Government and media are doing everything possible to take our focus off of the most wonderful event in human history. For us, we are turning off the disruptive noise around us. We are working on and pursuing peace instead of the hustle and bustle of the season.
Because of the increased burden placed on us with all the pressure of fear concerning either the disease or the pressures of governmental control, we have chosen to take more time off and spend more time focusing on the real reason we celebrate the birth of Jesus.
If Jesus indeed said that He came to set us free, why are we still being bound by a spirit of fear?
This season is supposed to be a time of renewal. Just as Jesus was born into a world caught up in turmoil, we need to see birth within us of faith, hope, and love. As long as we’re bound in fear, faith, hope, and love fail to be present. There’s scripture which says that perfected love casts out fear. When you look at Jesus, you’ll see love perfected toward you. When you know how much God loves you, fear can’t get a foothold on you.
Luke 2:8-12 in the Passion translation: That night, in a field near Bethlehem, shepherds were watching over their flocks. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared in radiant splendor before them, lighting up the field with the blazing glory of God, and the shepherds were terrified! But the angel reassured them, saying, “Don’t be afraid, for I have come to bring you good news, the most joyous news the world has ever heard! And it is for everyone everywhere! For today in Bethlehem a rescuer was born for you. He is the Lord Yahweh, the Messiah. You will recognize him by this miraculous sign: You will find a baby wrapped in strips of cloth and lying in the feeding trough!
If you’re caught up in fear, you’ve taken your eyes off of the Savior of your spirit and soul. In this case it’s impossible to be a blessing to those around you. If you’re caught up in fear, faith will not function in your life. I love what Kenneth Copeland said, “fear tolerated is faith contaminated.” Another scripture says that it’s impossible to please God without faith.
Fear brings physical challenges, specifically with the adrenal glands and the kidneys. When this happens, there becomes greater issues concerning cardiovascular function. This causes constriction of blood vessels, restricting blood flow and increasing pressure. This is where the use of blood pressure drugs are usually dispensed. A far better means of dealing with high blood pressure is often addressed by dispelling fear and anxiety issues.
Long term fear and it’s effect on the adrenals and kidneys results in changes in mineral balance and can then create damage to the skeletal structure of the body.
This season is a great time to reflect on our greatest reason to resist fear. The problem we run into lies in how quickly we lose sight of the miracle of Christmas as the pressures of life crowd out the Word of God in our lives. Each and everyone of us have the option of resisting the pressures of life.
Over the last twenty years of writing these newsletters, I often wonder how far and wide they go. Hopefully I’m making a difference in people’s lives. Because of the increased burden we’ve carried lately, we’re going to do what I’m asking you to do. We’re taking time away from the office for a couple weeks to get our focus back on what’s important.
It’s impossible to give out what you’re empty of. The work behind the scenes is something patients often fail to see. It’s not unusual for Julie and me to still be in the office till far after the last patient goes home. My days off are often spent researching and writing these newsletters. If you don’t get newsletters in your inbox in the future, don’t panic, I will be back but only after I’m refreshed.
In the meantime, we wish all of you a time of reflection, refreshing, and healing. May Christmas bring the hope of new life to you and your loved ones. Pray for our country, our world, and your loved ones. I appreciate the prayers from all of you, and I lift you all up in prayer as well. To my faithful readers and those I’ve not yet had the honor to meet, may the joy of Christmas overtake you and may your New Year be one of health, prosperity, and freedom.