THANKFUL

Chatting with Jesus
Tuesday, October 10, 2023

Lord, the events in the Middle East of recent days bring home the reminder that as long as evil is present in the world, peace is a fragile entity. We pray for peace to come to this troubled region, for the hostilities to cease, for the slaughter of innocents to stop and for the safe return of the hostages. We pray for sane reasoning to return, but sadly, we are also reminded of the futility of trying to reason with evil.

You teach your followers about their real enemy—Satan and his minion—whose Kingdom of Darkness seeks to control the entire world. This enemy of humanity is easily identified by these characteristics. “The thief comes to kill, steal, and destroy” (John 10:10a).

Jesus, you also teach your followers that your kingdom, the Kingdom of Light, came to give life, and give life abundantly [in its fullness] (John 10:10b). Your Word describes how, in you, people find light [the knowledge of God] and life [a meaningful, purposeful life] (John 1:4). The Kingdom of Light shares the mercy, hope, and love of God across all areas of humanity.

How can we not see your works when there is such a vivid contrast?

The conflict raging in Israel and Gaza is a continuation of the ageless battle between ‘good’ and ‘evil.’ John describes this battle as the darkness trying to extinguish the light (John 1:4–5). The darkness will never extinguish the light. Lord, you may allow your people to go through dark, trying times, but you promise the Light will always prevail.

May this inferno that has erupted in the Middle East become a bright light shining amid the turmoil, chasing away the darkness to reveal your glory, Lord.

Amen, Jesus.