Interestingly, I find these writings enabling me to put “myself” on paper into words.  After watching a new commercial about Liberty Mutual Insurance (not promoting this company, just sharing a story about their commercial), where the emu and limo driver are playing beach volleyball, as the driver/partner describes the “play” for Liberty Mutual, the emu promptly throws his head into the sand. Yep, that’s me! I recognized myself.

I am college educated with a master’s degree in education and consider myself a fairly informed, well-read person, BUT I don’t like major confrontation and upsetting discord. (I’m revealing my sensitivity.) In times where heated discord and disagreements occur with our nation, our children, spouses, friends, strangers, I seem to immediately get a visual, in my mind, of Jesus in the Judean Desert. Why?

Jesus had been baptized by John the Baptist and the Holy Spirit descended upon Him.  He went into the Judean Desert, fasted forty days and forty nights, was tempted by Satan and upon emerging from the desert began His ministry.

I understand Jesus was hungry and stronger for withstanding the fasting and temptations.  When those moments of vigorous discord occur and I find myself visualizing Jesus’ withdrawal or the ostrich with his head in the sand, I find strength in the details.  The Holy Spirit led Jesus to withdrawal. I strongly believe the Holy Spirit leads me to close my lips and ears to the conflicts where I do not need to be a part. Truly there are those who must give a retort, must share vehemently their opinion, but speaking for myself, I will listen and perhaps opt to not participate in heated controversy.  Head in the sand ostrich or Spirit led, I feel the strength of Jesus guiding my, at times, passive withdrawal.  God loves us unconditionally and we are created in His image. May His strength guide you to participate when and where necessary or to quiet your spirit, listen and pray.

Jill