The floods here in Texas have ripped apart homes, cars, bridges and our human hearts. My heart seems to quietly sink deeper and deeper as I read one more dismal article about those missing in the rivers. Today, as I read the front page of the Sunday San Antonio Express-News, I had to lay down the paper and weep for a moment. There, was a picture of the Blanco River, with little red numbers pointing out where the tragic events took place. It pinpointed the red house occupied by nine people from Corpus Christi, how far the river carried the house and where the house slammed into the bridge and tore apart. It was hard not to wonder what it might have been like to be floating down the river, calling out for help, as the waters raged. Gut wrenching!
Many human beings resist and reject God because of the affliction and suffering they see in our world today. How could God allow bad things to happen to good people? They can't imagine how a good God could allow such misery, pain and anguish. At the same time, I find that many people have drawn closer to God through affliction and suffering. Troubled times awaken them to their need. A need for God. They begin to understand that they're not in control as they once thought they were.
If we are walking with God over time, and something bad happens, we are more than likely to turn to God when the bad happens. Case in point... I understand that the Corpus Christi families staying in the Wimberly house gathered in a circle to pray during their crises. Somehow, I have a feeling, they sensed God being very present with them, even in those dire moments.
Simone Weil writes that suffering makes God "appear to be absent." She is totally right. That's what it feels like. But, then, I read scripture and remember that "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." (Psalm 34:18) This brings great comfort! How does this tragedy wrestle with your thinking?
When these things happen in life that are bigger than us, we MUST get God's perspective. We can't let a bad circumstance make our conclusion about whether God is good or evil. God's Word is true and can be trusted. Always. It won't take you long in life to realize that there is suffering all around us. The Bible does not promise that all suffering will have a happy ending. But, it does show how people of faith walked with God through suffering and experienced God's presence in the worst of times.
Now is the time to nurture your relationship with God. If you don't have one, give God a try. He is just waiting to be with you and can handle your questions, your anger and your pain. Just try Him. He loves you so much. What keeps you from God? And for those hurting in Texas? Pray. Pray for those by name and those that are nameless who are suffering today. Pray for those with broken hearts. Serve. Donate. Care. We can be the hands and feet of God to bring hope and healing to a sinking heart.
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze." Isaiah 43:2
Nancy Abbott is the Chaplain for the YMCA of Greater San Antonio.
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