Tonight's post isn't so much about me or a mask. I wanted to take a moment and pour out my heart today in light of the tragedy that happened in Newtown, Connecticut.
I've thought a lot about what I want to say and I keep going back to when I was 10 years old and my mother was murdered by three young men. Words didn't mean much then. I don't remember anything anyone said.
What I remember is how people loved me. How my fifth grade teacher, Ms. Rigillo, came over to my house and brought me a stuffed bear and sat at our kitchen table and visited. I remember how my sweet group of friends kept inviting me over to play and have sleep overs and invited me into their brownie troop. I remember how my best friend's family took me overnight every Friday and treated me like I was one of their kids. Actions have, and always will, speak louder than words.
I don't know how to love on the families and the community that has been so affected by this tragedy except to pray for them.
Lord God,
I can't even imagine how much your heart is breaking today because I know so well that when we cry you cry, too. When your kids hurt, you hurt, too. But you are bigger than the hurt and you are bigger than this tragedy and so I am asking you to comfort the parents and loved ones of the people that died today. Your word says that you are the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort who comforts us in all our troubles. Comfort them. Pour out your mercy and your grace on them. Lord don't hold back your love. Thank you that your word also tells us that just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives that so also through Christ our comfort overflows. Heal these broken hearts and bind up their wounds. Bring this community together to love one another, to help one another and let them know that You have not forsaken them or abandoned them. Lord, when we call on you you promise to answer. Draw near to them tonight and answer their cries. Give them hope the way only you can. You bring light to even the darkest places and peace in the midst of chaos. Praise you for that. Thank you that you love us. Thank you that you comfort us. Thank you that you are sovereign and Almighty and that you are good even when life hurts. Even when our hearts are broken, you are still good. Lavish your goodness and your love in Newtown, CT. And Lord, be with the families in Oregon that have just walked through this as well. Show up in a mighty way and love on them. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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