I was cleaning up some old media files last week and came across a couple videos from the frigid streets of Ottawa. It was fun recalling the camaraderie and bipartisan cheer so many of us felt during that season. Those weeks in January 2022 might be the last time many felt a surge of renewed optimism, believing that maybe, just maybe, this surreal scene could dislodge the tyrannical impasse gripping our nation.
In the years following, though, little has changed for the better.
“Wow, cheery newsletter, Greg!”
Ever the pragmatist (in true Eeyore style), I tend to tell it like it is: ours is a weary world, fatigued by threat of war, wild inflation, political vitriol and a seemingly endless stream of injustices - in the courts, in theft via excess taxation and more. All of this dominates the headlines, and many of our hearts.
Thankfully, the above isn’t close to the end of the story. I was reminded anew last week of profound truth, while listening to a favourite Christmas hymn:
Long lay the world in sin and error pining,
‘Til He appear’d and the soul felt its worth.
A thrill of hope the weary world rejoices,
For yonder breaks a new and glorious morn.
~from “O Holy Night”
Hang on a second... our weary world can rejoice? Absolutely!
Placing hope in the constructs of men is always going to be a fool’s errand. Placing our hope in the eternal is always going to be wise.
Titus 3:3-7 tells of the greatest story of transition, from weary misery to glorious hope:
“At one time we too were foolish, disobedient, deceived and enslaved by all kinds of passions and pleasures. We lived in malice and envy, being hated and hating one another.
But when the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us, not because of righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He saved us through the washing of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs having the hope of eternal life.”
May this season be one where you discover the only true source of peace and hope.
Thank you for all your encouragement and support this past year. It truly is a blessing serving in this role. From our grateful home to yours, Merry Christmas!
“Christ is the Lord! O praise His name forever, His power and glory evermore proclaim.”
Greg