After the Struggle

Bible Reading: Romans 5:3-5

“Nearly there, Liam,” Dad said one glorious Saturday morning as they climbed up the steep hill toward Redcap Park.

Liam followed Dad, treading carefully. They had been walking a few miles uphill already. “How much is nearly there?” he huffed as he took a sip of water.

“Not long,” said Dad. “Like most things, it will be worth it after the struggle.”

Both of them trudged on, humming as they came toward the hilltop. It looked like the path was going to disappear completely into the clouds, but instead they reached the beautiful park nestled on the opposite side of the hill.

For a moment, Liam simply stared, unable to speak.

“So, what do you think?” asked Dad.

“I—I don’t know what to say,” Liam whispered. “It’s breathtaking. I can hardly

believe this place is hidden here.” He took a deep breath. “Mom would have loved it.” There were only a handful of people around. After admiring the view that looked down upon the town, a distant speck in the distance, they sat down and ate their delicious feast. The air was pure and peaceful.

“Amazing, isn’t it?” Dad said. “The perfect place to come if you feel weighed down by worries or need to get some perspective on life. It’s a long, uphill trek to get here, but it’s worth it.” He looked at Liam. “It’s a bit like what Jesus promises. He tells us life as a Christian might not be easy, but if we stick with Him, it will be worth it. He will be with us and guide us through every hardship.”

Dad put a hand on Liam’s shoulder. “It hasn’t been easy for either of us these last few months without Mom, but Jesus will help us through this. Your mom had a long struggle too with her illness. We miss her, but she’s with Jesus now, and one day we’ll be together with Him in a place even more beautiful than this.”

Liam blinked back tears as they ate the rest of the picnic and soaked in the silence.

Later on, it was time to leave. As they walked back down the hill, Liam knew he would never forget what he had seen. A beautiful place, after the struggle. • CINDY LEE

How About You?

Are you facing a painful situation in your life? Do you feel stressed or anxious about the future? The path Christians follow can have many trials along the way, but we never walk that path alone. Stay focused on Jesus and trust Him to lead the way. He will bring you strength, hope, and joy during challenging times, and when you finally see Him face-to-face, it will all be worth it.

Today’s Key Verse:
Romans 8:18 What we suffer now is nothing compared to the glory he will reveal to us later. (NLT)

Today’s Key Thought:

Jesus brings hope