Hey Veritas family,
As most of you are already aware, the Russian army has invaded Ukraine. There is a lot of uncertainty the world and the US are currently facing. There are many questions about how this is going to affect us domestically, whether our military will end up engaging with Russian forces, and the list goes on. Despite all this uncertainty, we can trust what the Bible says and rest in the sovereignty of God. It may not seem like God is in control or that he is absent while things like this go on, but remember God works in ways that we can’t understand. In Habakkuk 1:1-7 we see the Lord answer when Habakkuk questions God’s goodness and sovereignty by telling Habakkuk “Look among the nations, and see; wonder and be astounded. For I am doing a work in your days that you would not believe if told.” (I am not saying Ukraine is being punished for breaking covenant with God like Israel in this passage.) We do not need to fear, for we know that He is in control over all things. If you are struggling in this season with anxiety over the uncertainty, turn to Jesus’s teaching in Matt 6:25-34. Yes, it is literally talking about material needs, but in it Jesus reassures them that “your heavenly Father knows [what you need]. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness." I am convinced that the anxiety of material things from this text applies to all anxieties.
With the uncertainty we face, I ask you to take a few minutes and remember the people of Ukraine and lift them up in prayer to our Father who hears us. We cannot begin to imagine having our homeland bombed or under attack from artillery fire, but that is their current reality. Let’s pray for them. They are losing their lives, their families, their homes, their neighborhoods, and more because of a tyrant. Pray there will be a quick resolution to this conflict, for the safety of the people, for the steadfastness of their army and government, for their government to make wise decisions, and for our brothers and sisters in Christ to have peace and be able to boldly proclaim the gospel of Jesus to those who are hurting. It is Jesus who can give the Ukrainian people what they truly need most, a spiritual salvation.
For those of you who are deployed, we are praying for you and your loved ones here at home. We will do all we can to support them in the ways we know about so you can focus on doing your job over there. If you know your loved one needs something but doesn’t like to ask for help, please let us know for them so we can help. For those who have loved ones deployed, we are praying for you and for them. Please let us know how we can share the love of Jesus with you by meeting needs.
For the fame of Jesus,
Kyle McFarland
Lay Pastor | Veritas Church
