Broken But Hopeful
Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Romans 12:18 (NLT)
We are all a little broken! But have you ever wondered how we got that way? Was it due to the loss of a loved one? The end of a marriage? Illness? Betrayal? Maybe it was just a bad day, and we were the target of a loved one’s ugly mood and words. Could the holiday season be the culprit?
This is the season for love, joy, and peace. Right? And you are thinking, that’s true but we have had some of the worst family disputes (fights) in our history during these hectic days. From out of nowhere comes rude, unprovoked, and opinionated words. You know, once those words are said, you can’t take them back; they are just out there— you’ve launched them at your intended recipient.
That old saying of sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me is simply a bold-faced lie! Words create deep wounds that don’t heal easily…unless there is immediate action, and I don’t mean retaliation.
As the family gets together every year during the holiday season, there is a certain feeling of vulnerability. “Remember last year when Mom said…?” “How about the fat girl clothes that I got from Grandma!” “What about the gift card that had already been used?” Getting past the unresolved feelings and memories can be like white-water rafting in the early spring. One never knows what’s around the next bend.
But there is something deep in our inner being that gives us hope that this year will be different. Where in this broken world does that come from? Well, it is not from this world because our world promotes holding a grudge, getting even, isolating, and avoiding; especially when hearts have been fractured. Which is easier, avoiding someone or talking it out and forgiving? Of course, staying away is easier but that isn’t the right answer.
Forgiveness should be on the party-time menu in each home and not just during this season. Hoping that things will change won’t cut it. Get pro-active! Pray, seek wisdom, lovingly take control of conversations, and learn to laugh more. Find humor in situations are potentially fun-threatening.
Hope for the best! That is something that comes only from our Savior, Jesus Christ.
Stay hopeful!
Gracious God, we thank You that You are the truest meaning of the word hope. Help us to walk with great hope during this season and always. Help us to press in closer to You. AMEN.