Choosing to Be the Light

I didn't think I was going to write about everything going on in the world today, but I don't see how I can write any other sort of blog post without sharing my thoughts.

I don't feel like I'm knowledgeable enough to speak on what's going on right now in the Middle East or even just a few states away in Missouri. It's all very confusing and heartbreaking. I feel like we're not doing enough in any of these places, but then again I don't have any better suggestions. I feel as though I have nothing to offer those who are going through more pain and suffering than I've ever known.

I'm having a hard time simply remembering to pray for the end of these horrific situations. It's way too easy to lose hope and trust. It's also way too easy to tune it all out and to just go about your life as if nothing bad is happening outside of your bubble.

Haley's post yesterday really spoke to me about hope and perseverance. She quoted St. John Paul the Great who said "Do not abandon yourselves to despair. We are the Easter people, and hallelujah is our song." As Christians, we are called to live our lives a certain way. This includes seeking out the light of Christ and sharing it with others in whatever way we can.

Just because things happen that are complicated and confusing doesn't mean we just give up hope. We are called to be the light of the world, especially during these dark times. It is a conscious choice we must make.

I'm thankful for those who are able to share words of peace and solace with everyone who is as just heartbroken as I am. I greatly admire those who are defending their faith and what they believe. I'd like to say I would do the same, but that's a lot easier said than done when faced with such hardship.

But most importantly, I'm thankful for a God who challenges me and everyone else to pray harder than we ever thought possible and to live out what we believe--to be the light in the darkness.

It's not easy. I have such a difficult time articulating my firm belief and trust in what's to come. But perhaps if we can just take each day as it comes and remember to be that beautiful light to all, it will help to show others the hope of what's promised to every single one of us.

Please remember to keep all of those who are suffering in your prayers, and to pray without ceasing.