Psalm 48 – Our God Forever
Go around Zion, encircle it; count its towers, note its ramparts; tour its citadels so that you can tell a future generation: “This God, our God forever and ever — he will always lead us.” (Psalms 48:12-14)
Just like the Israelites could point to the temple and walls of Jerusalem, we can point to the gifts and actions of God as a reminder of his goodness and power. He has protected Hawaii from the worst of the epidemic. He has provided funds through government and generous donors to help people in our church family who are suffering. His goodness and power are clear.
But we also need to remember that the things in this world don’t last. The temple and walls of Jerusalem were destroyed multiple times. So the only permanent sign of God’s goodness and power are the work of his son Jesus on the cross. He came to dwell with us, gave up his life for us, rose from the dead for us, and now advocates for us in heaven. Our hope isn’t in a stimulus check or a vaccine, our hope is in Jesus.