I want to remind you this Sunday morning is the day of remembrance.
When we look around at our world we would not be amiss if we were to say has anything really changed since those millions of people gave up their lives to make our planet a better place to live. Certainly, we have not had to endure another world war albeit fighting still exists in large parts of our world.
Many this Sunday might be remembering those who have died in this pandemic and many maybe even saying does God really care about plant earth and what goes on?
You may find this strange but the answer lies in two words quoted in John 11:35 Jesus wept which tells us of three ways God cares about what we suffer.
Firstly, God understands
Jesus was on his way to a friend’s house whose brother had just died. When He arrived there Jesus wept. He was answering those questions, Jesus saying to us “I understand. I know what grief is all about”.
Lazarus was believed to be one of Jesus closest friends. In fact, the Bible says the one that Jesus loved. He knew this was not the way God intended for the human race. Sin had condemned us, not God. Sin had brought death, not God. We broke the rules. God had to act yet he understood so much that He promised us a way out in Genesis. If God does not care or understand why would He be so willing to forgive us? As we remember those who lost their lives some people found it hard to forgive the Germans or the Japanese. God does not find it hard to forgive us, just the opposite. He knows our frailties.
Secondly, God care about our pain
He does care about our pain. The effect of His best friends death found Jesus weeping. The effect of Jairus daughter the widow of Nain all broke Jesus’ heart. So much so that He brought rejoicing to the situations, yet He himself was to be subjected to such pain, even rejection from His own father. The end result though was rejoicing as He himself experienced resurrection.
Thirdly, God assures us we will see our loved ones again
Mary and Martha wept. Jesus gave them hope. Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection. I am the life. Everyone who believes in me will have life, even if they die. And everyone who lives and believes in me will never really die. Martha, do you believe this?”
In 1 Thessalonians 4: 13-18 Paul repeats that hope too.
I am so glad that God does care not just for planet earth but for me, which is why not just once a year but every day I Remember Him.
Stay Safe and Blessed.