"Record my misery; put my tears in your wineskin.”

                                                            Psalm 56:8

Archeologists digging in the region of the world where most of the Old Testament stories took place have discovered small vials from that time. The vials are made of glass, some are very simple, and some are quite ornate. They all, however, seem to have served the same purpose.  

The top of the vial is shaped like a trumpet and that was used to collect tears. A person weeping would hold the vial to his or her cheek and guide the tear into the bottle. Then they would put some type of stopper in the bottle and preserve the tears. For the rest of their lives, that vial which held tears served as a memorial of the trial they endured, or the person they mourned who had passed away.

Tears are a part of life. We cry joyous tears when we are overwhelmed with emotion and love. We cry painful tears when our souls hurt. We cry when we are anxious, when we fear, when we doubt, and when we celebrate. Tears are an expression of a strong emotion that come whether we want them to or not. Very often, when I see tears, I realize God is cleansing someone’s soul from the pain and hurt life has caused.

The beauty of tears is that they free us to let go of pain and sorrow, and hopefully look toward a new day. David knew this when he wrote that weeping may endure for a night, but joy will come in the morning.

Never be ashamed of your tears or the need to shed them. Grieve for all that hurts, and let God turn that grief into a new day of hope by sharing your pain with Him.

"Father, Prayer.  In Jesus' name, AMEN."

Grace,

Rev. Dan

“Today’s Thought by Rev. Dan” Daily Devotional will be on vacation through Labor Day weekend. I’ll look forward to getting back together here again in September.