What a week in the world

Living in China, the only time I hear about the news is through the internet, generally. I had heard about a few of the horrible things that happened in America over the past week, but I had no idea it was as bad as it was until I read this article. I actually read part of it from DesiringG's blog. It was very fitting that it was the first thing I read after watching the first of a 7 message series on Suffering and the Sovereignty of G that John Piper and 5 others preached in 2005. The tragedies in America, in addition to all the problems in China and in other places all over the world make it comforting to know that G is in complete control. It is comforting to know that JC suffered and died to absorb all the wrath that I deserve for my sin, because that is the only thing that can sustain me in suffering. But if I ignore the news and the suffering all around, how can I identify with the suffering of others? How can I give them the hope of the Suffering Servant? Here are the words to an old hymn by William Cowper:

G 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.

You fearful saints, fresh courage take;
the clouds you so much dread
Are big with mercy
and shall break in blessings on your head.

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:
G is his own interpreter,
and he will make it plain.