40 Days of Lent: Day 17

40 Days of Lent: Day 17

It can be easy to show it when we’re happy. We often cannot wait to speak about why we are feeling so. And in most instances, the light in our eyes, the smile on our lips and the little bounce to our step may be difficult to hide. Given this usual reality to happiness, when was the last time you expressed its opposite of being sad?

Perhaps there is discomfort in admitting sadness. Like many of the negative emotions we feel, we may find ourself wanting to deny it or skip over it. And it is understandable especially if the reason weighs heavily on us or it seems that we do not have control over the situation. But sadness, like any other feeling, is something that we should not deny. In fact, it is healthier that we allow ourself to go through its experience, acknowledging and honoring how we are.

God felt deeply sad about our condition of sin that Jesus was sent to be with us. Christ in his passion surely knew sadness because of pain and betrayal. So this feeling is not something foreign to our Lord. This gives us reason to openly express it, especially to our Creator. What brings you sadness these days? What weighs heavily on your heart? What clouds your day? Be assured that when you approach our God with these, you have a parent, a friend and a companion who listens without judgment and who loves you unconditionally even with your tears, scars and hurts. While our Greatest Consoler wants us to be happy, He remains close and embraces us tightly when we are sad. ​​​​​​