In the Face of Tragedy

In the face of tragedy, as in Newtown, CT, sweet innocence is lost.  In the face of tragedy fear becomes a strong emotion for many.  In the face of tragedy trusting children sadly gain a different view of the world.  In the face of tragedy during this time of year the beauty, joy, and light of the Christmas season becomes painfully darkened.  In the face of tragedy families are torn apart...children who were excited and looking forward to Christmas and presents and family time are no longer here to celebrate this special time with moms, dads, brothers, sisters, other family members, and friends.  In the face of tragedy places that were thought of as safe and protected now become subject to scrutiny and questions of how safe they really are.  In the face of tragedy the world starts thinking differently.  In the face of tragedy new laws are made, and new rules are set in place.  In the face of tragedy, especially when precious, innocent lives are lost, there is anger.  In the face of tragedy questions float around in people's minds wondering how something like this could happen.  In the face of tragedy beautiful, quiet, little towns become known worldwide for such awful reasons, and will sadly never be the same again.  In the face of tragedy people that are normally thought of as just regular, everyday, ordinary people become heroes.  Not that they weren't already in some way or form.

 In the face of tragedy the principal, psychologist, and teachers of Sandy Hook found a strength and wisdom that they probably never realized they had.  They showed amazing love and resolve that will never be forgotten.  In the face of tragedy those that are thought of as our normal everyday heroes... our police officers, firefighters and first responders once again rush into danger with no thought of themselves, but only of those they are trying to help and save.  Please don't forget to uplift them in prayer as well. They have to see all the devastation firsthand...

They have to bring the sad news to families... They have to try to hold it together....but they also have to grieve!  These are men and women with families and children of their own, they have emotions and feelings and hearts that break, so please let's not forget to pray for them, too!
In the face of tragedy people bond together.  In the face of tragedy hearts open and love pours out.  In the face of tragedy communities become stronger.  In the face of tragedy prayer becomes acceptable.  In the face of tragedy the good in many shines through.  In the face of tragedy God is there.  We just need to keep our faith and trust in Him.  In the face of tragedy satan tries to shake our faith.  In the face of tragedy people are searching for peace and hope.  In the face of tragedy Christians need to share where our hope and peace comes from.  In the face of tragedy hearts are open, so let's not miss the opportunity to share Him and pray for people to see His light...even in the face of tragedy.
Lord, my heart is so broken for the families of all of the lives lost in this awful tragedy.  Help us not to miss the opportunity to love more, give more, be kind, and share your love with those around us.  Comfort the families, wrap your loving arms around them.  Help us to continue to trust You, not allowing our faith to be shaken, but strengthened.  And help us to love you more!