It is a sad time in the World.

The recent events in Paris give us cause to pause in our lives and consider the effects of evil and our response to it.

One of the dangers of going through periods of distress, hurt, and heartache is that we’ll begin to doubt God’s goodness, and to think that He doesn’t care. Nothing could be further from the truth. And this is one of the reasons why it’s essential for us to spend regular time in God’s Word.  Scripture says: “In all their suffering He also suffered, and He personally rescued them. In His love and mercy, He redeemed them. He lifted them up and carried them through all the years.” (Isaiah 63:9)

God hurts when we hurt. Remember Jesus weeping when He saw Lazarus’ family grieving? (John 11:35) The Bible clearly states that the Lord sympathizes with us. (Hebrews 4:15)  But He doesn’t stop there. As Isaiah says, He personally rescues us, lifts us up, and even carries us in times of hardship and pain.   

God allows believers to experience adversity…but…Contrary to what the enemy would have us believe, God does not enjoy the hurting of His children. Jeremiah wrote: “For the Lord does not abandon anyone forever. Though He brings grief, He also shows compassion according to the greatness of His unfailing love. For He does not willingly afflict or cause them sorrow.” (Lamentations 3:31-33) Just as God allows pain to enter our lives, He sends healing and restoration. Is there anything you and I can do to help this process along? Yes, there is. We can cooperate with God by earnestly seeking Him in prayer, praise, and the study of His Word. And we can ask Him to speak to our hearts, and to help us learn whatever lessons He has for us in our struggles. As we faithfully follow His lead, we will minimize the intensity and duration of our trials.

If you love God with all your heart, you have His promise that He will cause your hard times to profit you. (Romans 8:28) Claim that promise in faith today, and watch for His hand of favor and blessing right in the midst of your trials!  J.M Farro

Our parish priest, Fr. Larry Richards, reminded us during Sunday liturgy this past Weekend something very important.

“Hatred never has the last word.

God will always win!

We know the end of the story.”

(Click here to listent to Fr. Richard’s Homily in its entirety regarding our Christian response to the evil events in Paris.)

May you forever

keep your eyes always on Jesus.

And remember…

Love always wins! 

hugs n’ peaceful blessings!