As reported widely across the US over the weekend, a six-year-old student at Richneck Elementary School in Newport News, Virginia, brought his parent’s handgun from home on Friday (January 6, 2023) and shot his first grade teacher, Abigail Zwerner. Although the bullet struck her in the hand and chest, Ms. Zwerner’s condition has improved and she is expected to recover.
CNN provided an updated report yesterday regarding the shooting, indicating that Newport News police are investigating, in part, to determine how the handgun was stored and how it was obtained by the student. Depending upon the findings of the police investigation, one or both of the parents may face prosecution for negligent storage of a firearm.
The CNN report may be viewed HERE.
My brothers and sisters, even though this shooting incident occurred in Virginia, New Mexico – and the rest of our states – are certainly not exempt from gun violence, even in our schools. The ever-increasing culture of violence in our nation is heartbreaking! So many families and children no longer attend church and seek the peace that comes only from a relationship with Jesus Christ.
Let’s fervently intercede in prayer for our nation, seeking spiritual eyes and ears to be opened, and for the peace of Christ to permeate our schools, homes and families. Let’s pray that parents would know God’s wisdom while caring for children who may be hurting and needing special attention.
Psalm 29:11 (NKJV)
“The Lord will give strength to His people; [t]he Lord will bless His people with peace.”
Philippians 4:6-7 (NKJV)
“Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”
Praise Jesus forevermore!