It is important for us as Christians to remember that this is what guides our understanding of what is true and just.  It is important for us as citizens of one of the freest nations in the world to remember our nation and laws have their foundation in God not man. The day that we forget this will be the day we descend into tyranny and totalitarianism.

Suffering is always an unwelcome stranger and an uninvited guest.  When she visits the door of our lives, we want her stay to be short.  Yet, often we do not have control over when she will come and and when she will go. In I Peter 4:12 we read, "do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you."  Peter is trying to help us understand something,  suffering is a "normal" part of everyone's lives, especially the believer in Christ.

Let us “pick up our cross” and stay true to the mission God has for each of us, which is to sacrifice ourselves for others and His glory and to live a life submitted to God’s will.  When we do that, joy is discovered and our journey on earth will be filled with meaning and purpose.