The Weekly Focal Point - December 17
When Bad Things Happen
God has obviously not promised us an exemption from the bad things that happen to people in this world. As Christians we are saved from the coming wrath of God, but for now in God’s providence we are variously exposed to the painful and tragic events that plague mankind. This, of course, was God’s promise in Genesis 3 to all the inhabitants of earth. The painful thorns and the death of loved ones are the fidelity of God to his own word. The good news is that God’s special care and planning for his redeemed people is always presented to us in Scripture as exacting and precise. As Job learned, there is not a tragedy that befalls us that has not been carefully measured and governed by God’s active involvement. We can be sure that every “crisis” we face is right on schedule. The next “shocking emergency” was clearly no surprise to God. We can be sure that our pain or surprise is not indicative of an inactive or inattentive Father. So with Paul we can confidently say that God’s grace is always sufficient for the painful trials he has decreed for us in his wisdom (2 Corinthians 12:9). While these truths are presented to us in Scripture to be a comfort and to provide perspective, the greatest comfort and perspective is the one we gain by contemplating the consummation of all things. One day this pain-filled interlude will be over and the Alpha and Omega will say: “Now the dwelling of God is with men… there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away” (Revelation 21:3-4).
-- Pastor Mike
One of the hallmarks of the Christmas Season is the singing of Carols. Christmas carols proclaim the beautiful story of the incarnation of Christ in song. They range from the soaring Angels We Have Heard on High to the contemplative Silent Night! Holy Night! Unfortunately, singing Christmas carols is a dying tradition.
At Focal Point, we want to help you carry on the tradition of Christmas carols in your family. Christmas Carols for a Kid's Heart is a great book not only for children, but also for adults. Along with a fully orchestrated CD of 12 classic Christmas carols, you and your child will learn the true stories of the songwriters and develop a spiritual bond with the included devotionals, Bible verses and prayer prompts. There is also printed music for piano and guitar players. Bring Christmas carols alive with Christmas Carols for a Kid's Heart this December.
Request Christmas Carols for a Kid's Heart with your donation this month.
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