Elder Compass - May 2020

By: Mike Lorenzen

Tribulation: A Cause Of Great Trouble Or Suffering

The word tribulation is probably not used often in our daily conversations. As you see the definition I found online, I think you may agree that we could easily use it during the Covid-19 situation we find ourselves in currently. This time of year, we in Louisville are normally gathering with friends and family as we celebrate our local legacy – The Kentucky Derby! Gather no more says our Governor, Andy Beshear. But this shall pass!

I’m sure each of us are anxious to be close to family and friends – especially now but we simply can’t do the things we used to do without wondering if one person could be endangering another. The tribulation we are facing today is something that surely will pass soon – perhaps in a few months or a year or two. As we seek perspective on our situation, we don’t have to look far to imagine what times were like for people during WWII. Americans and people from many countries suffered extreme loss of life and the world as they knew it would be changed forever.

The Bible reminds us of the Jewish people who endured 40 years of wandering in the wilderness as they sought a new homeland for their people. Surely there was disease, hunger and many other challenges. But they persevered! Those 40 years were preceded by generations of slavery and persecution as well.

Today our lives are different to be sure but what can we do? Remember to smile and if you’re wearing a mask, smile with your eyes! Use good words like: please, thank you, I apologize, may I, delightful and wonderful. I pray that all of us will be safe, healthy, joyful and faithful during this part of our journey.

John 16:13 reads: I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.

We will get through this. We will get through this together!