Readings: Psalm 126: 4-6 and Isaiah 43: 16-21
Both passages speak to God’s love and provision that allows us to walk through difficult times, holding onto our faith. Both texts acknowledge that at times we will face difficulties, hardships, challenges. Both writings remind us that just as God has been there for His people in past trials, He too will be our rock and light in the trials we face.
In times of trial it does indeed seem dark. We await some sign of hope or the dawn of change that signals a beginning to the end of our trial. If it is a prolonged trial, we come to points of wanting to shout “Why?” to God. It is in these moments that we need to recall God’s work in our lives. It is at these times that we need to draw upon the strength found in passages such as today’s readings. When we remind ourselves of God’s unfailing and steadfast love, the darkness lessens as hope begins to grow again.
Each trial we go through is an experience in faith. As we reflect on how God was present to us each time faced a tough situation, we will see how we were never alone and we will see God’s hand always at work. These reflections allow our faith and trust in God to grow. They bring us reassurances that He will be there in the next trial and in the next and in the next… For His constant presence and steadfast love, we say thanks be to God!
pastorjohnb 