What to say what to say?

I struggle about what to write today. Our church and town experienced a great tragedy on Wednesday when a family’s home burnt down and firefighter lost his life. The family attends our church on Sunday nights(they are active in another church as well where they are members), their kids are active in our youth group, and the firefighter has a cousin who attends our church. I have never seen anything like what I saw on Wednesday, both good and bad.
1. I am impressed by the brotherhood of firefighters. They share a unique bond. There were close to 50(probably more) volunteers who responded to the fire call which was caused by a power surge from a tree falling on some power lines. They risk their lives for strangers and sadly, one of their own paid the ultimate price. Some from our church had been in school with him and all of our lives have been touched by his sacrifice.
2. I am amazed at the lenghts the press will go to get a story. There were several near physical confrontations between the press and others at the fire. The firefighters tried to make it clear to the cameramen that they did not want any filming when several firefighters where being helped on stretchers and especially when the last man was pulled out. At that time, no one was sure of his condition and thankfully, out of respect(or threat of bodily harm), the cameramen set their equipment down for these moment. They also kept zooming in on the family and several of us tried to block their shots by moving between the cameras and the family. So several of us were on the news. They were also trying to get interviews and it was quite inappropriate at times. I know they have a job to do and a story to tell, but at some point people need to exercise some 1st Amendment sense.
3. I am in awe of God’s provision for this family. The house across the street was for sale and had been empty for over a year. The owner gave them the keys and told them they could stay there as long as they needed. By Thursday, the pantry was full, beds were being delivered, and people were chipping in a tangible ways. It says alot about this family that they began turning help away and requested that help be given to the fallen fire fighter’s family. They had the perspective to realize that the things they lost were only temporary.
4. Finally, it hit me that people would have many questions about this event. Primarily, “Why?” It occurred to me that it would be pastor’s like me that they would be looking to for answers. What a daunting task. Can you put into words how God works in all of this? Is there even an answer? I think the important thing was the ministry of presence. There were three pastors there on sight and we were doing what we could to help. However, sometimes all you can say is “I’m sorry.” It’s not a time for deep theological discussions. It’s a time to offer a hand, a hug, go grab people some lunch, get someone some water, and make sure everyone has someone to lean on. The questions will still be there, but the Lord knows when it’s time for answers and whether or not I need to be a part of that process for the families.
So, pray for these families. Pray that the two churches involved will share the love of Christ to a hurting community. And pray that THE answer will be clear, Christ himself.