From Between Cross & Resurrection by Alan E. Lewis
Looking to the first year anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attack I thought this piece brings a strong word to us during times of fear and uncertainty. I am particularly taken by the first sentence.
TODAY MUST BE WORTH LIVING IF TOMORROW IS WORTH TRUSTING. The promise that we too, like the glorified "Man of Sorrows" (Isaiah 53:3), shall be relieved of sin's burden, released from death's fear, have the tears of pain and loneliness wiped from our eyes, must change the way we deal with guilt and fear and suffering today.
We live today within the promise of new life - no matter what may be oppressing us today. Yes, there may be the worst of days around us - but nothing...nothing...can separate us from the promise of God - to be our rock...our foundation...our safe harbor (that is at the very core of the Good News). We are asked to trust that God's justice and mercy and loving kindness and will...ultimately prevails. For the time between here and there we are encouraged to live as though it is true. Therefore, nothing is given the power to destroy that truth...a truth to which we hold firm. Obviously, we all experience those times when we wonder...is tomorrow worth trusting? If it was based on my ability to make things happen...NO. But that is not the case. We are told by the Creator of all things...there will be a tomorrow. The Lord be with you.
Connection: No pain...no fear...no anxiety...is easy to endure. It is difficult to stand for justice and to be merciful when we do not know the outcome of our actions. And yet, we are told to "go for it." Live as thought the promise of the reign of God is being unfolded even now...and yet...we do not see it completely.
O Lord God, be for us the firm foundation upon which we will face all that will come within this day. It is not easy to live in the present and find our way through what is so often the confusion and instability of the day. Hold us and send us, Lord. Amen.
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