Each month, our Minister publishes her ‘Thought for the Month’ in our Newsletter, and we précis it here.
During the winter months, especially if it’s wet and mild, it can be a hard time for some people to keep their spirits high. The days are short, the coldness is hard to bear, and following the busyness of Christmas and New Year, in January and February, it can be a struggle to keep motivated and feeling happy.
So, it is important to think of the positives at this time – the things that can keep the spirits soaring, and help with those low points and feelings we might have. Looking into the depths of our lives can enable us to see what to be thankful for.
Perhaps, like me, you love nature - beauty seen on a cold and frosty day, when the trees glisten white and the landscape is like a winter wonderland. Perhaps it’s something else that interests you, and gives you cause to feel good?Just having one or two people to turn to for a chat when we feel low, helps to lift us up.
The many stories which Jesus told, helped people to see a different perspective on life and gain new enthusiasm. One story is about the man with the pearl – he didn’t have it at first, but knew it to be of great value when he saw it in the shop window. He understood it to be so precious (like God’s love for us). This man worked out that, if he sold everything he owned, he’d have enough money to buy it. And that’s what he did! He strove to do whatever it took so that he could reach his goal.
Now, this story seems hard to understand. Yet that’s exactly what Jesus did for us – he gave his life, so that he could set us free from all sin and evil in the world.
In our individual lives, there are things we know we should strive for, and things which will help us understand what is most important.
When we feel low and find life a struggle, it is easy to wallow in our misery. But there is so much in life that means we don’t have to – outlooks that can help us see beyond ourselves, and grasp what is important in life.
Whatever February holds for you, I hope that you know God’s peace and love in your life, and that you receive all you need during this time.
Take care.
