A safe place

It is more than apparent, even to someone who doesn't watch the news, that there is fear out there because of this election. People from all walks of life are concerned, and down-right fearful about what their lives are going to be like now. Some fear deportation. Some fear racial-profiling. Some fear retribution because they are from the LGBT community. Some fear for their insurance, which they pay a rather high premium for, but at least they're covered, for now. Others fear because they're disabled. We can sit in our comfy chairs, those of us who are not a part of these groups, and wonder why they are fearful. To be honest with you, it is hard for me to completely empathize with their fear. I can sympathize all I want, but in some cases, there is no way I can possibly know how hopeless and fearful they are right now.

There are ways that we can be there for these folks, so that they know that we are not a threat to their lives or lifestyles. There is a movement that uses a simple safety pin. When someone sees another person with a safety pin on their shirt, then they know that they are "approachable." The problem with that is that there are always those who will take advantage of the movement, and seek to do harm or damage. Unfortunately, that's the world we live in.

There is another way that we can be there for those folks. Christians are encouraged to be the salt and light of the world. When people approach us, or see us, they should know there is a "safe zone" ahead. This is also an opportunity for us to tell the Good News of Christ.

In Psalm 4, verses 1-3, it says: 1. Hear me when I call, O God of my righteousness! You have relieved me in my distress; Have mercy on me and hear my prayer. 2. How long, oh you sons of men, Will you turn My glory to shame How long will you seek worthlessness and seek falsehood? Selah. 3. But know that the Lord has set apart for Himself him who is godly; The Lord will hear when I call to Him.

Psalm 57: 1 - Be merciful to me, O God be merciful to me! For my soul trusts in You; and in the shadow of Your wings I will make my refuge, Until these calamities have passed by.

As you can see, God is our refuge in the storms of life, and we can impress upon those who are fearful that those who have Christ in their lives have that peace that surpasses all understanding. That we have that hope when all around us the storms are pounding away. When we trust in what Man says, and tables or circumstances throw us a left hook out of no-where, we are left reeling from the blow. Those with Christ in their lives are better equipped to either deflect the blows or deal with them without losing hope.

I found an interesting passage while I was researching passages regarding safety in the Bible. In Proverbs 29:24-26 it says: 24. Whoever is a partner with a thief hates his own life; He swears to tell the truth, but reveals nothing. 25. The fear of man brings a snare, But whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe. 26. Many seek the ruler's favor, But justice for man comes from the Lord. 

Again, it talks about safety in the Lord, but it also seems to address the very thing that we here in the United States are experiencing right now...the fear of Man. If we put our trust in Jesus, we have nothing to fear.  I know, for those who do not know our Savior, its a confusing consolation during times such as these, when the fear is very real and very present. Why would putting their trust in Jesus calm their fears?

Here's what I would suggest for those of you who wish to be a light in this crazy time...be there. Be vocal and approachable. If you see someone having a hard time, go to them and ask if there is something you can do for them. If you can pray for them. Explain to them the case for Salvation, the reason for your hope, and if they are willing, lead them in the Sinner's prayer. Smile in their direction. Compliment them.

If someone is being verbally attacked and you would like to help, but don't want to engage the attacker, stand or sit by the one being attacked and talk to them. Take their attention away from the engager. If you see someone being physically attacked, and it is safe for you to do so, intervene...if not, call 911 and report it, safely. If you can, record the incident for evidence. Again, only if you can do so safely. These are small things we can do.

We can't be all things to everyone, but we can be salt and light to the ones that God puts in our day to day paths.

Have a great weekend.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Jesus wept.

Urgent Plea for Help

Until we walk those streets of gold together, rest in peace, dear Debi.