Sent: Tuesday, December 11, 2001

Subject: A “Bad News” Gift

Good Morning Ethan & Emily:

Inevitably, we all receive “bad new” at one time or another.  But God tells us that “Those who are righteous will be long remembered.  They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the Lord to care for them.  They are confident and fearless and can face their foes (problems, fears, etc.) triumphantly.”  Psalm 112: 6 – 8.

Just think of that….when we are doing our best to live for the Lord, we can face our problems “triumphantly.”  Wow…what a promise!   That word has such a great motivating “ring” to it and you can just “hear” the sound of victory!

I think this promise ties in so very well with the “gift” that Jesus mentions in John 14: 27.  Here at the Christmas season, we are all thinking about what to give each other, and Jesus specifically refers to one of His gifts as follows:  “I am leaving you with a gift…peace of mind and heart.  And the peace I give isn’t like the peace the world gives.  So don’t be troubled or afraid.”

So, even in the face of “bad news,” we have the gift of peace of mind and heart.  What a great gift to have when faced with “bad news.”

Let us be comforted with the reality that our wonderful God is always on guard duty:  “…the One who watches over you will not sleep.  Indeed, He who watches over Israel (and you) never tires and never sleeps…The Lord keeps watch over you as you come and go, both now and forever.”  Psalm 121: 3 – 8.

This “bad news” gift is one you will want to keep and remember all the days of your life.  Don’t let any “bad news” get you down!  Enjoy peace of mind and heart…today and every day of your life.

All my Love,

Daddy-O