Her text came at 4:45 p.m.
“There is a shooter in the mall.”
“I’m safe.”
“In the back.”
“Our gate is closed, and everyone is out of sight.”
I was standing in my closet, trying to decide what to wear to a party we were set to attend.
As much for myself as for her, I responded,
“Breathe, honey.”
“I’m glad you’re safe.”
“Do you want us to come and just be nearby?”
Thus began an exchange that lasted for an hour as we waited to see what exactly was unfolding at the mall where she works. She was far too familiar with the appropriate steps to take in an active shooter situation. Years of school lockdown procedures have strangely normalized the experience.
In the aftermath of learning my daughter was safe, a quiet disruption settled within me. My mind wandered to the Holy Land. The latest news—hostages killed—drew my heart to pray for their mothers and families.
Contemplating the constant threat of insecurity, violence, and terror, good news of great joy feels desperately needed and tangibly out of reach.
Scrolling through news reports and social media feeds, grappling with the complexities, I find myself consistently returning to a profound ache for a world not at peace.
Several years ago, the street artist Banksy teamed up with a Bethlehem hotel owner to unveil a piece of art in the hotel lobby. “The Scar of Bethlehem” featured a portion of the barrier wall that crosses the West Bank village of Bir Nabala, positioned between Jerusalem and Ramallah. In front of the wall sits a Nativity scene. During an interview, the hotel owner remarked, “It is a great way to bring up the story of Bethlehem, the Christmas story, in a different way—to make people think more. Banksy is trying to be a voice for those who cannot speak.”
Banksy’s piece of work, titled “Scar of Bethlehem,” at Walled-Off Hotel in Bethlehem in the occupied West Bank (AFP via Getty Images)
The stunning invitation embedded in Banksy’s “Scar of Bethlehem” is compelling, as it juxtaposes the symbol of hope—a star—with the harsh reality of conflict manifested in the barrier wall. The star, formed by shrapnel piercing the wall, serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring struggle in a region marred by centuries of conflict and violence. This thought-provoking artwork encourages deep reflection, prompting viewers to contemplate the complexities of the human experience in the conflict zones of Israel and Palestine, where the yearning for peace persists to this day.
I believe we are meant to hold these complexities today as we enter into our Christmas celebrations.
“Behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people.” Luke 2
The good news of Christ’s birth is meant for all people. The Prince of Peace is needed today as much as he was 2,000 years ago. Will you allow yourself to be compelled to think about the Christmas story in a different way today?
I want to invite you to join me in the solidarity of sisterhood, in considering how we stand with one another, particularly in places of peril.
Today I am holding space for my heart to remain disturbed and affected by the reality for women living in conflict zones around the world, women whose stories are being suppressed and silenced.
Come Lord Jesus.
Tracy Johnson is a lover of stories, a reluctant dreamer, and the co-founder of Red Tent Living. Married for over 36 years, she is mother to five kids, two sons-in-law, and is a pastor’s wife. She loves quiet mornings with hot coffee, rich conversations, and slowly savored meals at her favorite restaurants. She is awed that God chose her to mother four girls, having grown up with no sisters.
As I read this, Tracy, I was transported to the Peace Wall in Northern Ireland, a symbol of the conflict and violence–and also a symbol of hope for peace.
I just loved this piece Tracy. Your heart for women is lovely and seemingly in short supply. I was not familiar with “the scar of Bethlehem” and now I see that image. There’s so much pain and anguish in this world and you find the energy to call on and acknowledge the good, the beautiful, the hope. Christ is.
This is a wonderful piece! Your words paint a picture of contrast for what is happening today…even as the beauty of the “scar” of Bethlehem allows the “star” to shine brightly. Much to contemplate here. Thank you for writing this timely piece. It is exactly what my heart needed today❤️
I agree with you that your daughter knew what to do and that situation. And agonize for the women on both sides of the conflict who are caught in the middle, and often the victims.