“Trust in the Lord with all of your heart, and lean not on your own understanding. In all of your ways acknowledge him, and he will direct your paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6 )
This scripture is so familiar to me that I recite it by heart on a regular basis. In this season of Advent, it is comforting scripture like this that provides comfort not found in the usual places.
The reality is there are around 800,000 known deaths from COVID-19 in the United States to date, and that number keeps climbing. Among those dead are dear friends and church family. The losses continue and we continue to mourn for those we love who have died all too soon.
A woman turns on LED candles at a memorial for Israel’s victims of COVID-19, in Jerusalem, on Nov. 8, 2020. (Oded Balilty/Associated Press)
Yet, Christ gives us a Hope that is far more powerful than any raging disease or pandemic, a Hope far greater than racial or political tension, and a Hope that will last far longer than our despair.
In fact, it’s scripture that reminds me that I am not in control — we are not in control — and I don’t have to understand everything that is happening around me to choose to trust in our one true God.
Especially in this season of Advent, it’s my acknowledgment and understanding that Christ is Lord, and I am not, that is far more comforting than any temporary comforts of this world.
The pain of this time will pass. The love of Christ does and will continue to prevail.
Christopher Dixon is chief operating officer of eLectio Publishing (electiopublishing.com) and pastor of West Finley Baptist Church near Fordland, Mo. He is also a Word&Way trustee.
NOTE: This is part of our Unsettling Advent devotionals running Nov. 28-Dec. 24. You can subscribe for free to receive them each morning in your inbox.
