In John 16:33, Jesus proclaims, “In the world you will have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” It is a promise we need in the wake of seeing the devastation and ruin wrought by recent killer tornadoes.
I saw some Google satellite pics that reveal before and after shots of the tornado-seared landscape in Tuscaloosa County, Alabama. The swath of utter destruction left by that black, billowing cloud packing 200 mph winds is hard to fathom. The loss of life and property is mind-numbing and heartbreaking. According to one report, there are nearly 400 people dead or missing in Tuscaloosa alone.
Plans are underway for a First Baptist Memorial Day Weekend trip to one of the devastated regions in Alabama. The focus of the trip will be supply delivery and debris removal. The cost to trip participants will be minimal as our church will provide transportation and the work group will sleep on cots in a CBF church. Those unable to go can help by contributing supplies--as specific needs are identified--or funds to secure those supplies. Carrie Ingoldsby is serving as Trip Coordinator and Jody Long as staff liaison so please speak with either of them for additional information.
On another front, this was the week Public Enemy Number One on the world’s list of top terrorists was finally brought to justice. While forgoing the ghoulish delight the death of Osama bin Laden has sprouted on Facebook, internet postings, and elsewhere, I commend the courage and resourcefulness of the U. S. Special Forces who took the decisive action required to stop bin Laden from foisting still more evil and suffering on the world. Along with the “Arab spring” of greater freedom and democracy sweeping many countries in the Middle-East, perhaps bin Laden’s death will signal a new, more promising chapter in the struggle for peace and justice. I also pray these startling developments mean we can at last bring our troops home.
Finally, this Sunday is Mother’s Day, a day of great joy and celebration on the one hand, and much sadness and loss on the other. For some, this will be the first Mother’s Day since their mother died. For some, it will be a day to confront the pain of the mother they never knew. Thus, on a day of happiness for many, others will be quietly dabbing at tears.
Jesus looked the real world square in the eye when he said, "In the world, you will have tribulation." But thank God, that is not the end of the story. For this side of Easter, we can answer, "But be of good cheer. The crucified and risen One is at work in the world bringing hope in the face of despair and healing in the face of our profoundest loss."
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