Well, dad, you do know pain has its purpose.

Rachel Meeks Tyler

The words from my daughter rang loud and clear last week. As we reflected on the seemingly unending parade of life’s challenges, her reminder was much like a bucket of cold water in my face. Indeed, pain has purpose. In addition to its contra-positional value to comfort, pain (in its basic form) is a reminder that something is not right. While maybe not appreciated at the time, the awareness of pain can be life-saving. It is an alert that all is not well. Something is off.

Still, awareness of the presence of pain is not enough; it requires a response.

This holds true physically as well as spiritually.

While the Psalms are filled with incredible praise, there are plenty expressions of pain. What I’ve come to appreciate is the honest expression is coupled with an awareness of the One that is able to address pain’s causes. Sometimes circumstances, sometimes others, frequently me. 

Well, dad, you do know pain has its purpose.

Categories: Acts17seventeen

Pastor Mark

Mark, the eighth of nine children born to Reuben and Henrietta Meeks—dedicated church planters with nearly 30 congregations established across California’s Central Valley—is a preacher's kid who grew up immersed in faith and service. With over forty years of experience teaching, discipling, and ministering to communities, including the hospitalized and incarcerated, Mark responded to God's call to pastoral ministry. He holds degrees in civil engineering and public administration, as well as a Master’s in Theology from Fuller Seminary, equipping him to serve with both practical insight and spiritual depth.