As I wrote this, hurricane Idalia made its way across Florida and into Georgia.  I was awakened by a phone call announcing a tornado warning.  That was enough to get me out of bed promptly.  The weather channel continued to bring dire news of the storm and the tragic effect it was having on coastal areas along the Gulf.  The atmosphere was one of anxiety, apprehension about what was to come and for friends and loved ones in other parts of the state.   As most of you know, we were fortunate.  We were spared the ravages of this storm.  God has blessed us.

In recent days I have been reading and contemplating the Book of Revelations.  John’s visions paint an eerie picture.  Our God is with us, but Satan is also very much with us.  The battle is ongoing.  As the chapters progress and John paints the picture of his vision, the story unfolds in an ever-increasing drama.  Wrath and tragedy follow in a seemingly unending sequence.  I think of my anxiety this morning when faced with the power of a violent storm.  Perhaps it’s just a taste, however brief, of what is to come.

However, I can’t end the story there.  John’s overriding message is that despite the battle, God is in control, and He will overcome.  In John 7:11 the angels sing, “Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might be to our God forever and ever!  Amen.” 

Handel’s Messiah echoes John’s words.  In the final chorus:  “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain, and hath redeemed us to God by his blood, to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing. Blessing, and honour, glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.” (Revelation 5, vv.12–14) “Amen.”

Rejoice and be strong.  God’s unconditional love will triumph.

Judy