The other day I came across a Christmas ornament for sale. It was made out of clay with 4 painted faces wearing masks with a roll of toilet paper streaming across that read 2020. That ornament really brought a perspective that allowed me to laugh as I looked back at all of the unimaginable things that had already happened this year.
Looking back now, as we are almost at the tail end of this year, many of us can testify to the hardships and unknowns it has brought. So many of us have been shaken by everything that has surfaced during this time, from riots, raging political wars, school shut downs, mask debates, closing businesses, fires, churches being forced to limit or close their doors, losses and the division it has all caused… It seems our opinions hold more value than our friendships these days.
People are killing one another in rage and taking their own lives due to loss of hope. Everyone responds differently to hardships and I’ve witnessed examples from shear panic to boldness and strength, both within and outside the church. It has caused me to reevaluate the parts in my life that are aligned with Jesus and those that aren’t.