12.14.12

As we all come home to our loved ones, every parent for whom can is hugging their children a little tighter and for longer.  I know many people will be looking for answers on how this could happen.  Some may question whether there is a God, whom "would allow this to happen" and whether or not in times like this we can really forgive?  The truth of the matter as I see it, we need to learn to forgive and I do believe there is a God not who "allowed" this to happen but who is here for all those who question the tragic events.  Things like this happen for many reasons, because people are sick and desperate.  There are many victims, their families, the community and all those who must look a child in the eyes tonight and try to explain this while trying to help them to feel safe when they go back to school on Monday.  

I am so blessed to have my children here with me and am grateful to have the opportunity to be their mom.  People posted on facebook to place a single candle rather than Christmas lights on tonight.. I agree with that and believe that as we go into these next few weeks of celebrations, we help each other to deal with what will continue to be an emotional time.  Yesterday, I posted what Pastor Mary said during mid-week service.. it is that appropriate that we continue to hear it.... therefore, I am re-posting it:

Basically the message is about God's tender mercies….  God's power to call forth dawn from the darkest night (through Jesus' birth, life, death and resurrection then, and in a thousand ways in our lives now)  and the reminder that the valley of the shadow of death is a stop along the Way, and never our final destination. Those who sit there, paralyzed by grief or overcome by trauma, are energized to rise and continue on the journey by the Holy Spirit:  "the dawn from on high will break upon us, to shine on those who sit in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace."  Peace be with you!