Dear Faith Family, 

Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.  And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing, (James 1:2-4). 

Once upon a time Frank (you know, the guy who owns the car wash) and let’s say, Dr. Quinn (cause she had to treat everything including allergies) attended the same college.  I’m convinced of it.  In one of their business classes a question arose:  What could they collectively create that would secure their business futures?  So off to their science class they did go.  A little of this and a little of that.  Turn up the Bunsen Burner.  And wah-lah, a fine yellow powder was created.  I’m convinced of it. 

Frank was set for life.  People would wait in line for the opportunity to rid their cars of the yellow stuff if but for a few minutes!  And others would spend countless hours in a waiting room for the opportunity to receive a dose of anti-yellow powder through a painful needle or through a power packed pill to be purchased at the local pharmacy. 

Now, if I asked you for a list of pine pollen (there, I said it.  Pine pollen!) benefits, you would answer?  Maybe it keeps the car wash in business?  Or it gives the allergists / immunologists something to do?  But what if I told you that pine pollen has other benefits?  Sure, it is necessary for the reproduction of pine trees.  But is there any value for us non-car wash owners and non-allergists / immunologists? 

You might be surprised to discover that there are preliminary studies indicating that pine pollen benefits us!  “Pine pollen has long been used in traditional medicine.  It’s believed to have anti-aging properties (after this spring we should all live forever!).  Research into the health benefits of pine pollen is ongoing. The results so far suggest it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties,” (healthline.com).  Be forewarned.  Healthline.com follows up with a disclaimer: “People with a pollen allergy should avoid using pine pollen.”  Don’t try this at home!  No worries, you’re probably getting enough second-hand pollen just by walking to your car! 

Anyway, to the point?  Pine pollen reminds me of trials.  They unwantedly cover our lives encouraging us to drive through prayer like a car wash desirous of removing the trials.  Or maybe we wait for a “specialist” to help numb us so that we might better endure the trials. 

James calls us to joy in the face of trials.  Why?!  Because trials have benefits.  For us!  I still don’t particularly care for trials.  But I do like the benefits that they produce.  Namely steadfastness.  Trials afford for us the privilege of growth in the depth and duration of our dependance on our God.  Trials afford for us the privilege of developing God-like character in our lives. 

Learning how to count it all joy, 
Pastor Karl