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LESSONS I’VE LEARNED FROM RECENT TRAGEDIES!

Introduction: December 14, 2012 will always be remembered, especially by the people in the Newtown community of Connecticut. On that day, 26 precious souls were ushered into eternity quickly and unexpectedly. A heavily armed shooter, with no regard for life or living, murdered incident children and adults. The victims had done nothing to deserve or warrant such treatment. This incident is one of many in the long line of tragedies that plague our nation and world. Our hearts, thoughts and prayers go out to everyone affected by this and other senseless disasters. This catastrophe forces us to look inward and upward. What we find and remember can be life changing. Therefore, as I reflect on this and other terrible adversities, what do I learn? What do I remember? What do I find deep within me that gives me strength, stability and security in the midst of a confused and chaotic world?

I have learned...

  1. The brevity and uncertainty of life. "Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, and today is a gift; that’s why they call it the present." I will cherish each day, because it could be my last. “Live Like You Were Dying,” sang Tim McGraw.

  2. To focus my affections on things above, not on things of this earth. It’s so easy to think more of this life than the life to come; however, we must focus more on the eternal than the temporary.

  3. The Bible is the greatest book because it gives me clarity, direction and purpose in a chaotic world. Reading God’s Word, I am reminded of its availability, reliability and durability.

  4. That faith is the most precious thing in the world. We live by faith, walk by faith and please God by having it. “Faith is to believe what we do not see, and the reward of faith is to see what we believe.”

  5. To love Christ and His Church more. The Church is my spiritual family; oftentimes closer than my physical one. In the church I find love, acceptance and support. I can’t live without it; I love it more and more everyday. I’m blessed more than words can describe to have a place to belong.

Conclusion: Thank you God for loving, blessing and saving me!

-Mark Posey




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