Tragedy Strikes Columbine High School
On April 20, 1999, the halls of Columbine High School in Littleton, Colorado, were shattered by a tragic shooting. Craig Scott, a student in the library at the time, found himself surrounded by chaos and fear. In that terrifying moment, he called out to God, "I asked God to take away my fear, because I literally felt like my heart was going to stop beating," he later recounted. With a newfound clarity, Craig sensed a voice urging him to lead others to safety, an action that likely saved lives that day.
Meanwhile, Craig's sister, Rachel Scott, was outside when she was confronted by the shooters. Known for her unwavering faith, Rachel had once written in her journal, "If I have to sacrifice everything, I will...I will not hide the light that God has put into me." As the attackers demanded to know if she believed in God, Rachel boldly affirmed her faith, moments before they took her life.
God's Peace After Losing Child
The tragedy left Craig with a profound journey of faith and forgiveness. He spoke openly about forgiving the shooters, emphasizing that forgiveness was a personal spiritual issue, distinct from legal pardon. Inspired by his sister's legacy and his own survival, Craig committed himself to fostering positive school cultures to prevent future violence.
Years later, at Sandy Hook Elementary in Newtown, Connecticut, Alissa Parker faced her own tragedy on December 14, 2012, when her daughter Emilie was killed during another school shooting. Struggling with anger and resentment, Alissa turned to her faith for healing. "After our family's loss at Sandy Hook, I was still struggling with my feelings towards the young man that shot my daughter," she shared. Through prayer and a profound sense of empathy, Alissa released her burden to Jesus, feeling a tangible peace replace her anger.
Testimony of Forgiveness After Tragedy
Both Craig Scott and Alissa Parker's stories are testimonies to the profound impact of faith in the face of unimaginable loss. Their journeys of forgiveness and advocacy highlight how a relationship with Jesus can transform pain into purpose, and darkness into light. As they continue to share their stories, they give glory to Jesus, who provides the strength to forgive and heal.
