Some people thrive on chaos. They stoke drama...they poke and pick at things until something blows up.

Why do people do that?

Power.

The drama has a certain attraction to it. It puts you in control. And people like to be in control. When you can keep everyone else on their heals, you get the advantage.

Jesus never taught us to live like that. It wasn't how he lived and it isn't how he wants his disciples to live. When Jesus faced chaotic times he went back to his grounding in the Father.

Before his arrest he took the Supper with his disciples and gave thanks to God. Before Lazarus rose from the dead...in the midst of his own tears, Jesus thanked the Father for hearing his prayer.

Jesus choose gratitude over stoking chaos.

I believe our world is becoming enamored with chaos but that is not what we are called to participate in. I believe the antidote to buying into the thrill of chaos is choosing a gratitude even when things are hard. Instead of wondering why so many bad things are happening to us, we can choose something to be thankful for. This doesn't mean we bury our heads in the sand to the reality of our own suffering. It does mean that even when we are suffer we can have an attitude that reflects our faith and the example of Jesus.

Imagine how healthy our churches and our own walk with Jesus would be if we made this one small change?

If you struggle with this, ask yourself what you are getting out of promoting chaos in the lives of those around you? What is it that attracts you to that approach?

The next time you are tempted to stoke the flames of chaos, take a moment to consider what you have to be thankful for and spend some time in prayer thanking God for that!