Jesus is so "with us"

Hello Saints,

First, as a follow-up to those who are wondering how our daughter is doing after the bus accident on Sunday, she is emotionally shaken but, miraculously, physically well. She even has returned to work. I don't have much more to say on that other than we are still emotionally processing the horror of the accident and the joy that she is both alive and, all this considered, relatively unhurt. It truly is a miracle.

We had a great discussion tonight at supper club about God's providence. We talked about how sometimes it's difficult, or impossible, to see God's presence. This can especially be true in times of great loss. In these times we depend upon the promise that there will come a day when "every tear will be wiped away,"  when we finally see the big picture and our questions are finally answered.

One of the beautiful parts of our faith is that we don't only believe in a God who sees all and will make all things new, but one who is with us in our struggles. He's not distant, but was "tempted in every way." Jesus celebrated, wept, and lived with His friends. Jesus is so "with us" that when Saul was persecuting Christians Jesus said to him "Why are you persecuting me?" God is majestic, amazing, powerful, and also our Father, brother, and friend.

Yours in Christ,

Jamey +

Prayer

Keep watch, dear Lord, with those who work, or watch, or weep this night, and give your angels charge over those who sleep. Tend the sick, Lord Christ; give rest to the weary, bless the dying, soothe the suffering, pity the afflicted, shield the joyous; and all for your love’s sake.

Amen.