Eyes on Boston

A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.  Proverbs 15:1

The most recent account I heard on the news was that 17 people are in critical condition, 145 were wounded, and at least three people were killed in yesterday’s Boston, Massachusetts explosions – I hesitate to use the word terror attack, but it does seem to be one. We have yet to learn specifics, and whether it was domestic or internationally derived. Regardless, this heinous act has brought sorrow and sadness to families, the city, and the United States as a whole. It’s difficult to comprehend why or what compels someone to so brutally and caustically hurt another – someone they’ve never met, someone they don’t know, someone’s wife, husband, daughter, son, brother.  It’s time like these, we’re reminded how precious life is – and how short it is. I can’t imagine losing my 9-year old girl, 8-year old son, or my 2-year old child! Especially under these circumstances.  It’s just senseless and heart breaking. The Christian should be praying that in some way, this barbaric crime against humanity will turn our eyes and hearts to the Lord – for He ALONE is our comfort and strength.

The fact is we cannot manage anyone’s responses to life except our own. It is important to remember that the eyes of the world will be on Boston the next several weeks, but eyes are on the Christian every single day. Paying attention to your own responses will help you think about what you are bringing to encounters you have with others.

 Sometimes our own ragged edges toil like an enormous mixer, stirring up irritation and anger. Let’s be mindful, especially around non-Believers, not to discourage them by vocalizing our own pain and suffering. I’m focused on Philippians 4:8 today –  ^“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”  It can be challenging, but we really DO need to set our minds on things that are lovely – when we don’t feel like it – things that are of a good report!

Today, be deliberate in watching your tones, your responses, and your words. Choose words that are kind. Choose words that are true and encouraging – through God – not ourselves.

 Hearts are sad today – for various reasons –so, be genuine. A false sense of encouragement will be viewed as disingenuous. Keep it real. People need to be reminded that they’re loved! Particularly during a depressive or “down” time in their lives. We are ALL loved – worthy or not – God loves us.

The old adage still holds true: “People will seldom remember what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel.”

Keep God’s wisdom, His presence, close at hand today. The effect in your office, home, and encounters with others will be worth the effort.

Prayer: Today I will think on things that are pure, honest, lovely, and of a good report. I will focus on something good from God, rather than the evil of man. My mind is peaceful, quiet, and strong, yet, as my heart is saddened, I lift up those who have recently fallen. I ask you, God, to comfort them and draw them into Your arms of grace during this testing time. I open my heart and ask you to allow me to help someone else today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Look UP my friends!