Theodore Clarke Smith tells the story of a crowd gathered in New York City on April 17, 1865. The news of President Lincoln’s assassination had inflamed emotions, and the mood was angry toward those in the city who had been critical of the President. As the crowd threatened to become a mob, suddenly a strong clear voice rang out: “Fellow citizens! Clouds and darkness are around about Him. His pavilion is dark waters and thick clouds of the skies. Justice and judgment are the establishment of his throne. Mercy and truth shall go before His face. Fellow citizens! God reigns, and the government in Washington still lives.”
These words immediately calmed the crowd, averting violence. The speaker was Major General James A. Garfield, congressman from Ohio. Garfield was also a Christian Church preacher, eventually becoming the only clergyman to ever serve as President of the United States. His word from God on that historic day was that GOD STILL REIGNS! Whether the news from day to day discourages or encourages you, remember that above the ‘kings of the earth...the One enthroned in heaven laughs.’ [Psalm 2:2] ‘He makes the clouds his chariot and rides on the wings of the wind.’ [Psalm 104:3] And it is to Him we pray today and in the days ahead as we continue our quest for deeper life during this Easter Experience season.
Pray with me...Mighty God, will you hear us from heaven and grant our prayers for Crossroads to be a prevailing church in this region, especially in these days as we prepare to herald your Name in Ford Center on Easter Lord’s Day in just 5 more weeks? We do not want to do a work of the flesh, but a work of the Spirit as we share the good news that Jesus reigns, and saves and keeps and satisfies and that He lives evermore. In His Name, amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Ken
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