Times Like These

John 14:27 - Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

When tragedy strikes across the world in distant places, in our own country, even in our city, we can feel a sting. But when tragedy strikes close to home it becomes real. A new friend lost her life yesterday in a tragic car accident...by a drunk driver. We never, ever know when our last breath will be. We don't want to think about it; we don't want to talk about it. But it happens...in real life.

I write constantly about knowing Jesus. I know it can fall on deaf ears. I know not all understand. It is my understanding she loved the Lord, for which I am so thankful. As a follower of Jesus it is our responsibility, at any cost, to share Christ. He alone is the way, truth and life. He is the living God, bread of life, the fountain of living water who removes our endless thirst in this world. He gives us courage, confidence and a certain kind of peace that only comes from Him. Without Him we are lacking...a lot. In Him we lack no good thing.

While in this world there will be sadness that comes with death, that peace of God and even joy can lie deep in our spirits knowing that Jesus' hand reached out...to the one who knew the Savior...or reaches out to those lost in this world that they may know the same Savior intimately. Jesus can be glorified through the death of one if just one more soul is saved through it.

The love of the Lord has no boundaries. It crosses over denominational lines. In the Word you will see that He died for all mankind. He longs for an intimate relationship with all. This relationship with Christ is not something He takes lightly. Jesus would not have otherwise said, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." (‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭16-17)  "Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’ " (‭John‬ ‭3‬:‭7‬)

Lord, I pray that my life would convey the message You so desire; may Your light so shine. May You reach out Your mighty hand even today to those who do not know You. I thank You that Your hand is ever outstretched for those willing to take it. I pray for family, friends and loved ones of this young woman, that Your peace and strength be with them through this very difficult time. 

Psalm 89:13-17 - You have a mighty arm; strong is Your hand, and high is Your right hand. Righteousness and justice are the foundation of Your throne; mercy and truth go before Your face. Blessed are the people who know the joyful sound! They walk, O LORD, in the light of Your countenance. In Your name they rejoice all day long, and in Your righteousness they are exalted. For You are the glory of their strength, and in Your favor our horn is exalted.