Faith empowers us

"For we walk by faith, not by sight." 2 Corinthians 5:7

     While our cultures, countries, languages and customs may differ -- we share a mutual bond through our faith in Jesus Christ. This faith unites and empowers us. Whether we are born African, Asian, American or European, as human beings we share a common faith journey. We need God in our daily lives.

     Faith in God helps us tap into supernatural strength for the day, and brings us hope when life feels chaotic and impossible. Faith is our lifeline when life is raw, ugly, painful, terrifying, numbing, demoralizing and tragic.

     Through faith, we can pray to a Power greater than ourselves. Through faith, we can freely question God, vent our feelings, and experience spiritual sanctuary in the midst of the messiness of life. Faith empowers our prayers, helps us rejoice and praise God, and experience moments of profound gratitude with a deep and abiding sense of thankfulness, even when our world has turned upside down and inside out.

     Faith in Jesus Christ offers us a rock solid foundation for life and brings us confidence in God when surrounded by despair. This faith inspires us when the going gets tough, and brings us into great moments of hope and love. Faith, hope and love are intertwined, empowering us in times of need.

     Now is the time for Zimbabweans to become stronger in faith, hope and love. Yes, you are under enormous pressures. But you have been born for such a time as this. Your country needs you and your faithful prayers. Your faith is more precious than silver and gold, and will only become stronger with such difficult testing and tribulations. Trust God and you will be empowered. However dim your faith may feel, you are a source of strength and hope to those overwhelmed with despair. While we cannot see what the future holds, we know the God who holds the future. God is faithful and will never abandon you and your beloved country.

     In my home hangs a framed word of encouragement by an unknown author. It reads: "When you have gone as far as all the light you know, and you are about to step into the darkness of the unknown…faith is knowing that one of two things will happen…you will step onto firm ground, or you will learn to fly." So keep looking up. Keep the faith. Trust God is at work within your country.

     Prayer: Faithful God, help the people of Zimbabwe in their faith journey. Encourage their faith, while bringing their country international relief from the devastating famine. Give us faith to believe nothing can ever separate us from your great love. Together, we pray for the healing of this beloved country, for Jesus Christ's sake. Amen.

Written by Rev. Dr. Sandy Bochonok
http://soulfoodministry.org
July 3, 2002
Permission is given to freely distribute and share this reflection with the people of Zimbabwe.