Surviving Hard Times

These are the times that try men’s souls, was the cry of a previous generation; but, it could be our cry as well.

I have been doing a great deal of thinking about the hard times most of us are experiencing – personally, with loved ones, and even with our church – and of what our faith says about surviving hard times.

In our sacred writings we reminded that it is our faith that provides the power to survive and overcome whatever life brings – including hard times like these. (I John 5:4)

This statement has provided the underpinnings for additional reflection of what our faith may be saying as to how to survive specific hard times such as those most of us face at one time or another.

And so, taking a clue from the popular TV show, Survivor, I am engaged in this series of sermons on the topic of Surviving Hard Times.

With all of the scientific evidence being accumulated these days that confirm the positive benefits of faithful living, actually taking the “leap of faith” is a far more rational decision than it ever was in the past.

Over and over again, studies reveal that people of faith – people who regularly participate in a community of faith, like our church – actually have a better life than those who don’t.

People of faith actually survive hard times in a way that others don’t.

The faith that is proclaimed here at Christ Church helps people overcome whatever life brings – like I John says.

What is of particular interest to me is that study after study shows that we don’t even have to believe that the conclusions may be true.

What is shown is that something happens to people who are part of a faith community.

Something happens to people who worship regularly together.

Something happens to people who meet together to praise the Creator and to seek guidance and wisdom for living life in these days.

They become different from those who don’t.

They are able to survive during times when others succumb.

Values change.

The way we look at the world changes.

The way we look at each other changes.

Our demeanor changes.

Our attitude changes.

Our brain changes.

And miracles happen.

We are able to overcome whatever life brings our way.
We are able to survive when bad things happen – survive and even thrive.

Let no one think differently, what we do here at Christ Church is important stuff.
There is power in this faith we profess.
What we do now and in the days ahead will reflect our understanding of how we are to channel our resources and energies to promote and enable others to know what we know.

I am looking forward to the days ahead here.
I hope you are, too.
You should.

See you in church – and bring someone with you.