Living hopefully in an age of uncertainty

The fifth anniversary of “September 11” terrorist attacks and the death of high profile figures Steve Irwin and Peter Brock have unsettled many people. They are reminders of the fragility of life and the uncertainty which is part of our world. Such awareness can overwhelm us unless it is balanced by a greater awareness of God’s love and power. How are we to cope with such unsettling events and the fears they can stir within us?

The biblical book of Hebrews was written to Christians facing an uncertain future. They were experiencing suffering and persecution for their faith. Some of them were tempted to give it away altogether. But they were encouraged to keep on trusting God with words such as:

“We have run to God for safety. Now his promises should greatly encourage us to take hold of the hope that is right in front of us. This hope is like a firm and steady anchor for our souls. In fact, hope reaches behind the curtain and into the most holy place. Jesus has gone there ahead of us, and he is our high priest forever, just like Melchizedek.” (Hebrews 6:18b-20)