In a deeply moving display of resilience, Pastor Chad Scruggs returned to the pulpit of Nashville’s Covenant Presbyterian Church, delivering a powerful sermon two months after the devastating Christian school shooting that claimed the life of his young daughter and five others. The heartfelt service marked a significant step toward healing and offered a testament to the unwavering faith of the congregation.
Scruggs, who serves as the senior pastor at Covenant Presbyterian Church, found solace in addressing his congregation on Mother’s Day, May 14. While grappling with the unimaginable loss, he acknowledged the difficulty of responding to questions about his family’s well-being. With poignant candor, he shared, “The answer you’ll typically get from us is, ‘we don’t know’—we don’t know how to judge what doing well is or doing not well. We’re kind of searching for a new baseline in life right now.”
Expressing his deep gratitude for the congregation’s unwavering support over the past two months, Scruggs emphasized the enduring love that binds them together. He conveyed, “First of all, we love you. We loved you before March 27th, and we love you more now because of how you’ve loved us.”
In his quest for solace, Scruggs discovered solace in the writings of C.S. Lewis. He referenced Lewis’s book, “A Grief Observed,” penned by the acclaimed author following the loss of his wife, Joy. Drawing parallels to their own experience, Scruggs likened the pain of their loss to that of amputation—a part of them forever missing, accompanied by a phantom pain that will persist. Yet, he found solace in accepting and learning to live with this profound sadness.
Referencing Isaiah 40:31, which speaks of finding renewed strength in the Lord, Scruggs acknowledged that they were still in the process of healing. He likened their journey to the stage of “walking without fainting,” acknowledging the long road ahead. Through it all, the pastor emphasized that they never felt alone, appreciating the love and support of their congregation during this challenging time.
The sermon delivered by Pastor Chad Scruggs stands as a testament to the power of faith in the face of unimaginable tragedy. It showcases the resilience and unwavering spirit of a community bound together by love and the shared commitment to navigate life’s darkest moments. As they continue to heal and find strength in their faith, the congregation of Covenant Presbyterian Church serves as a shining example of hope and unity for all who witness their journey.
