The past many months have been a difficult time for people across the globe. Fear and anxiety have gripped every level of society; loneliness, isolation, and distrust are becoming increasingly prevalent.
Yet, in the midst of this satanic chaos, may we be continually reminded of one reality: Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today, yes, even forever (Heb. 13:8). Though the world surrounding us may change its passions, the God whom we serve is unchangeable, immovable, and sovereignly reigning and ruling over all persons, events, and circumstances. Thus, we need not and should not turn to the world for peace, rest, joy, or certainty. Much rather, we place our full assurance and trust in the Rock of our salvation, our mighty fortress, our unfailing one who spoke a striking statement 2,000 years ago: Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid (John 14:27).
Despite whatever pressing or disturbing external circumstances we may be enduring, I want we all to know that we are blessed beyond measure. We know the Saviour of this world! We know that the seen things of this world are temporary and fleeting while the unseen things are eternal (cf. 2 Cor. 4:17-18).
Still, we must ask one question: are we all willing to become a blessing to others? To be clear, I am fully persuaded that the world is dark, perverse, and crooked in many ways. But it is also filled with souls who are hurting, seeking, and longing for something beyond the superficiality, temporality, and vanity they experience every day. We know the good news; they are waiting to hear it! Remember, we have to answer God’s call upon our life and enhance our ministerial training in whatever sphere this calling entails: preaching the gospel, teaching the Scriptures to seeking believers, counselling broken hearts using both the Spirit and the Word, or leading others to worship the God of this universe through psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. The world needs this, our family needs this, our friends, neighbours, colleagues, and strangers on the street — they all need this.