26 lives...

Day 11

As I set this afternoon and watched the story unfold about the tragedy in another state where 26 people died, I was reminded of how the presence of God is so important.  I had thoughts about how someone could go into a room of grade schoolers and teachers only to end their lives.  I thought about how someone could get to a point in life where they had to prove a point with death.  I thought about the how I would feel if I showed up to a fire station to pick up my child after a tragedy and there were a group of parents standing in a certain corner watching everyone else get their kid knowing there child was laying in a murder scene cold and alone.  I thought about how scared those little boys and girls must of been when they had a gun go off pointed at them.  I wondered what thoughts went through heads when they knew they were going to die.  I wondered about every parent at that school and the thoughts they had when they found out.  I thought about my kids and how would I react.  I cried when I saw the little children being taken out of the school.  I cried when I saw the school busses driving in front of my house as I went to the gym.  I saw all the Facebook messages.  I watched all the media coverage about the investigation.

I dont understand why these things have to happen.  I don't understand why God would let something this tragic become real life.  I don't know what anyone could have done different to keep this from happening.  I would like to know all the answers.  But, I don't.....

I went for a run to wrap my mind around my thoughts and feelings.  As I turned my music on, I heard the following words from a playlist of Casting Crowns....I cried tears of sadness for 20 young lives I never knew as I listened to these words....

we were made to be courageous
we were made to lead the way
we could be the generation that finally breaks the chains

we were made to be courageous
we were made to be courageous

we were warriors on the front lines,
standing unafraid.
but now we're watchers on the side lines,
while our families slip away.
where are you men of courage?
you were made for so much more.
let the pounding of our hearts cry,
we will serve the Lord.

we were made to be courageous,
and were taking back the fight.
we were made to be courageous,
and it starts with us tonight.
the only way we'll ever stand,
is on our knees with lifted hands.
make us courageous,

Lord make us courageous.
this is our resolution, our answer to the call,
we will love our wives and children,
and refuse to let them fall.
we will reignite the passion,
that we buried deep inside.
may the watchers become warriors,
let the men of God arise.

Pray that the presence of God would fill Newtown and our country today.  Pray that the presence of God will fill our lives and help us become courageous through this tragedy.  Pray that the presence of God will help us as Christians be courageous to stand up and show the world our God can heal.

Only God knows why theses events take place and we must put our trust in HIM.....

JP