sometimes, it’s shocking . . .

It was such a shock when I saw the news this morning . . . that one of my favorite actors, Gene Hackman, was dead. It is yet to be known how he died, just that it was under suspicious circumstances since the bodies (he, his wife and their dog) were all recently discovered in their home in Santa Fe, New Mexico.

It’s rather amazing how small our world has become . . . with television, computers, smart phones, satellites . . . all the outstanding technological discoveries and inventions that have become everyday (and necessary, it seems), a part of our lives.

We have instant access to news, not only here in the States, but all around the world. And, people (movie stars, celebrities, etc.), that once were far-away and only read about in the newspapers occasionally, can become almost like part of the family. Especially, if you see them, or read about them often.  And then, when they pass away, we mourn their passing.

How small our world . . . This fact was brought home again this morning, as I watched President Trump and President Zelensky of Ukraine discuss a possible peace deal in Ukraine’s war with Russia. As I watched the heated debate and saw the seriousness with which both parties were giving the issue, I was struck with how these types of negotiations have been in our world since time began. There have been nations, and leaders of those nations who have fought for their country and their people. The weight that presses heavily upon their shoulders, I cannot even begin to imagine. At this point, as I write this, no deal was reached.

As I’ve watched television, yesterday and today, I can see that our world is not only small, but all-inclusive. We are a part of that long-ago Biblical world when Israel was young (when David fought Goliath and the Philistines), just as much as we are a part of this present-day 2025 world. We’re all linked together.

I am reminded of a song, which was popular a few years ago, “He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands.” Those of us who are trusting in the Lord believe this to be true. Let us give thanks. And let us pray for our leaders, our world, our fellow citizens—those individuals the Lord brings across our paths, and to our attention.

Grace and peace to you,

Mary Emma