Psalm 34:18 comforts us with these words: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit."
Today is the 23rd anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, a day forever etched in our collective memory as we remember the profound grief and loss we experienced as a nation. That tragedy reminded us that in the midst of devastation, God’s presence is a refuge for the hurting. That day also brought people together to respond to the needs of the hurting. In the aftermath of 9/11, we were reminded that we are much stronger together than we are divided. Today, would you pause and pray, honoring all those who were lost 23 years ago?
Just as our nation united in compassion during that dark moment in history, Union was called to respond to another tragedy in our surrounding community last week. The recent Apalachee School shooting shook our community, leaving so many of us feeling helpless and heartbroken. But, just as we’ve done in the past, we rose to the moment with acts of love and solidarity as a church.
Our congregation came together in the wake of this sorrow, writing 120 heartfelt notes to encourage and uplift the Barrow County community. These notes were shared with Laura Cook and her colleagues at Bethlehem and Kennedy Elementary Schools; Pastor Cheryl Cloar and the Congregation of First Christian Church Winder; and Coach Mike Hancock, the Head Football Coach at Apalachee High School, and his colleagues and students. These notes were not just words but tangible expressions of God's love and comfort to those affected by this tragedy. They were a powerful reminder that even in times of pain, we are not alone—God can work through his people together to bring hope to the brokenhearted.
We also found an opportunity to give beyond words last week. You were so generous with last month's Oconee County Bus Driver snack collection that we had many “extra” snacks left over in the church kitchen. Through our sister church, FCC Winder, we learned about a community group in Winder that was assembling teacher, staff, and classroom care packages. Our “extra snacks” will be used for these care packages to encourage others in a small way during this heartbreaking time.
Please continue to pray for staff, students, parents, and the entire community of Barrow County. Please also pray for safety and security in all schools. Pray that God would help us in forging a way forward to help bring an end to this pandemic of senseless violence that has cost far too many lives.
As we reflect on both 9/11 and the Apalachee School shooting, we are reminded that tragedy brings us to our knees in prayer, but it also calls us to rise together in offering love and care to those who are hurting. God draws near to the brokenhearted, and one of the ways he does this is by using his people to show and share his love. I am thankful that Union continues to walk alongside hurting people, trusting that God’s healing grace will sustain us all.
I love you, Union family! You are a praying and serving church, and I give thanks for those blessings!