It’s a hard knock life

“I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” – John 14:18

Little orphan Annie has been a source of hope and inspiration to millions spanning across the world throughout time.  Ushering words of wisdom, hope, and good cheer, she reminds us that there is, indeed, another day. As we find ourselves living lives of struggle in the midst of a winter that never seems to end, we can learn from her simple, childlike faith. Let us recall how we were once orphans who were bought with a price and have been adopted into a royal family. We look to a better and brighter day when our trials will be a distant memory.

Ok, I don’t really write like that but I thought it would be fun. Let’s take a look at this story using scriptures:

Annie was looking to and longing for a better day: “Instead, they werelonging for a better country—a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he has prepared a city for them.” -Hebrews 11:16

Annie believed that this day would come: “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see… And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” – Hebrews 11:1-6

Annie took comfort in thinking about how good the future will be: “He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.” – Revelation 21:4

Annie had simple trust: “I tell you the truth, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” – Matthew 18:3

Annie brought joy to others despite her circumstances: “A cheerful heart is a good medicine.” – Proverbs 17:22

Annie was rescued: “I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you.” – John 14:18

Annie was adopted: “He predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will” – Ephesians 1:5

Annie was treated like royalty: “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are!” – 1 John 3:1

Someone (Jesus) cares a smidge if you’re in an orphanage. It’s a hardknock life, but that isn’t the complete story. Somehow, the hard knocks will be worth it in the end:

“Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirswith Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory. I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed.” – Romans 8:17-18

Oh, and when you got ready this morning, I hope you didn’t forget something. You’re never fully dressed without a smile 🙂

Category: Musings