I could not get to a computer to type this past week's sermon, so I am just sending out this Reader's Digest version for those who would like to read and reflect upon it.
The focus was on the challenge of the words in Romans 8:28 "We know that in everything God works for the good of those who love him, who are called according to his purpose."
One obvious challenge to this Scripture's suggestion that all things are working for our good is the fact that on Memorial Day, some families for the first time and others for more times, will be observing Memorial Day without a loved one who has died serving their country. We would never dare to be so cruel as to say this is all for your good would we? Indeed, these words do challenge us and there are many occasions in the Scriptures that help us to understand that God's love for us is just as real at a time of crisis as at a time of joy.
One example is Joseph, who was sold into slavery by his brothers. Surely, he did not feel blessed to be betrayed by his brothers. What good could come from their betrayal which eventually led to his being imprisoned in Egypt. Well, those who remember the story that is detailed in Genesis Chapters 37-50, know that from these horrible and anything but blessed circumstances Joseph eventually rises to become the Pharaoh's main man. He gains a position that enables him to help his family and many others, and even forgives his brothers for their betrayal telling them that their actions were meant for his harm, but God used their actions for his good.
Such reflection does not mean that we are called to relish times of struggle and disappointment in our lives, but we are called to keep the faith and trust that even in the midst of such times God is with us and will surround and sustain us with his steadfast and eternal love. I concluded my sermon by sharing a fact that I had heard at a recent Billy Graham Christian Life and Witness Class that states the words "Do Not be Afraid," in that exact form or a similar one, appears 365 times. That's enough for once a day every day of the year, even if it's a Leap year.
So friends, even if we are overwhelmed by the challenges of life, as Joseph must have felt he was at points in his faith journey, let us remember the words "Do Not Be Afraid."
Pastor Stephen Giordano — May 27, 2005