…..fixing our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of faith, who for the joy set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
For consider Him who has endured such hostility by sinners against Himself, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.
Hebrews 12:2-3 (NASB)
“Merry Christmas!” my son joyously proclaimed to the lady behind the desk at his children’s school.
“I’ll be glad when all this Christmas is over,” she said, looking forlorn.
Her response compelled him to inquire about her situation. Divorced, deceased parents, no children, alone! It bothered him to such a degree that he called me. We discussed his opportunity to reach out and help a person in need. I began to wonder about the needs within my own sphere of influence. The list is long…..
anxiety over an estranged family member
divorce
fear of the future
heartache from the death of a loved one
dread because of cancer
misery after a devastating accident
unpaid bills
weather-related traumas
working two jobs to make ends meet
frustrations from life’s daily hassles
a single mom with no job
your own troubles and struggles
Does life offer nothing but challenges? Add to that list news from around the world…..
devastating fires wiping out neighborhoods
floods ruining everything in sight
dictators ruling with fear and starving people
persecutions of Christians
unrest marching in the streets
powerful people exploiting other people
earthquakes destroying whole villages
war and rumors of war
HELP US, LORD, WE’RE DROWNING IN SORROW!
How can we live in such overwhelming situations? Is it possible to experience any joy, even during Christmas? Yes, we can survive and thrive by readjusting our focus. It might sound trite, but we must keep our eyes on our Savior, even as sadness surrounds us.
Remember when Peter tried to walk on water toward Jesus? The minute he took his eyes off Jesus and allowed the wind to frighten him, he began to sink. “Lord, save me,” he cried. (Matthew 14:28-30)
We suffer the most when our focus is maladjusted. Refocus and recall these facts……
We have a God who took on human flesh in order to live among us, to be with us, to completely understand us. Noel—a miraculous birth occurred.
Jesus willingly experienced excruciating pain and death to take away the sins of the world. Savior—redeemer of sin and saver of souls.
He sent the Holy Spirit to dwell in our hearts, to comfort us, to guide us, to give us peace amidst earth’s trials. Immanuel—God with us.
Readjust your focus. Turn your eyes to Jesus. Cling to Him when all else is crumbling. And help someone else in need.
MERRY CHRISTMAS. GOD IS WITH US!
God wants us to be victors, not victims;...to overcome, not to be overwhelmed.
~William Arthur Ward