Readings for today: Job 14-17
We live in a world of hot takes. Harsh critique. Where everyone seems to be in a rush to judgment. We do not listen well. We do not seek to understand. In some circles, I’m even starting to see a rejection of empathy. It’s crazy to me and it reminds me of Job’s friends. They start so well. When they hear of all the tragic events of Job’s life, they rush to be with him. For seven days they sit with him in the ashes and dust of his life. They are quiet. Silent. Letting Job grieve. Letting Job weep. But when Job starts to process his grief, they can’t help themselves. They feel compelled to respond. To defend God. To correct Job. And their words are such small comfort.
“I have heard many things like these before. What miserable comforters are you all! Will there be an end to your windy words? Or what provokes you that you answer? I also could speak like you, if you were in my place; I could pile up words against you and I could shake my head at you. But I would strengthen you with my words; comfort from my lips would bring you relief.” (Job 16:2-5 NET)
Job’s not looking for theological answers. Job’s not looking for an intellectual discussion about the nature of sin and suffering. Job already knows these things. He is well-versed in his understanding of humanity’s relationship with God. He’s under no illusion as to his place in God’s universe. In his grief and pain and heartbreak, he simply is crying out to God. He’s asking for an audience with His Lord, the God he has served faithfully his entire life. Rather than arguing with him, what Job needs from his friends is encouragement. Comfort. Empathy. He needs his friends to come alongside him and listen to him and love him rather than correct him.
I don’t know about you but the last thing I need when I am hurting is unwanted and unasked for advice. The last thing I need when I am suffering is someone to try to tell me how to feel or how to think. The last thing I need when I am in pain is someone trying to rob of my right to my feelings. I just need someone to listen. I just need someone to sit with me in dust and ashes. I just need someone to let me know they love me. Interestingly enough, when God finally shows up at the end of the Book of Job, He doesn’t offer many answers. His presence is all the comfort Job needs.
Readings for tomorrow: Job 18-21