On a sunny Spring morning during the first COVID outbreak, I sat in our backyard marveling at the abundance of life in front of me. I watched hummingbirds flit around the feeders Kristina had hung from our porch rafters. A pair of mallards were drifting through our swimming pool. Dove and quail pecked at tiny seeds embedded around our plants. Butterflies pranced atop green bushes and bees hummed as they bounced atop yellow and purple flowers in our garden.
These beautiful little beings were living without concerns about COVID, wars, economic conditions or politics. They were giving me a fresh perspective. Sometimes we get robbed of the blessing right in front of us because we are too concerned about issues beyond our control.
It’s challenging to keep abreast of world affairs and enjoy life at the same time. I try to stay aware of current events so I can pray effectively and use my influence wisely. The solution is not avoiding the news or claiming that God is sovereign, therefore he is going to do whatever he wants without our participation. The prayers of Elijah stopped the rain for three years to bring Israel to repentance. “The prayers of a righteous person have great power.” James 5:16.
I pray with intensity about my concerns, but there is a truth from Hebrews 1 that helps me relax. Jesus “loved righteousness and hated iniquity, therefore God anointed him with joy above his companions.” Jesus knew better than anyone the evils that were corrupting mankind, yet he wasn’t depressed or anxious. He proclaimed the kingdom of God with power, drove out demons and healed the sick. At the same time, God blessed him with joy as he lived on earth.
After I finish my morning Bible study, I usually read the Arizona Republic and the Wall Street Journal while I eat breakfast. One recent morning, the papers had stories about Ukraine, Israel, AI dangers and iPhone thieves. I stopped reading and began to pray. I felt the Holy Spirit lift my heart with grace. I was immediately strengthened and encouraged. I felt like shouting to the world, “You don’t have to fight with each other! Jesus is alive and God can hear your prayers!”
Ever since the Lord began to reveal himself to me, I have tried to tell people that Jesus is alive. I’ve proclaimed the resurrection to hitchhikers, on airplanes, on radio and TV programs and through thousands of sermons and Bible studies. I’ve invited strangers into my home and shared the gospel in parks, on street corners and door to door. Some of these approaches have been more successful than others.
Our encounters with the Holy Spirit are confirmation of the message of Jesus. He promised the disciples would receive the Spirit when he went to the Father (John 14). He also said we would be better off when the Holy Spirit came to us (John 16:7). The Holy Spirit comes to refresh and empower us to share the gospel and to confirm our hearts have been cleansed of sin by the blood of Christ.
I can get obsessed with political battles, wars and economics because I want people to live in peace and stability. I also can get disturbed when people I love are getting divorced, using drugs or making bad decisions. I remind myself their trials will continue as long as they refuse to love God and obey his word. If I care more about the outcome of their trials than they do, it can make me crazy.
As our next political season ramps up in intensity, I’m going to try my best to walk in the Spirit of Christ. I want to discuss the issues with wisdom and grace, especially when I disagree with people. I know many people whose lives have been transformed by the love of Jesus, but I know few people whose minds have been changed by my arguments. Looking back, I also realize many things I once worried about never came to pass.
As I write this year-end Reflections, I have a thankful heart and want to praise God for these blessings:
I’m thankful for the many people who generously support our ministry.
I’m thankful for the leaders who keep Living Streams Church healthy.
I’m thankful for the unity of pastors throughout Arizona.
I’m thankful Kristina and I can share this season of life together.
I’m thankful I have many opportunities to preach and teach God’s word.
I’m thankful for my friends who bring joy to my heart.
I’m thankful for my health so I can work out, hike, fish and play golf.
I’m thankful for the freedom and abundance we have in America.
I’m thankful for our three children and four grandchildren.
I’m thankful to be able to send my Reflections and for you who enjoy them.
Merry Christmas, and God bless you with peace and joy.