Strength for a New Year

As I hear of three terror related attacks in the last 30 hours or so, I find myself a little worn. A little weary of the violence, the drug epidemic, the increased political tensions in the world, the hate and division in our country and abroad. Perhaps from time to time you feel the same way. Its not all the time, but when we are pounded with situation after situation- I look at my four innocent and beautiful children, and think of the world that we are giving them with a longing for more. In these times I can feel a sense of disappointment in what I wish we could give them versus the reality of what really is.

In these moments I choose to thank God for his presence in my life. Thank him for his gift of faith; and of hope that sheds light through the darkness and despair that surround us. I find peace, and the power to march on- doing at least my own personal best to create positive change for the world in the hours and days God has given me to do so.  

And like this morning, as I sat in front of one of the ladies of my church, I am recharged by the old hymn "Because He Lives" by William and Gloria Gaither, sung ever so sweetly and assuredly from behind me. (Linked below) It reminded me that God too is always behind us, encouraging and supporting us (Isaiah 30:21). and that indeed God is still in control. 

It's because of this, like the hymn writers remind us, that as we look into the face of our children, we know that they can face uncertain days- because he lives. And because he lives, we can find rest in that; we can find strength to move forward; we can lean into God and count on God to always shed light into even the most darkest corners of life.  

Today, I hope you listen to the hymn. I pray that you are sustained and brought new life and hope through it. That your burden and worry can be melted away in the grace that shines in it. God Bless.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4M-zwE33zHA