It’s been a tough week in Madison County, and I’ve written and rewritten this column in my head throughout the weekend. I’ve prayed so much over these last few days, at times not even sure what to ask. I’ve wept over the things I’ve heard, people involved, and the extreme hurt associated with this racial slur. My heart aches for this community that helped raise me; for the town I’ve chosen to raise my own children in.

            I’ve asked God so many questions this week; and I’ve asked myself too. Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV) has been my personal plea, “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” More than anything, in all I do, I want to honor Jesus with my thoughts, actions, and words.

            I’ve spent hours examining myself. As a parent. Educator. Community leader. Writer. And most importantly, a Christ follower. I do not take my role lightly as I share my thoughts week after week; but what words would be worth sharing? What truths of God apply the most?

            First, God reminded me that every person involved in any of the events of this week is a human being made in His own image. We are all valuable to our Heavenly Father and there isn’t one person He doesn’t love. There’s also no sin that he won’t forgive. Psalm 103:12 (NIV) says, “As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.”

            Second, in Ephesians 4:26-27 (NIV), Paul instructs: “’In your anger do not sin’: Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry,and do not give the devil a foothold.” Even Jesus became righteously angry. But Jesus addressed the issue at hand, and in his confrontation, He did not allow the enemy to gain a foothold in His life. If I know anything about the Evil One, he wants to use this to divide our community and pit us against each other. He wants to create bitter roots, unforgiveness, vengefulness, and hatred. He wants to rip families, neighborhoods, friendships, schools, and religious organizations apart. He wants us to hate each other. But we cannot let the Devil win.

            Lastly, my heart has been filled with gratefulness. I know that sounds strange during a week that has brought such turmoil, but I’m grateful God isn’t done with me yet. That He’s not done with any of us. That even in my worst moments, He chose to see me through eyes of love, mercy, and grace. According to 2 Corinthians 5:19, He doesn’t hold our sins against us, instead we are reconciled to Him. My worst moment doesn’t disqualify me in His kingdom and neither does yours.

            As we work through these difficult situations, together as a community, may we act as God leads and move as He instructs. Not in haste, nor silence. But with level heads. Grace. And truth.