The news this week has been heartbreaking. It’s difficult to process horrific acts of violence, and the senseless robbing of innocent lives. It is on weeks like this, all we can do is bow low before our God and pray.
My thoughts turn to remember Jesus riding on a lowly donkey. The crowd around Him. The palms waving as He passes by.
The people had expectations of Him which would go unmet. They wanted Him to come and restore kingship, leadership to Israel.
His very actions were indicative this would not be. He had not come to be the military and political leader they were hoping to receive. No matter how big of a reception they were to give Him, He was not going to overthrow and take political action.
Their shouts of “Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!†were shouts for Him to save them.
Yet they missed the point – He was not coming to save them from the perils of their society. Instead of salvation from political and social oppression, He had come to bring salvation for their souls.
The ones who stood praising and waving palms would soon be the very ones to yell, “Crucify Him!†when they faced disappointment in His mission.
I wonder, “Are we any different than the crowd that day?”
We have a tendency to desire a particular outcome to our present circumstances, rather than see the treasure which may lie hidden in the dark times. We long for immediate relief or comfort over the eternal.
And yet Jesus still says to us today:
“These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.†(John 16:33, NASB)
Jesus knew this world would bring each of us much turmoil and discomforts. He knew our burdens would be too great for us to bear on our own. He gave us Himself – His Presence – to get us through these times. Even when surrounded by that which makes us fearful, anxious, and unsettled, we can be in peace and have peace.
“When beyond our understandingYou’re teaching us to trust …
You’re faithful foreverPerfect in loveYou are sovereign over us.”
(from “Sovereign Over Us” by Michael W. Smith)
We so need hope these days. In her post, “Hope in the Unseen” HERE, Donna Boucher reminds us: “Hope sings in the darkness of trials never doubting the rising of the Son.†Allow her words to remind you of the power of hope, no matter the circumstances you may be facing.
Come, sit a spell. Bring your coffee, your posts, and your thoughts. If you link up, kindly visit those who have drawn up a seat around you.
This is so true: “We have a tendency to desire a particular outcome to our present circumstances, rather than see the treasure which may lie hidden in the dark times. We long for immediate relief or comfort over the eternal.” May God give us grace to keep our eyes on Him and rest in His leading and will.
These days we are living in will challenge us greatly to lean in and trust Jesus more and more.
This: “He was not coming to save them from the perils of their society. Instead of salvation from political and social oppression, He had come to bring salvation for their souls. . . .He gave us Himself – His Presence – to get us through these times. Even when surrounded by that which makes us fearful, anxious, and unsettled, we can be in peace and have peace.” Wise words, Joanne, for these hard times!
This has been a wrestling morning and my heart is heavy. Peace he gives us. Thanks for using your words as a vehicle for sharing that peace.
Her actions are heartbreaking for her, her family, the school, the community, and the families directly affected, Joanne. I’m joining you in prayer for all those directly affected. Today, the media blamed her Christian parents for her actions which is equally heartbreaking. Yes, His love has overcome the evil, and thankfully, His peace does guard our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.
Joanne, our collective hearts break together this week. In times of senseless tragedy, we can but only flee to God for peace and intercession. Yes, our expectations often go unmet, but never our true needs, for His Presence goes with us, even in heartbreak.
Thank you for sharing my post here, Joanne, we certainly need reminders of Hope in the darkest of times.
“Instead of salvation from political and social oppression, He had come to bring salvation for their souls.” A much better salvation, but we do seem to overlook it in our longing for temporal security. Great post, Joanne.
What an interesting way to put it: “see the treasure which may lie hidden in the dark times.” Your words really struck me. Am I sifting through all the chaos around to see if there is hidden treasure? Since my God has promised for His called ones, everything will work out for the good, it seems the good is hidden really well! Yet, I know it’s there …
Joanne, I’m lacking for words today. Your words today are tenderheartedly treasured. This>>”We have a tendency to desire a particular outcome to our present circumstances, rather than see the treasure which may lie hidden in the dark times. We long for immediate relief or comfort over the eternal.” May we be attentive to see the treasure that may be hidden in dark times. Thank you for hosting.
This tragedy has been weighing heavy on my heart as well. It’s impossible to understand all the reasons why these things continue to happen. May God give us wisdom and courage to do our part in protecting the little ones who are often bearing the brunt of our grownup problems. 🙁
Such comforting truths, Joanne … thank you for addressing this terrible tragedy in such a thoughtful, wise way. I’ve been reading through the Book of Daniel lately and finding great solace in the concept of God’s sovereignty. The song you shared has been especially meaningful in my life over the years. Love and hugs, friend.
I love the quote from Michael W. Smith above, so true!
Blessings, Jennifer
Jesus gave us the gift of Himself. May we treasure and reflect it.