I have a confession; I’m a wimp.

I was raised by a pair of stoics who always met danger and suffering with either a laugh or grim forbearance.  I’ve tried to live up to their example and face most traumas with at least outward calm. However, to my utter shame, my self-composure leaves me whenever I encounter my nemesis…a mouse.

This is the only Christmas mouse I want to see…

I know, rationally, this small defenseless creature can’t harm me, but the revulsion I feel whenever I see one inside my own home drives out all rational thought.

The cold temperatures of this past week drove one (I hope it’s just one!) of the tiny beasties into my house. I thought I’d cornered it under my kitchen sink with a baited trap (forgive me PETA) and was waiting for the inevitable, so I could remove the body and resume a normal life. Then, last night as I prepared for bed I saw it scurry across MY BEDROOM floor. My son responded to my panicked cries and managed to chase it out. I slept (ha!) with the door tightly closed and my ears pricked to detect any sounds of mouse-like activity.

This morning I know that rodent could be lurking in any small space, but I have not been able to make myself open the cabinet below the kitchen sink for fear it will leap out at me. (and what? bite off my nose? I know, it’s ridiculous)

As I carried individual scraps of trash into the garage, rather than dropping them into the bin under the sink, I felt rather foolish, but still couldn’t force my hand to open that cabinet.

Whenever I’m faced with heavy challenges in my life I turn to God for peace, wisdom, courage and strength. So why was I attempting to overcome this teensy problem in my own power?

Our Lord wants us to rely on Him in all circumstances, great or small.

As soon as I post this entry to my blog, I’m going to get on my knees; first to pray and then to open that cabinet.

Please pray for me, and then turn your hearts to those Christians who are suffering real persecution this Christmas. Visit the Facebook page My Treedom to see posts of the courageous Christians who are risking their very lives to celebrate the birth of our risen Lord.