The Pastor's Voice in Crisis
Speaking Truth During Storms
Key Verse:
“So do not fear, for I am with you;
do not be dismayed, for I am your God.
I will strengthen you and help you;
I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
—Isaiah 41:10
A Horrific Sunday in Lexington
On July 13, 2025, a violent spree shattered the tranquility of churches and highways in Lexington. It began at around 11:35 a.m. when gunman Guy E. House, age 47, shot and wounded a Kentucky State Trooper near Blue Grass Airport during a traffic stop. After carjacking a vehicle, House drove to Richmond Road Baptist Church—approximately 15 miles away—where he targeted those inside. He killed two women, 72-year-old Beverly Gumm and 34-year-old Christina Combs—mother and daughter—and wounded two men, including Pastor Jerry Gumm and Christina’s husband, Randy Combs. During the attack, House reportedly said, “Someone’s gonna have to die,” when he didn’t find his intended target. The assailant was shot and killed by responding officers.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, Lexington Mayor Linda Gorton, and Attorney General Russell Coleman all condemned the violence, asking the state to pray for the victims and their families—and reminding us that evil can invade even the house of God.
When the Shepherd Bleeds
Here was a small, close-knit congregation—many related by blood, anchored by faith—torn apart mid‑service. Their pastor, himself wounded, became the embodiment of Isaiah 41:10’s courage. Far from hiding in grief, he chose to be present. In crisis, the pastor does not retreat—they stand in the breach.
Truth Ever Ancient, Yet Forever Fresh
In emotional whirlwinds, Scripture offers an anchor. When fear and sorrow roar, words like Psalm 46:1—“God is our refuge and strength, an ever‑present help in trouble”—must be louder than the lies of despair. In conflict, the pastor’s voice points not to our capacities, but to God’s comfort and omnipotence.
Pain Preaches with Power
The presence of a suffering shepherd matters. When a wounded pastor says, “God is still good,” the declaration carries the weight of experience. Jesus was himself “acquainted with grief” (Isaiah 53:3), and through His suffering He proclaimed hope, redemption, and restoration. In crises, your tears sanctify your testimony.
The Danger of Silence
In tragedy, silence can ring dangerously. If the pastor does not speak, others will—anger, fear, hopelessness. Your voice matters at the exact moment your congregation is listening. Remind them:
God has not abandoned them.
Evil does not get the final word.
Heaven is our ultimate home.
Christ’s return is certain.
“Pastor, How Are You Standing?”
A hurting congregant might ask, “Pastor, how are you bearing this?” The authentic answer: “Only by God’s grace.” That answer preaches louder than polished eloquence. It shows that true strength comes not from self, but from the Spirit indwelling the broken vessel.
Preach Through, Not Around, the Pain
Grief isn’t an interruption of ministry—it deepens it. Authentic preaching in dark times doesn’t demand rhetorical flair—it demands honesty, Scripture, and Spirit. Tears may come; voices may crack. That’s not weakness—it’s holiness. People may forget the sermon outline, but they’ll never forget the words Christ spoke through you in their valley.
Courage Rooted in Presence
Courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s faithful obedience despite fear. Joshua 1:9 pairs command with promise: “Be strong… do not be afraid… for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” When storms hit, your voice must echo that promise.
Prayer Thought
Heavenly Father, when tragedy strikes, steady my heart and my voice. Let every trembling word declare Your presence. Use my weakness to point others to Your strength. Grant me compassion that speaks louder than pain, and courage anchored in Your eternal promises. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Pastoring Tip of the Week
Prepare a small set of “crisis messages”: sermons anchored in Scripture on God's presence, hope, overcoming evil, and enduring faith. When crisis comes, you won’t scramble—you’ll already be ready to proclaim truth.
💡 Need Tools for Crisis Ministry?
Grief, trauma, and tragedy are your real pulpit. Strengthen your capacity to walk through these valleys with Grace and Guidance: Comprehensive Counseling Guides for Pastors—biblical, practical, compassionate.
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Your voice in crisis is not about perfection—it’s about presence. And the greatest message any heart can hear in darkness is that the Lord is with them forever.
Note: All Scripture from the NIV Bible Translation.