Carrying On When Tragedy Strikes

Horrible things happen around us constantly. Maybe they happen more often than they used to, maybe not. But the reality is that, thanks to the internet, we are aware of so much more than ever before.

When we hear about city-wide flood damage in other state, a mass shooting in a school or even a major crisis in another country, what should we do?

Should we stop everything we are doing and focus completely on the tragedy, or should we continue on in our daily lives? I think the answer involves a little of both with more of the latter.

It might feel that posting, talking or thinking about anything unrelated to the tragedy or news of the day is uncaring and selfish. The reality is that we live in a scary and unpredictable world. Horrible things happen all the time.

My attitude toward those events is anything but flippant and I am deeply saddened for people who suffer at the hands of evildoers.

Here’s the truth – I am not the savior of the world, but I know the Savior of the world. I can run to Him and pray for those who are suffering, while finding peace and comfort in his presence.

My heart breaks for those families who have suffered loss and cannot carry on their daily lives as they normally would. They can’t – but I can.

It’s important to keep in mind that the children our world are much more aware of and affected by current news and events than we were during our childhood. They need a calm, peaceful, safe place to land at the end of the day. In fact, everyone in your house needs this!

I can still look for joy in the small things of life. I can still post pictures of my morning coffee, of my loved ones or of the glorious fall colors out my window…all while thanking God for the ability to enjoy those things and praying for those who currently cannot. 

I can find joy and peace in the knowledge that this world will never be perfect – but I am headed to one that is!

Life is uncertain. God is faithful. Life is scary. God is in control. I don’t have to fear tomorrow, because I know the One who is already there!

May the name of God be praised forever and ever, for wisdom and power belong to him. He changes the times and seasons; he removes kings and establishes kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to those who have understanding. He reveals the deep and hidden things; he knows what is in the darkness, and light dwells with him. (Daniel 2:20-22)

God knows what is in the darkness – and He sent Jesus to bring light and peace to our lives.

Because of our God’s merciful compassion, the dawn from on high will visit us to shine on those who live in darkness and the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. (Luke 1:78-79)

Moving on with our lives in a state of calmness, peace and confidence in God’s control can be an incredible testimony of the difference that Jesus makes in our lives. (Luke 1:76-75)

Carrying on when tragedy strikes might look like this:

• Pausing to acknowledge God’s love and control, to find peace and hope in His Word
• Sharing that hope and comfort with children or others around you
• Making an effort to bring peace to your home – catch up on laundry, bake cookies, make supper, light a candle, play calming music
• Doing something to help someone in your physical world – make a meal for a family, drop coffee off at a friend’s house, leave flowers on a co-worker’s desk (show up for your people)

Let’s use our role as homemakers to make a difference in the world, by reflecting the peace of Christ. (Colossians 3:15) ❤

Read More:

• Peace In My Heart, Peace In My Home
• How To Put The Phone Down So You Can Rest
• Where Is God in the Coronavirus?