Chaplain’s Corner December 2020

“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”- 1Thessolians 5:18

The year 2020 has and is a challenging year. We have dealt with unprecedented disappointments, racism, an election that seems as if it will never end, and a relentless pandemic that has taken lives and created a new normal. A new normal of not being able to gather together for the holidays as in previous years. A new normal for many who have loved ones who succumbed to the virus. A new normal in the way we function daily. Yes, 2020 has been a challenging year. However, we are almost to the end. I do believe 2021 will bring new life and new beginnings. Amid all that we are going through currently, finding ways to be grateful and give thanks can relieve some of the stress we may feel.

Being thankful for the small events in our lives and others’ lives can change the view of a glass from half-empty to a half-full glass. It is our perception of the situation. When we can find the rainbow amid the clouds, we lift our spirits and see beyond ourselves and the current circumstances. We learn from our experiences we have been through on ways to be better as we have a new lens to see life. We can see the beauty in each given day as it is a gift (even with the challenges). We can appreciate the love shared with those who are with us and feel the spiritual presence of those who are not.

Being grateful allows us to see beyond the trees to the forest of growth and what will be. Let us not waste precious time in the sea of regret but plunge with hopefulness into the ocean of thankfulness. Enjoy your holiday season and be thankful for all we have been blessed to share over the past year and with anticipation of the year to come.

Blessings,
Reverend Takana L. Jefferson United States Navy Chaplain