a model grief

In the remains of Tuesday's tragedy in Nickel Mines, PA, an Amish community is already beginning the process of healing as the depth of their faith holds together devastated hearts and families. They are an astounding example of what it means to live a Christ-like life-- acknowledging the torment of the soul that wrought an act of horror, having compassion for his family, and holding firmly to the belief that though their own lives are rent with loss and grief, their children rest in the peaceful arms of God where they now await a future reunion with those they love. Forgiveness is made manifest in such faith, and whatever else about their choices may make some of us uncomfortable, they are a model of the very best of what the human heart is capable of holding and expressing. There is no need to pray for God's peace to visit them, they have made it evident that God's peace is there already. Instead we might pray that our own hearts be made more like theirs.