A week today, most if not all of us, were shaking our head, shocked at the drama that unfolded in our city. For many of us, we have walked the area on Yonge street where a man drove a rented van down sidewalks killing people (mostly women) and intentionally changing our city forever. It was our “911.”
I say that not comparing the devastation in New York IN 2011 to Toronto but to the horror felt that day. The news of this tragedy resonated with people around the world to the point that world leaders were tweeting their condolences to us, letting us know they were thinking about us, praying for us and grieving with us.
Two weeks prior we saw the devastating crash of the hockey team, the Humboldt Broncos in Saskatchewan and we cried some more. Many have stated to me “I don’t understand!” or “the world is wicked” as all around expressions of grief and confusion are being felt. I too have shaken my head in disbelief and shock. These are all natural expressions of us as human beings who long to have understanding, get clarity on situations because somehow it will help us get through the pain of the situation better. Even when we get some answers though, does it change the situation? Does it ease the pain?
We are living in times that are not completely different than our parents and forefathers, as it is relative to how we are experiencing life in our generation. Yet whether you are a Christ follower or not, I think we can all agree that the times we are living in are becoming increasingly, should I say, wicked. The Bible states that: “the hearts of man are desperately wicked, who can know it.” (Jeremiah 17:9)
That is to say that you can never really know what is in a person’s heart. We are seeing celebrities do things that not only are upside down to their character on screen but we are asking the question “how” they brought themselves to act in ways that are so ugly (for lack of a better phrase). We cannot forget they are human. Their hearts, as mine is, can only be fully known by God.
Understanding the times means that we must be self-aware that we need each other. Love and kindness can still be expressed and is needed more than ever in our world. As wickedness is very evident in humanity’s actions, so is goodness, empathy and compassion. We must seek to reach out and touch others. Live “for the benefit of others” and remain hopeful, that in spite of what we see around us, God is still in control He loves His creation.
Finally, understanding the times means that you and I MUST live each day with intention and care. Be mindful that tomorrow is NOT promised to us but we can and must do unto others as we would have them do to us.
Blessings!
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