man this morning. It’s not the first time and it won’t be the last time I get word of a hard fall… of a friend being “caught” (Gal. 6:1) and “entangled” (Heb. 12:1) in the short-lived pleasures of sin (Heb 11:25).
As I pray for my friend, I offer my tears like seeds of hope. If I only think about him, I get mad… then I get self-righteous… then I don’t want anything to do with him. This isn’t the first time he’s acted out destructively. But because of the gospel, I will trust you for a harvest and “sheaves” of a restored life. May we all get to sing songs of joy in response to what you will do in his life.
What my friend did is serious… and he knows and owns it, with brokenness and pained contrition. But what happens next is equally serious. Jesus, he loves you, no one doubts that. But his affection for you is miniscule compared to your love for him. As some would take up stones to harm him, speak these words to him… “Who is it than condemns you? Go and sin no more.”
Help my friend survey your wondrous cross, upon which you, the Prince of Glory died for rebels, fools and idolaters… just like me and just like him. As the accuser of the brethren screams condemnation, may the cross drown out those damning indictments with its louder boast, “You are fully and eternally accepted in the Beloved!” “Jesus became sin for you that in him you might become the righteousness of God!” (2 Cor. 5:21)
Surround him with those who understand the difference the gospel makes in the face of failure, betrayal and addiction. Raise up “spiritual” men and women who understand the ways of gentle restoration (Gal. 6:1) and the return journey to gospel-sanity. Secure him in the counseling, pastoring and community he will need. Show us, his friends, how to love up close and afar.
Jesus, grant my friend deep repentance—a repentance which will result in the fruit grace alone can produce. Keep him humble, teachable and patient in the coming days. So very Amen, I pray, in your tender and tenacious name.