God is our refuge

Psalm 46

God is our refuge and strength,

A very present help in trouble.

Therefore we will not fear,

Even though the earth be

removed,

And though the mountains be carried into the midst of the

sea;

Though its waters roar and be troubled,

Though the mountains shake with its swelling.   Selah

There is a river whose streams

shall make glad the city of

God,

The holy place of the tabernacle

of the Most High.

God is in the midst of her, she

shall not be moved;

God shall help her, just

at the break of dawn.

The nations raged, the

Kingdoms were moved;

He uttered His voice, the earth melted.

The LORD of host is with us;

The God of Jacob is our refuge

                                    Selah

Come, behold the works of the LORD,

Who has made desolations in the earth.

He makes wars cease to the end of the earth;

He breaks the bow and cuts the spear in two;

He burns the chariot in the fire.

Be still, and know that I am God;

I will be exalted among the nations,

I will be exalted in the earth!

The LORD of hosts is with us;

The God of Jacob is our strength.

                                           Selah

Crying out to God in suffering

 Origami flowers proceeds go to  Red Cross

According to the 19^th century poet Samuel Taylor Coleridge said, “What comes from the heart goes to the heart.” This may explain when someone begins to cry, I find myself crying.  As one tragedy unfolds to the next tragedy, my hearts turns to God who hears and answers prayers. After praying and crying, what can one person do? 

Today the news from Japan is slowly fading from the top spot on the evening national news and headlines of newspaper.  This crisis is being replaced by the newest tragedy or war.   The images from Japan continue to show incredible suffering. 

Within hours of the earthquake two weeks ago, the YMCA in Kobe began fundraising.  In addition, World Vision, The Salvation Army, Caritas Japan (Catholic Charity) began gathering funds for relief.   Bible Study Fellowship  alerted members to pray for Japan.  These efforts are just a portion of what is happening on behalf of the people of Japan.  

How can we make sense of the is happening across the world?  Where do we look for answers?  How do we make sense of pain and suffering?  I like what Phillip Yancey said about suffering,  “Any discussion of how suffering fit into God’s scheme ultimately leads back to the cross.”  Suffering, redemption, and a perfect sacrifice for sinners.   In the midst of suffering, there is yet Good News.  Jesus... The Suffering Savior and Redeemer.  

Locally,   Japanese women have been creating origami art to raise funds for the Red Cross relief efforts.  We were able to purchase pieces at this week’s Newcomer’s Fashion Show.