My Worship Revolution

Rachel told me last night that she had read on a few blogs we both read about a horrible event.
I went to read the story myself.
Even knowing what was coming, my eyes teared up as I read.
Stephen Curtis Chapman’s daughter killed by car in driveway.
The car was being driven by her older brother.  A horrible accident.

Stephen Curtis Chapman is a Christian musician and leader I have always had a great deal of respect for.
Incredible musician.  But more importantly, and first in his life, a great husband, father, and all around family man.  Also a huge advocate of overseas adoptions, having three little girls from China and a whole foundation.

This morning my heart aches for his family.
I can’t imagine the pain of losing Caleb under any circumstances.
My first reaction.  Sadness and disbelief.
And the slight feeling of lack of understanding.  Why?  He, of all people, deserves so much better.

Part of me will always wonder that.  It will always have that question.
But then I moved to another place.
I would never want anyone, anywhere, under any circumstance to have to go through what that family is all of a sudden going through.
At the same time, I see the amazing opportunity for Christ to be glorified.
Life will go sideways at some point.  For everyone.  I really believe that.  And in the middle of our loss and despair, the world is looking to see what we do with Jesus.  Even Christ followers will now see this family have the opportunity to turn to God in the most difficult of circumstances.  Hopefully as the Chapman’s rest in Jesus, those going through similar circumstances can be encouraged as well.

I remember something a teacher of mine at Vanguard said that deeply impacted me.  When we ask why me, perhaps a better question is why not you?  Would you rather your neighbor who doesn’t know Jesus lose a child?  Would you rather your friend who hasn’t experienced the peace of Christ come down with cancer?
Ouch.
Hard pill to swallow.

I wish it hadn’t happened.
My heart hurts.
I pray for their family.
Please join me and do the same.
And I also pray that God will use this situation to bring Himself glory in the long run.

It reminds me of a John Piper video I saw regarding the prosperity gospel vs. suffering.  I’ve embedded the video below.
I love the following quote from the video:

God is most glorified in me when I am most satisfied in Him in the midst of loss, not prosperity.

God, please bless and strengthen the Chapman family.  Amen.