God ^Is^ In The Aftermath

Last year after the devastating tornado tore through Joplin, Missouri, I wrestled with the question, “Where was God in all this?” While I could see God working through the people who came together to help each other, I was not satisfied with a God that only shows up for the aftermath of our tragedies.

This week, as I was trying hard to pray instead of worry, I actually was comforted by the thought of God being present in the aftermath. What I am dealing with is more along the lines of one of life’s little messes than a tragedy–no lives, limbs, or homes are at stake–but it will be a rough few weeks until I can put it behind me. I want to “fix it” now, but there is absolutely nothing I can do but wait–except “watch and pray.”

Remembering that God is here with me during this time is a huge comfort. Maybe He will show me a shorter route out. Maybe He will let me find joy in the journey. If I can trust that His will is at work–even if it is behind the scenes from my perspective–I will be able to find at least a bit of that peace of God, which surpasses all understanding.

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My priest posted this picture on his Facebook page. He is guest-priesting (I’m sure that’s not the official term!) at a church in New Jersey that was struck by lightning during the big storms last week. If it were my picture to name, you know what it would be!

God Is In The Aftermath

How do you deal with a problem that you can’t fix?