Loading...Dear People of God,
The terror yet strikes again! The financial and commercial capital of India, Mumbai (Bombay) came under the nightmare of terrorism. The terrible wanton attacks on innocent people and the destruction of prominent landmarks in India deserve to be universally condemned. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those who have suffered, been injured, and those who have lost their loved ones in this terrible act of hatred and destruction. At this time of tragedy and human loss, I ask each of you to join me in praying for my country, especially for the church in India that she may proclaim the Gospel of hope and deliverance at this time of terror, darkness and despair: God who created the world and holds the nations ‘in the hollow of his hand' (Isaiah 40:12) is at work for the rescue of His people and to rebuild what has been destroyed and to reconcile the world to himself in Christ.
We are invited, once again into the wondrous season of Advent amidst the terrifying events of human slaughter, two wars and uncertainty of economy - no one knows when it will turn around. We are reminded again that God sent His son - in the Word made flesh - amidst all its upheavals, all its rage and cruel war, shattered dreams and broken structures and systems. It is wondrous beyond words to be true! It is true indeed that the amazement of a virgin giving birth to a Son becomes God's answer to the chaotic world. It becomes the astounding news of the birth of the Messiah and the announcement of peace on earth. This child of Mary becomes the very icon of the invisible God who has promised to be with us always, to the very end of the age. The miracle of the manger gives us the confidence that we cannot be disabled, dismayed or destroyed, but such heinous act of terrorism and uncertainty of economy will only make us stronger!
It is important, however, that we do not allow negative thoughts, pessimistic world-views and divisive forces to weaken our positive hope for a New World that God is bringing in Christ. God on our side we can be hopeful of our future and even say with one of the greatest statesmen of the 19th century who said, "I like the dreams of the future better than the history of the past." Advent is all about the future! Let us overcome these forces as one people, waiting in hope for God's new world and reign to emerge in our midst. In repentance and right living, even hasten its arrival!
O come, O come, Desire of nations, bind in one the hearts of all man kind;
Bid thou our sad divisions cease, and be thyself our King of Peace.
Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel!
Peace and Joy
Aaron Paul Collins
