Reflecting the current goings-on in our world, I was thinking back over the last months. In November, I was on the highway travelling to Flagstaff, Arizona, to see my 20-year-old son, Dylan, when the Paris terrorist attacks happened: gunmen and suicide bombers hit a concert hall, a major stadium, restaurants and bars, almost simultaneously - and left 130 people dead and hundreds wounded.1 In June, I was en route to Northern California for a family celebration when a shooter pledging Isis allegiance murdered 49 innocent people in an Orlando nightclub.2 And this weekend I was in New York City for a family wedding when another terrorist exacted a high toll in Nice, France, killing 84 people celebrating Bastille Day—many children amongst those mowed down.3 Murder and mayhem is horrible, but in the face of unspeakable acts, somehow being away from home has left me feeling stranger yet.
Following other recent events, I felt compelled to take Morning Briefings in the direction of the Peacemaker. Over four briefings, it was my aim to point our hearts and minds to the Scripture, and thereby remind us of the One who brings comfort and peace. Here are some: ~The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.4 ~He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds.5 ~Never will I leave you6 ~The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.7 ~Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.8 ~Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.9 ~Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.10 ~In this world you will have trouble. But take heart I have overcome the world.11 ~This is my command [God said to Joshua] be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.12
God’s Word is beyond wonderful, is it not?
Yet, I have noticed that every time tragedy strikes or we face intense personal struggle, we seem to need fresh reminders of God’s goodness and might, lest we lose our footing. Case in point, at the dawn of this week, this email came as a reply to “Giving Thanks in the Middle of Pain”13 – “Good morning! I am flying to Costa Rica tomorrow and slept little.......worried about everything in life I cannot control. Thanks for the reminder to pray more and worry less
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