"But because of your stubbornness and your unrepentant heart, you are storing up wrath against yourself for the day of God's wrath, when his righteous judgment will be revealed. God 'will repay each person according to what they have done.' To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honor and immortality, he will give eternal life. But for those who are self-seeking and who reject the truth and follow evil, there will be wrath and anger. There will be trouble and distress for every human being who does evil: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile; but glory, honor and peace for everyone who does good: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile. For God does not show favoritism." (Romans 2:5-11)
Romans 2 presents a portrait of humanity far different than the one prevalent in the media of my childhood memories. The late 20th-century world appeared to make progress in unlocking human goodness, spreading prosperity and peace as communism lost its grip on the world outside China. Even China had turned towards a more market-based economy, albeit achieved through strict central planning. Human freedom looked like a rising trend.
Since September 11, 2001, the world has come to look different. We have endured two significant recessions in this new century, and conflicts have risen, starting shockingly with terrorism and the effort against it and rounding out into entrenched wars. Even casual observation reveals that there are strong forces at work to divide us and to sow hatred. Tonight's tragic attack in Nice, France, only underscores the tenuous days in which we live.
In light of God's Word, how may we consider today's challenges? Should we resign to despair in light of reality? Or may we find hope even in difficult moments?
The first three chapters of Romans provide a withering picture of human depravity, contrasted sharply with the unmerited graciousness of an all-powerful, all-knowing, all-loving Creator God, Who has sent His Son Jesus Christ as an unmerited sacrifice for us. Through the redemption of Christ, God has provided means by which we might become new and, with Jesus, overcome the world.
Just as we trust in Christ alone for salvation, living through harrowing times requires a deep trust in God's sovereignty and awesome power. His goodness assures us and gives birth to hope -- of wholeness and freedom. As Habakkuk observed, we wait in joy for the Lord:
"Though the fig tree does not bud and there are no grapes on the vines, though the olive crop fails and the fields produce no food, though there are no sheep in the pen and no cattle in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord, I will be joyful in God my Savior." (3:17-18)
Lord God, I pray that You would bring hope to my brothers and sisters in these difficult days. We need Your presence and love to be poured out in our world. Cause the hearts of those who hate to turn towards love and forgiveness after they have trusted in You. Bring peace into the hearts of Your followers and confidence for the days ahead. Give us Your strength and spread joy in our hearts. In Jesus's powerful Name, amen.
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