Church Family,

I am sure we are all deeply concerned with the events that are unfolding in Ukraine.  With each passing day, we learn of more and more death and destruction.  It is easy to feel as if the world is out of control.  This is especially true since we are on the heels of a global pandemic. You may have a feeling of helplessness when considering the magnitude of disease, war, and the complexity of geopolitical issues, but nothing is further from the truth.  

I would like to share a word of encouragement for you today. Christ gives us some wonderful counsel for times such as we are now experiencing.  

Matt 24:3-8

 As he sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to him privately, saying, "Tell us, when will these things be, and what will be the sign of your coming and of the close of the age?" 4 And Jesus answered them, "See that no one leads you astray.  5 For many will come in my name, saying, 'I am the Christ,' and they will lead many astray.  6 And you will hear of wars and rumors of wars. See that you are not alarmed, for this must take place, but the end is not yet.  7 For nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom, and there will be famines and earthquakes in various places.  8 All these are but the beginning of the birth pains. -ESV

War, disease, and suffering are a result of the fall of mankind.  They are a direct result of mankind’s desire to reject God’s wisdom and ways for our own.  We can take comfort though that God has an Eternal Kingdom of which we have citizenship through faith in Jesus Christ.  Whilst we are here, we are not passive passers by but rather purveyors of the Eternal Peace and Salvation God offers. Of this peace, we are first partakers.  

In the midst of hearing of wars, we should not be troubled.  For in the early church, Christ’s counsel has provided peace in the midst of geopolitical turmoil and even persecution.  It can do the same for us today.  

This does not mean that we are immune or callous to the suffering of others, but rather we are all the more dedicated to promoting Christ’s Eternal Kingdom here on Earth. Christ pronounces a blessing on the Peacemakers. I believe that this transcends a mere cessation of hostilities between one another to the root of the evil of war, the separation between man and God.  It is of this peace which we are called to herald. 

We are called to pray for the suffering, the lost, our enemies, and for peace, but let our prayers be accompanied by actions that also promote the increase of God’s Kingdom.  

God knows. God cares. God wants to use us for His purposes in the midst of every situation, and He is in control.  May His grace and peace abound all the more in these times.   

Loving you all, 

Michael