Reflection: The Blessings We Often Overlook

Snow has covered the area with a blanket of white, making roads difficult to travel on and causing many schools and businesses to close for a day or two. Meanwhile, fires have devastated the Los Angeles area, causing major destruction, harm, and even loss of life. Across the globe, wars rage on, and though we hear little coverage in the media, countless lives remain in constant danger. Diseases are spreading, causing pain, heartache, and end-of-life struggles for countless families and individuals.

Amid all of this turmoil, I sit safely, warm, and comfortable in my study at home—Lord, please forgive me! Forgive me for not praying more for those who are facing difficulty today. Forgive me for not praising You enough for the blessings I’ve been given. Forgive me for not reaching out to help those who are struggling.

Many of us are blessed with so much, yet we’re busy making plans for upcoming celebrations. Some of us are indulging in food in the warmth of our homes, leading to weight gain. And there may even be some who don’t care about the hardships happening in California or other parts of the world.

But God cares. He cares for each and every one of us, regardless of race, color, creed, political affiliation, economic status, or where we live on this earth. If we truly desire to be more like Christ, perhaps we should pause to pray, pick up the phone to check on others, reach out to those in need, or even offer a hug or a small donation to the less fortunate.

Maybe the lessons God is trying to teach us through all of this aren’t meant for those going through struggles, but for you and me. Perhaps He’s calling us to practice humility and embody His love more deeply.

Ephesians 5:1-2: "Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God."