Tuesday, March 17, 2020

Uncharted Waters

A quick run through the newsreel shows we live in times that most of us have not experienced. That is not to say we are living in times that have never happened before. A long look at history shows there may have been challenges like this at several points along the long arc of history. Yet, for so many of us we have not had the experiences we are currently living through.

So why in the world would this be the time to launch a new venture like a blog? In a time when so many people are pulling back, retreating, or simply holding on, I say it is the perfect time to advance. Uncharted waters call to me. When there is chaos, uncertainty, great challenge, and what feels like pending doom, God is hard at work. Let's not get into the crazy thinking that God is causing COVID-19, or any of the other challenges. That is just plain bad theology and horrible thinking that only serves our own bias. As to why is all this happening in our world today, I can confidently say, I have no idea. Many factors have come together to reveal the state of humanity while at the same time leaving an opportunity to experience God in a fresh way.

No, God did not cause all the struggle in the world to happen, however God will not miss the opportunity to draw the hearts and lives of humanity closer. Growing closer to God can feel like uncharted waters for some. Others it might feel like returning to waters once left behind. Regardless, I am confident the God of all the universe, the God who created everyone and everything, is not sitting at a distance hoping things will work out. God is engaged in the midst of the struggle and strife through ordinary people like you and me, as well as in supernatural ways that defy human explanations.

That brings the answer to the question why a new blog now. In this journey called life it is easy to focus on everything happening and lose connection with God. Whether it is in a relationship, a really good meal, the community of faith called the church, or just the ups and downs of life, God is present in our reality. This blog is offered as a conversation partner in the journey. Posts will be wide ranging from walking with Jesus to an amazing meal, marriage and friendship to times of solitude. From time to time there might even be some guest writers. Use the comments to share topics or questions you would like to see addressed.

Even if there have been times like this in the history of people, we are in uncharted waters from my lifetime. I have a hunch I am not alone. Welcome to the journey, and I hope you will engage in the conversation as we make our ways along the path of life.

3 comments:

  1. Thanks for this timely blog piece Aaron. With COVID being the latest in a long line of earthly challenges, I drew great comfort from this morning’s Daily Bread reading out of Isaiah 65: 17-25. Someday this will all be a blip on the radar.
    Brian Dwyer

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  2. Nephew, Aaron, Good to find you back "in the blog". I know God will give you wisdom and strength to send out messages He wants known! �� Best to you and yours!

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