Grace and peace, friends.

Like many of you, I have been watching the news of Israel and seeing the unspeakable tragedies and horror that came with the early morning attack on October 7. More stories of tragedy and grief have followed each day since. It’s hard to even put into words the heartbreak I feel for so many who have suffered such loss and whose lives will never be the same.

This morning in our monthly all-staff meeting held in Robb Chapel, I shared three truths that we must remind ourselves of when we’re faced with the real and present darkness that exists in the world.

One, we must trust in the unchanging nature of God. I often go to Psalm 46 in anxious times. In it, we’re reminded that “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear.” I love those words “ever-present help.” What we know about our world is this: It’s only going to get darker before Jesus returns. Yet amidst the constant changes and turbulence around us, God is unchanging. In Revelation 4 we’re reminded that as the elders and angels encircle the throne, the song being sung is “‘Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty,’ who was, and is, and is to come.” In times of evil, God is not absent. There is peace when we place our trust in Him. When we still our racing thoughts and surrender our worries to God, our hearts can anchor to the promise of His unwavering love.

Two, we can find refuge in the power of prayer. The Apostle Paul says in Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Friends, in the midst of a turbulent world, prayer becomes our lifeline to peace. Instead of being consumed by worry, we’re encouraged to turn to God in prayer, and through prayer, we find refuge in the loving arms of our Heavenly Father who promises to guard our hearts and minds with His peace.

Three, we must embrace the power of God’s Word. In John 16:33, Jesus told His disciples, “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.” Isn’t that a comfort? Note that Jesus doesn’t say, “I have overcome trouble.” Friends, He has overcome the world!

As I write this blog, plans are underway to open Robb Chapel this Sunday, October 15, at 4:00 p.m. to invite the church into a time of prayer for Israel, the Middle East and all who find themselves in need of refuge and strength.

In a world constantly shaken by turmoil, our hearts yearn for peace. Let’s remember that there is comfort found in God’s unchanging nature, that we must lean into the power of prayer daily, and may we all hold dear to the truth of His Word.

– Mark