The world is in turmoil. Our country is in turmoil. Our families are in turmoil. Even our churches are in a turmoil. I’ve watched news for three months about dangerous viruses, political in-fighting, civil disobedience in major cities all over America and the world. And, to top it off, being (basically) quarantined in my own home, there were many times I felt like the world was spinning out of control on the other side of my front door and there was no one who cared about me or anyone else. When night came and the house was dark and quiet, my mind would race with all manner of things and I would feel very lonely. And unprotected. And totally alone.
I would find refuge, strength, and peace through music. I have a mish-mash of music on my phone from country to mild rap, Christian to soundtracks, heavy metal to easy listening. Music has always kept me grounded. But there was still something out of sync.
Then, one day I heard a song on my playlist that I’ve known all my life. I guess copyright law forbids me to quote all the lyrics, but the song is “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus.” The song reminds me to keep our eyes on Jesus and all the worries of earth will fade away.
Being a religion columnist, I feel that you readers think I’ve got it all together in my little world of “Kum Ba Yah” and “Jesus Loves Me.”
That’s just not true. I deal with the same problems and worries that everyone does. I do forget to turn everything over to God at times and have to fight my way out of the mess of my mind and life.
During these past few months, when I felt alone and out of control, I would be reminded that Jesus was in control. I don’t know why God permitted this horrible virus to come into being, but I have to trust that God’s Will is the best and I don’t have to understand it. The violence that led to protests and demonstrations was allowed by God to happen…just as it has. We just have to trust Him that things will now begin to change; and we can move into a new time of peace between cultures, races, and all people. I know it will take a lot of work and conversation, but I also know with God’s help, we can do it.
It gives me comfort to know that God created us all. Equal in His eyes.
“For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek, for the same Lord over all is rich to ALL who call upon Him.”) (Romans 10:12). Equal in His eyes.
I would encourage all of you reading this that you not be so worried or angry that you lose sight of God’s Hand in all that is happening. It is a scary time and a time to be very concerned but trust me when I tell you that God is in control. Tell Him how afraid you are and how worried you are. Get angry at God. He can handle it… after all, He’s God. And then be quiet and listen. Be patient and don’t rush away. In time, you will begin to feel the still small workings of peace in your soul. That’s God.
As Psalm 46:10 tells us, “Be still; and know that I am God.”
And for today my friends, this has been the gospel according to Jimmy. I wish you peace.
