It is never easy to deal with the challenges that come our way during the course of our lives. Sometimes we see them as rude intrusions or we may see them as unfortunate distractions. Of course we see them as less than ideal. However, the afflictions of life happen due to the broken nature of our world and ourselves. They usually come uninvited and stay longer than expected. As soon as they leave, there is another one close on its heals. Some are large, some are medium and others are small. Jesus understood this reality as He told us that in this world we would have troubles, afflictions and tribulations. In fact, He endured more than His share. On the other hand, there is something inside us that suggests to us that the challenges, the troubles, the afflictions and the tribulations are not the final nor defining element of life. We usually end up hoping that ‘things will work out.’ We seem to think that there is some reason why we ought to stand strong in the face of the difficulties.
One of the most compelling events of ancient times that illustrates the ability to stand strong in the midst of affliction is the life of Daniel. He, along with many of his countrymen, experienced profound upheaval in their lives. They faced amazing pressure to be conformed to a foreign culture and value system; a culture and value system that was in many ways diametrically opposed to their own. It had to be a very difficult season for Daniel, his comrades and the rest of his community. In the midst of all this, Jesus’s words sound helpful. He said that rather than living in despair, we can be hopeful because He has overcome the system in this world of destruction, disappointment, disruption and incongruity. Somehow there is hope beyond the circumstances. And when there is hope we can find strength to stand strong.
During the next six weeks, we are going to take a look at a portion of life of Daniel, his close friends and the people who aimed to transform him into a well functioning Babylonian. Daniel had a different agenda and vision for his life. The result is fascinating.
See you soon,
Kevin