“This past week was particularly discouraging for our nation. Aside from the horrific, shocking, public assassination of Charlie Kirk, it seemed like there was a constant flood of horrible news. We are constantly inundated by these stories of violence, images of suffering, problems escalating as sin runs rampant in our culture, in our cities, and around the world.
This is exactly where encouragement comes in. It is not time to despair. It’s not time start hating. We must come together, side by side, to remind ourselves that our faith in Christ will drive out fear. The Christian life is never hopeless. Our God is the God Who encourages the downcast. And we are reminded that His love and power are the same whether you live under Solomon or Nebuchadnezzar, whether you’re worshiping in Jerusalem or enslaved in Egypt, whether you’re with Jesus feeding the 5,000 or in dungeon stocks of Philippi. Whether you win or lose an election. Whether the news is good or bad. Our Lord’s good work cannot be thwarted by scoffers or liars or killers. He has sent us out in joy and to proclaim the Good News of His victory.
Our world is simmering with godless hate. You and I have been called to a bold and vocal hope. To be a people who do not give in to the deception around us and become hard-hearted like so many others, but to be those who are strengthened, consoled, called to participate in Christ’s love.”
