Reflection:
One year ago yesterday, a terrible earthquake rocked the poorest nation in the Western Hemisphere. Recent news headlines remind us that the weight of systemic poverty is more than a year can lift. Many, many people still suffer terribly in Haiti.
Last night, a memorial service was held for those lost in Tucson a week ago. The weight of that tragedy, and the loss of public servants, family members, and even a 9-year old child brings the inevitable question: “Why did this happen?”
When faced with tragedy, loss, and unanswerable questions, words seem to fail us. But the scriptures remind us that there’s one thing that never fails us in such situations…
In the passage linked above, Paul clearly states his reasons for hope in the midst of despair. The love of the one who bore the cross of despair now pierces through any obstacle. Said simply, “nothing…will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
Now, it is simply our job to live and act as though this is true. We do not succumb to the temptations to point fingers of blame. We do not lose heart or hope. We do not retreat into apathy or cynicism. We live and love as though Christ is reaching others through our hands and our hearts.
Prayer: God of uninterrupted love, be with the family and friends of those lost in Haiti, Tucson, and elsewhere. Show us what we might do to reflect your love in significant ways to those we encounter this day. Amen.
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