A Cry in the Night

Late last night I got an unexpected phone call. As I'm about to settle in for bed, my plans were interrupted. At first? A total inconvenience. Then I realized that God's hand was in this surprising call. Now I'm not going to divulge their identity but let's just say the person has been on my heart and in my prayers for many years.

The caller didn't originally phone to talk to me but, after a minute, began to talk to me anyway. Out came the baggage, the dirty laundry....and tears. Years of drugs, alcohol, lawlessness and rebellion and this was the result. It amazes me how so many waste their lives living for the very things that destroy their homes, families, and bodies. They hate their addictions, yet cling to them with every ounce of strength they posses. For nearly an hour, I listened as the caller told of their demons, their "burdens." I listened as I heard the statement: I've done so many horrible things.

And my heart broke.

After giving this person truth, offering them true hope - Jesus Christ - this remark was made: It's too late for me. I can't think of anything more heartbreaking than in hearing a soul who needs Jesus say that there is no longer hope for them. There is always hope!!!! There is grace, love, healing, mercy, FORGIVENESS! It's all right there! But the devil, once again, dishes out the lie that it's too late.

There are so many more just like the caller last night. There are those, and maybe you know some of them, who are in the darkness...and they are crying. There are tears of shame, regret, loss and pain, and there are tears of hopelessness.

Lord, let us be a light that shines out in the darkness. Let us have ears to hear their cry and hands to reach out to them.

Those of you reading, join me in prayer for this person, and for the millions more who are in the same position.