At the beginning of the first month of the new year, family and friends greet each other with a “happy new year”. It turned out, the new year is not so “happy” after all. Thus, we confronted the January 2020 lessons learned the hard way, right away.
What happened?
January served us the terrible Australian bushfire, the threat of war, some individuals ending their lives. It came with the ashfall from a stirring Taal Volcano, earthquakes and the spread of the Novel Coronavirus that originated from Wuhan, China. And more.
These events roused the citizens of the world from their homes to help, to donate whatever they could. To once again perceive the importance of cleanliness, and to learn.
This new year, we are encouraged, nay, forced to learn January 2020 lessons from nature, from God.
January 2020 Lessons
When Taal Volcano erupted, we learned that having communities that care is vital for survival. That people are resilient, kind, and that a sense of humor can ease the suffering. We also learned that the tiny cone on Taal Lake as seen in postcards is not the actual Taal Volcano. 😀
When the forests in Australia caught fire and animals died or lost their homes, we learned afresh to sincerely seek the Lord. And pray for rain, for any kind of help to arrive. In addition, we learn to be thankful for our safety, that we still have shelter and food.
The Novel Coronavirus is teaching us to be aware of washing and sanitizing our hands after touching different surfaces. It reminds everyone to prioritize their health. After that, verify every information read before sharing. Pray for wisdom to be discerning of the ways to care for ourselves and for our loved ones.
Above all, these dilemmas, as well as our personal problems, are teaching us something which is godly. They teach us humility.
Learning Humility
Jesus Christ showed great humility when he came to our world. He didn’t boast of His power and connection. Instead, He served His disciples, welcomed sinners and sought God when He was troubled. Jesus did not judge, but He taught out of love.
When pride comes, then comes disgrace,
but with humility comes wisdom.
Proverbs 11:2
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Proverbs%2011%3A2&version=NIV
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves,
Philippians 2:3
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Philippians%202%3A3&version=NIV
Have I mentioned that humility is a trait I admire? Not “humble brags” of course, but genuine, Jesus-like humility. This kind of humility is one that recognizes our weaknesses, our sins and relies on the Lord for strength, for holiness.
You are my strength, I sing praise to you;
you, God, are my fortress,
my God on whom I can rely.
Psalm 59:17
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm%2059%3A17&version=NIV
Who among you fears the Lord
and obeys the word of his servant?
Let the one who walks in the dark,
who has no light,
trust in the name of the Lord
and rely on their God.
Isaiah 50:10
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah%2050%3A10&version=NIV
I hope we will all continue to pray and rely on the Lord. Include everyone in our prayers. Ask for help. Enjoin our family and children to talk with God.
So, what lessons are you learning this beginning of the 2020? Care to share? 🙂
