Even when the armaments of war ring out in deathly serenade and
darkness
and hatred reign in the hearts of some; there stands immovable,
reassuring, comforting, and with great outreaching love the
quiet figure
of the Son of God, the Redeemer of the world.
Last night, I went to bed thinking about Paris.
A few years ago, Mr. Nielson and I visited the city of love;
we walked the streets, saw the Eiffel Tower, and ate amazing macaroons.
It was a beautiful place full of creativity, color, light, and happiness.
The recent attacks have made me feel so distraught.
I worry about the safety of my own children.
I sometimes worry that peace is not reachable
in these days of war, pain, and hate.
I found Oliver on the couch last night with tears in his eyes. He was crying.
I sat next to him and asked him what was the matter.
"I don't want to die, Mom."
Then he went on to share with me the feelings he felt about
the recent events in Paris and how sad he felt about those who got shot.
He is scared of something similar happening to him or to his family.
The only thing that came to my mind at that moment was to tell him
that God must be really sad to see His children fighting and hurting each other.
I told him that we are all God's family and
He wants us to be happy, but we can't control other people's actions.
I told him we can find peace and happiness in Jesus Christ.
He truly is the Prince of Peace!
I put him to bed that night believing what I had said, but I
had a weighty heart, too.
My prayers are for those who have been affected by this act of hate and terror,
and for the leaders who have to make hard decisions for our safety.
I also pray we will remember and turn to God in these moments.
* * * *
