God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. (2 Corinthians 1:3,4)

How do we begin to pray for the victims and their families in the recent shooting in Las Vegas? Like sorting through the wreckage, our hearts begin to sort through all the trauma, and we hardly know how to pray and where to start. Let’s begin by praying specifically a simple, heart-felt prayer over some of the victims of this sad and senseless act of violence.*

Lord,

Help us to know how to pray. Show us, Father, as we lift up the victims to You. Specifically today we pray for the family and friends of Bailey Schweitzer, a kind-hearted soul who cheered and encouraged the lives of those around her.

We ask for comfort for the family and friends of Sonny Melton, especially his young wife, Heather, whose life he shielded from the array of bullets.

Comfort Susan Smith’s loved ones, her husband, two children, and all the staff and students at the elementary school where she worked.

Jordan McIldoon was an only child; please console his parents, Father. Draw them close to your heart as they grieve the loss of their beloved son.

Father, be with the family, friends, co-workers and students that loved and appreciated Lisa Romero-Muniz. Be with them as they honor her life with a candlelight memorial.

We can’t imagine the pain all these families are going through. We lift up Jessica Klymchuk’s four children to you as well as all the students at the school where she worked as librarian in Alberta, Canada.

Comfort the family and loved ones of Quinton Robbins, a young man who endeared himself to many through his sincerity and kindness.

Rachael Parker worked for the Manhatten Beach Police Department; comfort and bless her family with your presence and love.

A special-education teacher from Vermont, Sandy Casey will be sorely missed by her fiance, family, co-workers, and students. She filled her classroom with hope and joy, may that hope and joy live on in the lives of those who love her.

Father, these are just a few of those who perished; be with all them families and friends of each victim. Send them comfort through people and through Your Holy Spirit.

In Jesus’ Name
Amen

Photo credit: Foter.com

* Source of information: https://www.nytimes.com/2017/10/02/us/vegas-victims-names.html