What in the world would You say, today?
As a parent, you want–I want–the best for our children.
Yes. And…? But…?
No “and.” What can you add to “the best”? No “but”–no exceptions. What is hurting your heart today is fear.
Ok, Lord. It’s hard, though. It’s really hard. Fear makes people do crazy things.
That is why I want you to “be not afraid.” That’s why I want you to focus on Love.
So, God, do You have a message for me to share today? A third way kind of message? I can barely hear You through my sorrow.
Your world is not hopeless, nor is it helpless, although it seems that way to you right now. I have called you to love mercy and to walk open-hearted with Me. When John the Baptist was murdered, I needed some time alone, some time to commune with My Father, some time to receive new strength to meet the needs of the hour. You need that, too–you, as a person and the larger “you” of community and nation. Mostly you need to hear that Hope and Love are not foolish, though they seem so to you now. You try to make Gratitude Lists, even through your tears. Would it surprise you to know I have a Gratitude List, too? Would you like to know some of My Gratitudes for today?
I, God, Am Grateful for loving hearts that struggle to find goodness when all around them seems to be falling apart.
I, God, Am Grateful for anyone, everyone, willing to engage in listening to those with opposite points of view in order to reach common ground and build a better tomorrow.
I, God, Am Grateful for every act of brave kindness, from those who sheltered others in Las Vegas to those who stand up to bullying on the playground.
I, God, Am Grateful every time any person shifts to a loving, peace-centered world view, and seeks to implement that shift in their own relationships with their families, their friends, and strangers they encounter day-to-day.
And I, God, Am Grateful for you–and millions more like you–who get discouraged but never give up on Love as the Way.
Keep shining. Your world needs rainbows through its tears. Keep the Light on.
Your words – His Words – are never more needed than now.
Bless you.