Shooting Sprees

There were a number of high-profile shootings recently in the U.S., including:

- Five soldiers were shot at Fort Stewart in Georgia​

- A police officer was shot and killed near Emory University in Georgia​

- Ten people were shot—two fatally—in New York City in one night​

- Three people were shot and killed at a Target store in Austin, Texas​

Analysis and eternal perspective: Violent crime, including shootings, is hardly an irregular occurrence in the U.S.—or around the world, for that matter. This week, however, had more high-profile incidents than usual and gives us reason to pause and reflect how we as Jesus followers should interact with these tragic stories.

First, we should specifically pray for each family involved. It is easy to view these stories collectively and as a result diminish the impact each one has on individuals and families. Take time this week to ask God to be “close to the brokenhearted” (Ps. 34:18).

Next, each of these situations bears the markings of those who need the redeeming power of the Savior in their lives. Let’s be intentional with this story—and every one like it—to reaffirm a commitment to sharing the love and forgiveness of Jesus with those in our path. While there is nothing you can do to rewind time for the victims of this week’s shootings, there may well be a way you can impact the reality of those you encounter this week. Let’s together make a daily decision to be agents of love and healing in our world.

The following article originally appeared in Thann’s “The Equipped” Weekly Newsletter. For more information on Thann’s weekly email, click here.