The Grip of Reality and Grace

When calamity, tragedy, and devastation come into our lives, there is usually an initial shock. Much like the earthquake that caused a 30 foot tsunami to hit ashore the small fishing village of Ryoishi, Japan, people were caught off guard. They stood spellbound as the wave brought its terrible destruction. Then came the after shock and with it was the reality that gripped them to the very core of their being. The questions afterwards included, "What now? How will I survive?”

As in the death of someone you love, you may find yourself numb at first. Then as you go through the everyday motions, you may at some point feel the loss again because something triggers the memory of that hurtful time. Perhaps a song, a place, or a holiday will stir your emotions and bring back a realization that you have a life without them.

In the grip of reality, you can find God’s grace that carries you through these moments. This is the way it will be for those who have not only lost their loved ones, but all they owned. Everyday they are reminded of the horror as they view the sights of destruction in their homeland, and the ruin that lies in front of them, all caused by the tsunami.

This is a very different kind of shock and aftershock. The problem is that this kind of shock will not last just for a moment, or even a day, but will last for months and years to come.

During times of grief and loss, we are reminded that we are not promised tomorrow. Life is but a vapor. What can you hold on to in this life? We can only hold on to the Lord as we exercise hope and faith that there will be a brighter tomorrow and a new beginning.

As the lands are cleared of debris and rebuilding begins, the most important thing is the rebuilding of lives. The Bible says to build ourselves up in our most Holy faith. The sure foundation, the solid Rock in our lives is Jesus Christ. In Him alone is the security we need for any circumstance. We must understand that He will carry us through it.

Looking back over the years, we have all had our share of trials. We have experienced loss in one form or another. But as the years ended, it was always like a chapter in a book. It would end and a new one would begin that says - I awoke to a new day, one that is filled with hope for a better future … one that is beyond the horizon.

His mercies are new every morning. (Lamentations 3:22-23) This is our reminder to live life one day at a time. God did not say every year, but he said every morning. So look with anticipation to His grace that is sufficient for today and tomorrow will take care of itself.

This is reality. We are in the grip of God’s grace and mercy that will keep our hearts and minds. Let us run and not get weary, walk and not faint, (Isaiah 40:31) because our help is in the name of the Lord.