By Sara, guest blogger
Thoughts and prayers.
Three words we will hear many times over the next few days before we become numb once again and move on. How many times must this happen?
How many more lives must be lost before we take “change” seriously?
Maybe thoughts and prayers should sound a little more like this:
Thoughts and prayers to those who say, “This is a people issue, not a gun issue.” Then they vote against comprehensive healthcare policies that provide mental health coverage to all.
Thoughts and prayers to those who call for better security in our schools. Yet they campaign for politicians who underfund public education.
Thoughts and prayers to those who plead, “Come quickly, Lord Jesus.” But they forget He said to feed, clothe, and care for the least of these.
Thoughts and prayers to those who point the finger at “parents not doing their job.” And then they look the other way, instead of walking alongside, listening to, and advocating for struggling families.
Thoughts and prayers to those who wonder, “What is wrong with kids these days?” When volunteers and mentors are desperately needed in all of our schools.
Thoughts and prayers to those who cling to “their rights.” While thousands of children will never have the opportunity to exercise their freedoms in this country.
Thoughts and prayers to those who model hate to people groups outside their comfort zone. When love and support is what all people need.
Thoughts and prayers to those who yell, “Pro-life!” But sit idly by as another life is taken by violence.
Take action
Our thoughts and prayers have to turn into actions and noise.
USE YOUR VOICE!
Contact your lawmakers in the US House of Representatives and the United States Senate. As well as your state representatives. They work for YOU!
Nothing will change if we sit with our thoughts and prayers.
We will continue to live in this cycle of tragedy until we get up and take this seriously. But mark my words: change will come.
So thoughts and prayers to those who decide not to join the fight.
What steps are you taking to move beyond trite thoughts and prayers? What are you doing to protect your children against gun violence – at school, at church, and in the community? Comment below or on Facebook at MothersRest.
About the guest blogger:
Sara is a former preschool teacher, turned stay-at-home mom. Her days consist of chasing her son around the house, keeping a semi-normal life together, and annoying the mess out of her husband. She’s part of a team that creates curriculum for one of her church’s mom’s life groups that she also leads, along with a mom’s Bible study. Sara feels that her faith in God keeps her sanity in check. The Lord has laid on her heart to share in the struggles of motherhood and marriage with those around her throughout this season of her life.
Check out Sara’s other posts…
Her candor about the impact of children on marriage: How my kid almost crushed my marriage.
Her tips for finding yourself and rediscovering joy throughout your motherhood journey: Momma, do you know who you are anymore?
And her thoughts on raising a strong-willed, curious boy who is into EVERYTHING: I’m sorry-not-sorry my kid is too busy for you
Photo credit: Michael Mims on Unsplash