A coworker recently shared with us at our weekly staff meeting of the tragic death of a “friend” on Facebook. She had met this gal a couple of times, for brief moments, but never truly established a relationship. Our coworker went on to explain that she is “haunted” by this friend committing suicide. She remembers a note, a plea, a possible reach out symbolizing a cry for help, and the unanswered response chills her to this day.

We watched a tragedy this past week unfold all over the TV, radio, social media and newsprint.  The helicopter crash is difficult to keep from our children, loved ones, and even our own guarded hearts.  The imagery of the faces of children left without mothers, spouses crying for their partners, and the overwhelming pop-culture responding day after day, event after event, “Kobe, Kobe Kobe”.

How then, do we explain these haunting feelings, images, and realities to our children?  How do we pull ourselves away from the television, printed articles, and even the opening ceremonies of the Super Bowl without holes in our hearts?

Friends, I do not have all the answers. I’ve wept right alongside you. I’m lost. I’m haunted. I’m speechless. But, together, we survive. We embrace, we share and we love. As we approach the Lenten Season we share the haunting story of our beloved Jesus’ death. This death shapes us. The knowledge that our salvation, God’s son, loves us, and it is what keeps us all moving forward.  

Don’t ignore this pivotal time in our Christian Holy Season. Join your Pinnacle family this Lenten Season, starting Ash Wednesday, February 26 at 5 pm.  

We must embrace.  We must share. We must love.
Peace and love to you today.  Remember, I’m here for you, always.