Still

"For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face..."
 - 1 Corinthians 13:12

**Photography by Melissa Talbot**

The contemplative things of life,

The joys, some pain, and wayward strife.

From ashes deep, see beauty come,

A precious gift, indeed, for some.

But how can we still understand,

Of someone else's willing hand.

To take a life by murderous scheme,

In this, our world, I could not dream.

That plots and plans would lead us here,

Into a seeming place of fear.

When violence breaks and threats abound,

We wonder where our hope is found.

Through bloodshed there is something bright,

Some shining glimpse, a piercing light.

Though evil tries to tear apart,

The worried mind and hurting heart.

There is no thing that'd ever be,

The crush or kill of unity.

Creation stands in peace and love,

To overcome and stand above.

The trials that test our strength and will,

In prayer the soul shall triumph, still.

Encouragement for the week:

The recent terrorist attacks in Paris, France and Edmonton, Alberta, Canada were stark reminders that evil lurks. This poem is for those affected by these events.

We can never quite figure out why things happen, brutal things.

Lives can be taken in a heartbeat and without remorse. May we never cease to come together in unity and stand on peace and love.

If you are a Christian, you know that Satan looks to steal, kill, and destroy God's children. Always be on guard and ready with your armor of God.

If you are not a Christian and were unsettled by these recent events, you can look for Jesus and find Him. He will bring you hope during times of uncertainty in our world.