I remember wondering if there would be a way to write joy and pain in the same space. It was important to me because I was teaching a course called “Love that Heals.” We were learning about suffering and exploring how joy can be embraced even when pain is unrelenting.

I called our graphic artist and asked her to write joy and pain in the same space. The logo above is what she produced for me. I have used it extensively for the past 25 years.

A couple of weeks ago this same artist stepped back into my life and asked me to pray with her. As I listened to her I heard a heartbreaking personal story. Then, though her eyes were moist, she broke into a hearty laugh that was easily recognized as hers.

In reflection, I realize this friend not only wrote this graphic but also is living it.

She wrote this paragraph in a follow up email, “By God’s Amazing Grace, my trust in Him is as strong & sure as it has ever been, so indeed “It is Well with My Soul.””

This morning, I was reading about how David stood up to the Giant (they have that in a Big “G” in the Bible, you know)…with five smooth stones (four of which were unnecessary–I think for Goliath’s brothers…or whomever, in case they caused trouble) and a stick…AND a BIG–HUGE! GOD on his side. So there! Because of that…. I am choosing to see the cup as half full. Stay tuned to learn what God will do!

How does faith through aging eyes create a space for both joy and pain?