A few weeks ago, I officiated a funeral and my wife Emily performed a few songs. After the funeral was over, we drove straight to the hospital to meet our brand new baby nephew. Within the span of two hours, we were grieving over death and celebrating over new life.
From Brexit and our own presidential election, to the tragedies in Falcon Heights, Dallas, Paris, Baghdad, and Nice, I'm struck by how heavy the world feels right now.
Every day, there's a new story about someone, somewhere, being shot, killed, or bombed. And yet, at the same moment, tens of millions of people have lost their minds over a silly (and fun) game, Pokemon Go.
I'm not one who generally views the world through a "sky is falling" lens, but even I, the optimist, am struggling with how to live in this battle between good and evil, light and darkness.
How about you? How are you feeling, really?
Because of these recent events, it has hit me more profoundly that life is filled with seasons. Some of you are in a season of blessing—life is good, smooth, and full. Others of you are in a season of destruction, either of your own doing or because of those you love. Some are in a season of feeling lost, confused, or without direction. Others of you are in a season of hopelessness and despair, wondering if there is any good left in the world.
There are many things we can use to try to stabilize and navigate through these seasons, but there is only One who will truly become an anchor for your soul.
The author of Hebrews writes this:
"We have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure."
Our only hope is Jesus.
He's the spiritual lifeline.
There is no other way.
No matter what season you are in, Jesus is your guide and your anchor. If your season is good and filled to the brim with life, grab on. Celebrate with Him. If your season is dark and hard to bear, grab on. Grieve with Him. If your season is death or birth, despair or joy, grab on. He's there.
Eugene Peterson, author of the Message, translates Jesus words like this in Matthew 11:28-30:
"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me, watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly."
Breathe. Be present. Show up today. No matter what season you are in, stay close to Jesus and he will guide you through.
