Dealing with tragedy

The events at Virginia Tech again remind me of a few facts.

1. First, and foremost, God is in control. Just as God was in control when the Babylonian army stormed into Jerusalem and destroyed the city, just so that God could show His people that He meant it when He told them to follow Him. He allow it also to show His power in bringing them back into the land. Just as God was in control when He allowed his son to die to bring us salvation. Just as God was in control in Columbine 8 years ago when He allowed the school shooting to bring more people to Him. So, God is on control now on the campus of Virginia Tech.

2. Second, sin has penalties. I am not saying that the 32 (besides the shooter) who died and the 20+ injured got what they deserved, but sin brought about death. That will never change. We cannot change the effect of sin in this life, but we can change its effect on the next life. As a Christian, sin has no power over my destiny, because Christ took care of that on the cross.

3. Third, people are empty without Christ. It is too early for us to know much about the shooter, but I can say with certainty a few things about him. He was looking for satisfaction outside of the only place that brings satisfaction-- Jesus Christ. He was looking for resolution outside of the ultimate source-- The Bible. He was trusting in the wrong authority of himself, instead of the supreme authority-- God.

4. Lastly, people are hurting. 33 families have lost a part of them. 20+ families are praying for recovery. Millions around our country and the world are stunned and saddened. You, as a Christian, have the only answer to all of these problems. The question is-- What are you doing to share this answer of Christ?

What would you say to a grieving family?

What would you say to a saddened VT student?

What can you say to a stunned neighbor?

Think and do