Oh No, It Happened Again

Another shooting in a place of worship. Another group of God’s people in a crisis situation. This one was close to home, physically and spiritually. I know these people. It was my privilege to speak for their annual Men’s Retreat about four years ago.

I know that some of you who are reading this have already made attempts to reach out to this Church family. Numerous prayers were uttered today in behalf of people who are a part of our family.

Many of you would do anything you could with everything you have available. We will do anything and everything to help our brethren keep going and hang on. Maybe you’re thinking, if they would just reach out to us. That’s what we do for family when they are in need of help, that’s who we are.

I am also aware that some of my preaching brothers who are reading these words right now are hurting. You feel wounded, as though you’ve been shot at spiritually or emotionally. You are in a crisis, wondering if you can hang in there. Not sure how much longer you can hang on to the work because the pain seems severe.

May I tell you that you have resources as well. There are preaching brothers (as well as others in the Church) who have been through something similar in their lives. They understand the pain, the heartache, the feelings of uncertainty.

They would love to help. Please let them help. Don’t quit yet. Reach out to someone you trust, someone who loves you and cares about you. God gives us aid and comfort, in part, through His people. I know it’s true. I have experienced it every day of my life for six months. Allow God’s people to pray for you, encourage you, support you, and comfort you. That’s who we are and that’s what we do. God loves you and so do we.