Parkland has had a frightening, dark week. I would venture to say that the city has never seen such hopeless and tragic days. When tragedy strikes, it is easy to feel overwhelmed with the burden of the reality of what has happened. How easy it is to feel so small, so useless and so helpless. In those moments of defeat and heartbreak, we can only do what we know to be best: pray.
However, over the past week, my prayer life has seemed different than usual. I’ve found myself in a place of longing to cry out to God to cover the city of Parkland in prayer and to intercede on behalf of all involved, yet unable to find any words. It’s a weird feeling to have so much to say, but to be completely and utterly speechless at the same time.
The beautiful thing is that Hebrews 7:25 tells us that Jesus lives to intercede for us in heaven. While we are giving our measly attempt to intercede for those around us, Jesus is sitting at the right hand of God praying on behalf of us. I think this is the most encouraging and comforting thought.
Although our prayers may feel inadequate and empty, the Prince of Peace and the King of Kings is listening to you. With this truth, I pray with authority and faith-- being expectant that God will move.
I pray that the churches in the area will respond with love and kindness. That they won’t allow differences to separate them, but that they will use it as an opportunity to show the love and heart of Christ to ultimately further His Kingdom.
I pray that everyone involved would feel a peace like no other and once they encounter this peace they would realize that something like that could not come from a world like this, which would ultimately lead them back to none other than Jesus.
I pray that survivors won’t experience guilt, but that they will be filled with a new sense of purpose. That they would take that purpose and run with it without allowing the enemy to hinder their potential.
I pray that in the middle of the night, in the midst of nightmares and flashbacks, when the weight of what has happened feels unbearable, that our God would be faithful to deliver and sustain. That they would call upon the name of Jesus and He would be quick to rescue them.
I pray Proverbs 3:24-26 over them fervently.
“When you lie down, you will not be afraid; when you lie down, your sleep will be sweet. Have no fear of sudden disaster or of the ruin that overtakes the wicked, for the Lord will be at your side and will keep your foot from being snared.”
As reluctant as I am, Matthew 5:43-44 keeps popping into my head.
“You have heard that it was said ‘Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
I pray that the people of Parkland would find the strength and courage to pray for their persecutors.
To my brothers and sisters in Christ: rise up. Cast your burdens to Him and continue to pray passionately for our neighbors.
To the people of Parkland: we are for you and we will continue to cover you in prayer.
