By the Way: Rejoicing in the midst of difficulties

By George Koopmans on September 10, 2022.

I recently came across an on-line article called “Assessing the COVID-19 Carnage.”

While there has been, and continues to be, disagreement surrounding responses to COVID… few would deny the carnage left in the virus’ wake.

The utter devastation many families experienced, and the lingering health effects others are dealing with, may rightly be described as carnage. In addition to health impacts, shrinking economies around the globe present a different carnage.

Unfortunately, the ongoing challenges of COVID are not our world’s only concern. The horrendous situation in Ukraine weighs heavily on the hearts and minds of many. The threat of nuclear war has returned after many years of diminished risk.

These situations have also contributed to supply chain issues and associated increases in the cost of living. Other concerns could also be added to this list.

Amid all of this, the words of the Apostle Paul found in Philippians 4:4 come to us; “Rejoice in the Lord always, and again I say rejoice.”

Even as the children of Israel, languishing in captivity, hung their harps by Babel’s streams and asked, “How can we sing the Lord’s songs in a foreign land?” we too may wonder how we can rejoice continually in the face of today’s challenges.

However, God’s encouraging word to Israel was this.

“I know the plans I have for you” declares the Lord, “plans to proper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)

After 70 years of captivity Israel was restored to her own land. God’s plan for us is even better. One day all of creation will be restored and paradise will be regained! In the meantime, we do well to also follow Jeremiah’s instructions to Israel.

“Seek the peace and prosperity of the city to which I have exiled you. Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will proper.” (Jeremiah 29:7)

By the way… as we do this, each day will seem a little brighter!

George Koopmans, Medicine Hat College Ecumenical Campus Chaplain

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