Tragedy

Psalm 23:4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Psalm 34:18 The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.

Psalm 59:16 But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love, for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble.

Psalm 62:5-6 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from him.  He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.

Psalm 63:7-8 Because you are my help, I sing in the shadow of your wings. My soul clings to you; your right hand upholds me.

Psalm 119:147 I rise before dawn and cry for help; I have put my hope in your word.

Philippians 4:7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Twenty little children and six adults were victims of a horrible tragedy yesterday. Senseless tragedies like these can severely test one's faith. We feel deep sorrow. Our hearts break for the families. We want answers. Why did this happen? How could this be? Sometimes, the answer is we just don't know. 

Yesterday evening, after a day of following the news of the massacre in Newtown, CT, I chose to turn off the TV news for the night. I logged off FaceBook, and turned off the on-line news links. With a heavy heart, I curled up on the couch and read my Bible -- I opened it to Psalms and let the writings of David wash over me. 

As I read my Bible, I didn't find the answers... but I found comfort. I found hope. I found a promise of peace. And that is what I am offering in this post today. No answers, no explanations, no discussions of how to stop this from happening again... just comfort, hope and peace. I pray the Scriptures bless you today at this tragic time. 

Dear Heavenly Father, our hearts are broken today. We cannot understand what has happened or why. LORD, I pray for the innocent victims. I pray for all the little children who are in your arms tonight.  I pray for the adult heroes who so valiantly gave their lives. I pray for the the families and friends who have so tragically lost their loved ones to something so horrific and senseless. Father, I just pray that these dear families run to You for solace.  I pray that they find their comfort, courage and strength in You. I pray You will be their refuge, their source of comfort and relief in these times of trouble.

LORD, I cannot  understand how any of these dear families affected by this tragedy will ever, ever have peace in their lives. That is why I will pray that they do receive that peace someday. The peace that Paul describes in Your Word. The peace that passes all understanding. I pray this all in the mighty healing, comforting name of Jesus.  Amen.