For this light momentary affliction

is preparing for us

an eternal weight of glory

beyond all comparison,

as we look not

to the things that are seen

but to the things

       that are unseen.

          2 Corinthians 4. 17-18

(What we are suffering

           is not random at all

but is used powerfully

   for God's profound purposes.

More than we can ever know,

                      God redeems.

If what is visible astounds us

by the grandeur of the Almighty,

how can we ever

       comprehend His glory

in what is now invisible?)

O LORD,

We are powerless to know

what You are doing,

how You are redeeming this

       for Your deep purposes.

But we can be assured

You have surrounded us

       by Your love

and that You redeem all things,

even that which we

        can never comprehend.

Please help us

  to find our strength in You

and to be faithful

       all the way through.

Help others to see

          the reality of You

   in our lives.