By now, we have all heard the stories and seen the images from the tragedy in Las Vegas. The loss of human life is truly shocking, as was the brazenness of the attack itself. The premeditated murder of so many people is something that most of us cannot fathom. It goes beyond a mass shooting: this was an act of terror, perpetrated to make the people of Las Vegas fear for their lives.
The 59 people who lost their lives on Sunday did nothing wrong. They did not knowingly place themselves in danger and were largely defenseless as the bullets began to rain down. There are reports of great heroism during the barrage – men and women who bravely worked to help strangers out of the line of fire. I’m sure their stories of courage will bring us hope during this time of mourning.
As Americans, we have a responsibility to love and support our neighbors during a time of need. If you have friends and family in the Las Vegas area, get in touch and encourage them during this difficult time. If you are able, give to the victims of the ambush – for many people, the road to recovery will be long and expensive.
As Christians, we have a responsibility to not just love and support our fellow man, but to lift our prayers to our Father God during these times of national mourning. The world seems very dark at times. Hurricanes, earthquakes, terrorist shootings – the enemy finds ways to bring darkness into otherwise bright places.
But take heart, because Jesus has overcome the world.
Now more than ever, it is important for us to view life’s circumstances from a Heavenly perspective.
Because Jesus defeated death on the cross, we can live knowing the final score. No matter how dark it seems on earth, we can look ahead to the hope that is to come. Jesus paid it all so that we don’t have to live in fear. We don’t have to succumb to terror. We can pull on Heaven and bring the Kingdom of God to a world that is hurting.
In Heaven, there is no pain, no dying, and no murder. There’s no suffering at the hands of the weather or the shaking ground. No fear of terror or hiding from an enemy perched in a highrise hotel with a rifle.
Jesus told us to pray “Your will be done, on earth as it is in Heaven.”
Take a moment now to pray for God’s will to be done in Las Vegas. Pray that the government and authority of Heaven would invade these earthly circumstances and bring peace in the midst of the tragedy. Pray for supernatural peace to come over the city of Las Vegas, and for comfort to come to the victims.
Our God is Good. And He has good things in store.
Amen.
In Christ,
Steve Holder
