Just smile...and trust

The past few weeks have brought a tidal wave of trials and much cause for anxiety. I must admit, I really don't like it...I want to fix things and move on, but sometimes trials linger and are not quickly resolved...sometimes they are valleys through which we must walk. I am a problem solver by nature, I like to be Miss detective and find solutions. Although I have a calm demeanor, I can be impatient at times, especially when things remain "undone" and I have to wait for answers (sigh). It is at these times, when I am reminded that I am not in control of my life nor the lives of those around me. It is humbling to have to be reminded, again and again, that I often envelope myself with faulty forms of security and it isn't until they are removed that I realize how much I was clinging to them in the first place.

I don't know about anyone else, but this time of year brings with it mixed emotions. It is to be a jolly and joyful time, and yet, for many there are hardships which make it less than ideal. Hmmm, "less than ideal"...Seems that I recall the birth of our savior was "less than ideal"-- he was born in a stable and laid in a meager feeding trough. Not the grand entrance you would expect for the "King of Kings"! He experienced the woes of humanity and suffered on behalf of others (for you and me). He brought a gift which can never be broken, stolen or destroyed--the gift of himself. I grow weary of the idealism, expectations of this season, the consumerism and the busyness which our culture seems to mandate. We are constantly inundated with messages guaranteeing our happiness: self-help gurus, infomercials for stuff, positive thinking, and the admonishment to "just look deep within ourselves". I guarantee, you will not find lasting joy in all the pomp and circumstance, the veneer of "happiness" often shoved down our throats or by looking to yourself. Finding true joy does not require worldly success, great talent or a high IQ. The message of this baby, Jesus Christ, born in a manger requires only that you be "messed up". WAIT, what? He wants someone broken, who perhaps has failed miserably, and a sinner? Yep! Now, for many of us, it is nothing new to hear the "Christmas story" and yet, I confess that I so often lose sight of the magnitude and splendor of the hope brought by this baby. My eyes often become fixed upon the anxieties and adversities that inevitably come along in life. But "less than ideal"...he came and dwelt in a stinky stable occupied by animals...and true to his humble nature, he comes and dwells in the "stinky stable" of our own hearts. Yes, there truly is a reason to be joyful and to sing! We have hope regardless of whether we lose everything we own, the economy continues to spiral down or our health deteriorates. We can trust him to care for us.

"Cast all your anxieties on Him because he cares for you" (1 Peter 5:7)

And even in the most dire of circumstances and because of this certain hope, we can still find much to be thankful for. I am so grateful for my dear family and friends (you all), for the basic necessities of life (my daily bread), and for each moment I still have breath in me. There is something to be said for "counting your blessings", and remembering those who are far worse off.

So, whether you are on the mountain top or find yourself in the valley this Christmas, may the hope, peace and joy of Christ Jesus dwell within in you. And just smile...

Merry Christmas!
Marjie :-)