I know this is supposed to be the “most wonderful time of the year” and you can trust me when I say that there is no danger at all of my Christmas spirit being dwindled. I'm sure there are those who can agree with me when I say that some days, it can be difficult to keep an optimistic, positive spirit; even during this happy time of year. Seeing people who seem to have no regard for others. Seeing other people who have had their lives devastated by happenings far beyond the control of any man. Even the run of the mill “stuff” that happens in life can bring even the happiest of people down.
I've recently experienced some of that. Now, this is not meant to be a pity-party for “poor old Rick.” But there have been challenges this week. Having to deal with a car that breaks down unexpectedly. Then, a cell phone that quits working because the cell phone network changes, making the phone pretty much obsolete. Then, a local government official from a small town just west of Madison falsely accuses me and my employer of spreading “false information.” (Of course, when this particular government official from a small town just west of Madison is asked to present evidence to back up his claims, he can't.) All of this adds up to a fairly disturbing evening.
Then I hear that little voice in the back of my mind. “Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me. In my Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you.” That verse has always brought me a great deal of comfort during “tough times.” I remember it was what helped me get through the experience of losing my mother. It still helps me get through the difficult days that we all have to deal with from time to time.
So, if all the “stuff” of life is beginning to take its toll on your spirit, “let not your heart be troubled.” Just as the angel told Mary, “fear not.” We may not be able to control everything that happens to us. We may not be able to control when someone from a small town just west of Madison tells untruths about us and the people with whom we work. We may not always be able to control when our car decides to break down. We CAN control how we respond to these troubling times. Even though it may be cloudy from time to time, the sun will come out, here on the “sunny side.”