All of our hearts were saddened as we learned of the recent shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. It’s hard to comprehend how any one could do such a thing. There are lots of questions and much we do not understand. How do we navigate such times as these?
First, it’s important that we ask our questions. Biblical faith is an honest faith. It invites us to be real and authentic with God. The psalmist lamented “My God, My God, why have you forsaken me?” These very words were prayed by Jesus from the cross. So ask your questions. God listens to our aching hearts!
Second, remember, God is still sovereign. When such events take place we are led to wonder if God is still in charge. The psalmist states the fact: “The Lord reigns; let the earth rejoice” (97:1). Does the sun stop shining when the dark storm blows through? No. God is ruling and reigning and fulfilling His purposes even when everything in our world suggests the opposite. Anchor your heart in this biblical truth.
Third, we live in a fallen world and evil people do evil things. Jeremiah 17:9 says “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: Who can know it?” One of the most precious gifts that God gives us is the freedom to choose. Those with evil, unredeemed hearts often choose to hurt or to end the lives of the innocent. This does not make it right. It just helps us understand why such horrible things occur.
Finally, Jesus Christ is our only and certain hope! Human laws cannot change the human heart. Only Jesus can! Paul wrote, “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek” (Rom. 1:16). Such events remind us how desperately our fallen, broken world needs the good news of Jesus Christ.
And there is only one thing you do with good news, right? You share it! May God give us the passion and boldness to do so!!
For His glory,
Tim