Thoughts about a sad weekend in America

Monday, August 5, 2019


I grew up in a violent community. I didn't know my community was violent until my early teen years. I wans't 'sheltered' in an American sense. My parents sheltered me under the shadow of the Almighty. I was thankful for their approach to parenting. I was blessed to have a happy childhood. I didn't learn the difference between gun shots and fireworks until much later. I learned couldn't trust the police. I learned to be alert at all times. I learned where my help came from: the Lord who made heaven and earth.

Bloody weekends like the one America survived are awful and unecessary. I'm quick to pray for all people directly affected. I'm quick to know that faith without works is dead. While my husband and I have a particular way we talk to our kids about the unthinkable, we also think about the estate of our own hearts. 

The truth is, I can't give what I don't have. With that in mind, I try not to dwell on the news. I read. I feel. I talk to God about it. I also get up from my knees with an action plan from God. I serve a God who is a God of justice. I serve a God who is the only answer for the world's greatest problems. One day, things won't be as they are. 

Growing up in Brazil has given a different perspective when it comes to the world. People are suffering everywhere. Things are bad and there's no other way to describe all the awful things that happen. I also know that God's plan of redemption was proclaimed a long time ago. Prophets spoke of Him. Heroes of faith saw Him and walked with Him. 

My ancestors put their trust in Him. I clearly remember my grandmother telling God that while the world was a cruel place, He was a good God. I remember her verbalizing her trust in Him. God never let her down. This morning, I reminded God of all of that. I told Him that I saw generations of my family putting their trust in Him. I am committed to do the same. 

I read in the Bible that one day, every tear shall be wiped away. One day, peace will be everlasting. While we are not there, we put our trust in the One who knows the end from the beginning. 

He is victorious. He is coming to do justice. He never lost a battle and He will never forsake those who trust in Him.

I trust you God. You know what you are doing. I trust you to comfort those who are crying. I trust you to administer justice. I trust you to come again and make all things new. Come Lord Jesus for we trust in you.