After spending a full week pretty much flat on my back in bed with a strained back, I really wanted to spend some time in front of the computer talking about happy things, sharing about the end of summer and beginning of fall, but I find that it doesn't feel right not to address all that has been happening in the past few weeks and certainly these last couple of days.
After watching and listening to the stories of the countless loss of life and homes from massive hurricanes and wild fires, we then had to share our horror as news of the terrible massacre in Las Vegas unfolded before us. And our hearts are broken by the magnitude of evil in it, and the pain and suffering it has brought. I share the fears of others that we have been here before and probably will be again someday.
I have no theological answers to the questions of suffering. I only know of the times I have suffered and I pray for those who are suffering now. I do know that God is everywhere present. So, I choose to remember that God is not just on his throne way up there somewhere, impassively watching, but he is here right beside us right now. So let us take our refuge in him.
Father, I pray for all those who are suffering pain and loss this day around our country and around the world. Thank you for all those people who have stepped forward to help others in need and may they and we reflect your love. Give wisdom to those in command. And as we already see the dark clouds of anger and dissent and accusation begin to form may we as your children bring light and peace to our conversations. May we take the time to listen to one another even if we don't agree. Help us to share your love in our daily interactions and not just pass over those who are different from us. May we remember this unity that we feel in the midst of tragedy and strive to find those areas where we can find common ground that honors each other and you, remembering to keep our eyes fixed on the things above. Thank you for being our refuge and our strength.
Whoever and wherever you are, may you know God's peace and may His blessings be with you this day.
Amen to that.
ReplyDeleteAmen. (I join you in your prayer as I think of the suffering ones, those who came to the aid of people in Las Vegas, the medical teams who are caring for the injured in the hospitals and for all people everywhere who have been through traumatic events in recent months).
ReplyDeleteBless you for this, Gloria. And I second what Sara said.
ReplyDeleteYes, what has been going on is so sad. We do pray for our leaders. They have so much on their shoulders in standing up for what is right and making the right decisions. May everyone draw closer to the Lord and putting him first in our lives and help us in loving others. Nancy
ReplyDeleteYour post is very uplifting . . . May these sad times bring us all closer to God.
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