But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope:
The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases,
His mercies never come to an end;
–Lamentations 3:21-22
These past nine days have found our nation reeling with a mix of emotions because of a series of tragic events. Anger, fear, despair, helplessness and deep sadness are the ones that I have encountered as I have listened, watched or interacted with others both in person and via the media. During times like these, some of us are tempted to withdraw or choose sides from which to throw volleys of hurtful words in an effort to assuage the deep ache that still lingers despite the prayers, the calls and words of support. There are others of us who are at a loss for words and don't quite know what to say because they don’t understand or fear their gestures may be misunderstood.
We have all shown up to work this past week with our emotions either hidden well or leaking out in our interactions with others. We will continue to be about the mission of providing health care in the Inland Empire and rich educational experiences for our students. Having the daily routine of employment has been helpful to keep our minds from dwelling on what has transpired, yet it does not provide the comfort and assurances that we need to return to a state of equilibrium. So how are we to cope? Where do we find comfort when we feel inconsolable?
Solace may be found by tenaciously holding on to God. Jeremiah, who is sometimes referred to as the weeping prophet, had the assignment of warning Judah to turn back to God before they were conquered by Babylon. He was familiar with death, despair and helplessness. In the midst of lamenting the fall of the nation, the prophet observed that despite what had occurred God could still be counted on. He mercifully keeps us from being consumed by the tragedies and concerns that seek to drown us with despondency. Each day we arise, God provides us with new mercies. He provides us with networks of friends, family and coworkers with whom to share our sorrows, fears and hopes. He provides us with the opportunity to work together to do justice and learn how to share the kindnesses that we receive from Him with others.
It is my hope that everyone who works for Loma Linda University Health found a safe place to mourn and express disappointment, fear and their frustration this week. If you haven't, I would like to encourage you to reach out to someone today and give voice to your emotions. Together through our faith and values we can actively pursue a path that provides comfort for those in pain, and become champions of justice and extend the healing love of God. We have no idea what the next seven days will hold for each of us, so I encourage you to find comfort in this poem I love:
I have been through the valley of weeping,
The valley of sorrow and pain;
But the “God of all comfort” was with me,
At hand to uphold and sustain.