This commandment given to the people of Israel spurs them to remember, to be compassionate, and to live accordingly. They were told not to oppress a sojourner because they were once sojourners in the land of Egypt.
They were mistreated and abused as sojourners.
They know what it is like to be strangers in a foreign land.
They know what it’s like to fear for their safety.
They know what it’s like to not belong.
Their Father God calls them to remember this as they establish a home in a land of their own.
This compassionate remembering translates to everyone who has survived a time of intense struggle.
In dealing with those who are currently in the trenches of that struggle, the one who has survived it has an obligation to remember and act with compassion.
I remember when I was struggling as a first time mom of twins. I was living in constant doubt and frustration. They didn’t follow the “schedule” and I blamed myself. I saw other moms and couldn’t understand how they did it. All I wanted was for someone to come alongside me, remembering their past struggles, instead of glossing over them.
As I look back at my own life, there are many struggles that I have survived.
I have survived the fear that comes with premature birth.
I have survived multiple deployments as an Army wife.
I have survived living a life filled with depression and anxiety.
To those who are currently living in these struggles…I have been there and I remember.
I remember the tears, the fears, the sleepless nights, the despair, the loneliness, the unanswered questions…I remember it all.
There is a tendency, a desire, to forget our struggles as we move on from them.
This is a tendency that we must fight and avoid at all costs.
There’s no help in forgetting.
As I reflect on this, I am reminded that there is a higher purpose to my struggles.
To those who are in those same struggles now, I will share my story.
I will reveal that I know their heart.
I will treat them with extra compassion and care for I have been where they are.
Have you survived a time of intense struggle?
I would challenge you to remember that time as you encounter others who are living it now. Remember it and treat them with compassion. Be the encouragement that they need. Reveal to them that you know there heart for you were once there yourself.
Are you living in a time of struggle right now?
Take comfort in knowing that others have been right where you are. They have survived and you will too. Seek out those that will remember and will be with you in the struggle and will compassionately care for you.
teresa says
MONICA!
This really spoke to my heart today. I have survived struggles many times and if I allow God to use it for good I come out stronger. I love your blog. I love the pictures of your beautiful family. Thank you for sharing. I pray for you and appreciate your husbands service to our country.
Teresa
Kristen says
GREAT post! And wonderful blog! 🙂