I've experienced a fair amount of difficulty in my life. However, I wouldn't say that I've lived a "hard" life. I've experienced a fair amount of personal discomfort in my life. However, I wouldn't say that I've lived a "tough" life. I have been blessed. I have been sustained. I have been loved. While I've survived some trials, God has protected me from many of the unimaginable things and situations I watch many other process through day by day.
I've experienced a fair amount of difficulty in my life. However, I wouldn't say that I've lived a "hard" life. I've experienced a fair amount of personal discomfort in my life. However, I wouldn't say that I've lived a "tough" life. I have been blessed. I have been sustained. I have been loved. While I've survived some trials, God has protected me from many of the unimaginable things and situations I watch many other process through day by day.
This week just happened to be one where I was inundated with emails, phone calls, and drop-ins from people experiencing tremendously hard times. Some struggles were of their own making, others were outside of their control... but the anxiety and concern on their faces was very, very, real and tangible. People are losing their jobs, people are losing their loved ones, and people are losing hope. What can say or do to help?
Katherine Wolf is a wife and mother who suddenly experienced a massive brain stem stroke in 2008 while putting her six month old down for his morning nap. After a nearly unresponsive day in the hospital, later that night she was rushed into micro-brain surgery that required the removal of part of her brain. Her relationship with her husband Jay, her relationship with their baby James, and her relationship with the rest of the world would be altered forever. Her life would clearly not go as planned.
Twelve years later, Katherine is still bound to a wheelchair. Yet, she shares this: "Life defines us, but suffering redefines us. Ultimately, hope refines us, transforming us from within in ways we could have never imagined. For that, and for countless other blessings, I am so grateful to God."
Katherine's story is far more extreme than my own. Many of the stories Ive heard this week are more difficult than mine. However, the lasting and refining hope she speaks of is only going to be found in one place. True hope is found by fastening to the rock that I cling to! His name is Jesus Christ!
Let's be honest, COVID-19 has us all sailing through uncharted waters. The storms are fierce, the emotions are raw, and the anxiety is rising all around us. But the Bible tells us that we don't have to feel lost. Instead, we have this HOPE as an anchor for the soul. A HOPE both sure and steadfast. Grounded firm and deep in the Saviors love. Praise be to God!
When all seems lost; hope can be found. People are losing their jobs, people are losing their loved ones, and people are losing hope. What can say or do to help? Bring them hope!
Pastor Milo
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