Spare Change

Sickened, Saddened

Posted by Bryan

My heart is heavy tonight over the news of the nearby Southern Baptist congregation rocked by the murder of a deacon, allegedly by its youth pastor, allegedly in conspiracy with the victim's wife over an alleged adulterous relationship.

"Allegedly."

The victim, his wife, and one of their four daughters.

I cannot even begin to imagine the extent of devastation wrought upon so many by this horrible act.

Lord God, only you can make something good come from this. Please thwart the enemy in tearing apart lives through this tragedy. Please provide hope for these daughters and healing for the church. God, I'm so angry at the two who stand in accusation. I'm angry at how they have completely destroyed so much in pursuit of their own fleshly lusts. I'm angry because they have caused untold damage to people who will mistakenly perceive their selfish actions as somehow to be proof of a lack of power or love on your part. Protect those people, Lord. And even though I'm angry at them, just as an outsider, Lord, I ask that even now you begin the painful process of restoring them. I'm sorrow-filled over their forsaken ministries, over their loss of fellowship with you, with their own families, with virtually everyone they know. I can't reconcile their actions with their testimony, and I'm thankful I do not have that responsibility. I trust your Holy Spirit to convict, and heal.

Please protect these four daughters. Protect and sustain this church. Cover this community with your love.

July 12, 2004 7:08 PM