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Tea Time Tuesday
Accidentally, providentially, I have read 14 books in the last two years about World War II. Sprinkled among these were other historical novels, biographies, Bible stories of the same kinds of tales. It wasn’t intentional, but when a book kept being recommended to me, I would choose it to read. Many of them were oriented around wars. Most of the books were filled with tragic stories, suffering, evil leaders, sorrow, devastation.
Oddly, the overall effect on my heart was to deepen my understanding, acceptance in the deepest part of my heart, that there has been difficulty through all times. The devastation we see in many parts of the world, in fires, hurricanes, illnesses, faith issues, all point to emotional and spiritual devastation. And yet, Jesus forewarned of such a world, this is the time and place where we can show His strength, love, reality. We were born for such a time as this.
When we understand and accept that the world is indeed fallen and creates all sorts of chaos, we can better prepare ourselves to become warriors of light, goodness in difficult times. Jesus clearly prepared His disciples for this reality. He said, “In this world you have tribulation.” His next words told us what to do: “But take courage.” This is what our response to turmoil should be — to take courage. His last words, “I have overcome the world.” He is the reason we can take courage.
As I was sharing my ponderings with Clay, he said, “Have you studied the concept of ‘Stand Firm’ in scripture? It is throughout the Bible and informs us how to take courage, to live by faith, to bring light into the world at this moment. We can stand firm in our faith, in our convictions, in our relationships. I see now that my children, as adults, needed this lesson in childhood to keep them flourishing and strong during the challenges of their adult lives.
Join me today on my podcast to be inspired to stand strong in this time in history. Also hear about crab cakes, Tolkien, and more.