It's nearly Christmas.
We are not supposed to be crying.
But we do.
Horrible things happen and we do.
Sometimes, we cannot muster up the requisite Christian joy.
But for those times, God gives us hope.
Hope: the gift God gives when we believe, in spite of circumstance, that He loves us.
"Hope has two beautiful daughters; their names are Anger and Courage. Anger at the way things are, and Courage to see that they do not remain as they are.--Augustine of Hippo
So, if there is no joy for the moment, hope bears us up. And later, joy will come.
On earth you will have many trials and sorrows, but take heart! I have over come the world.--John 16:32-33
After he returned from his adventures, Ulysses sat by his still hearth wondering what to do next. Getting older includes reflection upon life lessons we've learned and discernment about what comes next, but life is meant to be lived. We have become wiser than we think and we are meant to use the wisdom we've gained. Whether philosophy or observation, discovery or poetry, this is a depository not only for passive thought or memory, but a springboard for action. Life is more than breathing.
I have never heard this quote, but I do love it. Blessings dear sister.
ReplyDeleteMe either, but heard it in church this morning. A keeper that resonates with where we are.
DeleteThat is beautiful. This is the first year that things are different...not that my life circumstances are hugely different, but that I finally have that joy - that fruit of the spirit joy. Oh, what a difference after so many Christmases spent so hopeless. There is always hope...
ReplyDeleteSometimes it is so wonderful to get to the end, at least temporarily. May you be blessed by an understanding of joy made sweeter by its forging in sorrow.
DeletePowerful truths and quote! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteLove that picture, amazing and the words too.
ReplyDeleteThis picture reminds us that we are in the hands of a loving God! Beautiful!
ReplyDeleteAnd liking your profile pic very much, too...kind of the same idea..sanctifiedjoy and freedom.
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