by Darcia Kunkel

Channeling Your Focus

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“And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars.
See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet.”
Matthew 24:6, English Standard Version

The phrase “Much Ado About Nothing” comes from a comedy, written by William Shakespeare around 1598.  The play is a tale of matchmaking, scheming, and deception.

These days, we are surrounded by a constant barrage of news…news of war and betrayal, news of violence and senseless killings, news of opioid epidemic and famine, and yes even fake news.

As a military spouse, it was difficult not to let my heart be troubled by the news, especially during my husband’s combat deployments. The media seemed to relish in the sensationalism of war. As a family readiness group leader I would encourage family members to turn off the television, and not to always trust what you hear. News stories often got it wrong.

Not only is information broadcast on our televisions, but via our radios, newspapers, smartphone applications, and the Internet. Reports are instantaneous and uploaded by the second. Many stories are repeated over and over again. Coverage of elections, tragedies, and catastrophe is streamed all day long. No wonder anxiety, depression, focus problems, and suicide cases have skyrocketed in recent years. It is narcissistic voyeurism at its worst.

Where should we channel our focus? How can we have some semblance of sanity and peace in this world? In the midst of chaos, we are called to look to the Lord. This world offers nothing for us to put our hope and trust in. Fixating our eyes on eternal hope is the ONLY option. It seems cliche, but when you “let go, and let God,” life just isn’t as chaotic and dramatic.

Lord, the next time that I find myself getting worked up about tragic reports of the day, may I be reminded to put my trust only in you!

“They will have no fear of bad news;
their hearts are steadfast, trusting in the Lord.”
Psalm 112:7,  New International Version

Copyright Holy Cross Lutheran Church, Colorado Springs, Colorado