What does it hold?
June 1, 2009 (Monday)
“How art the mighty fallen!” (2 Samuel 1:25). David spoke these words as he grieved over the deaths of King Saul and Prince Jonathan. These words came to mind as I considered the plight of General Motors, expected to file for bankruptcy this morning.
There was a time when GM was the largest corporation in the world and seemed to be indestructible. It was a sure fire investment that was certain to produce profits for those who bought its stocks and bonds.
I cannot help but feel a personal pain, even though I worked for GM only 1 ½ years, 54 years ago. I guess those 18 months or so of association with the company got into my blood. Anyway, I feel for the company which has meant so much to our nation and our economy for so long.
We need to heed the words of the Bible, “You don’t know what a day will bring.” Prophecies of all kinds abound these days, creating fears that are unfounded. For instance, the year 2000 was predicted to bring world-wide disaster of some sort, but it never materialized. The year 2001 was not on the list of disastrous years, but it certainly became one on September 11. From 1500 miles away I saw an airliner explode in a skyscraper as it happened, and so did many of you.
And what of the year 2008? Did anyone predict the economic problems of that year? Did they foresee the collapse of banks and businesses? Or the value of stocks being cut by half or more?
This year is not yet half gone, and we wonder what the remainder holds. Whatever happens, God’s promise holds true: “I will not leave you or forsake you.” It may sound like a cliché, but this is oh, so true: “We do not know what the future holds, but we know who holds the future.”