You can send a question about faith, the Bible, The Salvation Army, or your personal dilemmas to Captain Karen by visiting our website, www.prioritypeople.org, and clicking on "Ask Captain Karen." We reserve the right to edit for length and content.
Dear Captain Karen:
How do I prosper in times of difficulties?
Sa Nota (via e-mail)
Dear Sa Nota,
During a recent conversation with a good friend, my focus was startlingly shifted. Although I was lost in the wonder of the autumn season with the many colors of the changing leaves, I saw her smile fade.
She ever so sweetly reminded me that this time of year is her least favorite. It seems that any change now, even the subtle seasonal changes, sends her back to sad memories. She has gone through many losses during the last few years, [but] she still holds fast to Jesus.
I asked her how her faith continues to be so strong. She reminded me that when she begins to feel overwhelmed by memories or tasks at hand or by pondering the future, she remembers Philippians 4:4-7 [which begins "Rejoice in the Lord always."] She has committed these verses to memory so that she can pray it, say it to herself aloud or write it out—whatever it takes to remind her that Jesus, always near, will give her peace.
I pray, dear one, that your difficulties will not overcome you. Please be assured of my prayers for you.
Dear Captain Karen:
How can I get my children to understand the real meaning of Christmas?
Christmas Mom
New York State
Dear Christmas Mom,
I applaud your desire to make this most blessed of holidays more meaningful to your children. These days, the Christmas "craze" seems to start earlier than ever. (I saw decorations in the stores in August!) Our children get caught up in the advertising hype so that after every commercial, they say, "I want that for Christmas!"
However, we know that Christmas is about the best gift of all—Jesus. From our heavenly Father's most wonderful gift of His Son, we learn that giving is important to this season. So, why not focus with your children on giving?
Allow them to give their time by visiting a nursing home or some elderly folks. They can also give of their resources by using their allowance to buy small presents for the children at a local shelter. Finally, they can use their talents by singing carols at the local hospital or nursing home, drawing pictures for shut-ins, making cookies for shelters, or volunteering at the Army kettles. I have even seen families who join together to throw Christmas parties for underprivileged children or families.
With a little creative thinking, and some sweet encouragement, I am sure your children will catch the true Christmas spirit.
Dear Captain Karen:
I have a new person in my office, and I am having a hard time getting along with him. Can you help?
Office Mate
Pittsburgh, PA
Dear Office Mate,
When our work atmosphere isn't pleasant, a dark cloud can hang over the place. I suggest that you be careful not to judge your new workmate. He is getting accustomed to a new job and that can cause significant anxiety.
Remember, you cannot see into the hearts of others and figure out why they are the way they are. Sometimes, we don't like people because they remind us of our own flaws. For example, have you ever noticed how bossy people get annoyed at other bossy people? They see their flaws mirrored in someone else.
Finally, first impressions can be dead wrong. I read that in ancient times, the Greeks would try some court cases in the dark since they knew that people could be swayed by appearance. Give your new office worker time to get used to the place. Perhaps you could take him out to lunch one day to try to get to know him better. In the meantime, remember that you don't have all the facts about him, and it is better not to judge others (Matthew 7:1–2).
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