2020. What a year. And we’re only halway through! We are living in a time with more questions than answers. We are wrestling with multiple levels of confusion, and conflict. Some of us are struggling with isolation, loneliness, anxiety, depression, anger, and fear. We are all weary. We are all tired of the holding pattern, uncertainty, precautions, restrictions, and best guesses. We are all antsy to return to normal (whatever that means). Can I get an amen?

Life looks quite different across the world depending upon your geography, demographics, family situation, and personal dynamics. I have a wide range of friends way to the left and way to the right, ideologically, theologically, and politically. I have been heartbroken by the ugly, judgmental, divisive comments lobbed like grenades from all sides at those who disagree. There are no easy answers in 2020. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to all of our issues.

My soul keeps repeating: “From the end of the earth I call to You when my heart is faint; lead me to the rock that is higher than I.” (Psalm 61:2)

My mind keeps repeating three counter-cultural words: Listen, Peace, Contentment.

• Listen. I can love you and listen to you whether or not we see things the same way. I don’t have to agree in order to listen and love. Listening carefully and respectfully does not equal agreement nor approval. But I will always learn something from listening. My world view is limited. As a wise friend says, “My perspective is always limited. It’s just a matter of where and to what extent.” We don’t know the battles and obstacles people are facing behind their doors. Being heard, truly heard is a powerful, precious gift we can extend to others. No matter what. Listen.

• Peace. The peace of God is always a valid goal. Peace does not mean circumstances are wonderful. Peace does not mean inaction. Peace does not mean exemption from suffering. Peace does not mean unicorns and rainbows. “And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 4:7) “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.” (John 14:27) Surpasses all comprehension. Not as the world gives. Have you ever experienced the peace of God in the midst of circumstances that were anything but peaceful? God offers a supernatural, unshakable, inexplicable peace in the middle of our darkest hours, a “hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast”. (Hebrews 6:19)

• Contentment. 2020 has not panned out the way I would like. How about you and your plans? Had any cancellations, disappointments, adjustments in your schedule? Few verses are taken out of context and misused more than Philippians 4:13—"I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.” Back up a little. Look at the context: “Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need.” (Philippians 4:11-12) 4:13 is not a name-it-and-claim-it ticket to be Superman or Wonder Woman. It is about learning the secret of choosing to be content. Even when my plans are crushed. Even when I can’t do the things I wanted, see the people I love, or even live life the way I enjoy. Tough lesson. I’m definitely still learning this one.

I must continually choose this posture:

O LORD, my heart is not proud, nor my eyes haughty;

Nor do I involve myself in great matters,

Or in things too difficult for me.

Surely I have composed and quieted my soul;

Like a weaned child rests against his mother,

My soul is like a weaned child within me.

O Israel, hope in the LORD

From this time forth and forever.

Psalm 131

Praying for all of us as we learn to take each step through the uncertainty, upheaval, and landmines in watchful obedience to the sovereign God of Eternity.

Grace and Peace,

Linda