On one of his speaking tours, Richard Neuhaus was picked up at the airport by a man who kept talking about how bad things were in America and how difficult these times are. Finally Rev. Neuhaus had had enough of the doom and gloom talk. “These may be bad times, but they are only times we are given. And despair is a mortal sin.”

He’s right. Whether good or bad, these are the only times we are given—and it is our privilege to serve the Lord today, right where we are.

Despair is not an option. These are fantastic, exciting, amazing days to be alive. We should continue to do good and remain optimistic.

Chin up and knees down. Take some time to laugh today. It’s a good way to remind yourself that God knows what he’s doing even when we don’t.  

You can reach the author at ray@keepbelieving.com . Click here to sign up for the free weekly email sermon.