If there’s one biblical character that should inspire in this difficult year, even more than the words and example of Jesus Christ, it is Job.
An instrumental figure not just in Christianity but also in Judaism and Islam, Job is so relevant in this year of pandemic and civil strife.
For those who have forgotten, his story is a simple one. Blessed with good fortune, Job’s faith is tested when he loses everything – his wealth, his family and his health – and is left to beg in the streets.
He does not blame others for his downfall and he does not blame God. Rather, he blames himself, imploring God to grant him the wisdom to see the error of his ways and become a better servant, to others and to God.
It is hard for any of us to be like Job.
Perhaps now more than ever before, it is easier to blame others – people and events – for our troubles than to look in the mirror. Both sides of the divide in the increased polarization of political and social issues blame the other for society’s ills, rather than examine their own faults for opportunities to improve.
Worse, there seems to be a shrinking effort made to follow both the Golden Rule (do unto others…) and the Silver Rule (do not do unto others…).
And worst of all, the Job story has been twisted to mean that if you’re suffering, it’s entirely your own fault and no one is under any obligation to help because they’re too busy dealing with their own adversity.
Actually, the Book of Job wrestles with why there is evil in the world and, at the individual level, why bad things happen to good people and vice versa.
In the case of Job, it’s about not letting personal circumstances dictate who we are, how we behave and how we see ourselves and others. Good fortune should not lead to entitlement and selfishness and misfortune should not breed resentment and self-loathing. No matter what, we should always adhere to loving our neighbour as ourselves because that commitment makes for better, happier communities, families and residents.
Furthermore, it builds resilience coping with life’s misfortunes and fosters greater appreciation of life’s blessings.
A baby born in a barn that grew up to change the world is inspiring and heart-warming but we must also recognize the suffering in our midst.
Our hospitals are full of people, not just those with COVID-19, separated from friends and family. Our shelters are also full of people coping with trauma, addictions and mental health issues.
Although God eventually lifted Job up, Job had no way of knowing when – or if – God would hear his pleas.
As Job’s example teaches us, good fortune is flimsy and fickle, offering little protection from misfortune.
Whether you are a person of faith or not, the core challenge of a virtuous life is clear – regardless of our blessings and our burdens, we must always strive to embrace love, grace and forgiveness over hate, fear and anger.
Let that be our light in days dark or bright.
Peace on Earth.
Good will to all.
