As I write this, the sunny sky is darkening. Yes, it’s the solar eclipse moment of Aug. 21. I’m glad to live in an age when scientists predicted it, and I knew what to expect to see when and where — with a welding helmet from the shop.

This eclipse didn’t change our daily activities. The cows got milked, the barn cleaned and the hay mowed.

Another solar eclipse comes to mind as recorded in Luke 23:44. When Jesus was crucified, “… darkness fell across the whole land until three o’clock.” Imagine being a follower of Jesus and having this happen at the same time your teacher, friend and Lord was being crucified. But returning from the dead, he turned their spiritual lights onto high beam.

Imagine suddenly going blind — darkness all around. Many live with these and other afflictions all the time. We all have afflictions and trials on the farm, in our families, at church or in community groups. Yet, all our trials dim when we remember that one glorious day we’ll see Jesus. We gladly serve as we wait upon the Lord.

Why we never give up
The Bible’s 2 Corinthians 4: 16-18 [paraphrased] puts it well: “Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed daily. Our troubles and afflictions won’t last long. Yet they produce for us an immeasurable great glory that lasts forever.” That’s the power of vibrant faith.

This summer I attended the 24th annual Fellowship of Christians Farmers conference — a wonderful time with so many brothers and sisters in Christ. I can only imagine seeing all of them in eternity. All will be healed, and we’ll see the Son in bright, shining glory. That’s his promise to all who seek him.

Laurie Bedford,
Jefferson, N.Y.

Bedford is a member of the Mountain Valley chapter of Fellowship of Christian Farmers International. For more about FCFI, visit fcfi.org.