Trouble in the Middle East, terrorism, earthquakes, climate change, disasters, surgeries, health problems, early deaths, Ebola, Avian flu - does it ever end? We hope and pray for a better new year but is that realistic?
The great teacher and prophet, Jesus, said, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Troubles will persist for Christians and non-Christians alike until Christ returns (Revelation 21). We live in a fallen world that groans for redemption (Romans 8:22). But we need not fear.
“Can anything ever separate us from Christ’s love? Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death?... And I am convinced that nothing can ever separate us from God’s love. Neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither our fears for today nor our worries about tomorrow - not even the powers of hell can separate us from God’s love. No power in the sky above or in the earth below - indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 8:35,38-39).
Years ago, there was a popular song with the lyrics, “What the world needs now, is love, sweet love.”
Everyone talks about love, but what the world needs now is the love of God. I’m not talking about fanaticism or suicide bombers, either.
Jesus talked about the great commandment to love God but also the other great commandment to love your neighbour as yourself (Matthew 22:36-40). And He made it clear that your neighbour is not just someone who shares your ethnic background and/or your religious beliefs (Luke 10:29-37).
“If anyone boasts, ‘I love God,’ and goes right on hating his brother or sister, thinking nothing of it, he is a liar. If he won’t love the person he can see, how can he love the God he can’t see? The command we have from Christ is blunt: Loving God includes loving people. You’ve got to love both” (I John 4:20-21).
So Happy New Year! We may have troubles and worries in 2015, but don't despair. God is with you all the way. We will have trials but the love of God will never leave us or forsake us and dwelling in His love will make the earth a better place.
