By: Gabriela Yareliz
Tonight at church, we had an amazing spoken word and music night. I heard the music and testimony of a young man who found God, hope and music in the midst of his chemotherapy and anguish. He was so vulnerable with us tonight. It was beautiful.
Tonight, we were pained to hear of the terror attacks in my sweet France. It left the world in shock. I find it truly heartbreaking. As many of you know, France has a dear place in my heart, and it has given to me some of the most amazing moments of my life. My prayers are with those who are suffering, scared, confused and angry.
Part of what the young musician said tonight was how the world has nothing to offer us. We live in a broken world gone mad. Money, aesthetic, images, glittery romances, the music scene, notoriety… It all leaves us empty. When you are sick in a hospital bed, you quickly realize none of these superficial elements matters.
Everything is devoid meaning if it is not infused with an eternal perspective.
When we are spiritually empty, nothing else can fill the God-shaped void in us. Things can burn, fade, be stolen or destroyed. We must cultivate that which no one can take from us.
In this time of pain and hurt, let us look at our lives; let’s reflect on love, honor, justice, innocence, good and truth.
Let us cling to Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Let us be filled with the peace God gives that the world cannot take away. Let us know that His plans are greater than ours.
You know when you meet someone amazing that fills your thoughts? It’s a surreal moment when you realize that someone has chosen to love you. Being loved, really loved, is pretty magical. That’s what God is offering us. Regardless of how we respond, He loves us. He wants you to have that moment where you realize you are valued and dearly loved. Perfect love casts out all fear, scripture says, and it adds, God is Love. Love never fails.
En deuil avec ma France❤
GABRIELA YARELIZ 