Chaos. The fear of the unknown. Control.
Although I have been living in what most everyone (including myself) sees as an unstable situation for awhile now (uh, years), I still am unable to calm some of my fears of the unknown and lack of control.
So, have run across several quotes in the past few days that have guided my thoughts (questions) on this subject:
Uyghur proverb- Keyerde gunah bolsa, shu yerde apet kup bolidu.
Where there is sin, there will be (are) lots of catastrophes.
Song of the Open Road by Walt Whitman
...however sweet these laid-up stores, however convenient this dwelling we cannot remain here, however welcome the hospitality that surrounds us we are permitted to receive it but for a little while... We will sail pathless and wild seas, we will go where the winds blow...
John 16:33
I have told you this so you may have peace. In the world you will have trouble, but be courageous- I have overcome the world!
When I combine these thoughts, I find I am not alone and I have no reason to fear. Yes, there is evil/sinful men around the bend, there is also evil in my backyard. I am called to be courageous and sail the wild (and potentially pathless- which is more intimidating than wild) seas.
Yes there may be chaos. There may be catastrophes. But He has ALREADY overcome the world!
I absolutely love that verse from John 16! You're right, trouble will be present wherever we live in this world. In our hearts and in our communities. BUT - He has overcome. Love that reminder. Jesus is cheering us on, boy do I need that kind of Champion in my corner everyday of the year. I think I told you about the woman I ran into last summer, she was a mentor of sorts from years ago. I talked to her about some of my desires for change and she had two words for me: Be Brave. Here's to courage and bravery in 2012, knowing that Jesus goes before us and behind us.
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