Yes, these three ghosts, representing Christmas Past, Christmas Present, and Christmas Future, all challenge Scrooge (and us) to examine the state of our unique, individual hearts in our daily lives. Each one of us is ultimately called to be mindful of the past, present and future, not to be overwhelmed and oppressed by any of it, but rather, to become better, more loving, more fully ourselves through revelation of our daily choices and priorities.
Yes, it’s quite a challenge. Most of us fear it and run away from it, in some way, at some point. Regrets, painful mistakes, loss and personal imperfection may make us feel that we’re only haunted and doomed to fail. It’s especially amplified and lonely this time of year, when self-reflection seems to be the name of the game.
So, which ghost is haunting you the most these days: Past, Present, or Future? Do you feel doom and gloom when you look at any one of them- or all three of them- in the context of your life?
It’s not hopeless for you. Wherever you are- in life, in issues, in pain, in recovery- The Almighty is a Spirit hovering over you right now. We need to go to Him, then, with our Truth regarding our past, our present and our future.
“(The Most High) God [is] a Spirit: and they that worship Him must worship [Him] in spirit and in truth.”
John 4:24
Like Scrooge, we need to say “yes” to what The Most High’s Spirit has to teach and lead each of us. He knows all about us, about our current situation, every bit of our past, present and future circumstances:
“Where shall I go from your Spirit?
Or where shall I flee from your presence?
If I ascend to heaven, you are there!
If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!
If I take the wings of the morning
and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea,
even there your hand shall lead me,
and your right hand shall hold me.”
Psalm 139: 7-10
We all live imperfect lives, filled with imperfect choices. The Most High knows this and loves us the entire time. Look at this season, not as a time to be condemned, but rather, like Scrooge, let this be a time of renewal, hope and reconciliation. The past, present and future, in His Hands, can be used, indeed, to bless and prosper you.
“For I know the plans I have for you… plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11
When it comes to your “three ghosts,” be blessed, not haunted. And yes, like Tiny Tim is famous for saying,
“(The Most High) God bless us all, everyone!”
Copyright © 2025 by Sheryle Cruse
