“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18)
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Yesterday’s news was heartbreaking. A man from Texas intentionally drove his truck into a crowd on Bourbon Street in New Orleans, killing at least 10 people and injuring dozens more. It’s the kind of tragedy that leaves us shaken, searching for answers in the midst of so much pain. We grieve for the families whose lives were changed in an instant. We pray for those still fighting to recover and for the communities now left to pick up the pieces.
I’ve been a theologian and pastor for over 25 years. I have sat with countless families in the midst of deep and traumatic heartbreak. I understand how, as people of faith, we might ask, How could God let this happen? Where is God in this? It’s a question that arises whenever the world feels cruel and chaotic. And yet, even in moments like this, the best answer I have is that God does not turn away. God is with us—in the heartbreak, the confusion, and the ache for justice.
God is in the hands of the first responders who ran toward the danger, risking their lives to save others. God is in the skill of doctors and nurses who worked through the day and night to mend broken bodies. God is in the quiet strength of neighbors comforting one another and the resilience of communities that refuse to give in to fear.
This tragedy reminds us of both the fragility of life and the depth of our interconnectedness. It reminds us that we need each other—not just in moments of crisis, but always. Rabbi Abraham Heschel once wrote, “In a free society, some are guilty, but all are responsible.” As people of faith, we are called to hold both grief and responsibility, to mourn those who have been lost, and to work for a world where such violence becomes unthinkable.
We will never make sense of every act of violence. But we can let our heartbreak soften us rather than harden us. We can let it move us to greater compassion, greater care, and greater courage. We can trust that God is with us—not as a distant observer, but as the One who suffers with us, heals us, and walks with us as we take the next step forward.
We are in this together,
Cameron
Reflection Questions
How do you process feelings of grief and helplessness when tragedy strikes?
Where have you seen signs of God’s presence, even in the midst of pain?
A Prayer for the Day
A Prayer for Healing and Comfort
God of Mercy,
We come to You in grief,
Holding the weight of this tragedy.
Be near to the brokenhearted.
Comfort those who mourn.
Strengthen those who work to bring healing.
When we are tempted to despair,
Remind us that You are present—
In acts of courage,
In moments of compassion,
And in the love that refuses to let go.
Help us be instruments of peace,
Carriers of light,
And voices for justice.
Even when the world feels dark,
Help us to trust in Your presence
And walk forward in hope.
Amen.
Spiritual Practice
Holding Space for Grief
Today, set aside time to hold space for the grief caused by this tragedy and so many others we have lived through.
Begin by lighting a candle as a symbol of light in the darkness. Sit quietly and allow yourself to feel whatever emotions arise—sadness, anger, fear, or confusion. Offer these feelings to God in prayer, trusting that God receives them with compassion.
Next, pray for those affected by the tragedy—families grieving, victims recovering, and first responders who carry the weight of what they’ve witnessed. Name their needs as best you can, and ask God to pour out comfort and healing.
Finally, reflect on one small act of care or kindness you can offer in response—whether it’s donating to a relief fund, checking in on someone who is struggling, or simply being more present to the people around you.
Let this practice remind you that even in times of sorrow, love can still move through us and bring light to the world.
Upcoming Events That Might Be of Interest…
January 9, 2025, 12pm ET - What Does the TikTok Ban Mean for Churches, Faith Leaders, and Digital Ministry? Register here.
January 12, 2025, 3-4:30pm ET - Join me for a FREE conversation on “Progressive Islam – Universal Values vs. the Politics of Human Rights – What’s the Difference Between a Progressive Muslim and Other Muslims?” with Ani Zonneveld. Register here.
February 6, 7-8pm ET - Join my conversation “Mindful Healing: Tools For Inner Balance and Wellbeing” with Rev. Dr. Isa Gucciardi. Register here.
February 11, 2025 - Diana Butler Bass and I will be geeking out together in an online event about the state of the world (post-inauguration). We are still putting the details together. For now, mark your calendars.
July 20-25, 2025 - The Art of Wilding: A 5-Day Expedition in Wyoming for Women Leaders. Click here to learn more.
August 11, 2025, 2pm ET - Dr. Andrew Root and I will be hosting a 6 part series on Spirituality in the Secular Age based on his research. The dates are August 11, 18, September 8, 15, and October 6, 13. Mark your calendars! More on this soon.
October 15-18, 2025 - Converging 2025: Sing Truth Conference (all musicians invited!) at Northwest Christian Church in Columbus, OH. Mark your calendars for now. More info is coming.
Recently, I drafted a Strategic Framework for Congregations as we move into the coming years of increased authoritarianism around the world. If interested, you can download it here.