Hope and Faith in Troubling Times

Once again, the headlines reveal the horrific acts of a school shooter. Abortions are taking place today, and Christians are being killed simply for placing their faith in Jesus Christ. Politicians yell, lie, and distort the truth while making promises they cannot—or will not—keep. Hate and tension fill the pages of social media as one minister preaches and debates the views of another. To top it off, many of us are rushing to accomplish things that ultimately do not matter in the long term, leaving little time for reflection and prayer.

I find myself asking, where is God in all of this? Where is God as people cry out for answers and plead for help? Where is God as innocent lives are lost? Where is God amidst the chaos and challenges we face daily?

I am sure Jonah must have pondered the same questions as he lay in darkness within the belly of a great fish. I wonder if Jesus Himself considered where His Father was as He bore the sins of mankind on Calvary, aware that His Holy Father could not associate with sin in any form.

It is easy to feel close to God while sitting on the porch with a cup of hot chocolate or enjoying a leisurely drive down a tree-lined road in a convertible, reveling in the colorful leaves of fall. However, in the midst of pain, when we feel overwhelmed or run out of options, it can be difficult to sense God's presence.

Elijah must have wondered where God was as he felt alone and hungry. As described in 1 Kings 17:6-7, "The ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning and bread and meat in the evening, and he drank from the brook. Some time later, the brook dried up because there had been no rain in the land." In that moment of desperation, the question must have arisen in his mind: Where are You, God?

All the answers remain unknown to a simple man like me, but let me assure you that He, the Holy and Divine, is present. Through the ministry of the Holy Spirit, He speaks through a still, small voice, refreshes us with a gentle breeze, and slows us down to prevent accidents. He commands His angels to lift some of us from pain and into His presence. He strengthens our lungs for a few more breaths to say "I love you" to someone who needs to hear it one last time. He works tirelessly in the midst of all the evil and chaos of this world because He loves you.

Remember the words of Deuteronomy 31:8 which states, "The Lord Himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."