Dear Church Family –
It’s easy to think that our times, and our national and world situation, are the worst they’ve ever been.
We have the cultural pressures of transgender ideology and the reshaping of society.
We have shocking antisemitic and anti-Israel vehemence.
The current House of Representatives has been described as “the most complicated house since the civil war.”
We have on-going challenges to religious freedom and freedom of speech.
We have a border crisis that threatens national stability.
It’s easy to think it’s as bad as it’s ever been.
I found it comforting to read the calm perspective of Joni Eareckson Tada that I shared in church yesterday. Let me share it again to give us a chance to mull it over. Joni said this on Fox News after the Paris theater bombing in 2015.
“[During the days of the apostle Paul], Paul and his friends were facing their own global demons. Christians were being crucified, torched, thrown to lions, and dragged from their homes to be stoned to death. Civilization was crumbling within and beyond the borders of Rome. Yet, inspired by God, Paul advises his friends, ‘Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone … Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.’” (Rom 12:17-21)
We look forward to Wednesday night and a special time of prayer for our nation, our families, and witness in our nation.
These are the best times to serve God because these are the times God has placed us in. Thanks for being part of the solution through your faith and courage. You’re a blessing! – Pastor Tim