Seven people are now dead from the shooting in a Chicago classroom.  FLN asked, “What if it was your child?”

It comes close to home, because our own high school had a bomb scare on Wednesday.  The students were moved to another building as the police combed the school.  “What if…?”

Does fear paralyze you?  Do you dwell on what could happen, in the midst of what is happening?  “What if…?”

God doesn’t want us to stay in that dark pit.  Yes, bad things happen, but the fear of what COULD happen can destroy you too.  Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” (John 14:27 NIV) 

Reach out to Jesus for peace that defies explanation, and then do what you can, to be proactive in an emergency.  My school teacher friend, Bea said, “Have a plan and then work the plan.”

What can you do?

Actively pray.  Pray for students by name.  Pray for teachers by name.  Pray for the school calendar and planned activities.  Prayer equips us to touch the heart of God.

Be prepared.  Students at the college dropped to the floor and did the army crawl to get away.  Do you have an emergency plan at your house?  Set up a meeting place and a special code word your kids can use to let you know they need your help.

Call for help.  Yes, call 911.  But I’m talking about fellowship.  It is crucial that we stay together in difficult times.  Community lends strength.  I remember a time when we lived in Missouri and a tornado hit our area.  The sky turned black at midday and the trees bent in half.  But I felt safe because I was at a friend’s house and we went through it together.

Yes, what if it is your child?  God promises peace no matter what.  “And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, shall guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”  (Philippians 4:7 NASB) 

Our hearts go out to the families and faculty of Northern Illinois University.   “May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.”   (2 Thessalonians 3:16 NIV)