Today's release of Government papers relating to the 1989 tragedy at the Sheffield Wednesday ground will bring nervous expectation.
After that terrible event, when 96 Liverpool fans were crushed to death, South Yorkshire Police and others repeatedly shifted the blame onto Liverpool fans. It appears there was a concerted cover up, in order to deflect attention from the role and responsibility of the police. But when the truth emerges, justice can become available to those who have lost so much.
Without truth, there can be no justice for grieving relatives. What may bring hope to some will also bring fear and worry to those whose actions will be seen to have been at the root of the disaster and its deliberately warped aftermath. Even after 23 years, this brings hope to many.
Jesus told his followers to be encouraged and hopeful, because the truth will be known, and God's justice can be trusted.
“But don’t be afraid of those who threaten you. For the time is coming when everything that is covered will be revealed, and all that is secret will be made known to all. What I tell you now in the darkness, shout abroad when daybreak comes. What I whisper in your ear, shout from the housetops for all to hear! “Don’t be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell.' (Matthew 10.26-28)
Because God is the God of truth and whose justice can be trusted, ultimately we have nothing to fear from those who may twist the truth and pervert the course of justice. Our refuge is God himself, as Jesus went on to say. ' What is the price of two sparrows—one copper coin? But not a single sparrow can fall to the ground without your Father knowing it. And the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are more valuable to God than a whole flock of sparrows.' (Matthew 10.29-31)
In our own lives, iinstead of being torn apart by the untruth and injustices around us, and being shredded by the pain they cause, we can find release and freedom, as we entrust ourselves into the hands of the God who cares for us. That is good news and the way to freedom.
Best wishes,
Richard
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