I Continue to Trust

As citizens in a free society, we live in a reactionary state where triumph and tragedy breed responses that exhilarate and confound, sometimes at the same time. In this twenty-first century, we live in very dangerous times where safety can evaporate in a moment's time, or in the case of a theater in Aurora, Colorado earlier this morning, in the span of a few frames of a motion picture.

By now you have most likely heard of the horrific shootings at the Century 16 theaters in Aurora, Colorado. As I write, fifteen persons are known dead, fifty others injured, several of those, critically. It seems unthinkable that something like this could occur, and yet, the unthinkable once again confronts us with a savagery that has become all too common. In the aftermath of such tragedy, there will be calls for measures to be put in place to prevent such things from happening in the future. These reactionary changes may have some effect in slowing such activity, but the best precautions cannot always anticipate the mind of one bent on destruction or whose twisted sense of notoriety causes him to do such terrible things.

In the aftermath of 9/11 new security measures were introduced that made certain experiences more challenging, from airport security, to entrance in government buildings, even certain sporting events. We are all a bit more aware of our surroundings, perhaps even more selective about the places we go and the kinds of events we attend. Overhead signs on major highways tell us to be watchful and to call government hotlines if we suspect terrorist activity. This most recent shooting will spark passionate debate about safety in the public square...the kind of debate that is necessary in a free society.

Our freedom is both our greatest asset and deepest threat. Danger always tempts the kind of reaction that limits freedom. In certain circumstances that is a necessary response that indeed saves lives. But most of us will not choose to live under such heaviness, seeking instead to live our lives within reasonable parameters of liberty that allow for personal choice. Hence, the choices we make and the way we make those choices becomes vital to our own well-being, and to some extent the well-being of others around us.

As a person of faith, I believe that the ability to think and make choices is a gift from God. I also believe that my best choices are made when I am walking in right relationship with the One who has made me. Trusting myself into God's hands isn't a guarantee that I won't face danger, but I do find peace in recognizing that God is with me, no matter what I face. I don't believe that I serve the Lord best when I cower in fear, but when I trust God to go with me everyday into the unknown. The promise of Jesus to his disciples as he ascended into heaven is the same promise for us in the midst of continuing uncertainty..."I will be with you always."

Cindy an I will be going to the movies later today. Our lives continue in the midst of great tragedy. Our reactions to life's challenges help define our next steps. I continue to trust the words of the One who has promised to be with me. In heartache, joy, and threat, that will not change.

Remember the families of those victimized in this terrible tragedy. 

Jim Abernathy