With You Always

Our little town of Northborough was shaken by some serious events this week: A threat of a shooting at the local high school, and a fire in the center of town.

We give thanks to God that nobody was injured and further damage was prevented.

But the effects on people's sense of safety cannot yet be measured.

What do we do to keep our children safe, and everyone who works in schools: the teachers, staff and administration? 

I think of students who graduated high school and college. They have every reason to celebrate but they also look ahead to the next, big and somewhat intimidating step. 

Families are getting ready to move, people growing older are thinking of downsizing from their beloved home to a smaller place. 

Jesus says, "Remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matthew 28:20)

Jesus also says, "Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will take care of its own. Today's trouble is enough for today." (Matthew 6:34)

God will take care of tomorrow. While this doesn't free us from responsibility - we still need to work towards becoming a safe community. We still need to protect those who are most vulnerable and care for those who need us. But we don't need to succumb to anxiety, worry and fear. God is with us always. God will carry us through. 

It's hard to trust that in the face of everything that's been happening in our world. But what have we got to lose? 

May Jesus' promise make your breathing a little easier and your day a little brighter: "I am with you always, to the end of the age."