Pondering

As an educator I try to be well-read and informed, which means in part that I daily examine numerous news outlets to keep up on current events. Although there is no such thing as unbiased reporting, and with some media outlets it’s obvious what end of the political ideology spectrum they occupy, the amalgam of information properly compiled can be useful.

But even a quick perusal of news can bring anyone to despair these days.

From a woman in a NYC pet store harassing puppies and slapping people to President Biden’s cognitive decline. From the horrific conditions in both Israel and Gaza following Hamas’ invasion of Israel to a young girl in Texas being kidnapped and killed. From the unhinged vitriol of the “far Left” to the unhinged vitriol of the “far Right,” it’s not good.

Oh yes, and the world is going to end in 2030 because of global warming.

There are two things I must remind myself of to navigate this life in a healthy manner. First, the world has always been a nutty, violent, disruptive, divided place. Secondly, the world will always be a nutty, violent, disruptive, divided place. Yes, some historical seasons are worse than others, and this season seems particularly rough. Moreover, we have more “news” in our faces today than our ancestors did prior to the late-20th century. Yet when sinful humans possess control of anything at any time there is a high potential for chaos.

So, what’s a person to do?

Although some things will undoubtedly be out of our control, what we can control should be predicated on our concern for others. Whether engaging in rational socio/political pursuits on behalf of those treated unjustly, caring for widows and orphans, being kind, forgiving, etc., within our sphere of influence we can choose a higher road than resignation or uncontrolled reaction.

Or I suppose we could join a Tibetan monastery.

For biblical Christians it’s always an opportunity to share Good News—that no matter what this life brings there is another life we can access now and in the future through Jesus Christ. Believe me, the days Jesus walked the earth were pretty ugly, and still He brought, and brings, abiding hope.