"When the World Shakes, God Remains"

Happy Monday to our CFC Family

Hanging up the phone yesterday afternoon after a prayerful conversation with my friend Alon in Israel felt very surreal. He was speaking to me from his bomb shelter, awaiting the next missile attack from Iran. Meanwhile, I sat comfortably on my backyard deck, enjoying a peaceful Father’s Day afternoon. The sun was warm, the air calm, and I was surrounded by my wife and kids, good food, and the sound of laughter.

The contrast between our worlds couldn’t have been more striking. As Alon braced for danger and uncertainty, I was experiencing a moment of rest and joy. I felt a sense of helplessness, knowing that besides my prayers there was little I could do from so far away, and yet, despite all this, I was also deeply grateful. Grateful to be with my family….grateful for the safety and peace that surrounded us…. grateful for the simple moments that can so easily be taken for granted.

My conversation with Alon reminded me just how important it is to recognize the blessings we enjoy each day. The freedom to worship openly, to gather with loved ones without fear, and to live in peace are profound gifts that should never be taken for granted.

In a world that is changing so quickly, these blessings should never be assumed—they should be noticed, treasured, and reflected upon as to where they come from.  Especially when so many in our world today live without them.

As Christians, we are called to live with both gratitude and awareness. To never forget that the freedom we currently experience may not always be guaranteed. Even during times of calm, we are encouraged by Scripture to be prepared in our hearts and minds. Not driven by fear, but led by wisdom and grounded in faith. Anchoring our hope in the One who never changes.

God’s promises remain firm, no matter what we face. As King David wrote during a time of intense conflict and uncertainty: “The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer… in whom I take refuge” (Psalm 18:2).

Whether we are living in times of war or peace, we must remind ourselves of these truths. He is our ‘Rock,’ our ‘Fortress,’ and our ‘Deliverer’—titles that visually speak of security and should reassure us that we are safe in His hands.

For those of us living in relative peace, this is a time to grow deeper in our faith. To cherish our families, to strengthen our trust in God  and to shine as lights for His Kingdom in a world that so desperately needs hope. May we live with thankful hearts and a steady faith, ready to walk with God in whatever season lies ahead—confident that He is always in control.

Let us also remember to lift up in prayer those who are suffering, those in danger, and those caught in the middle of conflict—like our brothers and sisters in Israel, the innocent in Iran, and across the world. May God protect and comfort them, and may His presence be felt even in the darkest of hours. We pray for their safety, for peace, and above all, that Jesus would be glorified through it all.

And above all, we hold on to this promise of future hope.  For as Isaiah 2:4 prophesied will one day happen;

“He will judge between the nations and will settle disputes for many peoples. They will beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore” 

One day, Jesus will reign in perfect peace. Until then, we trust, we pray, and we

Have a wonderful week and we’ll see you on Sunday!

Pastor Dan