MAKING ALL THINGS NEW

  By Irving Serrano

We live in strange times, a time of stark contrast. Perhaps we can remember the classic words of Ecclesiastes,' there is a time to break up; and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance'. Yet in our crazy world, this is a time for all those things at once. During this past week, our hearts have been gripped by stories and pictures of human suffering. Mounds of rubble containing human corpses caused by the earth quake that hit Japan. Parents weeping for lost children, children wandering aimlessly looking for parents they will never find. Even though most of us have not been directly touched by this tragedy, we still have been personally moved by the suffering of others. In the up coming days, we will see and participate in actions of solidarity. All through-out the world, people will pause for a moment of silence in remembrance to these victims. If your faith and trust are in God, we can endure the calamity. (Revelation 21:1-5) While on the Island of Patmos, John had an extensive vision. He describes:' "then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. And I saw the Holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God. Prepared as a Bride adorned for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne; "See, the lamb of God is among mortals, He will dwell with them as their God; they will be His peoples, and God himself will be with them, He will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; for the first things have passed away" and the one who was seated on the throne said," See, I am making all things new". Suffering goes on throughout our world everyday. We see and hear about horrible things daily. And we also hear many who say; " If God created everything good, then why do these bad things happen? They ask why does He let these things happen". The Bible does not cover up the reality. Scripture is very blunt when speaking of the brokenness of creation, and the suffering this produces. Just read Job, Habakkuk, or dozens of Psalms. As Christians, we must never be surprised by suffering, or act as if terrible things should not happen in today's damaged world. As Gods people we aught to pray the prayer of World Vision Founder; Bob Pierce: "May my heart be broken by the things that break the heart of my God". In conclusion the more we are in touch with Gods heart, the more we will share in the pain of others. And the more we will seek to alleviate that pain. So this is our hope, the hope that will not disappoint us. In His time, God will forge a new creation. In that day, we, along with " All things" will be made New. God bless you.

Love always,

Irving Serrano