Overwhelmed. Grieved. It is in times like these that we might begin to grasp the depth of human depravity and the undeniable need of a Savior.

The nations suffer beneath the weight of broken and misguided hearts. Yet, stories and dreams tell of another weight – a weight unbearable and beautiful. So, we call upon the name of the Lord. Jesus, heal us, create anew. Oh, how we long to be found in You, where peace is to be had. Let Your glory rise – let love rise.

These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation, but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world. —Jesus

Here is a song I wrote years ago. It came to mind as I surveyed the news last night.

One Land

Station to station, oh, the news is feeding us our daily fear.
And in the papers, in the streets, they say, “The end is near.”
But what do words mean, when images come clear?
Oh, may we let the blood, the pain, & the tears draw near. Draw near …

Nation to nation, do we know our feet stand on one land?
And heart to heart, oh, when will we start to love our fellow man?

The mourning echoes on, heard from day to day & year to year.
But do we know our brother’s need & do we cry our sister’s tears?
When love & hate collide, oh, may we take a look in the mirror.
Then let Truth lead us on, from here to there, & there to here. Ohhhh.

In back alleys & backs of cars
In city streets & village bars
On planes & trains & banka boats
In forests, fields, & mountain roads
Oh, everywhere that money’s spent
And where they can’t pay rent
In orphan homes & prison cells
‘Fore altars & round empty wells
In restaurants & hospitals
With starving little boys & girls
Oh, every place you’ve never been
And right here, now, with a friend

When love & hate collide, oh, may we take a look past the mirror.
Reflected images of blood, pain, & tears become clear.
And lead us here to there, & there to here.

So, where do we go from here? Firstly, take heart and know that the light is still winning. Secondly, pray until all Life and Light breaks loose again in you. Then, radiantly go and shine. With every moment, every breath, every word – shine your little heart out. The light is winning. The light always wins.

The mighty one, God the Lord, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to its setting. (Psalm 50:1)