Posts Tagged death

There was a tragic shooting at a baptist church in Illinois on Sunday.  Death in any regard is a terrible thing.  But stories like this cut to the heart of our human experience and force us to face the worst of what we can become.

It is in times like that that we are given an opportunity to accept the fragility and uncertainty of our humanity.  To stand naked and exposed and mourn with despair, uncertainty and a loss of hope - even in the midst of strong faith.

I read the immediate response of the executive director of the Illinois Baptist State Association, Nate Adams, and it made me sad.  Not so much because of the exact words of what he said, but because in these moments, the rest of the world isn’t looking on you with pointed fingers and condemnation saying “You are wrong.  Your god doesn’t exist.  I told you so.”  But his words made me feel like he was trying to reassure the world and the rest of his denomination that they didn’t have to worry.  Yes this was tragic, but God is still God - don’t question that.

He said, “Our great God is not surprised by this, or anything, that He allows evil and free will to have their way in tragedies like this is a mystery in many ways. But we know we can trust Him no matter what, and draw close to Him in any circumstances.”

That statement may be theologically correct, by his interpretation, but to me it is unnecessary and potentially harmful.  It heaps burning coals on the heads of the family and community who are in the midst of a tragic crisis.  A man has died before he should have.  A senseless murder has taken place.  If you believe those words, please don’t speak them.  Keep them to yourself and trust that your God is big enough to make his truth known.