By Sandy Diaz

When I first looked at this lent season’s title, Worth the Struggle, two things came to mind. First, why must we struggle (and some more than others) and second, what helps me get through my times of struggle.
  
We know that a full life lived on this earth comes with struggle. Some more difficult than others, but nonetheless they are struggles we wish often we could do without. I acknowledge that when I’m struggling, whether it’s with a decision or a difficult task at hand, I get overwhelmed. I’ve had to learn a few tools to help me through these moments (not necessarily in this order).
  
 1.     Pray.
 2.     Ask, “what can I control?” 
 3.     Read scripture, preferably Psalms.
 4.     Seek the advice of a good friend or minister.
 5.     Act or let go!
 6.     Listen to music.
 7.     Go for a walk.
  
When it comes to scripture, I often think of Romans 5, verses 3-5. 
  
 “And not only that, but we also boast in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.”
  
I love these verses because of their possibility… endurance… character… hope. Hope gives me strength and energy. I feel we cannot live without hope. It moves us to be better people, to press on with dreams, to help those that need our help… to love.
  
Worth the Struggle… Loving God, remind me to look to you in my struggles and know that I am never alone with them. Your presence guides me and helps me to be more patient and loving. Amen