Romans 5:12, 15
Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned—But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many!
Where was God on September 11, 2001? That question has been asked by countless people since that terrible day. The same question has been asked following each and every tragedy, be it on a national level or a personal loss. As I recall, there were just over 3,000 killed on 9/11/2001. On December 7, 1941, the death toll at Pearl Harbor was something over 2,400. Where was God when this carnage took place?
On July 11, 1992, Joyce and I lost our oldest daughter, Brenda. She left three beautiful children and a family that adored her. Where was God when this personal tragedy took place?
Let me try to answer. It was because of sin that the tragedy of death entered into the world. God did not cause it—the sin of our first parents caused it. God has always been near to hear the heart cry of those who call out to Him. Those in these tragic events who knew Jesus as their personal Savior went immediately into His waiting arms. Sad to say, those who had not accepted Him were eternally lost. I cannot make it any plainer than that.
God loved us so much that He sent Jesus, His own dear Son, into the world for the purpose of offering salvation to all who come to Him. In Acts 7:54-59 we are told of the stoning death of Stephen. Facing instant death, the Lord parted the curtains of heaven and he saw Jesus waiting for him. Where is Jesus during these terrible tragedies? Standing with arms open to welcome His believers into their new home!
Blessings, Dear Hearts, draw near to God today, trust Him completely, and be a blessing!
—Pastor Cecil