Pain is somewhat of a gift

 As I grow older, more and more I feel the pain of a lifetime of playing sports. Since I was five years old, all I remember is being in a gym, on a field or on a court playing some game or training for a team. It is a habit that I continue to this day . . . a good habit mind you . . . but nevertheless it comes with daily pain in one way or another. Arthritis, bursitis, sprains, strains, and bruises have become my daily reminders that I am still alive!

I often say that if I ever woke up or went to bed without some sort of ache, then I would know my time is up! However, the pain is somewhat of a gift. It reminds me that I need to communicate daily with God. I realize just how weak I am. It also reminds me that my pain in no way compares to the pain He suffered for me, as well as the pain I caused Jesus upon the cross! I therefore embrace the pain, but not without some extra strength Tylenol though! 😉

For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ. Now if we are afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effective for enduring the same sufferings which we also suffer. Or if we are comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation. And our hope for you is steadfast, because we know that as you are partakers of the sufferings, so also you will partake of the consolation. (2 Corinthians 1:5-7)