God works in mysterious ways.
It is a familiar expression, often used to find justification for events or circumstances that, on the surface, seem to be painful or otherwise contrary to what we would expect from a loving God. It reflects the confusion we experience when the trauma that confronts us seems to be a sign of an uncaring God. It is the answer to the question, “Why would God allow…?”
“God moves in a mysterious way / His wonders to perform; / He plants His footsteps in the sea / And rides upon the storm.”
It seems inconceivable that, on top of a world-wide health crisis, we would find ourselves engaged in an international uproar over the murder of an African-American man in Minnesota. But it was clearly more than that single That event ignited the tinder of discontent and pent-up anger over centuries of mistreatment of people of color in America. And the fires of protest flared higher every day.
What is most amazing about these protests is the fact that they have spread across the globe. Citizens of foreign nations are marching in support of a common cause. But the disruption of our global culture may have a greater impact than we could have imagined. We can only wonder if God has allowed us these moments of temporary pain to put us on a path to brighter days ahead.
It would not be unprecedented.
If we read through the Bible, we will find multiple occasions of human turmoil that were stair-steps to advances of God’s kingdom. Perhaps this is a modern version of God’s plan. Perhaps He grew tired of waiting for humanity to discover equality and decided to intervene.
God moves in a mysterious way
His wonders to perform;
He plants His footsteps in the sea,
And rides upon the storm.
Deep in unfathomable mines
Of never-failing skill
He treasures up His bright designs,
And works His sovereign will.
Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take,
The clouds ye so much dread
Are big with mercy, and shall break
In blessings on your head.
Judge not the Lord by feeble sense,
But trust Him for His grace;
Behind a frowning providence
He hides a smiling face.
His purposes will ripen fast,
Unfolding every hour;
The bud may have a bitter taste,
But sweet will be the flower.
Blind unbelief is sure to err,
And scan His work in vain;
God is His own interpreter,
And He will make it plain.
“Light Shining out of Darkness” by William Cowper 1731-1800