Isaiah 11:3-4 - Hurting

If someone sprained a wrist, others might notice a bandage or brace. But if they broke a leg and had to use a scooter... or broke a hip and had to use a walker, it's a huge sign that seems to invite people to ask, "What happened!?"

Yet people we encounter every day may be grieving, carrying burdens known only to their closest family and friends. Maybe they have pain known only to God. Or perhaps an angst that they can't even put into words. It's not like they have a BandAid on their face announcing that they're hurting.

I remember when my parents had both died, driving down the highway, thinking, "These other drivers have no idea that my dad and mom are gone." But then, I've seen others behind the wheel of their car and wondered, "Are they on their way to a funeral? To post bond for their kid? To have a chemo treatment?" etc. Maybe they're just going to the grocery store to buy potatoes and a can of soup. Maybe not.

It was prophesied of Jesus that, 
"...He will not judge by what His eyes see, Nor make a decision by what His ears hear; But with righteousness He will judge the poor, And decide with fairness for the afflicted of the earth..." (Isaiah 11:3–4, New American Standard Bible, 1995) 

In other words, God always knows what's going on inside of people. Short of special revelation*, we don't know what's going on with others unless we ask appropriate questions -- given the elements of trust and timing.

Which makes this prayer all the more appropriate:
"And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment..." Amen. (Philippians 1:9)

*Hearts hidden: 1 Sam 1:14-15, 16:7, 2 Kg 4:27.
Hearts revealed: 2 Kg 5:24, 6:11; John 1:48, 2:25; Acts 5:3, 8:23.