Perception
How we view life is formed by many things: our past, our present, and what we hope is our future. World events and the media also play a big part in what we think and how we feel. So, the question today is: How do you view life right now?
I realize that 2020 has been an incredibly difficult year so far, and we are just half way through it. What do you want to see in the second half of this year? The Corona Virus pandemic has devastated the world economy. We are not even fully out of danger with this problem when we get hit with the George Floyd murder. Unbelievable what has happened and tragic on every level. When I turn on the news, I am almost afraid to hear what else has happened. But, even though tragedy surrounds us, I am hopeful.
I try my best not to believe everything the media puts out. I think we can all agree that they pander to our fears and seem to take great joy in spreading that virus. Secondly, my heart breaks for those who are suffering from the pandemic and the fallout of the George Floyd murder. We live in a fallen world, no doubt. Evil abounds and it seems that it controls a LOT of people right now.
Having said all that, I still believe that life is beautiful. If you have never seen the film, Life is Beautiful, this might be a good time to watch it with your family. It is an incredible story about having hope in spite of all the hatred, racism, and discouragement that this family faced in WW2 at the hands of the Nazis.
I put my faith and trust in God despite what I see, what I hear, and how I feel. I know God still has a plan and He is ultimately in control. I pray for our world and our country in particular that God heal our land. The thing is…in many ways we have tied God’s hands. We took God out of our schools, out of our Government, and out of many of our homes. This is a time for those that believe in God to turn to Him, trust Him, and be an example to a world that is desperately crying out for help.
Yes, we need change in our police departments. Yes, we need change in our government. We need change in our own hearts! I truly believe that God will do a miraculous healing in our collective hearts if we will just let Him! We are all cut from the same cloth. We may look different, sound different, and have different customs, but we are still one race….the human race. I think our diversity is a beautiful thing. I don’t hate those who are different from me. I enjoy their companionship, their thoughts, feelings, and hopes.
I am encouraging you and anyone that reads this to first examine yourself. Are you free from hatred? Do you judge those that are different from you? Do you have anyone or any race that you need to forgive? Until we learn to love and forgive one another freely, we will have a hard time moving forward as a country. It begins with God and our relationship with Him, then it has to take root in the heart of all believers. Life is still a beautiful thing. We just have to live it. Let’s pray for revival in the heart of mankind. This could be an awakening that will change our lives and the lives for generations to come. Isn’t that what every parent wants for their kids and grandchildren? Our world may be upside down right now, but it does not have to stay that way.
Shalom!
Daniel Skognes