Reflections

I can't believe how fast this year has gone by! I'm kind of in shock that I am graduating for high school in just a couple of months. This year has been a great one in so many ways, and I am sad that I will be saying goodbye to not only my friends and family, but also Ukarumpa, this place that I love so much. I'm looking forward to college, but I'm not ready to say goodbye. Ukarumpa is my home, and even though it's not perfect, it is special to me.

Anyways, there have been so many bad things happening lately both in Ukarumpa and all around the world (not that there isn't bad going on all the time; it just seems like there have been tons recently). A house fire, people trapped in a coal mine, earthquakes...this world is full of evil and heartbreak. Sometimes I can't understand why God lets these terrible things happen, but I have to remember that trials are what make us grow up. They can also draw us closer to God. When we are living without any troubles, we begin to think that we can do everything on our own, but when we face difficulties, we realize that we can't do much on our own. When we face troubles, it is also an opportunity for other Christians to show love. Hardships are almost impossible to handle alone, but with the help of God and others, we can make it through and not only grow stronger, but also refine our faith and help us get to know God so much better. God promises to comfort us in our troubles, and He will be faithful. With God on our side, and other Christians to help us, we have nothing to fear. We can be joyful and trust God no matter what happens. Let's remember 1 Peter 1:7 and live every day of our lives for God.

These trials are only to test your faith, to show that it is strong and pure. It is being tested as fire tests and purifies gold-and your faith is far more precious to God than mere gold. So if your faith remains srong after being tried by fiery trials, it will bring you much praise and glory and honor on the day when Jesus Christ is revealed to the whole world. ~1 Peter 1:7

Choose today to follow God and live for Him. Life with God is the best way to live life.