After the busy of Christmas, the winter season can seem long, the snow becomes dreary, your neighbours are no longer turning on their twinkle lights, the cheery decor comes down, and the gathering of family and friends slows down.
It can be a time of loneliness, and of late, many in our ACOP Family have suffered loss, become sick, or have a family member that is struggling this winter season.
Increasing loss.
But there are gentle reminders in the Word…
“Is there anyplace I can go to avoid your Spirit? To be out of your sight? If I climb to the sky, you’re there! If I go underground, you’re there! If I flew on morning’s wings to the far western horizon, You’d find me in a minute—you’re already there waiting! Then I said to myself, ‘Oh, He even sees me in the dark! At night I’m immersed in the light!’ It’s a fact: darkness isn’t dark to you; night and day, darkness and light, they’re all the same to you.”
Psalms 139:7-12 MSG
When we are suffering or walk through suffering with someone we love there is a heavy price paid in stress, anxiety, depression, and the need to control circumstances. Wisdom doesn’t come easily—that’s exactly why we should pause…
And be reminded that your darkness isn’t dark to Him.
What matters most is prioritizing your spiritual health—reading, praying, trusting, looking for His light, crying, grieving, and longing for the comfort of the God who finds you in a minute (no matter how far you go).
And you can rely on the fact that God does find you, just as He always does. Without pain? No. Without questions and doubts? Not always. Then how? Most often, through His people. Meals, financial needs, time, friendship, a clean house, cards, hugs, and prayer.
Oh, what would we do without this great God of ours? If you’re the one in need—accept the help. And if you see the need, I’m sure you’ll find a way to love your neighbour as yourself; extending grace and igniting hope.
If you need to talk to someone, we encourage you to contact the Focus on the Family care and counselling team at 1.800.661.9800. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT.