Day 15

Thrifting has always been an adventure to see what people deem disposable. For some items, you can see an imprint or stain documenting use while other items indi-cate more cavalier owners who discard items with sales tags affixed. As a good friend and I checked out our “finds” on one of our thrifting adventures, I knew what was about to unfold: the checkout area transformed into a bargaining floor. Even more, I knew her reason: I have the choice whether or not to buy the item, and so, I get to decide the value or walk away.

If only Jepthath’s daughter had the same agency to decide whether her life should be bartered in an unwise and unsolicited bargain made by her father with the Lord God. While a disheartening fate for this unnamed girl, time has proved her to be a heroine who illustrates how we can respond to the unacceptable external bargains made that compromise our peace, well-being, and things we hold dear. Upon learning her fate, she responds in a manner reminiscent to Jesus in the Garden (Matthew 26:36-46) by locating the Lord God in her life’s narrative, accepting the “unacceptable,” and then, she grieved. Similarly, we likely have been or may be in a season where we are tasked to accept difficult realities, but we can press forward like this girl, first seeking the Lord God and allowing ourselves room to grieve and find solace in community.

PRAYER

Lord God who knows us and walks with us in situations that we find difficult and “unac-ceptable.” We look to You as the most important part of our life narrative and submit not to others, but to You. We ask You to tend to our hearts where there is distress and thank You that we do not have to grieve alone. Encourage us, Lord. Amen.

REFLECTION

What “bargains” or difficult realities in your life feel beyond your control, and how can you turn to God, grieve honestly, and seek His guidance as you navigate them?