Shocked, Yet Thankful...

Last week shock spread through the STMA school system and our communities.  The news of Tim Larson's murder hit the ears of many with disbelief and disgust. 

If you experience a strong physical and emotional reaction to death, you may also experience a time of questioning God. Where is God when a death like his occurs?  What does God have to do with this?  Can God help us accept and work through the news of a loved one or friend's death? 

During dark and hard times our Lord brings family and friends to our side–people with whom we can share our feelings, questions, and memories.

Right into the very heart of times of grief, God says to us, "I am with you. I love you. Your are my child and I will always care for you." 

Our congregation hosted a Prayer Gathering in Tim's memory and honor last week.  The hard part of that evening for me that night was including the murderer and his son in my prayers.  I prayed for God to transform their hearts in Christ.   This is so difficult when vengeance and disgust are so raw in our hearts.

John 3:16 reminds us of God's love for every single person in this world and what God has done for us by sending Jesus to die on the cross and to be raised for us.  Jesus said, "I am the resurrection and the life;  whoever believes in me, though he die, will live..." 

My hope is that when you face the sudden loss of a friend or family member or co-worker, you will be aware of God's loving presence of you.  And, because of this, there is.....

Joy in the Journey,

Pastor Durk K. Peterson, Alleluia! Lutheran Church