They Who Now Mourn

The Virginia Tech web site simply states: "Two shootings on campus today have left 33 dead. Thirty-one, including the gunman, died at Norris Hall; two died at West Amber Johnston Hall."

Where to begin? With prayer, I think.

Prayer for families who are about to hear or have already heard that their child died this morning at the hands of an unknown gunman. Prayer for the wounded and their families. Prayer for the people who witnessed these attacks and came out alive. Prayer for the faculty and staff and students who will be back on this campus in the days to come. Prayer for the medical teams who cared for those who lived and attended to those who died. Prayer for law enforcement authorities who will be investigating and sorting through the pieces of information to understand the whole of it, what happened and why.

Prayer is where we must start because it is too soon for anything other than making our way to the love of God from which nothing can separate us. We must pray for those touched by this tragedy because they may not be able to pray for themselves. This is our time to carry their burden of sorrow and grief until they can carry it for themselves.

Tonight we pray and tomorrow the Virginia Tech community will gather to begin the process of healing. The university's president, Charles Steger, has said this is what must come first so that they can decide what must come next. We will be with them in prayer through whatever comes next. Amen.

Journeying

Welcome, God, to sharing this day with me. Whatever it holds, You are already here, standing beside me, working with me, guiding me with love and grace through each step of the way.

Today I dance with You, skipping joyfully, flirting with the breeze. Your refreshing spirit swirls through me, lifting me with inspiration and hope beyond the boundaries of my wildest dreams. With You in my heart I can only know Your peace and goodness in its fullest measure.

Today I know Your presence and believe Your promises of faith and love, understanding that you will always listen, always hear my voice even when those around me may not. You know my needs, my wants, my desires, and You feel them keenly. You cherish me with tenderness and mercy.

Today I am grateful, content that You are always with me, walking, talking and sharing my heart on this journey. Amen.

When in Doubt

God, You are here because You love me, and I am glad because I need You. My heart is bruised, my spirit aching with burdens I have wrestled with for far too long. This weight crushes me, holds me back from believing in Your Word, its power to transform me and the world through me as your instrument of peace, goodness and grace.

But now I feel You here, in my very soul You wrap Your loving arms around me, lifting me up and bringing me back to myself.

The sooting warmth of Your kindness and generosity rests easily upon my wounded spirit. Your gentle mercy is a healing balm, drying my tears of self pity and doubt, leading me to dance and sing Your praises again.

Your way is filled with immeasurable hope and joy. Thank you, God, for making me whole. Amen.