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Perspective

We went on vacation this week. It was one of those last minute decisions because we realized that it would pretty much be our only chance to go as a family. The guys love the mountains, so we loaded the car and headed to Gatlinburg. 


As the boys have gotten older, it’s been less vigorous trying to keep them entertained while we are here. When they were small, we filled our days with non-stop activities moving quickly from one thing to the next. This time was different. We didn’t have to constantly keep going and moving to see everything, and they were eager to get some rest each night. Our biggest problem on vacation was finding a spot to eat. Places are still reeling from COVID and have thankfully put measures in place to keep people safe. 


And then we saw a tragic story. Missionaries to Haiti died in a plane crash while trying to join their families. Even more, these people weren’t escaping the unrest in the country. They were going back into it because of their heart and love for the Haitian people. 


This shook me to my core. I’m sure it has to do with Pastor Chuck and knowing his heart for missions. It may also have to do with the manner in which they died-in transit while spreading Jesus to others. They were young and both men left behind families. In any case, this sent my brain into a serious perspective shift.


We are so blessed to live in America. I love our country. I recognize that just by being an American, I have an advantage over most of the world. I can tell others about Jesus without fear of imprisonment. We have a roof to sleep under and food to eat. We want for nothing… except vacation. When your biggest problem is that you have to wait an hour in a drive through or in line at a restaurant, you need to shift your perspective. Because that’s not a problem.


People all over the world are dying for the sake of the Gospel and the name of Jesus. Women and children are being terrorized and can do virtually nothing to fight back. Parts of the globe are surrounded by disease, death, destruction.


It’s so easy to become consumed in our “first-world” problems that we lose sight of the big picture: the world needs Jesus. You may not agree, and I’m fine with that. But I know He is the Prince of Peace. I know when things don’t go as planned, Holy Spirit comforts. It takes some work, but that perspective has to remain my driving force.


I’m not saying that life doesn’t go on. Nor am I implying that you should not enjoy the life God has blessed you with. Go on vacation. Enjoy your family. Live in the blessings God has given you. That’s living life abundantly.


It’s safe to say I’ve seen my share of worries (Exhibit A: my little finger which has provided enough writing material for a page turning novel). But when your problems consume you, I challenge you to change your perspective. Look at the world, and people, through the lens of Jesus. Let it break your heart. And pray for peace.


If you are interested in helping the families or the organization financially, please see the information below:


John Miller Family

https://gofund.me/6b68efb9


Trent Hostetler Family

https://gofund.me/6712bf6d


Gospel to Haiti Facebook Page

https://m.facebook.com/GospeltoHaiti/


 © Jill Cook and Unbroken & Undone Ministries. All rights reserved.

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