Go and render believable the compassion of God

Scripture: Genesis 21:8-21 and Psalm 86:1-10, 16-17  • Jeremiah 20:7-13 and Psalm 69:7-10, (11-15), 16-18  • Romans 6:1b-11  • Matthew 10:24-39

During times of turmoil, tragedy, and darkness, it is natural to ask "Where is God when we need God?" As we see senseless killing, or abuse by those we trust to provide care for us, whether it be by the police, spouses, parents, guardians, and even the Church, and the anger and sorrow that killing or abuse produces, what are we called to do?

What, and how, are we to deal with our anger and sorrow? Our Scripture this week gives us answers. And they may not be answers we expect, or want, for that matter. 

First, there is the Old Testament story of Haggar and Ishmael, banned and left to die in the firestorm of Sarah's jealousy. Where is God in this? Read Dan Clendenin's ""Ishmael: God Hears and Sees." This reminds me of the old hymn, "His Eye Is On The Sparrow," and I know he watches over me.

Consider our reading from Paul's letter to the Romans when he talks about character, and what that produces.

And finally, read the gospel reading from Matthew and Debie Thomas' "I Am Sending You," as we ponder, and maybe agonize over, what we can do. What we are called to do?