Seeking Truth in Turbulent Times: A Call to Wisdom and Compassion

If you are like me, you might be wondering what is happening. Every morning, I wake up and read a blog, social media post, or news article. I don’t know how to respond, so I ask myself many questions: Where do I go? What can I do? What am I missing? Should I respond?

As a follower of Jesus Christ and the gospel, I search the scriptures and pray in ways I never imagined. I continually wonder if I am missing something that has many fellow brothers and sisters convinced that the Lord is at work. I believe the Lord is always at work in ways I don’t understand. I have to admit; I don’t see what many believe is the Lord’s work when innocent immigrants are being rounded up in handcuffs and flown to a country they left or escaped to better their lives or escape oppression. I don’t see the Lord’s work in those who have forcibly lost their jobs because they support the equal and fair treatment of those who are considered a minority in our country.

To be fair, I have heard the arguments from the opposing side. There have been incidents of criminal activity involving those who have entered the country illegally. I have listened to how some believe they have not received fair treatment regarding their skill levels and have lost jobs to individuals they perceive as less qualified. These are real situations that deserve justice. But to what extent? Is it wise to assume everyone is guilty? Is it justice to eradicate all policies in place for the fair treatment of all?

I can only speak to what I have experienced with fellow brothers and sisters. The response to Bishop Budde received a backlash from many Christians. I am reminded of how the message of Jesus was received by people saying it was good news and others saying it was bad news. (I have said enough about this in my blog and video). Recently, I was disappointed to hear the vice president’s viral message about how there’s a Christian concept that loving our neighbors and the rest of the world is a secondary priority to loving our immediate family. This is not the gospel. Jesus said, ‘love your neighbor as yourself’ (Mark 12:28-34).

I wonder if we have arrived at a dire warning given to us in 2 Timothy 4:3-4:


Again, I keep asking myself, how should I respond? I find great encouragement in talking with others who are asking the same question. I am considering a zoom call for those who want or need to talk through all of this. It is a lot, and it feels very overwhelming. If you are interested, please let me know by responding to this blog in the comments.

I am taking the advice from a fellow Christ follower. He suggested that we concentrate on two or three issues rather than trying to tackle everything simultaneously. I’m also learning to wait a day or two before responding to new policies or executive orders. This pause helps me to reflect and gain a clearer understanding before getting involved in the matter. Early reports on issues often overlook crucial details and context, so this approach provides time for gathering better information and make a wise response or nothing at all.

This is helpful advice for navigating with wisdom the rapid-fire things that are taking place at once. It helps it feel less overwhelming.

I hope to hear from you and, at the very least, to pray with you.

May the peace of our Lord Jesus be with you today.