Good News

Dear Friends in Christ -

I woke up this morning feeling a bit worn around the edges. And then I saw the TV news. I didn't really mean to see it; I was putting in my yoga DVD and caught a couple of stories. VERY depressing. Bad economy. Missing child. Woman mauled by chimp. Good grief. I really DIDN'T need to hear all that.

Why is it that that's what we pay to see? Because we do pay to see it. That's what's on the TV stations supported by advertisements for products we buy, supported by our cable/satellite hook-up fees.

When I sat down at my computer this morning, I wondered what would happen if I typed "good news" into my Google browser. What do you know?! Instead of blowing up or responding "none found," I was presented with a whole string of "good news" news websites. And also some "Good News" Bible-related websites.

An article on the first "good news" website caught my attention: A car dealer in Wisconsin decided to "not believe in" the recession. He hired extra staff and his business is doing well. Hmmm. It makes me wonder . . . While it is clearly irrational to disbelieve in the impact of the recession in some ways (getting hit with a pay cut or losing your job is hard!), is everything about the recession negative? What happens if I/we choose to "spin" recession as "good news," and make choices in that direction? For example, one person who lost her job told me, "It was just the kick in the pants I needed. I never would have left on my own; I was too comfortable. Though it means big cutbacks in lifestyle, I'm going take the time now to finish my training and do the work I've always wanted to do."

For my family and I, the "good news" of the recession is that we're focusing more on helping others and less on getting stuff for ourselves. Our credit card bill tells the story. We're spending less - less on pretty much everything: clothing, food, gas, eating out, entertainment. We're still well-dressed and well-fed - and, to be honest, I'm a little happier. I'm dreading the arrival of the credit card bill a little less. I'm also feeling less pressure from my friends to "keep up" with the latest gadget or clothing fad: they can't afford it either.

In troubled times, we are called to discipline our hearts and minds to focus on the "good news." We must give ourselves permission to mourn the losses (jobs, vacations, 401ks) and, then, choose to MOVE ON, embracing the challenges as opportunities to find new life. It's not easy, but it is the right thing to do. And as we do it, we experience again God's saving grace. As the apostle Paul reminds us: "All things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to His purpose."

Faithfully choosing "good news" and "Good News" with you,
Janet+