Heavenly Father, We confess that at times like this we wonder where you are. You tell us that you are present always and everywhere. That nothing happens unless you allow it. Yet, a senseless act like this with so many families suffering terrible grief, broken hearts, and sorrow at its deepest, we wonder how it is that you could possibly allow this to happen or even be present in the midst of it. We stand on your promise that you are ever present in the eternal now, that you are unchanging, that you always hear our prayers, that you are with the loved ones of those killed, that you are with the police officers and medical personnel who responded to this terrible tragedy, that you are with those who were wounded both physically and mentally and emotionally. Father, we ask for your hand of comfort to be on the shoulder of all those who are suffering. Remind them that you are faithful and true. Assure those who are crying out for justice that you are the ultimate justice. Forgive us our anger and when we strive to take vengeance ourselves remind us that vengeance is your only and that your justice, unlike ours, is strict and pure. Above all, Father, give us the strength to face another day. Increase our faith. Assure us of the promises of your Word. Father, we have no other place to turn but to you: the ultimate love, the ultimate justice, the ultimate strength. We thank you for your Word. We thank you for salvation through your son Jesus in whose holy me we pray. Amen.