Open compassion
by President Justin Sansalu
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I will remember the deeds of the Lord; yes, I will remember your wonders of old. I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds (Psalm 77:11,12).
Over the last couple of years, we have experienced one of the worst pandemics. Its impact is still fresh in our minds. It has led to despair and hopelessness in the hearts of people because of the dramatic loss of human life worldwide, the devastating cascade effect on food systems, public health and economics, and the faith of many believers. Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he shut up his compassion in anger?
Many have doubted the graciousness of God and his divine mercy and protection. Some are trying to find peace in the raging storm, rationalising its cause and effect. God seems distant, yet, is it true?
As we ponder Psalm 77:11,12 in the time of the Lent season, we can find peace and the joy of trustfulness post-pandemic. ‘I will ponder all your work, and meditate on your mighty deeds.’ The psalmist remembers what God had done in leading and conducting his children of Israel through the Red Sea into the Promised Land. This astounding fact has inspired and given new hope for the psalmist in God’s assurance of salvation, the brightest hope that will pierce the darkest day in the valley of death.
As we look back on what God has accomplished in the past, rescuing us from sin and death through Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross and giving us new life through holy baptism, current trials can be faced with the joy of gratitude still filling our hearts. Even in the rough storm of a pandemic, God has the power to kindle the soul into raptures of gratefulness.
When the Lord seems distant, we are encouraged to remember that he has come near to us in Christ. His eyes never close, and his ears are open to hearing the cry of the people. He works miraculously to tend the needy, to strengthen the heart of the people with the hope of a new morning. His mercy and grace never cease to amaze his people.
Let his name be praised; let his compassion be known to many. Amen.
Prayer: Pray for the Protestant Church in Sabah that their hearts will be turned to God and remember all his deeds and works of wonder. Pray the Lord will grant you the heart of compassion, graciousness and trust in his mercy for you in Christ.
President Justin Sansalu is from the Protestant Church in Sabah.
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