A Norvell Note
August 17, 2025 – Vol. 29 No. 30
Where Can We Go
Father,
I watched the reports of the search and rescue efforts as the floodwaters rose quickly and more powerfully than anyone in the Texas Hill Country had ever seen.
I waited anxiously for word that our children had reached high ground and were safe at a friend’s home during the tsunami warning.
I watch story after story of gunmen who enter buildings and open fire on unsuspecting coworkers and innocent bystanders.
I see the destruction caused by tornadoes, hurricanes, fires, explosions, train derailments, and all manner of other accidents that create havoc and change lives forever.
I shake my head in disbelief at the actions, inaction, and consequences of the decisions made by political and world leaders.
I watch, I listen, I sit in silence and grieve, and I ask, where can we go to be safe?
Then, I remember Your words.
John 16:33, “I’ve told you all this so that trusting me, you will be unshakable and assured, deeply at peace. In this godless world you will continue to experience difficulties. But take heart! I’ve conquered the world.”
Nahum 1:7, “The Lord is good,
a refuge in times of trouble.
He cares for those who trust in him,”
Psalm 46:10-11a, “Attention, all! See the marvels of God!
He plants flowers and trees all over the earth,
Bans war from pole to pole,
breaks all the weapons across his knee.
“Step out of the traffic! Take a long,
loving look at me, your High God,
above politics, above everything.” (The Message)
11 The Lord Almighty is with us;
the God of Jacob is our fortress.” (NIV)
Psalm 139: 7-12, 23-24, “Is there anyplace I can go to avoid your Spirit?
to be out of your sight?
If I climb to the sky, you’re there!
If I go underground, you’re there!
If I flew on morning’s wings
to the far western horizon,
You’d find me in a minute—
you’re already there waiting!
Then I said to myself, “Oh, he even sees me in the dark!
At night I’m immersed in the light!”
It’s a fact: darkness isn’t dark to you;
night and day, darkness and light, they’re all the same to you.”
“Investigate my life, O God,
find out everything about me;
Cross-examine and test me,
get a clear picture of what I’m about;
See for yourself whether I’ve done anything wrong—
then guide me on the road to eternal life.”
Philippians 4:5-9, “Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”
Father, I watch, I listen, I sit in silence and grieve, and I find comfort in knowing that You are our safe place. Our only truly safe place.
I love you.
Tom
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