“Ours is not to reason why…”

            The fires that have been burning south of us have been devastating.  In many ways, the damage done by such fires, or hurricanes, or blizzards, is unfathomable unless you see it with your own eyes.  I’ve never lived in a place where fire has been so destructive.

            But I’ve survived hurricanes (in both South Louisiana and Coastal Georgia), as well as a blizzard in Michigan.  Again, until you see it, you just can’t comprehend it.

            I remember taking a canoe ride following Hurricane Alisha near New Orleans more than four decades ago. We were in a neighborhood, and my paddle hit something a couple of feet under the water. I couldn’t determine what it was. My friend in the front of the boat said he was pretty sure it was the top of a neighbor’s chain link fence.  Again, until you actually see it…

            We wonder at times, how can this be? Why does a good God who loves us allow for such devastation? Why do we suffer in this world? Well, the truth is that we do not know all of the answers to such questions. I will say this. It is certainly the result of living in a fallen world. Sin is what caused such tragedies to enter our lives. That does not mean that a specific sin caused this specific act. But we do suffer as a result of sin, both our own and that of others.

            We may never understand the reasons for such things in this life. But we can determine how we will respond.  The many kindnesses we see, the generosity we experience, and the love that is shown in the midst of trouble is such a blessing. I have seen God’s love from others more often while going through trials that at any other time. And for that I am grateful.

            And I am certain of this. For the child of God, such troubles will not last for eternity. Jesus said, “In the word you have tribulation. But be of good cheer. I have overcome the world.” I’m counting on that promise to be true. I pray you will do the same.