Today’s Word from Pastor Jim…
“Do not remember the former things. I am about to do a new thing.” Isaiah 43:18
“We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.” Romans 8:28
What is our calling in the midst of crisis? What are we to do when everything seems to be going to hell in a hand-basket? How is God working among us?
Not all things are good. We are not called to have a Pollyanna faith, that sees God behind every disaster, disease, and parking spot. Not all things are good, and everything that happens in this world is not the will of God. Much of what happens in this world can be traced directly to greed, oppression, human arrogance, or some other form of sin. Sin is real, evil is real. What is a God to do?
The promise of scripture is not that all things are good. The promise is that all things can work together for good. Don’t despair if you are given lemons; just make lemonade. Trust God, keep your hearts open, look for good in the midst of every crisis. God is working with us for good, even in the midst of something evil.
How is God working in this crisis? Time will tell. But I can tell you that more people are helping and reaching out to others than ever before. In the midst of market crashes, people are being generous. Our community is stronger and more connected than we were six weeks ago. This crisis has humbled us, or at least it should have. This crisis has reminded us of our frailty and vulnerability. The absence of hugs, dinners out, and church services has also opened our eyes to the simple blessings that we often take for granted.
In the midst of crisis, God is doing a new thing. God is teaching us; let us not forget the lessons and return to the former things as soon as this crisis ends. May we keep our hearts and minds open. May anxiety be put in its place, and may hope spring eternal.
God is working, we are called to work with God for the common good.
Thank you for being you!
Much love,
