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We are afflicted in every way but not crushed; 
we are perplexed but not in despair; 
we are persecuted but not abandoned; 
we are struck down but not destroyed.
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 CSB
Isn't it Christmas?
What's with the "afflicted"? 
The "struck down"?
Because there are those in our community, in your orbit who this week will feel abandoned.
Those who literally will be abandoned.
Those for who memories of loss, of hurt, of abuse, of grief will be afflicting them.
There'll be those who may have lost their jobs, lost their way, lost their hope.
When Jesus was born, so was our hope.
Our God entered into the story to make a way, to become the way, to restore all things.
And He calls us to follow Him, to enter in, to step towards the afflicted.
To not abandon, but to stick with the persecuted.
To bring healing and hope to those who are struck down.
Keep your eyes and ears and heart open for those in your orbit this week.
Hope was born in a manger, but didn't stay there. 
Hope was born into a small family but it was never just for Mary & Joseph.
Hope arrived in a person.
Check in on your people this week, not everyone is going to be OK.
Be that hope in person.
#lovewithoutmeasure

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