O God Who Shaped Creation

We who know Christ often mourn what we see happening in our world---so much evil, pain, and heartache at every turn. When pain and anguish hits someone in our own family or our circle of friends, it's almost unbearable and so easy to question God. Then my thoughts went to how God must feel when he sees the same events happening here on earth, and I can almost hear him say, "Why, my children, do you turn away from me---the One who loves you so much?" I recently read the following hymn written by William W. Reid, Jr. and was touched by its message. I want to share it with you today:

O God Who Shaped Creation
by William W. Reid, Jr.

O God who shaped creation
At earth's chaotic dawn,
Your word of power was spoken,
And lo! the dark was gone!
You framed us in your image,
You brought us into birth,
You blessed our infant footsteps
And shared your splendored earth.

O God, with pain and anguish
A mother sees her child
Embark on deadend pathways,
Alluring, but defiled;
So too your heart is broke
When hate and lust increase,
When words you birthed and nurtured
Spurn ways that lead to peace.

Although your heart is broken
When people scorn your ways,
You never cease your searching
Through evil's darksome maze;
And when we cease our running,
Your joys, O God, abound
Like joy of searching woman
When treasured coin is found.

O God, when trinkets tarnish
And pleasures lose their charm,
When, wearied by our wandering,
We seek your opened arm,
With motherlike compassion
You share your warm embrace;
You set for us a banquet
And heal us through your grace.

In mercy and compassion
Your goodness is revealed;
With tenderness you touch us,
And broken hearts are healed.
You claim us as your children,
You strip our prideful shame;
With freedom born of mercy
We bless your holy name!

If you are going through a dark period in your life where you can't see what lies ahead, run into the waiting arms of Jesus who promises to be your deliverer, your guide, and your Friend!

Lovingly,
Sandy