Tragedy in Colorado

I had intended to get into some theological weeds today regarding an article which appeared in the New York Times earlier in the week. Instead, we awoke this morning to learn of the tragic news coming out of Colorado about yet another senseless act of violence. A gunmen opened fire in an Aurora, CO movie theater at the midnight showing of the new Batman movie, The Dark Knight Rises. At this point 12 people have been killed and at least 50 people have been injured. The police have the suspected gunman in custody, and we have just learned that his apartment was boobytrapped with sophisticated explosives. It will take some time before we know what this person's motives were, or the state of his mental condition.

It is altogether natural that at moments such as this we should feel sorrow, confusion, and distress. It also easy to give in to visceral emotions such as anger toward the suspect, and speak the venom-filled language of retribution and vengeance. We feel tremendous empathy for the victims and their families not only because of the incomprehensible nature of this crime, but because we know that such an act can happen anywhere at anytime.

That is why in moments such as this the only place we can turn for true solace and guidance is to the Lord. With that in mind I offer up this prayer from the Anglican Book of Common Prayer:

For the Human Family
O God, you made us in your own image and redeemed us through Jesus your Son: Look with compassion on the whole human family; take away the arrogance and hatred which infect our hearts; break down the walls that separate us; united us in bonds of love; and work through our struggle and confusion to accomplish your purposes here on earth; that, in your good time, all nations and races may serve you in harmony around your heavenly throne; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Given that I am one who in difficult moments often turns to music, I also offer up this inspiring piece of music from the great American composer Aaron Copland to help renew our faith in the goodness of God's creation. Even amidst sorrow and dismay let us never forget that with God's help we can make this a better world.

"The Promise of Living" from Aaron Copland's "The Tender Land"