What inspires or motivates me to take one (painful, difficult) step after another?
As times in the United States seem to feel more bleak with each passing day, I find myself thinking of the hatred and persecution that Jesus faced, simply for being who He was and spreading a message of love, in defiance of many of those in power at the time. Sound familiar?
And yet, the louder the hatred became, Jesus responded with nothing but more love. Love for his friends and persecutors alike.
When taking one more step, reading one more news article, wondering what the next day will bring starts to feel soul crushingly unbearable, I remember that doing the right thing is rarely easy; and to show unwavering love in the face of hatred and division makes the evil that is in a position of power, *afraid*! And that’s precisely what Jesus would want. After all, that’s what He did himself.
Prayer: Gracious God, remind us that Your love is always stronger than hate, division, and fear. Help us to take one more step in love and light towards ourselves and others, even when one step feels impossible. With love, nothing is insurmountable. Amen
Gretta Steinbruner