JULY & AUGUST NEWSLETTER ARTICLE
This time of the year, I often
remember to thank the Lord that He gave His people the ability to invent
air-conditioning. Some people enjoy the
hot weather, but I am not one of them. Now, let’s get on to more important issues in
our lives then the weather!
With the whole pandemic situation,
there is concern with our educational system and whether to open our schools as
usual; how to deal with increased cases of the Covid-19 virus; to mask or not
to mask,; what about the increased pressure on police due to more criminal acts
in our communities; added to this is the social unrest prompted by prejudice on
all sides; plus the outlook of elections that seem to have more dramatic
effects on our values and existence than ever before.
As Christians, we know that the
ultimate cause of all our concerns is the sin that exists in the world. Satan is the source of confusion, sickness,
hatred and turmoil. Like Job, in the Old
Testament, we may want to question why God allows all these negative things to
happen. We must remember that in the midst of all the chaos, God is still in
control and like Job exclaim “I know that my Redeemer lives and that in the end
He will stand on the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my
flesh I shall see God.” His promises far
exceed the cares of this life as shown through Jesus’ resurrection.
Historically, Christianity grows in
times of crises. We pray that we reflect
the hope that is assured us through our Baptism and offer others encouragement
to seek God’s guidance in decisions on all fronts, seek His strength to overcome
negative biases and prejudices. We want to support those who work for good with
prayers, encouragement and resources whenever possible. Allow the Holy Spirit to work through
you. Amen.
Rev. James W. Rhiver, Pastor
