Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled:“Death is swallowed up in victory. O death, where is your victory?O death, where is your sting?” For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 15:54-57

Dear God, I have to admit that death stings. It still does. Especially when it’s young and tragic. Is there hope? Yes. Is there comfort? Yes. But it can really, really sting.

Maybe I should focus on how it’s swallowed up in victory. When listing what I was grateful for this morning to a friend, I simply wrote, “God wins!” You do win. You do guide us and provide for us. But I do still get sad at senseless loss.

Right now, there is pain in our community. Can you use this to bring a greater healing. Can your victory swallow up death? Can you use this to unite your church and minister to our youth? What are you calling me to do?

Father, I truly believe your victory swallows up death. I do. Help me to know what role you have for me to play in your world. Help me to know how to do it for your glory. And give comfort to those who have experienced terrible, tragic loss.

In the name of my Triune God, I pray,

Amen