Last week I was just walking from my car to my
office when
a small yellow flower caught my eye. It was really just a little weed
which had contrived sprout between the asphalt of the parking lot and the
cement of the curb. Yet, the instant I saw it and a common phrase leapt into my
mind: “Stuck between a rock and a hard place.” How many times have we heard
that in reference to people who find themselves in difficult situations? Here
was the personification of that phrase blooming just underfoot. I took the
attached photo of that brave little plant with the idea that I’d return to the
subject and explore it later. I eventually wrote this poem to accompany the
photo and I take the liberty to share it with you today. You might ask why I
even care about such an undignified little weed, clinging to such an unlikely
spot. Well, truth be told, I have several people in my life right now who resemble
that flower. Their circumstances of life have left them feeling like they’re
stuck between a rock and a hard place, and they are just trying to find a way
to bloom in the midst of difficult situations. Have you ever felt that way, or
are you feeling that way even now? Sometimes it seems like life is literally squeezing
the life out of us. It could be health or financial issues, family or marriage
problems or a host of other things. If you’re there, or know someone who is, I
know things can feel pretty overwhelming. I’ve certainly been there myself and
I clearly don’t have all the answers, but I do have one answer. Jesus. By all
means listen to the doctors, see a financial advisor, confide in wise friends
and be willing to seek professional counseling if it’s warranted … and maybe
think about praying as well. It sounds so cliché, but Jesus really does love you. Whoever
we are and wherever we gotten ourselves, He’s ready to meet us right where we
are and help us through life. Are you stuck between a rock and a hard place?
Good news … Jesus knows just what that feels like, and he’s no stranger to that
address. So, once again, maybe think about praying. Those first words can be a
little awkward, but they open up your heart to the comfort and strength of a
loving God. Feel free to reach out to me as well. My email is
fcarpenter505@gmail.com . Don’t give
up hope, and remember that little flower in the desolation of the parking lot
by my office. Even if you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place, you can
still find a way to bloom.
A Rock
and a Hard Place
Sometimes it seems we’re out of options
Like the tide is rising over us
When we’re overwhelmed and feeling hopeless
It shakes our faith and makes it hard to trust
When we find our backs are up against a wall
Drained of joy and peace and even grace
And we can’t see a path to a solution
Stuck between a rock and a hard place
In that moment when we’re lost and desperate
And we can’t imagine there is a way out
Jesus meets us right where we are stranded
To melt away our brokenness and doubt
He bears the burden of the broken hearted
Forgives what seemed so unforgivable
Loves us with a love beyond conception
And pours himself into us till we’re full
If you feel between a rock and hard place
Take heart, friend, and take the time to pray
God will meet you right where you are standing
And walk with you each step along the way
By Frank Carpenter ©
