There in a Jam

Some people are no good in a crisis.  You know who I mean.  They have a melt down, go into panic mode, feint at the sight, they completely lose it.  Everyone else needs to manage the crisis and then manage this person.  Their first reaction is an over reaction.

We see over reactions all around us.  Someone blows their cork over an unintentional slight, being cut off in traffic or lines that are too long.  We hear stories such as parents suing a restaurant because their child was accidentally served an alcoholic drink.  And sure it shouldn't happen, but is it that much worse than the 3000 calories of fried potatoes and bacon wrapped hot dogs that the parents ordered for the kid?  Some of these are not so much injuries as opportunities.  It's like the basketball player that falls to the ground looking for a foul call.  There it was, now where's my reward?

Of course some people really thrive when there is a crisis.  The immediacy of the situation gives them focus and they are  at their best.  Other people are just a comfort.  In times of trials, they are steady and help hold others up.  In 1 Thessalonians, Paul tells the church to "Encourage one another and lift each other up."  or later in that chapter, "Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."  We are called in good times and bad to lift each other and offer encouragement.

And while we are there for each other, God of course is that ultimate support for each of us to lean on even in the most troubling times.

Watch this clip from Pastor Lowell.

God is with us.  Even in the storms.  Especially in the storms.  God is with us.  Now there is a reason to be of good cheer.