Reflection #1

I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances…I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in the One who makes me who I am.
Philippians 4:11-13 The Message

There are dear people whom I have met who have been overwhelmed by the circumstances of life. In some way, they seem to have resigned from persevering or from fully trusting God to under gird them and to work all things together for their good. Their perspective on life is to just “make it through” as best they can.

Henri J. M. Nouwen writes
As long as we have only a vague inner feeling of discontent with out present way of living, and only an indefinite desire for “things spiritual,” our lives will continue to stagnate in a generalized melancholy. We often say, “I am not very happy. I am not content with the way my life is going. I am not really joyful or peaceful, but I just don’t know how things can be different, and I guess I have to be realistic and accept my life as it is.” It is this mood of resignation that prevents us from actively searching for the life of the Spirit.

And do you suppose that God doesn’t care? The proverb has it that ‘He’s a fiercely jealous lover.” And what he gives in love is far batter than anything else you’ll find. Its common knowledge that “God goes against the willful proud; God gives grace to the willing humble.”

So let God work his will in you. Yell a loud no to the Devil and watch him scamper. Say a quiet yes to God and he’ll be there in no time.
James 4:5-8 The Message

Love in Christ,

Cynthia Heald