I read this quote today in morning prayer and it resonates in my soul:
"Perseverance, translated literally, means: remaining underneath, not throwing off the load, but bearing it. We know much too little in the church today about the peculiar blessing of bearing. Bearing, not shaking off; bearing, but not collapsing either; bearing as Christ bore the cross, remaining underneath, and there beneath it - to find Christ ... For remaining steadfast, remaining strong is meant here too; not weak acquiescence or surrender, not masochism, but growing stronger under the load, as under God's grace, imperturbably preserving the peace of God. God's peace is found with those who persevere."
- Dietrich Bonhoeffer, A Testament to Freedom
Imbedded in Christianity is a paradox. We are called to take up the cross as well as to cast all our cares upon Him, to bear one another's burdens as well as to be not worried or anxious. How do you find joy while "remaining underneath"?
