Connected Hearts

Nairobi 2010-2011 (Photo credit: Dan Kori)

The terrorist attack at Westgate Mall in Nairobi is prominent in my thoughts. We have been there. We know people who shop there. I am filled with gratitude that none of our friends was harmed, but also with sorrow for the families and friends of those who were murdered. 

When we came back to the states for furlough, we noticed that while we are now different because of our experiences in Africa, our American culture also seems different. Perhaps it hasn't changed as much as we initially thought. Perhaps our absence enabled us to have a slightly more objective view. Sort of a reverse desensitization. 

Grief (Photo credit: tombellart)

I am disturbed now when I read verses like James 3:5 - "You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter." It makes me ponder my behavior and the Church in America. Compared to almost all of the rest of the world, we do indeed live in luxury. It's the self-indulgence part that really convicts me. And the part about fattening ourselves in the day of slaughter instead of being diligent in spiritual disciplines and redeeming the time. Are we even able to "rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn," especially if those are in a distant land? (Rom. 12:15) 

Lord, "turn my heart toward your statutes and not toward selfish gain. Turn my eyes away from worthless things." (Ps 119:36-37a) Comfort the mourners in Kenya, and strengthen them. Drive away the spirit of fear and replace it with your love. Give us hearts that identify with the hearts of others, so that we rejoice with those who rejoice and mourn with those who mourn.