As you’re probably aware, on July 13, there was an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. The bullets fired in this senseless act of violence killed a man; he was shielding his family from harm. They also critically injured two other men while grazing Trump’s ear. The bullet that hit Trump would have been lethal if he hadn’t turned his head immediately before the bullet passed by. Shortly after I heard the news, I started thinking. I thought about the possible retaliation against other political figures and even the divisions that could arise in the Church.
In God’s providence, this attack came on the same weekend we wrapped up our King Jesus series — a series dedicated to unity in a divided world. The goal was to equip The Rock Church with a biblical response to political conflict and disagreement. No one knows if the shooter in this tragic event had strong political leanings. Maybe he wanted to make a name for himself by killing an influential person? However, one thing we can be sure of is the strong reactions from all sides.
Tomorrow is Not Guaranteed
We need to remember that, as Christians, Jesus is our King. Indeed, we are citizens of His Kingdom first and foremost. We cannot let the troubles of this world divide us. Equally important, we also need to remember that every breath we take could be our last. There are never guarantees for tomorrow. We should always live our lives in light of eternity and try to exemplify God’s goodness. Along with that, we need to live as peaceably as we possibly can.
Finally, it’s critical to remember that God is sovereign in everything. He hates evil and works all things out for the good of those who love Him and have been called according to His purpose (Romans 8:28). God doesn’t cause evil in our world. In fact, He hates it so much that He judged it with a flood in the days of Noah. In due time, He will judge it again with fire. Furthermore, God hates evil so much that He came to earth in the person of Jesus Christ. He brought an end to sin and death and saved His people for eternity.
We need to glorify God not only in the good but also in the tragic. Why? Because He will bring perfect justice and work out all things for His glory.
Knowing that, are you prepared for eternity, and what comes after you take your last breath? Have you accepted Jesus’ payment for your sin problem? Or will you face the judgment of God for the treason you’ve committed against Him? Above all, we can have assurance of eternal salvation and peace with God. But only if our faith and trust are in Christ alone. Please respond to this email if you’d like to know more about the forgiveness and gift of salvation Jesus is offering you.
Ransomed and saved,
Posted in A Word from the Pastor