70 years ago, one of most destructive and massive wars in our human history – World War II – came to an end. Indeed, in 2015, many countries have come together to celebrate the hardfought victory and commemorated millions of soldiers and civilians who died and suffered in this war. We are supposed
to learn from this unforgettable lesson and seek to build our present and future in peace. But the Middle East is in crisis with nations at war. Islamic extremists continue to extend and exert their control and influence through brutal invasions, rape, kidnapping and murder plus threatening to overthrow both Europe and America. Because of wars and terrorism, thousands of Syrians are risking their lives to seek safety and they are trying to start new lives in Europe, which, in turn, is causing the greatest refugee and humanity crisis in Europe since WWII. In addition to the potential terrorist attack, North America is also facing the fundamental change in social value and culture where the traditional roles and rules of marriage, family and sexual identity
are being redefined. High living costs and inflated education costs force our new generation to live without hope. Technology is supposed to bring people together but instead it is generating a new form of loneliness and isolation amongst people no matter how close they are physically to one another.
What does it mean? Where is God? What is His will behind everything? How should we respond as Christians? What values should we hold onto tightly and how?
Yes, we are troubled in the sense that we should grieve for the loss of lives in the Middle East, feel disappointed for the changing marital value in North America and become worried for the isolation of the new generation. The world is a dangerous place.
We may feel despaired but we have hope in Christ!
Our God has dealt with despairing generations again and again. His promise never fails. His love to His people never changes! Let’s turn our eyes to our God, our Lord! We know God created everything with purpose and He is a faithful caregiver. He does not forsake His people.
We need to put our attention to HIM in the midst of all kinds of random acts of turmoil.
Matthew 14:25-33(NIV)
During the fourth watch of the night Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”
And when they climbed into the boat, the wind died down. Then those who were in the boat worshiped him, saying, “Truly you are the Son of God.”
We need to put our faith in HIM and trust HIM.
Psalm 29:10-11 (NIV)
The Lord sits enthroned over the flood; the Lord is enthroned as King forever. The Lord gives strength to his people; the Lord blesses his people with peace.
Indeed, we might be seeing one of the most significant moments in human history – the fulfillment of God’s eternal purpose in humankind where all creations will be brought under the judgement and authority of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. We may get to see His glory shining in every corner of the world and in every soul in the world. God is almighty and He is in control!
May God strengthen our faith and greatly use the speakers to touch our hearts in the upcoming ACEM 37th Missions Conference, and may all the brothers and sisters in ACEM churches be equipped to courageously face the present challenge! May God use us to share His love with all the people for Christ and for the glory of God!
( Rev. Sunny Wong is the English pastor of NYCCC,co-chair of Missions Conference.)
