I am the Lord, and there is no other. I form light and create darkness; I make well-being and create calamity; I am the Lord, who does all these things.
Isaiah 45:6b-7
This past Friday marked the anniversary of a solemn event in the life of our nation. As anyone over the age of thirty-five surely remembers, it was on that day twenty-five years ago that members of the terrorist organization, Al Qaeda, hijacked four planes in a brutal attack which they hoped would bring this nation to its knees. Their actions ended the lives of thousands of unsuspecting civilians and launched us on a road to war that languished for years. And while greater minds than mine will continue to debate the political and social ramifications of the tragic events that happened on 9/11 2001, my mind turns once again to the theological realities that are highlighted in these events.
First, as a Christian I cannot shrink back from seeing that all these things happened as part of God’s own sovereign purpose for this world and for our lives. Nothing big or small happens as a result of purely “random” acts. It is God who purposes, plans and permits all things that come to pass. As our verse above says, it is He who causes both well-being and creates calamity. His hand was in this, since he rules over all things.
Second, we as Christians can take great comfort in this fact. Not because we foolishly believe that “all things are good.” But because we understand that the hand of God “causes all things to work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purposes.” (Rom 8:28, cf Gen 50:20). The hand that rules even tragic events is the good hand of our Faithful Father.
Third, I’m reminded that religion is not the same thing as faith in God. Even the terrorists had religion! And immediately after 9/11 the whole nation “got religion” for a time. But for many it was a passing fad. It is only those who hold fast to Christ by faith who can ultimately know the reality and power of His amazing grace. It is my prayer that you are held tight in the grip of this unchanging grace as you rest by faith in our All-good and All-sovereign God.
Held Fast in the Grip of His Grace!
Pastor Scott Lee