Ron Writes

Wow, a record setting heat wave! Just about 4 months before that we had a record setting freeze. Back in September there were record winds that resulted in fires that caused many, including some of you, to be evacuated while thousands lost their homes. And about 6 months before the winds, the COVID pandemic began. In 2019, there were billions of dollars in damages around the world caused by natural disasters.

Revelation 8 tells us of the 7 trumpets that will sound. For the ancients a trumpet was to warn the community of danger. It made a statement. Get ready. Be prepared. Danger and disaster are on the way. In Revelation, the first 4 trumpets were natural disasters. Natural disasters remind us that life is fragile - life is brief. Are you prepared for the life to come after death? Hear the warnings and repent!

Then there’s the political upheaval. The constant protests and riots. It was distressing to see so many Christians invested and adamant about one extreme or another. It generated hateful rhetoric, fear, suspicion, and despair. Too many are convinced that the best way to change society is political power rather than the power of the gospel.

In contrast to all of this chaos is the call for Christians to live in hope. A “living hope.” Prayers are to result in peaceful, tranquil lives. Our lives should be lived in such a way that everyone will know we are Christians because of our love. Our aim is not power or control, but authentic lives characterized by good works. Our faith and trust in God will lead us to desire to live peaceful lives with all. He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God (Micah 6:8)?