Going Differently Into The Darkness

Rejoice always,

pray without ceasing,

give thanks

  in all circumstances,

for this is the will of God

in Christ for you. 

1 Thessalonians 5. 16-18

In everything,

everywhere,

these things are always

   the will of God.

Leave a witness there.

Live with a new imprint.

Just because it's hard

 does not mean

 we are not in God's will.

We may not feel thankful

   for all circumstances,

but we can be thankful

           in them,

knowing God is weaving

       His gospel and glory.

Go differently

           into the darkness.

How to handle it?

Rejoice, pray and

   give thanks.

That is the through line.

O LORD,

Help us to not just see

our situations differently,

but to experience You

  with a new heart in this.

Our lives bear witness

   to Your transforming

   love in us.

May we approach

            and navigate

difficulties differently

    in Your will

and with Your strength.