“Never stop praying. And when you do, keep alert and be
thankful." ~ Colossians 4:2
When there’s an
emergency, somebody’s always first on the scene. Whether it’s an EMT, police officer, or
trained volunteer, First Responders (FRs) provide temporary medical support until
more-skilled personnel arrive.
FRs who weren’t
working on this routine Friday were shopping, waiting in line at the local deli
or hanging out at home when the call came in.
They were needed at Sandy Hook Elementary right away.
More than 30 professionals
and volunteers rushed to the scene of what was first described simply as “gunshots
at the school.” They quickly set up
triage sites, preparing to treat the wounded. But as ambulances rolled up, sirens blaring,
the FRs slowly realized that their training would be tragically underutilized on
this horrifying day.
Only a few of
the wounded would need stabilizing treatment. Everyone else among the 20 children and six
adults who were shot had been killed by what turned out to be a crazed gunman,
who committed suicide at the end of his rampage.
Asst. Chief
Sharon McCarthy looked out at the expressions from the other side of the police
tape – faces stained with unbearable sadness and hopelessness. They weren’t called to save lives. They didn't even get a chance to try.
As tears tumbled off her cheeks, she dropped to her knees
and offered the prayer below. Then she
praised God and even offered to take some of the burden off Him
too.
When finished, a calm voice spoke. God said:
“In this world you’ll have
trouble. But take heart! In Me you’ll gain strength and courage and
peace.” (John
16:33)
McCarthy rose from her knees and turned toward her discouraged
team. She approached them, people different
in ages, skin tones, and professions, but united in one goal – helping others.
She spoke these words inspired by the Holy Spirit:
“Brothers and Sisters, for those of us who believe in Christ, we know
that He speaks to us in myriad ways.
Sometimes, it’s a sermon that feels as though it was prepared just for
us, or a timely Scripture that practically jumps off the page and into our
hearts.
Other times, however, the Spirit’s voice is soft as a spring rain – we
only hear it if we’re listening for it. Today
we’re called, not for our medical training, but for the hope and compassion
that we can bring these heartbroken souls.
Reassure them with your presence - one which reflects God’s love, peace
and existence. We may not have broken
bones to mend or open wounds to close, but we can help heal the innocence
shattered by evil today, and calm the fears of frantic parents. God Bless you for all you will do.”
Dear God, our world has so much pain.
Please give me the strength to be an agent of inspiration for those hurting. Like a superhero, you know. With some kind of super power; to inspire
them to live, to love, and to laugh again, in Your Son’s Holy name I pray. Amen
