Where?

What happened in Boston yesterday breaks my heart.  This world needs Jesus now more than ever.  Yet, when something like this happens, many people will often ask, “Where was Jesus?”  I’m sure people asked this question during 9/11, yesterday, and during many other tragedies.

I’m guessing some might even pose this question when something hits such as a family member diagnosed with cancer.  “Where was God?” they might ask.  I know God was every where when my mom battled cancer.  I saw God as He used His people to lavish His love out own us through home cooked meals, prayers, or even just a laugh.  I saw God as He continually taught me the beautiful truths of His Word.  I saw God as Mom was able to easily line up appointments with specialists that would have often been more difficult to get.  I saw God as Mom walked up and down the aisle in my wedding.  I saw God as Mom’s spirits were continually up and as she still had a heart for Him, His Word, and His people until the very end.  I could go on and on about where I saw God during this trial.

Yesterday’s happenings were a tragedy to say the least.  There is so much evil in the world.  As our hearts are saddened at the images and stories from the bombings, know that God was and is there.  God was there as a runner cramped up and didn’t make it to the finish line in time for the bomb (heard this story on the news).  God was there in the tons of police, medical staff, etc. that were already there and were able to quickly help.  God was there.  He still is there and He is still in control.

God is there in the midst of every trial, tragedy, and storm.  He is there during the good things as well.  Sometimes, you just have to look for Him.  Ask Him to reveal Himself.  If you already know Christ, He is there in your storm wanting to draw you closer to Him and wanting to teach you more beautiful truths from His Word.  Christ is wanting to show you that He works all things for your good (Romans 8:28) and that everything can be used for His glory.  If you do not know Christ, He is there wanting you to realize your need for a Savior.  Christ is in your tragedy wanting to freely give you the grace, peace, love, hope, forgiveness, eternal life, salvation, etc. that He freely offers.  You just have to accept.

Jesus is there and always will be.  Are you running to Him or from Him?  Run to Him today.  As we pray for Boston and continue to watch evil in this world, remember this one wonderful truth from Scripture:

“I have told you these things, so that in Me, you may have peace.  In this world you will have trouble, but take heart!  I have overcome the world!” John 16:33

Jesus knows we will have trouble in this world.  Rest in this Scripture and know that He has already overcome.  Yesterday was even more proof that life is fleeting.  Trust in He who has overcome the world today.