Peace In The Storm

Eastern Shore of Puerto Rico

"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. The Lord be with all of you." 2 Thess 3:16

One of the most peaceful places I have ever visited was Puerto Rico. The warm winds were blowing as they do all year. We made the journey a couple of years ago to visit a friend who was in hospice. We did not make it in time to visit him as he died before we even got on the plane. We were able to visit with his wife and sons.

In spite of the grief, there was serenity surrounding the visit. The wife, a friend of mine, is a very faithful woman. No matter what trials or tribulations she has faced over the decades, she has faced them with courage and with the peace of heart that only God can give.

Today we watch the weather as once again a mighty storm, Hurricane Irma, threatens the island as well as the many islands in the region. The winds and rain; the stirring up of the ocean will create much havoc. It is a troubling time for the people in these Leeward Islands. It may be a devastating time for not just those on the islands; but, for the people on the mainland coasts. Who can tell where that mighty wind will go!

We face many storms in life. They come and go. As we face the storms, whether they are physical or spiritual, may God grant us His peace at all times and in all ways. The Lord be with you all!

God's Peace - Pr. J

Where Does My Help Come From?

I lift up my eyes to the mountains— where does my help come from? My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. Psalm 121:1-2

Today is one of those historical days that will not be forgotten. The tragedy of 9-11 shook this country. It was a day when many of us realized how vulnerable we actually are. There were changes in security protocol every where we went. Security was analyzed and assessed in all parts of our government. Those changes probably helped avert more attacks like this one. But, we must confess that no matter what we do, we cannot stop the evil that threatens. We can try and we must try because the evil one will keep on trying, as well. We must all be diligent and we must be able to trust our governing officials to also be diligent in their desire to safeguard the security of the people of this county. 

Even as we wondered how such a thing could happen; how no one in the government could foresee the events of that tragic day; many turned to the only One who can bring about real peace. Churches saw an increase in attendance following this horrific day as they recognized the need to trust God for help. He and only He can ultimately save us.

And.. then, with time, those visitors began to withdraw, once again, from worship. The reality is: we face evil every single day. Where will our help come from? It comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth. Let us rejoice and give Him all honor and praise.

May our heavenly Father guide our leaders to put the interests and safety of all the people before their own interests and may all of the people of God put their trust in Him for He alone can save us.

God's Peace - Pr. J