A few weeks ago, while searching for stories of hope for seminary, I came across a CNN story about hope related to the fertilizer plant explosion in Texas. The story tells me that God's love is everywhere, even or especially in the midst of tragedy.
Ten days after a deadly explosion ripped through the small Texas town of West, Sgt. W. Patrick Swanton found himself carefully picking through the debris of damaged homes looking for lost pets. Swanton, a public information officer with the Waco Police Department, rushed to the town soon after the explosin, helping staff at the command post. The April 17 blast at the West Fertilizer Company, killed 14 people and injured more than 200. Huyndreds were rescued or evacuated throughout the night.
Then last Friday, he and a small team of animal control officers were helping rescue animals left behind in the chaos. Some were found wandering among the crumbled ruins. Others remained in their pens and cages, hungry and thirsty. At one point, Swanton walked up to the burned-out shell of what had once been a home. Barely recognizable was the wreckage that had once been a washing machine and dryer. Bricks were still falling.
As he approached the foundation, he became aware of a white dove settled in the ruins. "She let me get within 2-3 feet of her," Swanton said. "It was so peaceful. To me it was a symbol of hope."
I know many find it hard to see the love of God in the midst of tragedy. I know that God loves us, that we are each his precious children. As such, he allows us to have experiences that give us opportunity to choose good. I believe those who died in this tragedy have gone to home to be with their Father. Those who are still here on earth have the opportunity to love and serve each other, to strengthen and bless all of God's precious children.
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