Daily Delight

There is a lot of brokenness in our nation. Racial clashes, poverty, divorce, gun violence, injustice; it is everywhere and happening everyday. These are subjects I am afraid to talk about or acknowledge. I don't watch or read the news often. When I do, I find myself anxious and overwhelmed by it all. When I hear stories about injustice in our country, I get so angry. I hate the brokenness. I wrestle often with what action to take. Sometimes the action that I take is ignoring it but I know that this is incorrect.Recently I watched a video that an artist made to express how he felt about the brokenness in our nation. It made me sad; even now I tear up writing about it. It was hard to watch as it displayed the brokenness that our nation has struggled with for decades. It is sad that there is so much division, violence and hatred. God didn't intend for any of this.1) He calls us to love one another: "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another." (John 13:34)2) He meant for us to be united: "How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!"(Psalm 133:1)3) Division is the plan of the enemy: “Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand" (Matthew 12:25).I asked God what my portion is in all of this, because ignoring isn't an option. God said a few things: Pray. Love others. Speak up. I will pray that we are united as a nation, despite our differences and that all plans from the enemy to destroy us as a nation be destroyed. I will make a choice daily to love others and seek to understand beliefs different from my own. I will choose to see the person, not their color, sexual orientation, economic status or religion. Even if my voice trembles, I will speak out against injustice.We are called to love anyway. This is how we unite our nation.

About the Author

Alexis Newlin

Alexis is a 34-year-old lover of Jesus, loose leaf tea, rollercoasters, and adventures. Originally from Marietta GA, Alexis now resides in Fresno, CA where she works as a recreation therapist at Valley Children's. Alexis enjoys teaching and encouraging kids that they can do and be anything they want, despite their disability.

When not at work, you can find Alexis outdoors enjoying a walk in her neighborhood, scoping out the newest food truck, hanging out with friends or planning her next trip. Her church, The Revival Center, and family mean the world to her. They have supported her through the loss of her mother and a cancer diagnosis.

Through her trials and triumphs, God has pushed her to share her faith and encourage others through her writing. Writing is something she is passionate about and it is a joy for her to share her walk with God and encourage others.