“O that you would kill the wicked, O God, and that the bloodthirsty would depart from me— those who speak of you maliciously, and lift themselves up against you for evil!” -Psalm 139:19-21
This is not the life I thought I’d be living. Whether it’s the sleepless nights of new parenthood, the stressful realities of the perceived dream job, or the caregiving responsibilities of tending an aging parent, we all face moments where our envisioned life doesn’t match up with reality.
It’s easy to move to a place of envy when the lives of others seem problem free and shiny. The rise of curated social media accounts only exacerbates these feelings. No exotic vacation photos when you can’t take a trip away from your caregiving duties. No new cut and color shots for comment and affirmation when you barely have time to take a shower.
And yet, fighting against the current context doesn’t breed satisfaction, contentment or joy. How might “radical acceptance” of your present reality lead to greater joy? Instead of looking for external validation or longing to live a different life, what gift is present in this day?
God, protect my heart and mind from making enemies where there are none. You are a God of dreams, hope and good works. May my efforts today be part of doing good where you have planted me. Amen.
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Some Comfort and Joy was developed as a devotional resource that follows the rhythms and seasons of the liturgical year from an Anabaptist-Mennonite perspective.
some comfort and joy 