The bible clearly points out that our all-knowing God is forever in COMPLETE CONTROL of our world. That truth is certainly something we can all cling to. It is the truth that provides each of us with the confidence to face whatever challenges we find in our life.
So then, is this promise enough when evil throughout the world seems to become more intense with each passing day? Today’s verses walk us through Old and New Testament truths that help us understand that we should not be surprised by a world that seems completely out of control. Many today claim that the events we now see unfolding represent precursors to “end times”. The truths found in these verses remind us that our God is indeed in complete control. That simple fact provides each of us with unshakable faith.
In today’s readings from the book of Daniel, we see God powerfully using Daniel to not only respond to King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream, but also to powerfully demonstrate that God is indeed in complete control of events throughout the world. God used Daniel to correctly describe the statue that Nebuchadnezzar saw in his dream as an accurate description of world empires, not only current kingdoms but also all future kingdoms leading up to the end times when Christ returns. This dream confirms that God’s kingdom will never be destroyed…it will itself endure forever.
One could ask why God would choose to include this type of story in the Old Testament? Could it be to let us confidently know that He is indeed in complete control of all aspects of His creation? That we need not be anxious about the future because God has already planned everything out – with a glorious plan for each of us that far exceeds anything we could possibly imagine.
Today’s Alleluia from Revelation reminds the church in Smyrna to remain faithful until death. Smyrna was a very prominent Greek port city, likely very much like our country today. Jesus’ promise of receiving the crown of life is comforting, but is preceded by the charge to remain faithful until death. This grim reminder teaches us that we should not expect everything to be easy. We simply must remain true to following Jesus as we move toward His return.
In Luke’s Gospel today, Jesus reinforces what we saw through Daniel. He provides further details of what we can expect. The temple will be completely destroyed, wars and insurrections will occur and powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues will be present throughout the world. Worst of all, many false prophets will come to deceive. Jesus warns us not to follow them!
While all of these facts sound dreadful, upon reflection, they provide incredible hope. We know that our Lord and Savior is indeed in total control. We do not need to be anxious or to live in fear. No matter what we face in this life and no matter how hopeless the world looks, Jesus is with us and has promised us an eternal life with Him in heaven. A life with no more pain, sorrow, or suffering.
Dear Heavenly Father, you truly are a God so much more than anything we could ever imagine. Help us to never forget that our lives are in your hands and that we can confidently rest in your love. You have known each of us from the beginning of time and have a specific plan for each of our lives. That truth is so amazing. We are so thankful beyond words. In the name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ. Amen
Larry Hopp
As I enter my second retirement, I can only express my deep appreciation to God for the opportunity to touch the lives of the amazing students here at Creighton. After 40 years as a civil engineer in the construction industry, I felt that I had completed my life’s work. God, however had a different plan – a MUCH BETTER plan. He opened a door to Creighton University and its Energy Technology Program which I would never have imagined. An opportunity to teach and lead a program that has proven to be some of the most rewarding and satisfying work of my life.
That process has only further refined my total trust & faith in following God and seeking Jesus with all my heart. His plans are always so much better than anything I could have ever imagined.
But of course work could never be the top priority of my life. Over the years, I have been engaged with a truly amazing church with an un-apologetic commitment to Jesus that has changed my life and future forever. My wife Linda and I have four children, 4 grandchildren and 5 foster “grandchildren” that have all been such a daily blessing in so many ways.
I am looking forward to see what God has in mind for this next stage of my life.
It is not surprising that God provides these reflection opportunities with the precise readings that I need to hear at that specific time. Spending time in prayer as I write & rewrite each Daily Reflection opportunity is truly a blessing. My prayer is that God can use these thoughts to bless you as well.
