In this new year, as Christmas is over, I need to remember that Christmas was only the beginning. I want to remember that Jesus will always bring light to my darkness, and that darkness brought to light will always bring relief.
There is a light that let’s darkness disappear. It’s not always easy. But the hope of His light always makes our situations better. That is the wonder of Christmas.
There are days and times when the darkness within me seems to weight me down. Times, when life seems void of any light at all, where finding light seems impossible. But there is a light, which gives us hope. Even on those days.
Isaiah says something that is as timely for us today as it was for the people He talked to back then. He tells us what the focus on in the midst of difficulties.
Sometimes, we speak harsh words, quick words, painful words that leave us dumbfounded. Sometimes, words like these hurt us. Sometimes, we hurt others with words like these. But in the midst of such pain, we find hope in Jesus.
Wherever people are, we collide. We have disagreements and misunderstandings. But no matter how much I fail to love them despite it, no matter how big of a mess I create, God is always greater than it all.
They rejoice because it’s an honor to be persecuted for Jesus. I often remain in my comfort instead of professing Jesus, so what am I missing?
We live in a world of pain and war. It’s everywhere we look, and it’s heart-wrenching. I grief with this world, and with the many people that experience injustice. How much more will a God who loves us grieve for the things done to His children?
Sometimes, my anxious thoughts are like barriers to that quiet place deep down in my soul, where time with Jesus opens my eyes to the golden and glorious things around me. Sometimes, I am too distracted to see what is right before my eyes.
We are living in interesting times. During times like these, I sometimes wonder what God feels. Is He hurting? Is He angry? Is He smiling? Maybe, just maybe, all of the above? One thing I do know: He is in control!
