March 2023
Grace and peace to each of you,
As I write this, we are in the aftermath of the horrific, senseless shootings that occurred on the campus of Michigan State University. We find ourselves in shock and are left to morn and ask the questions, such as “why” and how can it be prevented in the future? At the very least we ask the question of what can be done to safeguard those we love and our-
selves.
My point is that we do grieve with all who have lost a loved one, and we pray for the quick and complete recovery of those that were injured. The underlying question that comes to mind is; why do bad things happen? I only have a partial answer: because we live in a broken, sinful world, where; selfishness, greed, pride, temptation and host of moral and ethical issues seemingly hold sway. The natural next question is; why doesn’t God do something about it? Most recently I heard the response in the praise song; “Do Something” by Matthew West … “if not us then who?” Jesus gave each of us the commission to: Go and make disciples for the transformation of the world! (Matthew 28:19-20) God’s choice is to work through people, ordinary people like you and I.
The grace of the Lord Jesus be with God’s people. Amen.
Revelation 22:21 New International Version
Think about this, these are the last words of the Bible, they form a wonderful benediction. Read them again, they can soothe and calm our questioning hearts! Anxiety overtakes each of us as we realize that bad things (horrible things) can happen in our neighborhood, to our friends and family … even to us! Anxiety, often takes hold of our lives with two small words … “what if”. When we surrender to the world, the anxiety of what if, robs us of not only the present but also our future! In our human weakness and short-sightedness we are not sure how to act. Some people try to handle everything in their own strength, while others throw their hands up in despair!
Remember, the only way out of a problem, and the only reason for success, is the compassionate love and grace of our Lord. The saving and sustaining grace of God permeates our lives. Because God loves you, you are blessed with God’s grace! By God’s grace, in community we shall overcome!
O Lord, we thank You for Your grace.
You saved us and redeemed us from eternal death.
In You is our heart’s desire. Amen.
Peace …
Pastor Scott
