The tragedy that occurred in Tuscon, Arizona on January 8th has captured the attention of America. In the vicious 24-hour news cycle of today's fast-paced world, the fact that this story of senseless violence is still being discussed twelve days later is evident of that fact. Our church has been praying for all those personally impacted by this tragedy and will continue to do so in the days ahead. As a pastor, I thought I would share my perspective on the Tucson Tragedy in hopes of playing some small part in the healing process.
The Tucson Tragedy reminds me that:
1. Evil is Real - While there has been much discussion centered on the mental state of the shooter, make no mistake about it - this act of horrific violence stems from raw evil. I'm not suggesting that all who struggle with psychological problems are demonized, but this heinous act is definitive proof that evil is real.
Some say, "If God were a God of love, why would he allow things like this to happen." God is not the author of evil. He gives people a free will and when people succumb to the evil that lurks within, they hurt others and the consequence is often unconsolable pain. That's why Jesus said when you pray - pray for God's will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. Jesus is reminding us that God's will is not always done on earth. That's why we need to pray for His will to be done. Remember that this is earth - not heaven. We live in a world that is broken and full of people that are prone to hurt others.
2. Life is Fragile - Events such as these remind us how fragile life really is. None of us are guaranteed tomorrow. I think especially of the 9 year old girl who's life was cut short at such an early age. Tragic loss. My heart goes out to all the victims and their families who morn the loss of a loved one today.
The Bible says that life is like a mist, a vapor - here one moment and gone the next. This reality compels me to soak in the moments of everyday with those that I love. To never leave the house without kissing my wife and children and tell them that I love them. To cherish each and every moment as if it could be my last. Life is short.
3. Good will triumph over Evil - It's been incredibly heartwarming to see the city of Tucson, along with the state of Arizona and the national community come together to pray, to encourage one another and to take a stand for what is good and right in this world.
So far as there is a remnant of God-fearing people on the planet, good will ultimately triumph over evil. Evil will run its course and lose. Good will overcome. People of compassion will defeat evil at every turn and find a way to bring hope and light in very dark times. As the Psalmist says, "Weeping may endure for the night, but joy cometh in the morning."
