Times are tough on everyone
Things appearing overwhelming
We don’t know who will make it or not
More than ever, it’s in times like this
That a little love goes a long way.
I have been having such amazing time with God through this complex year and was able to complete a couple of projects, with the last one left to finish off the year. However, Monday met me with no zeal or desire to do this project. I was trying but nothing was forthcoming. I concluded it probably was because I had a long day and drive to-and-fro a speaking engagement, so I busied myself with cards and wrapping gifts. Tuesday, nothing changed. By night, I noticed I was feeling down while trying to force myself to work on this project, so I got off my workspace, talking to God about my feeling as I searched for something to snack on.
A surprising call came through on my phone as I was talking to God and it was a friend with whom I haven’t spoken in a while. “Are you home?” She asked and I responded in the affirmative. “My husband and I will stop by and drop a box of Christmas cookies at your door since we can’t visit because of the restrictions. You’ve been on our minds and we’re praying for you,” she continued. “This night?” I queried, and she confirmed they would be there in a few minutes.
They had no idea how that call brought home, the knowledge that God is so close and so real that He can reach us anytime if we will let Him. It was like a call from heaven, a gift from above, and they both had no idea how timely God used them. Earlier that Tuesday, my Youth Pastor called to find out my favorite Starbucks drink because the Church wanted to appreciate those of us who were helping out with youth leadership. Thursday evening, he showed up while I was out with my favorite drink and waited until I was back so he could deliver it personally with a card. These are no million-dollar gifts but given the times we live in, they meant so much more than a million bucks.
Times are tough with current conditions complicated by COVID and the attendant restrictions which appear to rouse fear and “kill-joy.” This is Christmas season, a time we all enjoy once every year but the losses, the fear, and prevailing conditions make it hard to see anything festive about this season. It appears everyone is struggling, overwhelmed by their private crosses, and are thus entitled to keep to themselves while trying to make sense of all they may never understand.
Yet, I have learned, that difficulties present the best opportunities to touch the lives of others like we would desire that ours be reached. The worst darkness is not when our lights should disappear but when we should shine our brightest. And in such times, a little light goes a long way! May we be sensitive to God’s leading so we can become in His hands, channels of His love and grace when they are needed the most. Thank You Jessica and Stanley for your kindness, Pastor Moses and the CSC Youth Leadership team for your thoughtfulness, and family and friends who do all they can to be there. I am hopeful that I will pay these forward.
Blessings
Glory!