Ten years ago, in November, we prayed for the victims of a Typhoon in the Philippines. That country didn't have much relief as another storm swept through in 2022. Now, our eyes are turned toward the hostages being freed day by day in Gaza, during a several day truce between Israel and Hamas. We watch the citizens of Gaza walk through their devastated city looking for traces of relatives and relics. Their entire lives and those of their children, grandchildren, and possibly generations have been forever altered. These days, shootings, hate crimes, and demonstrations, are happening across America and all over the world. Our US government is languishing and its prospects for the future are in jeopardy. The season has changed, and I'm not just talking about the dark, cold days of winter. Times like these cause us to reflect and consider our perspectives on life and what's really important.
I majored in Art in High School. It was my favorite subject. One of Art's most fascinating lessons is PERSPECTIVE—a picture drawn in two dimensions, especially one appearing to enlarge or extend the actual space, or to give the effect of distance. I remember images like the one to your left seemingly jumping off the page—a testament to the artist's skill and ability to see beyond what was there, and to make an object appear different than it actually was without truly changing it. We have the uncanny creative and spiritual ability to make things be as we view them. Perspective is a particular attitude or way of regarding something; a point of view. Perspective can also give us a truer understanding of the relative importance of things; a sense of proportion. The medieval Latin perspectiva is 'the science of optics'—the way in which an event or course of action is perceived by the public. We see and hear 'spin' narratives from various vantage points on a variety of subjects. When I consider the tragedies going on around the world...it puts my problems in their proper perspective.
Christ followers approach things from Jesus' Kingdom perspective. Peter wrote,"The end of the world is coming soon. Therefore, be earnest and disciplined in your prayers. Most important of all, continue to show deep love for each other, for love covers a multitude of sins. Cheerfully share your home with those who need a meal or a place to stay. God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another." (1 Peter 4:7-10) Maybe it's time to change our perspective on some things. | 
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