Tragedy

Not many people read this blog, and most who do will know of the events of the last 24 hours. For those who do not, the short recap is that a dear family in our church was leaving evening worship yesterday, crossing the street, when mother and son were struck by a car. The son, a junior in high school and active in the youth ministry, has a broken leg and had surgery this morning for it. He is expected to make a full recovery. The mother, was more critically injured and is in ICU with major head trauma. It has been a bleak night and day, filled with tears and prayers.

My mind is filled with questions for the Lord, my heart wavers between hope and grief. All of us (our church family--including our dear students whose hearts are breaking for their friend) are clinging to the promises of Scripture.

I'm being reminded of something about myself--about Brad and me. We don't love these kids because it's his job. We love these kids...and it gets to be our job. What a blessing. What a privilege it was to hear the prayers of our students last night as they first heard the news of the accident. What a privilege to have them gather at our house tonight to pray for their friend. I am amazed that the Lord has entrusted us with this ministry. I am so thankful for the beauty of the body of Christ and the amazing display of it we've been witness to these last 24 hours. I am humbled to belong to it, and so thankful to be called to serve it in this special way.

Our hearts are broken for this family.

No strength of our own,
Or goodness we claim,
Yet since we have known
The Savior’s great name;
In this our strong tower
For safety we hide,
The Lord is our power,
The Lord will provide.

When life sinks apace
And death is in view,
This word of his grace
Shall comfort us through:
No fearing or doubting
With Christ on our side,
We hope to die shouting,
The Lord will provide.

--John Newton