Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. — Romans 12:15.
Today’s scripture reminds me of the song by the Byrds — Turn, Turn, Turn. The lyrics come from Ecclesiastes and the song was actually written by Pete Seeger. But today’s verse reminds me of the lyric — “A time to laugh, a time to weep.”
St. Paul reminds us of one of the greatest gifts of the human condition — presence. We are called to be with our neighbors whether the times are good or bad.
When I hear the lyric I’m reminded of my mother’s generation. Whenever, one of her friends was in the hospital a group would assemble in the waiting room. They would sit quietly, perhaps knitting or talking in hushed voices, but it was important for them to be present showing their support. Being a friend meant laughing during the good times, but weeping with the friend when times weren’t so good. The word “with” was the key.
Now days people don’t sit as much in hospitals due to COVID and that’s okay. But we need to remember to find other ways to be “with” our friends in good times and in bad.
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