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After a 71-year-old South Korean woman was
rescued during the tragic sinking of a ferry boat,
she struggled with survivor’s guilt.
From her hospital bed she said she couldn’t
understand how it could be right for her
to have lived through an accident that had taken
the lives of many who were so much younger.
She also regretted not knowing the name
of the young man who had pulled her out
of the water after she had given up hope.
Then she added, “I want to buy him a meal
at least, or hold his hand, or give him a hug.”
This woman’s heart for others reminds me of
the apostle Paul.
He was so concerned about his neighbors and
countrymen that he said he wished he could
trade his own relationship with Christ
for their rescue:
“I have great sorrow and continual grief
in my heart. For I could wish that I myself
were accursed from Christ for my brethren”
(Rom. 9:2-3).
Paul also expressed a deep sense of
personal gratitude. He knew
he didn’t understand the ways and
judgments of God (see vv.14-24).
So while doing everything he could
to proclaim the gospel to all,
he found peace and joy in trusting the heart
of a God who loves the whole world so much
more than we ever could. -Mart DeHaan |