Archive for category crime

Trouble indeed

Jul 8

Posted by matrill in Christian living, crime, Current Events | No Comments

Troublesome times are here…

The opening line to a song I remember hearing as a child, singing with a quartet several years ago, and currently playing on my car’s stereo. R. E. Winsett wrote that song in 1942. I can only imagine what current events might have been in his mind as he penned those lyrics.

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Troublesome times are here…

Yes, indeed. If you are not convinced of this, you are probably not paying attention. As the words to that song run through my head at this moment, I am reminded of a few key truths.

First, this is a disturbing reality. Sometimes, just looking at the newsfeed is all I can take. Maybe you feel the same way.

But then, hasn’t our world always seen distress since sin entered in the Garden? A wedge driven between God and His creation, Cain & Abel, physical suffering, societal conflict, slavery, abuse of power. The list goes on, and at every period of our history there have been troubled times. Certainly, we see it around the world today and in our own backyards.

Where do we turn for assurance or relief? Government or political movements? Is anyone really convinced that is the answer? The goodness of mankind? Even the optimist probably would not recommend that as a source of hope. In the midst of troublesome times we should join the psalmist in declaring that our hope is in the Lord alone (Psalm 39:7; 62:5).

Second, we have an opportunity. I have often said that as the days grow darker spiritually it becomes increasingly easier for true believers in Christ to shine as lights for Him. Simply fulfilling the basics of our Christian walk should set us apart in stark contrast to the world. Love like Christ loves us. Make decisions with wisdom and integrity. Keep your promises. Lead with humility and a servant’s heart. Demonstrate genuine forgiveness. Show compassion to those who are hurting. Share the Gospel with the lost.

I met a man recently who shared many of the disappointments he had experienced in his dealings with those that claimed to know Christ. Sinful conduct, calloused responses, both willful and unintentional harm. It sure sounded like the people who claimed to represent Christ had done a poor job of it. His perception and reception of Christ was tainted by people. Our opportunity as ambassadors of Christ is to present a clear testimony of His goodness in the middle of troublesome times.

The final thought relates to the theme and message of that song itself. The chorus joyfully proclaims, “Jesus is Coming Soon!” Rather than simply viewing that as our ultimate escape clause to leave this troubled world, we ought to consider the urgency and challenge of that truth. He is coming again, but has put us here to serve Him until then. Another song asks, “What if it were today?” We must obey and serve with all of our being in each of our remaining moments.

Long before Winsett penned the song’s lyrics, God’s Word gave us His divine promise:

And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be. Revelation 22:12

As we echo the words of John may we also seize the opportunities of each new day. Even so, come, Lord Jesus (Rev. 22:20).

Wring Our Hands or Bow Our Heads

Jul 4

Posted by matrill in church, crime, holiday, summer camp church, teens | 1 Comment

On most days the newspaper publishes articles about teenagers who commit a senseless crime against someone else. From theft to violent attacks and even murder, nothing is outside the scope of possibility. While I believe that the news media should report these facts, it breaks my heart to think of the strong bonds of sin that would compel teens to commit such acts. I shake my head and wonder what kind of future they will live out. Even worse, I question what the future holds for our society that produces such young people. We often wring our hands and wonder, “Is there any hope when mere children act in such a fashion?” If we are not careful, we can become discouraged to the point of despondency.

Then I look at the big picture and thank the Lord for His work in our lives. After a week at junior camp, I am reminded of the potential of those young children. What a privilege to see boys and girls trust Christ as their Savior and others dedicate their lives to serving Him. I am convinced that God can protect them from evil influences and set them on a course for an honorable and rewarding life.

I witnessed the hard work of our teen workers who generally serve without reward, or even much recognition. “Move those coolers. Unload that trailer. Set up the equipment so our kids can compete in a game.” Nothing more was needed to set them into action. No paycheck. No rewards from the campers who would benefit. Just a week’s full of humble service – and a lot of bug bites. I am convinced that God kept an accurate record of their labor and will reward far better than we ever could. I also believe that unselfish service is something upon which you can build a fruitful life.

Finally, this morning I sat around a table in the café with three young men. Each is between fifteen and seventeen years old. Each woke up on a Saturday (and a holiday) to attend a monthly prayer breakfast. Each bowed his head and spoke with the Lord, interceding for the needs of others. Each recognized with gratitude the freedoms they enjoyed and the Lord’s provision of them. Each mentioned the spiritual needs of others, either rejoicing over someone’s salvation or requesting that another would respond to the gospel message. In my heart the Lord replaced discouragement with a strong sense of confidence and expectation.

If only a newspaper reporter would have been there to write about them. I could provide him with dozens of similar subjects and hundreds of headlines. I simply would like the world to discover what I was reminded of again this morning. There is always hope – for an individual, a community, or the world – as long as our God is involved.