Does Jesus Care?

Does Jesus Care?

Merry Christmas!  Happy New Year! What a joyous time of the year—carols and gifts and family and food and laughter!  That is the popular representation of Christmas, but Christmas is not a joyous time for everyone.  For some Christmas is a time to dread—a time of family tension and strife, a time when the lights and music bring painful memories, perhaps of loved ones now in heaven, perhaps of those estranged and far from home, a grandchild missing, a weight of caregiving, a financial crisis, bills unpaid.  What if Christmas is angry words, misunderstandings, racking sobs, swollen eyes, sleepless nights?  What if it’s even fear, violence, suspicion?  What if it is loneliness?   

For many this is the real picture of Christmas.  But no one wants to admit to a scenario like this.   Sometimes it’s the hidden secret.  Put on a happy face!  For those who claim the name of Christ these scenarios may even carry a weight of shame. How can this be happening in my family?  This doesn’t happen in good Christian families.  The question is, ”Does anyone care? Does Jesus even care?”  The answer is “Yes!”

              Does Jesus care when my heart is pained too deeply for mirth and song;

              As the burdens press, and the cares distress, and the way grows weary and long?

              Does Jesus care when my way is dark with a nameless dread and fear? 

              As the daylight fades into deep night shades, does He care enough to be near?

              Does Jesus care when I’ve tried and failed to resist some temptation strong;

              When for my deep grief I find not relief, tho my tears flow all the night long?

              Does Jesus care when I’ve said goodbye to the dearest on earth to me,

              And my sad heart aches till it nearly breaks—Is it aught to Him?  Does He see?

              O yes, He cares—I know He cares!  His heart is touched with my grief;

              When the days are weary, the long nights dreary, I know my Savior cares.

           

            When life is a burden, when troubles come, the God who is identified as Jehovah Rapha, the God who heals, is there.  He is the God who comes with healing in His wings.  Oh, yes!  I know my Savior cares.

                                                                        ~~Faith Himes Lamb

Mark Lowry singing "Does Jesus Care?/God Will Take Care of You"