I make it a point not to blog about political, social or other stories carried by the press. However, the shooting of Pastor Fred Winters has me making an exception.
First of all let us not be so surprised. In many ways the church that resides in America has grown complacent to the dangers around us. I am grateful for the freedom we have in America. A freedom to worship and live out our faith, but a freedom that works both ways. Others have just as much freedom to live out their beliefs, as long as they don't kill those who don't see things their way. This culture of freedom we live in affords the church the opportunity to carry out our mission, even with a often obvious resistance. However, this resistance isn't new or uncommon for the church. What this tragic event has sadly reminded us of the history of Christ Jesus' followers is filled with many such tragedies.
Secondly our response is again a common response found through out church history and God's Word; let us "bear one another's burdens..." as we travel towards home. So Church, let us pray for Fred's family, the two others injured, the First Baptist Church of Maryville Illinois family and the shooter. Pray that through this horde attack the love, compassion and forgiveness of our Savior Jesus Christ will be witnessed by ALL through the response of His followers.
Let the body of Christ follow Christ as well as the witness of His followers at First Baptist of Maryville. This was there response posted on their webpage. "Please pray for Dr. Winter's family, our two brave members who were
injured when they stopped the assailant, for the assailant himself and
his family, and for our church members as they deal with this tragic
loss. ... To those who believe in the power of prayer, we covet your
prayers right now."
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