Rejoice and Weep

by
Charles Ligon

“Rejoice with those who rejoice and weep with those who weep” Romans 12:15

My family had reason to rejoice! My sweet daughter-in-law had graduated from law school, passed the bar exam and started a new job with a reputable law firm, all within a few months. The social media accolades were flowing, notes of congrats were mailed and parties were planned. We were all so proud of her and excited to expend a great amount of energy rejoicing in her success.

Christians love a party. We enjoy celebrating and rejoicing in the abundant blessings of God. In fact, our nature is to look for the party and to avoid unhappy people or depressing situations. I’ve heard it said “laugh and the world laughs with you; weep and you weep alone”. That’s sad! What should we do when a teammate is sad, hurting, suffering or weeping? What do we do when we learn that a colleague is feeling defeated or distraught over a wayward child? How about the employee who’s received an unfortunate medical diagnosis, has been abandoned by their spouse, loses their job, or worse, a family member? Do you hurt with them and share their burden? Truthfully, it is much easier to let someone else deal with it, isn’t it? We can walk the other way, avoid them altogether or, at a minimum, send an email reminding them of the chaplaincy or the employee assistance program.

But, the Apostle Paul says in Romans 12:15 that believers are to enter into both the joys and sorrows of others. The emphasis on weeping is equal to rejoicing. Rejoicing is easy but those who hurt need a shoulder, an ear, a friend to talk with and some encouragement. Will you be that person? Will you weep with your co-worker when they hurt?

Our workplace challenge is to weep with those who weep. Be willing to share their burden, walk with them through a crisis, give them encouragement or a shoulder to cry on. Don’t just run to the party but run to the fire. It may be uncomfortable but your presence will make it more bearable for the one who is in it. God wants to use you…so be available and be willing…it will make a huge difference in your workplace and will bring glory to the Lord