As I sat down to write this letter, my intent was to tell you about the wonderful Music City Fathers Retreat that was held here in Nashville a few weeks ago. That will need to wait for next month, however, as another Nashville event is heavy on my heart right now.
As I’m sure you’ve heard, on Monday, March 27 a 28 year old woman entered The Covenant School here in Nashville and killed 6 people - three adults and three 9 year old children. This is an unspeakable horror, but unfortunately, one that is all too familiar to many across this country.
I came across the words of this prayer, and I thought they were especially meaningful during this time of grief, of anger, of fear. I hope they bring comfort to your soul as they did to mine.
Be present in the midst of this far-reaching pain, O Lord, for we are reeling again, at the news of another lost of life that touches us all; news of flourishing diminished; of individuals harmed; of pain imposed, not only upon victims and their families who bear now the immediate brunt of it - but also upon our nation. For we are connected as a people, and this hurt, this grief, touches us all.
Be merciful to those now wounded.
Be present with those now bereaved.
You do not run from our brokenness, O God. You move ever toward those in need. Your heart is always inclined toward those who suffer.
Even in the shadow of such tragedy, let us not lose hope. Give us eyes to see the rapid movements of mercy rushing rto fill these newly wounded spaces. Let us see in this the echoes of your own mercy and compassion - a foretaste of your kingdom coming to earth.
Move, O Spirit, in the midst and in the aftermath of this tragedy, in the wake of our wounding, in the shock and the sorrow. You alone have wisdom and power to heal the wounds of a nation. - Excerpt from Every Moment Holy Douglas McKelvey 2017
Thank you for your continued prayers for Fishbowl, and your generous support. I am eternally grateful.
Grace and Peace, Lyle
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