Panera Bread, Streamwood, IL

Last night I had the great opportunity to reconnect with the college ministry I've been involved in for the past couple years.  My wife and I have taken this semester off as we prepare for the birth of our first child in a couple months.  But the events at nearby Northern Illinois University have thrust us back in the swing of things.  And while we've spent time with students over the past several weeks, last night was the first time back for our 'normal environment'. 

Not knowing what to expect (classes have been cancelled for this week and many students aren't on campus), we were blessed to see so many students, alumni, and others gather together for a night of prayer & worship.  No message, no announcements, no formal readings.  Just time of prayer and worship.

And what a great night it was. 

Have you ever sung worship songs and not really been in the "mood"?  You stand there singing the words because that's what you're supposed to do...your head understands what you're singing, but your heart doesn't fully engage?  While most of us have probably been there at one time or another, I was reminded last night of the power of God to work through it all.

In a community still wrestling with thoughts, concerns, questions...students still trying to figure out the why, and the what's next.  Yet last night was a time of healing.  And it was good. 

God works through mysterious ways; and last night when the songs of worship and prayers were designed to be lifted up to Him, He came down and poured His blessing on all of us.  What a powerful reminder that even when we don't understand it, God is still God! 

It's in that attitude that I invite you (or, rather, would request of you) to join our community as we continue to pray for healing, guidance, and strength. 

And I encourage you to join us in memory from wherever you are...

Tomorrow (February 21st), our staff will be praying from 3:00 - 3:30pm for this tragedy, the victims, the school, our community, and all those affected in some way, shape, or form.  Perhaps you'd consider joining us from wherever you are during that time. 

And this Sunday night (February 24th), NIU is hosting a Memorial Service on campus.  It is scheduled to be televised on CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News.  Local events are also planned around the country.  Perhaps you'll consider joining our community in prayer during that time as well.  (http://www.myniu.com/alumni/memorial_regional.html)

Convinced more than ever of the power of the Church,

-kevin