Our Refuge and Strength

It's been a long day. The bombs came as many were getting to work. But John and I, our family and loved ones are safe! (For good factual updates, please click on the link of today's title.)

It is early days, and there is still a lot to unfold from the tragedy. I re-visited what I wrote last Thursday (my last post), and much of the thinking applies, somewhat eerily, to today's events here in London.

When I am awake and the Lord refreshens my thought process, I will write more of what is happening here with those we love, live, and work with. This tragedy touches us all.

For now, I am thankful for all those who showed kindness and compassion to those in dire need today down in the tunnels, at the stations, and on the streets. Their tremendous responses and service will never be forgotten. Christ lived in them!

On days like today, the musical picture of God presented to us in Psalm 46 says it all. Lord, please keep all those who are suffering through this tragedy wrapped up in your arms of love and strength.
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For the Choir Director: A Psalm of the Descendants of Korah, to be sung by soprano voices according to alamoth. A song.

Psalm 46 (NLT)

1 God is our refuge and strength,
always ready to help in times of trouble.
2 So we will not fear, even if earthquakes come
and the mountains crumble into the sea.
3 Let the oceans roar and foam.
Let the mountains tremble as the waters surge!

Interlude

4 A river brings joy to the city of our God,
the sacred home of the Most High.
5 God himself lives in that city; it cannot be destroyed.
God will protect it at the break of day.
6 The nations are in an uproar,
and kingdoms crumble!
God thunders, and the earth melts!
7 The LORD Almighty is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress.

Interlude

8 Come, see the glorious works of the LORD:
See how he brings destruction upon the world
9 and causes wars to end throughout the earth.
He breaks the bow and snaps the spear in two;
he burns the shields with fire.

10 “Be silent, and know that I am God!
I will be honored by every nation.
I will be honored throughout the world.”
11 The LORD Almighty is here among us;
the God of Israel is our fortress.

Interlude