We sat at the kitchen table, sipping our coffee and savoring a few early-morning moments before our youngest three kids woke up to get ready for virtual school.
“I just don’t understand people sometimes,” I said. “How hard is it to be kind?” Over the past year, we’ve noticed an overall increase in sharp and grace-less words from the people we encounter, including strangers we bump into at the gas station as well as friends we interact with in person or online. It seems like nerves are frayed and patience thin, and they have been for months now. On this particular morning, it was wearing through our own self-control and patience.
“Has everyone lost their minds? I just don’t get it.” I shook my head, trying to make sense of it all.
Of course, no sooner had the words left my mouth than I had visions of my own unkind words and impatient responses in the days before. My utter impatience with kids who are home every day but don’t pick up after themselves. My annoyance with a grocery delivery service that didn’t get my order right. And my overwhelming frustration with an entire school year that feels like it’s been wasted.
The truth is this has been an extraordinary year — not because of the multitude of crises, but because of the globalization of them. We’ve all had hard years before — seasons when a struggling relationship, financial challenge, or difficult diagnosis weigh heavy and take us off our game.
But for the last twelve months, in addition to our individual crises and challenges, we’ve weathered more than one global crisis. Like a sinking ship, we’re each looking for someone to save us. But the problem is we’re all drowning. As a result, we claw and grab and, inadvertently, take each other down.
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.
Philippians 1:27 (NIV)
I read these words and immediately needed to stop and read them again.
Whatever happens —
If I’m treated justly, or if I’m not.
If my children grow up to embrace faith in Jesus, or they do not.
If my health stays strong, or it does not.
If my marriage grows and thrives, or if it does not.
If injustices are dealt with, or if they are not.
If viruses and pandemics become a thing of the past, or if they do not.
If our nation becomes a place of hope and safety and unity for all, or if it does not.
Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the Gospel of Christ.
The conviction I felt was hot, sharp, and immediate. There is no list of exceptions, no “get out of jail free” card if this happens or that happens. Instead, Paul makes it clear to the church in Philippi as well as to you and me: We’ve been given the gift of the gospel, the good news of unmerited grace, sacrificial love, eternity promised in the presence of the God who gave it all for us. That means, we have something solid to cling to, even when it seems the world’s ship is sinking.
The question you and I must ask: Am I living as if this were true?
Am I responding to the day’s news with both appropriate grief over the condition of our world and confident hope in the One who holds the world in His hands?
Am I seeing the inherent value of the people I encounter as children of the same God, even when we don’t agree or get along?
Am I offering the same grace and mercy when someone fails or disappointments me as I have been given from my Father?
Am I living worthy of the gospel of Christ, the incredible good news that I am loved, forgiven, safe, and provided for?
I can only answer this for myself. And I must do so day by day, moment by moment. This life is hard and confusing. And this won’t be the last time we’ll find our nerves frayed and patience thin. But we have a promise of a promised land, a hope that will not disappoint, a future that will be free of tears and fears and pandemics. And that means, although the ship will go down, we will not drown.
Let’s live that way.
Leave a Comment
connie ker says
You are a beautiful author, thank you for your writing this morning. I have had a reaction to the vaccine #2 Moderna and had every side effect on the list, plus one that wasn’t on the list. I am thankful to have this behind me and thankful that I have made it through the lost year alone as a widow. But what is missing is laughter. No one has anything to laugh at now. So the only thing that makes sense is to cling to our faith in Him and cling tight. My mother had tongue cancer, so I know the agony you have endured dear lady.
Michele Cushatt says
Oh, Connie. I’m so sorry for your suffering. With you, Sister.
William G. says
Dear Michele: You’re living that life (as I reflect upon your compassionate and wise words) as written in Colossians 1:10. Good stuff!! A bit further into the chapter (vv. 24 – 29) Paul elucidates and exhorts our Hope in Christ… THANK YOU, Michele, for doing so herein.
Michele Cushatt says
Thank you, William.
Shelly Busby says
Michele, words incouraged me, bless you.
Smiles,
Shelly
Michele Cushatt says
I’m so glad, Shelly. xo
Susan Long says
A huge THANKS for these words!
Susan says
You are a Godsend during these days, and a blessing to thousands who are in need of prayers for healing and restoration!
Michele Cushatt says
All grace. Thank you, Susan.
Kate says
N.T. Wright wrote an excellent little book about the pandemic.
To his and your words: God continues to love us. He calls us to love others. He grieves with us. This world is the imperfect.
I love Dallas Willard’s words. When you follow Jesus, “You are safe in this world.”
Thank you for another reminder.
Michele Cushatt says
I just saw that book on Amazon the other day. Might need to get it! Thanks for sharing, Kate.
Irene says
Oh, how I needed your words today! Yes, Paul’s words are for me, not just for someone on Facebook that I don’t agree with. Thank you for this reminder. I will pray this into being.
Michele Cushatt says
Me too, Irene. Even in the sting of conviction, He is so tender with us. Such grace.
C says
THANKYOU for this ‘right on truthful ‘post . I sat back and confessed my frustration ( 7 th break age 72 this time left wrist 2 bones and fracture across). This year has been nothing but upset so far. January discovering my 13 yr grandson is trans. Then February broken relationship with our son. Of course loneliness no relatives in this province. On and on it goes… but God did say on this earth we would have troubles.. My eyes are on Jesus.. and your post greatly encouraged me .
Michele Cushatt says
My friend, I see your struggles. Such a heavy load, so many different burdens. You’re not alone! We’re in this together. Much love to you, C. The best is yet to come!
Carolyn Searls says
Well said. Enjoyed the article.
Michelle Stiffler says
Yes! Wholeheartedly agree! Composure is our calling as Christ followers. It’s easier to hear the truth from people at peace 🙂
Michele Cushatt says
Composure. We don’t hear that word very often anymore. 😉
Jane Spencer says
Amen and Amen! Thank you for addressing my feelings at this time. All the conservative e-mails I get from one group of friends I may not send to my more liberal friends. The strain of remembering who believes what is a downer. The church I attend has left us (my husband and me) behind in their liberalness, but the beautiful liturgy remains the same. We still all come together to celebrate the Christ that our God provided for us. Praise God for that!
Facebook is another topic all together. Less time spent there, and more time spent on this Dayspring website is just the ticket…or maybe the writers from Dayspring could flood Facebook with the Good News!?
Jan Panning says
Yes, let’s make it a way of life. I love you Lord!
Michele Cushatt says
YES! Jesus, make us more like you.
Beth Williams says
Michelle,
Last year was a whopper for everyone with Covid & election. Now everyone is on edge. Upset over the election, tired of staying indoors & virtual school. We start to snap at each other. I’m right there with you on that-especially when I’m tired or frustrated. The best thing we can do is apologize for our misspoken words. We must remember that we are image bearers of God & as such should show this world His loving kindness. For me that looks like not watching the news & praying for everyone. Remember one day we will soar to our promised land. A place with no more sickness, fear or tears. Praying for strength & patience for everyone as we continue on this journey with Covid.
Blessings 🙂
Sally Ferguson says
I’m so thankful for that hope, and for the Hope-Giver!