heaven stands

i've been so overwhelmed recently with the suffering of my friends. since last friday, three of my friends have had to face major tragedies. vastly different but all tragic and so sad, it's really hit home with me (again) about just how fragile and short life really is. it's also a reminder that you never know what people are going through. i heard a saying once that "everyone you meet is fighting some sort of battle." i hope that i always stay aware of other's battles, so that i may minister to them with the sort of love and care that christ intends for us to share.
it's also during times like this that i become so thankful for the hope that i have in christ jesus. a hope that cannot be shaken by the circumstances of this world. i heard the song "your hands" by JJ Heller a few months after mom passed away. i love the truth that this song conveys.

I have unanswered prayers
I have trouble I wish wasn't there
And I have asked a thousand ways
That You would take my pain away
That You would take my pain away

I am trying to understand
How to walk this weary land
Make straight the paths that crookedly lie
Oh Lord, before these feet of mine
Oh Lord, before these feet of mine

When my world is shaking Heaven stands
When my heart is breaking I never leave Your hands

When You walked upon the Earth
You healed the broken, lost, and hurt
I know You hate to see me cry
One day You will set all things right
Yea, one day You will set all things right

Your handsYour hands that shape the world
Are holding me, they hold me still
Your hands that shape the world
Are holding me, they hold me still

i'm thankful that like the song says, regardless of how much our world is shaking, heaven stands. no matter how many pieces we feel like our heart is breaking into, we are still held in the hands of our heavenly father who not only loves us, but knows what is best for us and will bring it to pass, even if we don't understand. I'm also thankful that indeed, one day, all things will be set right. there will be a day with no more death, no more pain, no more hurt- it seems like everyday i long for that day more.