Exodus 20:3 – You shall have no other gods before me. (NIV)

Recently, I learned of the death of my favourite stage and television star, Jerry Orbach, who made the role of Lenny Briscoe infamous on television's Law and Order. Like many of his biggest fans, I mourned his passing and felt a sense of loss.

Each week, I faithfully tuned in to Law and Order to see how Briscoe and his partner would detect the solution to the crime committed and help in prosecuting the party responsible for the evil deed. Usually justice prevailed and left me with a sense that everything would be okay.

His passing reminded me of others I have "idolized" throughout my life: athletes, actors, musicians, and even pastors. Each of these people gave me pleasure, inspiration, and a sense of hope that all would turn out right. My hope in some of these people had been misplaced and even been tarnished.

But I know of One greater and in Whom my hope and trust is never misplaced: my Lord and Saviour. He has never promised me that there would be no pain or tragedy in my life, but He has proved that He will be with me each step of the way through these events. My hope and faith in Christ carries me through and shows me that indeed things will turn out all right, and goodness will prevail.

Prayer: Dearest Lord God and Father, help us to remember that our hope in others will be only temporary, but that our hope in You will never be misplaced, and that You will sustain us through each moment of our lives. Amen.

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About the author:

Ian Wooder <ianewooder@sympatico.ca>
Brampton, Ontario, Canada
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