Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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 The Pandemic: Which should lead us to firm Faith

 Romans 8:22-28
V28 “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”

When my children were young, they used to ask me all their questions. “Mom, why do we go to church on Sundays? Why do we close our eyes when we pray? Why?” I patiently answered these inquiries, knowing that this was a valuable form of learning. As they grew older, their questions became more difficult to answer. We discussed the tenants of our faith and the value of our cultural church as a family. We asked questions and we answered them together in prayer.
    When the COVID-19 pandemic began, I felt like I had become like a small child again as I asked God why we were going through such hardship. I have been working as a nurse in the United States for more than 30 years, but this virus is truly like nothing I have ever seen before. Healthcare workers have faced seemingly unsurmountable struggles throughout the last two years. 
In those moments, I turned to God in prayer, just like I taught my children to do for their whole lives. As I drove to work, I would recite Psalm 91 aloud. Sometimes, I would find the words to ask God for His continued protection and refuge. Other times, I would trust the Holy Spirit to intercede on my behalf. These prayers strengthened me so when I arrived at work, I felt a sense of peace. Even on the busiest days, I saw the Lord’s goodness working through me as I cared for sick patients. When patients were separated from their families, I offered them warmth and encouragement. During our breaks, some of my coworkers and I gathered in brief moments of prayer that sustained us to keep working. All these experiences showed me that even in this difficult season, God was still sovereignly orchestrating my life and teaching me how to build my house upon His firm foundation.
When I turned to God with my questions, He reminded me that He works all things, even a global pandemic, for my good. Being obedient to the Lord’s calling over our lives means that sometimes, we will face trouble and difficulty. However, in our obedience, we are assured that God’s purposes are perfect. Let us walk in confidence that God is leading us to a deeper faith. 
    
 

Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for being a patient Father. When we come to you with our doubts, You remind us of Your divine purposes. Help us to trust that you are working all things for our good and for the deepening of our faith. We love You, Lord. In Your name, we pray, Amen. 

Thought for the Day

Amid this pandemic, let us be obedient to our purpose and boldly trust that God is working for our good

Mary Samuel
St. Thomas Mar Thoma Church, NY

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