Christian Music Artists Respond After Tornado Destroyed Parts of Nashville

A tornado swept through parts of the city of Nashville on Monday night.  As a result, at least 24 people were killed, several others injured, and tens of thousands of households and businesses left without power. The death count is an accumulation of people in four counties, including Davidson (Nashville), Putnam, Benton and Wilson, according to NBC News. 

"We have had loss of life all across this state," Gov. Bill Lee, who declared a state of emergency, said. Besides those confirmed dead, some people are unaccounted for, he said. "There are folks missing."

Lee said that the devastation he witnessed was "heartbreaking," but that he was proud of residents who helped each other in the aftermath.

"In the worst of circumstances the best of people comes out, and that's what we're seeing here in Tennessee," Lee said. "It is as we would expect."

This is the second most deadly tornado event in Tennessee history, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Storm Prediction Center. Twisters killed 38 people in Tennessee on March 22, 1952, and 22 died in a tornado on Feb. 5, 2008, according to federal authorities. 

The carnage has not been unnoticed by many Christian artists. Matthew West expresses his concerns: "I can't believe the amount of destruction that tore through Nashville this morning. This city has been a great home to me and my family & seeing so much loss is heartbreaking. My thoughts and prayers are with those who were directly impacted by the tornado." 

Kari Jobe writes: "My city... so devastated for so many friends and business owners today. We will rebuild. My phone is full of texts back and forth with friends checking on each other. So grateful for community. If you're in need of help- our church @thebelongingco is here for you. Email relief@thebelonging.co praying for all who lost loved ones and homes. We are with you."

Darlene Zschech expresses her prayers: "Praying for all affected by the tornado .. if you are local and need help... please call 1.615.800.8772."

For King and Country writes: "Many of us were up through the night listening to sirens, searching for information on what was taking place around us, and checking in with loved ones around Nashville. By God's grace, we're all unharmed, but the same cannot be said for our city- which has taken quite a hit. Be praying for our community as it's been shocking to see all the devastation this morning."

Natalie Grant shares, "Heartbroken for our city, pray for those facing devastation this morning because of the tornados."

Steven Curtis Chapman finds comfort in Scripture, quoting Psalms 34:18, "The LORD is near to the brokenhearted & saves the crushed in spirit."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tags : tornado nashville Nashville city of nashville Kari Jobe Darlene Zschech Matthew West FOR KING AND COUNTRY Natalie Grant Steven Curtis Chapman