This week has seen a nation struck by grief; on the 8th September we heard the news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II at the age of 96, in the same week Chris Kaba a 24 year old, unarmed, black man from London was shot dead by the Metropolitan Police (an action that has now turned into a homicide investigation).
The death of a loved one is never easy, no matter what age, what reason or what circumstances preceeds it, grief is painful. For days following her death we have seen minute by minute coverage of every detail of the past monarchs life, and the historic “nation shaping” nature of the change it will bring. Without doubt the death of a Queen is significant, and the proclamation of a new monarch (King Charles III) is important too; but so too is the story of a young man shot and killed by police on the streets of this nation, it is right that neither are forgotten.
Both these families will mourn and grieve this week, both will face challenges as they move forward through the coming months and years, both will carry memories of the ones they have lost. Through these times they will be aided by the love that surrounds them, the love of family and friends, of community and justice, and the love of God.
These two families are but two of countless others in our nation, and across the world will be facing such loss at this time, for all those who grieve and mourn I pray:
God of love and mercy,
embrace all those
whose hearts today
overflow with grief,
unanswered questions
and such a sense of loss.
Grant them space
to express their tears.
Hold them close
this day and all days.
pioneer thoughts 