Daily Devotional for March 19, 2022

A few weeks ago, right after having screws and rods installed in my back, I decided it was a great idea to text my surgeon’s parents from my hospital room.  I thanked them for not killing their son when he was an irritating teenager, because he had fixed my back and relieved me of debilitating pain I have had for years.  
 
Strangely, my surgeon’s mother said it was all worth it.  It took his father much longer to respond.  
 
I am going to ask Buzz about that when I get back to work.
 
Understandably, Shannon decided I should not text or do Daily Devotionals until I am through taking pain meds.
 
Having said that, yesterday, I came to the realization that, even though I am still taking pain medication, I believe God has decided it is time for me to begin writing again.  So, here it goes.
 
Years ago, Shannon and I watched a movie called The Hunger Games.
 
In one scene, a huge stadium was filled with people cheering and celebrating the upcoming deaths of completely innocent children.  I remember thinking something like this could never happen in real life.  I was wrong.
 
Yesterday, Russians gathered in a huge stadium in Moscow for a pep rally.  They were celebrating the unjust, immoral, ungodly invasion of Ukraine, in which innocent children have been massacred by the Russians.
 
In the news, I saw a horrific, startling picture, where 109 empty baby strollers were lined up in Lviv, representing the innocent children in Ukraine that have been murdered by the Russians.  This was a cause for celebration in Russia.
 
If you have ever wondered whether evil really exists, watch tonight’s news on the Russians trying to subjugate and destroy their innocent neighbor.  Evil exists.
 
The good news is, even though there are times when it truly looks live evil wins, it does not.  God wins. 
 
This is what Jesus meant by saying, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”  (John 14:27)
 
When your life is overwhelming, remember, God wins.  That’s all that really matters.
 
Prayer:  Dear Gracious Heavenly God, as I come face-to-face with the evil realities of this world, remind me of your power, grace, and uncompromising love.  Help me to remember I am your child, and you will never desert me.  Also, I humbly lift up Ukraine and all those who suffer.  Please bring peace.  In Jesus’ name I pray.  Amen.
 
Evil is real.  So is God.
 
Trust God.
 
I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins