Just Dan Grant

I haven’t written anything in a minute. Several weeks in fact. I have started to write, but it feels like the topic is only on my mind at the time. It is tough to write when: 1) Everyone is writing about the same thing and 2) There are so many articles out there that it would take all day to read them. So I have focused on other things, the family, the ministry, and just trying to find a new balance in this time.

One of the biggest reasons that I haven’t written anything, is because there are so many opinions out there, that it’s almost impossible to write anything without taking a side, feeding a fear, or putting people at odds.

I don’t think I have ever spent so much time talking with folks – especially my wife about current events, news stories, and articles that are “shedding new light” on this situation. Usually, I am bringing up a story or article and the focus of the day is on something else, like sports or entertainment. I am one step behind or on another channel. It’s amazing how our time and focus has been freed up and directed, with the absence of other activities. So now we are all focused on one thing.

Now that this situation has the bulk of our attention, there is so much information coming at us every day, hour, and minute. It is simply too much information to accurately process. Headlines grab our attention, social media spreads a story or article faster than the actual virus, and everyone forms their opinions as they attempt to keep up with this avalanche of information. I honestly wish, at some point, the complete truth would be laid bare for the simple reason that everyone would know what to believe – but even if it did, I bet folks would question it. Shoot – we still have people discussing whether the Earth is round or flat.

So I am not going to share my opinions about this situation. I have some, but they are mine. Right or wrong, they are none of your business. I was told once that “Opinions are like underwear. Most people have them, but there’s no need to show everyone.” Works for me, even in a world where people share their opinions, and oddly, their underwear for all the world to see.

Instead, I want to share with you some comforting truth that you CAN believe. I have vetted out the source, and it has stood the test of time:

• God loves you and He is in control. I think this is one of the biggest facts that people lose sight of and then lose hope when they do. I believe that a lot of the calamity and sadness in the world stems from a lack of belief that God loves every individual.
• People need you. I appreciate how so many institutions have turned their efforts to aiding those in need. There is a lot of need out there – and no matter what is going on in the news, we would all live quite a bit better if we lived for others more. The mental, emotional, and physical health of those around us are a priority. Instead of pulling into your shell and focusing on your problems – make someone your project. Encourage, support, and cheer them on any way you can. It will help them – it will help you.
• Focus on what matters. Christ is the example in all things and especially this. Government oppression, taxation, sickness, violence, racism, and corruption were in His face on a daily basis. What a platform He had, to speak on all the “issues” plaguing the world around him. He instead spoke on things that actually matter. Our relationship with God. Our conduct in this world. Our responsibility to those around us. Our faith in our good good Father.

Look, I get caught up in things too. It’s hard not to. But it is easy to filter what is in your face. Politicians have a goal, the media has an agenda, social media is biased, some people are toxic, some people are ignorant. But I don’t have to feed into that or add to it. It would be far better for me to encourage and love, than it would to polarize and infect. Instead of spreading opinion, I can spread truth.

Truth and love won’t give someone anxiety or depression.

Let’s affect others positively today. I believe it will help.