I get troubled by what is going on in our world. I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised as we get closer the the Second Coming of Christ the Bible reminds us of “perilous times”. Yet, I still don’t like what is happening on many fronts in our culture and larger world. It seems that the view on every horizon is filled with messages and movements that are opposed to the Bible and the Christian faith. I pray daily for hope and the power of the Holy Spirit to fill me with courage and wisdom to live in this troubled time. “I Heard The Bells” is a Christian movie about the life of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. It is produced by “Sight & Sound” Theater of Lancaster, Pennsylvania. It can be seen in Mount Shasta or Medford. I think you would like it. My wife and I saw it recently and were encouraged. Longfellow lived during the Civil War era. He lost his wife in a household fire. His son was wounded in a Civil War battle. For a time he gave up writing completely amidst overwhelming grief. His poem “Christmas Bells” talks of Christian hope in troubled times. I have listed a few of the lines below.
“peace on earth, good will to men, and in despair I bowed my head, There is no peace on earth, I said, for hate is strong and mocks the song, of peace on earth, good will to men, Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: God is not dead, nor doth He sleep, The Wrong shall fail, The Right prevail, with peace on earth, good will to men.”
I walked away from the theater reminded of “hope” in the midst of dark times. Because God is alive as He proved on Easter morning no challenge is too great. We all face challenges in this world that at times seem insurmountable. But I believe that Emmanuel is WITH us as Isaiah 7 and 9 remind us. The present and abiding Presence of the Holy Spirit can and will sustain us no matter how dark our world. I hope you will “Hear The Bells” during this Christmas season. “God is not dead, nor doth He sleep” Holy Spirit fill us with your Abiding Presence so we can stand strong and be filled with hope during these times we live.
God Bless You
Pastor Drew
