September 17, 2001
The thought keeps recurring to me. Why do the Ben Laden’s of this world get support. And I guess it’s the ages old reason, there are disenchanted, disaffected, disadvantaged people everywhere.
So our problem is not simply Ben Laden, or the currently existing cells, or terrorists to be, but the existence of the things that make for disenchantment.
When Jesus wept over Jerusalem, (Luke 19:42) is was because "if you, only you, had only recognized on this day the things that make for peace." He went on to the reward of the cross because of that non recognition. Our challenge is to make this recognition and act on it to meet needs everywhere, physical and spiritual and to join with like minded people in the task.
Our organization charged with our world wide missionary endeavor, International Ministries, has received scores of messages of condolence from our across border partners.
From the Council of Indigenous Evangelicals of Mexico the message reads in part: "We have been praying and deeply regret the attacks on your country…. We send greetings and sincere wishes in the midst of all this sorrow, you may be consoled by the Holy Spirit especially those who have lost loved ones, the wounded, in hospitals and without a safe place to go. We are praying together for peace and reconciliation among the people."
From the General Secretary, Canadian Baptist Ministries…."You know that we are together as—ONE-sharing this pain. We join you in praying for hope—that the God who in Jesus Christ spoke into our world with light and salvation- will continue to shine hope into this dark time.
From Tokyo Peace Church "….This terrorism is under the power of the Devil. Only the power of God can solve this Spiritual War."
You can access the whole stream of messages at this web site by accessing the abc-usa link on the home page.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
201 Oak St.
Mauston, WI 53948-1333 608-8474555
Past Weeks Thoughts: