It was my pleasure to introduce a devotion to the deaconess students last night at a fireside chat regarding “The Winter Doldrums,” or more prevalently called [I'm beating a dead blog post here] “Seasonal Affective Disorder.” However, I’ve found many a good resources that discussed the biological causes, risk factors and treatments (mine might be to live in Hawaii) that are out there, especially if the symptoms become severe. Nevertheless, we do have Christian brethren who find it more difficult to function properly due to severe mood swings or depression (which is not typically S.A.D), and in the event of these mental health issues, one has the options to seek professional, medical and/or psychiatric intervention, coupled with distinct, spiritual care of Word and Sacrament.

All in all, our discussion at the fireside chat was enjoyable– as is normal at this time of year to get caught up in some of the “winter blues.” We each shared our stories and sentiments, and it was interesting that there were varied reactions and differing opinions among the deaconess students. Some liked Seattle-type weather year-round and some were preferred Equator-dwellers; which indicates the point that not everyone responds the same way to weather or seasons. Nevertheless, it is this disparity that has caused psychologists countless years of case studies and research of pondering the affect of our environment on people’s moods. Consequently, I found that Luther actually knew a thing or two about how to handle down moods (or, melancholy as he put it), before Freud was even thought of. Pairing his quotes against some of today’s treatments, one can find few differences; the main distinction is that he speaks the truth about our fallen natures and the world-where psychology deviates (sin is never mentioned)- and then names the Truth in Christ Jesus, who saves us from ourselves.

The following are citations from Luther on his Treatment of Melancholy. “Take care of your body in defiance of Satan.” “Eat, drink, and talk with others.” “Seek recreation” And this is my favorite: “At such times [of melancholy] I seek the fellowship of men. A man does not have control of himself when he is downcast and alone, even if he is well equipped with a knowledge of the Scriptures. It is not for nothing that Christ gathers his church around the Word and the sacraments and is unwilling to let these be hidden in a corner. Away with monks and hermits! These are inventions of Satan because they exist apart from all the godly ordinances and arrangements of God. According to the plan of creation every man is either a domestic or a political or an ecclesial person. Outside of these ordinances, he is not a man (or woman), unless he is miraculously exempted. Accordingly, a solitary life should be avoided as much as possible.”

What clarity of thought Luther was blessed with to bring practical wisdom to those who were downtrodden with sin [just as he was]. With regard to S.A.D, and any other negative experiences, it is normal to want to take steps to prevent it from happening again or at all, right? However, because we have little control over, well, many things, prevention often becomes [excuse the rhyme] “the invention” of man. Poignantly, what is not invented by mankind is also articulated clearly by Luther in the following citation: “Prayer helps us very much and gives us a cheerful heart, not on account of any merit in the work, but because we have spoken with God and found everything to be in order.” Also, Paul writes, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4:6

These were the Scripture passages that the deaconess students read that coensided with the devotions’ topic: Proverbs 16:2 Job 38:1-13 Psalm 139:1-12 John 8:12

Finally, we closed with this prayer: Heavenly Father, you are the light of world, a light no darkness can overcome. You show us the way, the truth and the life through your Son, Jesus Christ. Grant us the cheerful and peaceful hearts that we most certainly have because we are grafted to our Savior through all trials and temptations, all seasons and changes. Have mercy on us when we struggle, strengthen us in your Word and Sacraments, and teach us to turn to them often. Thank you for the ordinance of fellowship in the friends and sisters in Christ we have here at the seminary and in every place that we go. Guide us as we continue to learn and live to serve You. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.