As we gather for another month there are many things going on in the world. We need to look at the Bible in order to partially understand modern day events.
Probably the biggest story today is the issue with Israel and the various positions on it. The basic issue is one that Satan uses often — Jealousy. Throughout the Bible God calls Israel His chosen people. It is with Israel and only Israel that God makes a covenant of blessing that will endure for all times. God converses with Israel and tells them how to act and the consequences if they don’t obey. We also read about people who will work with Israel to restore their country and Jerusalem. Cyrus was named specifically many, many years before he was born or came to power in Persia.
Israel has been punished and dispersed many times but God keeps His covenant and returns them to their promised land. Despite the Holocaust, October 7 and other suppressions, God follows through on what He says. Now we have demonstrations against Israel and the Jews but according to God’s word, they will not prevail.
The above has a great lesson for us also, God has chosen us through Holy Baptism to be His people and heirs. Many people are trying to tear us down and are against Christianity. God has promised to be with us only if we will truly trust Him and worship Him. God loves us with a love that the world cannot give. Satan is at work again trying to deceive us and destroy our faith in God.
In our world today, we see support for terrorists and hate for God’s chosen nation. We see people unwilling to take a stand because they want votes from both factions. There’s an old saying that says “When you stand for everything you stand for nothing.” The real issue is — do we stand for God or for something else? As a country we used to be for God but now there are various factions. The Bible addresses this also saying that if a house is divided against itself it cannot stand. As a country we need to return to God to rely on Him for all things.
God wants us to come home to Him forever. On May 9 (Thursday) we will honor Christ’s returning to heaven with His promise that He’s going to get a place ready for us and that “many are called but few are chosen.” Let us be faithful to God at all times and receive the crown of eternal life.
Pastor Weikart
LUTHERAN CHURCH OF PROVIDENCE EVENTS
Bible Study : Wednesday May 1 at 1:00 p.m.
Elder’s Meeting: Sunday May 5 at 12:00 p.m.
Men’s Breakfast: Thursday May 9 at 9:00 a.m. at Sally’s Diner (Formerly Rhonda’s Kitchen)
Book Club: Thursday May 9 at 10:00 a.m.
Ascension Day Service: Thursday May 9 at 7:00 p.m.
Mother’s Day Brunch: Friday May 10 at 10:30 a.m.
Council Meeting: Sunday May 12 at 12:00 p.m.
Bible Study: Wednesday May 15 at 1:00 p.m.
Potluck Dinner: Sunday May 26 at 12:00 p.m.
Bible Study: Wednesday May 29 at 1:00 p.m.