Faith

Many years ago, a book entitled “The Big Fisherman,” by Lloyd C. Douglas, made the best-seller lists.  The book contains a scene in which several of the Apostles are wondering aloud about Jesus: “Why did he do this?” “Why did he do that?”  At one point, Peter says, “Don’t forget, we couldn’t understand why he wanted to leave Canaan and go to Capernaum!”  Thomas mumbles, “That was different.  He felt he was urgently needed there.”  Andrew observes, “Maybe he feels that he is now needed elsewhere.”  James adds, “I don’t believe he cares very much whether we understand him or not!”  Bartholomew says, “You are right, Jimmy, he’s teaching us to have faith in him!”  Thomas argues, “But can’t a person have faith and understand too?”  To which Bartholomew says, “No, that’s what faith is for!  It’s when we can’t understand!”  Peter chimes in, “That’s true. When a person understands, he doesn’t need any faith!”  Philip complains, “I don’t like to be left in the dark!” Peter answers, “If a person has enough faith, he can find his way in the dark — with faith as his lamp!”  
        “Your endurance will win you your lives,” says the Lord.  With patient endurance, hold onto a simple old-fashioned faith in God and his loving kindness and you will be empowered to give of the gentleness of your heart.  The bad news you will read in your newspaper and see on TV this week to the contrary notwithstanding, God is still God!  He is acting in history!  He will not abandon us!  When the going gets rough, hang in there, and let the love you bring into the situation be a clear and convincing sign of the God of love!  Are you listening