I recently read an email from my friend and college roommate who is serving over in Mali, Africa. He is a PA working in a local hospital there. In many ways, he risked his life to help the African people. There were major terrorist attacks in Mali during his stay, not to mention the variety of dangerous diseases he could be exposed to in Africa. He was aware of the threats, but continued to remain in country because he felt safe in the protection of the Lord. Upon his recent return from Mali, he spoke of his exciting time spent in the country, but also with a heavy heart he revealed his frustration for the war and death that exists in this world especially in Africa.

The answers to these questions are much longer and far deeper than this blog post can handle. However, when we pose questions like this we assume our current feelings about the world being “out of control” are actually the reality. Even though it may seem like God is not there, the truth remains that He is very much alive and working to redeem his fallen creation. He has already conquered death through his sacrifice for us on the cross. This is what the Christmas season is all about. Christ came down to save us from ourselves. We are the problem, not God. Thanks be to God for his “inexpressible gift” (2 Cor. 9:15).

Here are some comforting lines for you to take heart during this time of year. My friend shared these with me upon his return from Mali. I hope it is encouraging to you as it was to me.

“I think these last couple verses from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s timely seasonal poem outline well why we can have hope even in times like these:

And in despair I bowed my head;

“There is no peace on earth,” I said;

“For hate is strong,

And mocks the song

Of peace on earth, good-will to men!”

 

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:

“God is not dead; nor doth he sleep!

The Wrong shall fail,

The Right prevail,

With peace on earth, good-will to men!”