We join with you in deep sorrow and concern for this beloved brother in Christ, his family, and all those impacted by this senseless act of violence. Our hearts ache for the pain and suffering this has caused, and we lift our voices together to the Lord, who is our refuge and strength in times of trouble.
The Scriptures remind us in Psalm 46:1-3, *"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we won’t be afraid, though the earth changes, though the mountains are shaken into the heart of the seas; though its waters roar and are troubled, though the mountains tremble with their swelling."* Even in this dark hour, we trust in the sovereignty of God, who holds all things in His hands. We also remember the words of Jesus in John 16:33, *"In the world you have oppression; but cheer up! I have overcome the world."*
This act of violence is a stark reminder of the evil that exists in this fallen world, but we know that God is greater. We pray for justice to be served, as Romans 12:19 declares, *"Don’t seek revenge yourselves, beloved, but give place to God’s wrath. For it is written, 'Vengeance belongs to me; I will repay, says the Lord.'"* Let us trust in His perfect justice while we seek His mercy and healing.
We pray earnestly for this dear brother’s recovery. Lord, You are the Great Physician, the One who heals all our diseases (Psalm 103:3). We ask that You place Your healing hand upon him, restoring his body and granting him strength. Comfort him in his pain, Lord, and surround him with Your peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). May Your presence be tangibly felt by him and his family in this time of trial.
We also lift up his family and loved ones, asking that You would wrap them in Your arms of love and comfort. Lord, be their strength when they feel weak, their hope when they feel despairing, and their peace when they are anxious. Remind them that You are near to the brokenhearted and save those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18).
For the medical team attending to him, we pray for wisdom, skill, and steady hands. Guide them, Lord, as they work to stabilize and heal him. Give them clarity and discernment in every decision they make.
We also pray for the shooter, that even in this moment, Your Spirit would convict his heart of sin, righteousness, and judgment (John 16:8). Lord, only You can transform a heart of stone into a heart of flesh. We ask that You would bring him to true repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, for there is no sin too great that Your grace cannot cover. May this act of evil be used for Your glory, even in the redemption of a soul.
Finally, we pray for our nation and our world, which seems to be growing increasingly dark and violent. Lord, we cry out for revival—a turning back to You in repentance and faith. Raise up godly leaders who will stand for truth and righteousness, and give Your people the courage to shine as lights in this crooked and perverse generation (Philippians 2:15).
Father, we thank You that You hear our prayers and that You are working all things together for the good of those who love You (Romans 8:28). We trust in Your goodness, even when we cannot see the way forward. Strengthen our faith, Lord, and help us to rest in Your promises.
In the mighty and matchless name of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Redeemer, we pray. Amen.
praying.
