Trag-e-dy   n. An event causing great suffering, destruction, and distress, such as a serious accident, crime, or natural catastrophe.

Take a look at Genesis 3 and you will see where it all started. A bite from an apple from a forbidden tree. BAM! Sin entered the world and man must suffer. BUT, God offers hope, refuge and salvation.

As some of you may know, a tragedy happened today at my workplace. A fire burnt down our barn killing several animals. I work at a day program for adults with intellectual disabilities. Because of this one event 57 individuals (we call Growers), plus staff and families will deal with a grieving process.

http://local21news.com/news/local/mini-horsesbaby-chicks-die-in-fire-at-farm-that-runs-program-for-adults-with-disabilities

 Some of the first reactions when tragedies hit are:

•  “Why me?” Who do YOU put your trust in when these events happen? Are you self-reliant or do you rely on God? God wants us to look to him to find peace and refuge.
• “Is God angry with me?” No. God loves everyone and gives us all the chance to accept his free gift of salvation. We live in a world of good and evil, and evil happens.  However, evil does not leave God powerless; if you believe in Him and have a relationship, he will sustain you and lead you in a life of peace and freedom from fear.
• “Why do bad things happen to good people?” Evil comes from Satan. Someday, evil will be banished (Matthew 25:41). In the meantime, keep your eyes on God and trust in his goodness.

So, I plead with you and ask you…. Come to the altar. Give yourself over to Jesus.  Ask Him to come into your life.  You cannot do this on your own. He is waiting for you with arms wide open. Confess your mistakes, heartaches, and pains….He will take them all and renew you with strength. You will not grow weary with God on your side. Know that God has given Jesus as a way to trump tragedies. Amen.

Do you not know?  Have you not heard? The Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He will not grow tired or weary, and his understanding no one can fathom.He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak. Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:29-31