My daughter texts me from school:

“Mom, there’s a code red. I don’t know what is happening, I’m freaking out.”

My stomach drops. I begin praying. My mind is racing. I know there’s protests happening today. Could this be part of it? A code red is a threatening or suspicious person on or around the school grounds. I text her to remain as calm as she can. Pray. We serve a Big God. She replies with, “I’m having a panic attack, I want to go home, I can’t breathe.” I tell her as soon as lockdown is lifted, I will be there to get her.

After everything was clear the school sent out a message letting parents know that the school was secure, the person was in custody and what exactly happened. This is our first year in public school. She has been homeschooled up to this point, they have had drills and practice runs, but this was NOT a drill. This was real life. Guns drawn in front of her school. Kids in lockdown, crying, not knowing. Panicked.

Philippians 4:6-7: 

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

I lived in this verse for that hour.

Lord, Jesus, I pray a hedge of protection around those kids and teachers right now. I pray for your peace in their hearts and their minds, a peace that surpasses all understanding. You are a big God. You are a good God. I pray for the law enforcement. I pray you guide them and protect them as they serve our city.

I continued to pray and meditate on his promise. I continued to worship his name. That hour seemed like the longest hour.

2 Thessalonians 3:16: 

“Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in every way. The Lord be with you all.”

Romans 15:13: 

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

The Bible reminds us that God is the source of peace. It also tells us peace through Christ is a different kind of peace, one that transcends our worldly understanding. We are encouraged to be peacemakers and actively pursue peace. God also underscores the connection of trust in him and Peace, such as focusing on him leading to our tranquility. Lastly, are the mentions of peace in our relationships, His desire for peace and harmony.

When I got to that school, you could see a shift in my daughter. Right away, she felt safe. She felt breathing room again. She felt at peace. Because she trusts me. She trusts that I will handle her with care. She trusts I will protect her. When she got scared, she came to me. And that is what God wants to provide for you. He wants to wrap his arms around you as your Heavenly Father. In the highs and lows, He wants you to seek him just as a child seeks their mother and father.

I want to encourage you to take refuge in the arms of Jesus. Pursue a deeper understanding and love in Him. And cultivate trust and the peace only He can provide among life’s challenges.

Love Always,

Kati