God in the Darkness

My mind is reeling from the news about the Knoxville shooting. Yesterday, I experienced a great deal of sadness and frustration as I read more about the details of that tragic event. It can be so easy to give up what we stand for and simply resign ourselves thinking that this is the way the world is and what are we going to do. For me, it generates a deeper commitment to our work as a ministry and myself as a minister and writer. I just keep wondering how that whole event would have been different if the shooter knew that he was not alone and that he mattered. I know we can't change everyone, that despite our greatest efforts there will always be people who believe only in the darkness and act accordingly. But, I see how the message of love and our spiritual community offers hope and support for people to discover the presence of God in the deepest times of darkness. We all know that human beings are capable of indescribable acts of terror and darkness. At the same time, let us remember that we are equally capable of unprecedented acts of compassion, strength and wisdom. Today, I grieve for everyone involved. I also hold the flame of hope and faith in our inherent goodness and our capacity to create a peaceful, just world for everyone. Know that with me this week as we continue to hold the entire Knoxville community in our hearts.