Thoughts from your Regional Ministers
By Steve Martin, Regional Minister & President
Published in Kansas Messenger – March issue (Vol. 125, Ed. 3)
I am guessing, with all the cold weather and ice that accompanies these cold days, that most of us have had the scary feeling of being just on the verge of losing control and falling. It is in that moment when we know there’s little we can do to stop the inevitable, and in this minor crisis, we learn again of God’s loving presence who will aid us in finding our equilibrium.
Over the last two weeks in February, we have seen the images of the terrible weather devastation. I am amazed, stricken, and shocked at how many have been affected. The loss of heat, and in many places water as well, brings issues of survival to the forefront — far more than just an inconvenience. Governmental and other helping agencies try their best, but the destruction is far more than any single effort can remedy.
All of this causes me to reflect on the fragility of life. An overabundance of necessities is one thing, yet what we have seen is that this calamity is widespread, affecting people in every part of society. Regardless of wealth, race, or background, all who were in the path of the storm became victims.
We constantly feel that loss of control, no matter how much we hope for stability. We turn to God for a sense of reassurance that “these falls” will pass and we will find security. The Hebrew scriptures are abundant with passages of assurance: “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” And “Hold me up that I may be safe and have regard for your statutes continually.” (Ps. 119: 114, 117)
As a society accustomed to many conveniences, even those that bring risk to our environment, we need to reconsider at what cost. We need to listen to scientists who understand the ways we cause harm, and act to prevent additional devastation.
Dear Kansas friends, let us keep our eye on the prize and stay firmly planted in God’s love in Jesus Christ, that we may together embrace the challenges of our time. God’s love is sufficient, and we will continue to give ourselves to greater faithfulness. May it be so!