Thunder water, that is the meaning of the name Umpqua. It’s the noise water makes as it rushes through the canyon and over the rocks.
Loud. Forceful. Deafening.
Shouting is the only way one can be heard.
Yesterday we had another shooting.
More victims.
More brokenhearted families.
More shouting.
At least for today let’s stop the deafening, loud, and forceful thunderwater.
At least for today, let’s stop the noise.
At least for today, let’s stop the arguing.
Today, no matter our politics. No matter our proclivity. No matter our problem-solving–
Today, let’s unite in prayer.
Father,
Make me lie down. I want to abide in you.
Lead me to your quiet place where the water is still.
Refresh my soul so I can pray for the hurting families.
Guide my prayers for those who are walking through the dark valley.
Let the hurting families and this community know that you are with them to comfort and protect. That you will supply them with your love, compassion, and care.
In the midst of this tragedy Lord stay close to those who are grieving. Stay so close they can see evidence of your hand, heart, and hear your voice.
Come Holy Spirit come.
Bring your living water to Umpqua.
Amen
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
they comfort me.
in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
forever.
With faith, hope, and love in the One who calms the sea and walks on the water,
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© LoriWildenberg. All rights reserved.
About the Author
Lori Wildenberg is a licensed parent and family educator, parent coach, and co-founder of 1Corinthians13 Parenting.com. She has written 6 books including Messy Journey: How Grace and Truth Offer the Prodigal a Way Home; The Messy Life of Parenting: Powerful and Practical Ways to Strengthen Family Connections; and her most recent book, Messy Hope: Help Your Child Overcome Anxiety, Depression, or Suicidal Ideation. Contact Lori for your next event or for parent consulting or parent training courses. Lori can also be found mentoring over at the MOMS Together Group on Facebook.
Just this morning praying for a heart that is broken, that I may really have the heart of Jesus. Thank you so much for your post. Praying for the families of those 10 victims, whose whole world changed in a minute.
Our hearts are connected. Thanks Penny.
Beautiful. Thanks, Lori.
Thanks Jackie. Love to you!