2 Chronicles 7:14
With the latest inexplicable school shooting in Springfield, Oregon, we can only stand in dazed bewilderment at what is happening to our children. The survivors, family and community of Jonesboro, Arkansas have barely begun to piece their lives back together when this tragedy happens again, no doubt opening fresh wounds in that small towns heart.
Kip Kinkel, a 15 year old high school student, for reasons known only to himself and the Lord, chose to walk into a crowded cafeteria filled with students and open fire on kids who were most likely strangers to him. What could have happened if a few daring young men hadn't taken a chance and threw him to the ground while he was reloading, is something, praise the Lord, we don't have to deal with, as well. And now to find out that he also apparently murdered his parents at home where police found enough bombs and explosive devises to do extensive damage to the neighborhood...
One more young student lost his fight for life today. His family and loved ones now have even deeper grief to live with. And like Jonesboro and Paducah and several others, we still don't know "why". I know my hope is in the Lord, but I'm beginning to think that my fear is in the world. I cannot begin to fathom what those parents are going through.
And can we count on our government to change the tide of violence that has beset our public school system? No, I don't believe we can. And I don't expect it to remain solely a problem with public schools. I fear we will find that soon if will begin happening in private and religious schools, as well. What can we as a people do to try and put a stop to this insanity? "If...My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray, and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." (2 Chronicles 7:14)
Let us as one people get on our knees before a mighty and righteous God and pray for His grace, mercy and lovingkindness. Let's spearhead a day of prayer for the healing of our nation and the protection of our children. Please join with me and others in prayer I believe He wants us to turn to Him, yet again, in humble submission to His will.
In His Service, Bill
"As for me and my house we will serve the Lord." Joshua
24:15