As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good, to bring it about that many people should be kept alive,
as they are today. Genesis 50:20
Perhaps you have also wondered, “Can anything good come from the internet?” It has always proven to be a ceaseless cesspool of filth and hatred that never ceases to surprise eyes by revealing another level of the depravity of humankind. But last Sunday, thousands upon thousands of the saints of God gathered around computer screens and tablets and all other manner of devices to hear the Word of God as it was preached, prayed, and sung.
Joseph had been sold into slavery and eventually thrown into prison all on account of the jealousy of his brothers. But all of that took place so that God might lead Joseph to be able to serve Pharaoh for the good of the Egyptians and his own family during the widespread famine. As Joseph speaks the word of absolution to his brothers, there is also the recognition that God meant to bring good from evil. The patriarchs, the disciples, Jesus’ own genealogy all reveal how God specializes in bringing good from evil. He has been doing that through each and every one of us and from all of our sinful ancestors who have gone before us.
Older members from my vicarage congregation would often reference one of their sainted pastors, Rev. Edward Stammel. Pastor Stammel would often speak about life being like a tapestry though this side of heaven all we see is that random chaos of knots and strings going in different directions without any particular rhyme or reason. But when we reach the new heavens and the earth, we will be able to see how God was at work through the chaos as He was accomplishing the good that He intended to bring. During the hard days which we are currently facing, we can find solace that God can and does bring good from evil. Now is the time for the Church to recognize that we are not simply a building, but those have been called by God and sent to love and serve our neighbors. Even in this time of a global pandemic, God is working good as His Word fills Facebook and the Internet through Pastor’s sermons and daily devotions and Bible studies. God is working good as Christians serve in their unique callings and by telling of Christ’s love. God is working as families are slowed down from all of their activities and parents step forward to teach their children about Christ’s love in the home. If the only good you thought could come from the internet were funny dog videos and cat memes, you’re wrong. God is using the internet for good that many people should live eternally through faith in Christ Jesus!
Prayer – Almighty God, our heavenly Father, Your mercies are new every morning; and though we deserve only punishment, You receive us as Your children and provide for all our needs of body and soul. Grant that we may heartily acknowledge Your merciful goodness, give thanks for all Your benefits, and serve You in willing obedience; through Jesus Christ, Your Son, our Lord, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.
Fraternally in Christ,
President Lee Hagan