Few things bring us joy quite like the return of a loved one from a long trip away or a reunion after years of separation. In a manner of speaking, it is much the same, if not better, when the sensible awareness of Christ’s presence returns following a season of his “apparent desertion” (Spurgeon). Continue reading . . . 

Few things bring us joy quite like the return of a loved one from a long trip away or a reunion after years of separation. In a manner of speaking, it is much the same, if not better, when the sensible awareness of Christ’s presence returns following a season of his “apparent desertion” (Spurgeon). Consider this:

“A temporary withdrawal endears Christ to us upon his return, and gives the soul some idea of the infinite value of his smile. Constant enjoyment of any good thing is too much for our corrupt natures. Israel loathed the angel’s food, and sighed for the meaner fare of Egypt – the garlic and the onions; but if the manna had been stayed, how eagerly would they have clamored for its restoration!” (8)

It’s important to remember that Spurgeon has in view our experience now, on this earth, while we yet live in “our corrupt natures.” When we are finally glorified and set free from all corruption, there will never be a moment when there will be too much of God, too much joy, too much of the sensible awareness of his presence, too much happiness, too much of every good thing he is pleased to bestow. But now, in this life, it is on occasion another matter. He continues:

“When rain falls in its needed season we scarcely stay to return thanks for the boon; but if it be withheld, how do we bless the drops and thank the God of heaven for them. Sunlight is never more grateful than after a long watch in the midnight blackness; Christ’s presence is never more acceptable than after a time of weeping, on account of his departure. It is a sad thing that we should need to lose our mercies to teach us to be grateful for them; let us mourn over this crookedness of our nature; and let us strive to express our thankfulness for mercies, so that we may not have to lament their removal. Let us deal courteously, tenderly, obediently, and affectionately, with our glorious Lord, and it may be we shall reign him as a constant guest” (8).

You may perhaps be in a season where the only thing of which you are sensibly aware is Christ’s absence. Don’t despair! It will not last! Be strengthened and encouraged and have your hope reinforced as you recall that “Christ’s presence is never more acceptable than after a time of weeping, on account of his departure.” However prolonged or intense this season may seem, the apostle reminds us that it is but a “light momentary affliction” that is “preparing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison” (2 Cor. 4:17).