The Fragility of Life

We have been reminded this week of the fragility of life. The news hounds have been rushing around to get the "back story," trying to get information about why it happened, why someone didn't intervene in this young man's life sooner, as well as the human interest elements focused on the stories of the victims. It is an effort to make sense of the tragedy, to express the anger and frustration about it, and to deal with the fear that it has stirred. This is not a critique but rather an assessment or description of what I've seen the news reporters doing. I have not watched endless hours of the reports but just enough to keep up with what is happening in and around this tragedy.

The governor of Virginia has called for Friday to be a day of remembrance and I know that pastors of various traditions will work diligently to lead memorial services and vigils that faithfully witness to God's presence in the midst of such pain.

I also include below a letter from NAPAD (North American Asian/Pacific Disciples) leader Dr. Geunhee Yu sent out by Disciples Home Missions via email earlier today.

From Dr. Yu:
We at North American Pacific/Asian Disciples (NAPAD) are deeply shocked and profoundly saddened by the massacre at Virginia Tech on April 16. On behalf of the community of NAPAD and the Korean Disciples Convocation (KDC), I sincerely offer my condolences to the families and friends of the victims, as well as all who have been adversely affected. It is indeed my most heartfelt prayer that our gracious God sends comfort and healing. I also steadfastly and tearfully pray for the souls of the victims.

It is horrifying that a Korean-American student is at the center of these heinous acts. It is my sincere hope, however, that we make great efforts to not allow racial overtones to further darken this tragedy. Simply put, he committed a brutal crime--a deranged madman sinned against all humanity. Allowing this to drive an ethnic wedge between us would do nothing but make a bad situation worse. I hope you agree.

All of the NAPAD churches have been in prayer vigils for the victims and their families--as well as for our entire nation. I urge all of our fellow Disciples to join us in prayer and mourning.

May God comfort the victims and heal our nation.

Rev. Geunhee Yu

Executive Pastor

North American Pacific/Asian Disciples (NAPAD)