Why? (Virginia Tech)

This past weekend, we as a church embarked on a journey into the most dominant question throughout time: Why? That word sums up so many questions in so many stages of life. From the child that is inquiring about everything from the color of the sky, grass and grandmother's hair or simply not being allowed to do that thing that seems to be so much fun all the way to the great tragedies that have struck our lives both personally and globally, that one word dominates so much of our lives. How poignant, necessary and timely is this series?

Yesterday, a 23 year old student took the lives of 32 fellow students and then very cowardously took his own. This young man, no doubt troubled and hurting rather than reaching out, lashed out at those around him. Why? So many students were out having fun, studying or relaxing with friends the night before and today they are no longer with us. Why? Why would someone kill so many people, so randomly? Why didn't the school shut down the campus after the first incident? Why didn't someone take more seriously the disturbia that apparently surrounded this young man? Why do bads things happen to good people? Why? Why? Why?

I do not begin to presume I have any real mind blowing answer. I only know that Bible says it rains on the just and unjust alike. I also know that God gives us the promise, not that bad things would never happen, rather that He would never leave us nor forsake us. We can take heart knowing that though the world is crooked and dysfunctional, He has overcome the world and He is always there for us. He also promises to take even these excruciatingly difficult times and somehow work them and everything else together for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.

No one can really ever know why these horrid things happen, we can only know that God is still there to hold us. Man's free will has allowed for such horrible incidents, but our surrendered hearts to God can make even the worst moments a bit easier to get through. His peace is beyond all understanding. I only pray that in this time of mourning, those at Virginia Tech can find hope and solace in Him, as He is truly the only one that can meet them in their hour of such great despair.

All this to say, if you are stuck in a cycle that has you constantly asking why or the recent tragedy has just sparked the question into flame, I hope you would tune in to the series God has dropped in our Pastor's heart. If you need some answers or simply want to find hope in the midst of your question consumed life, this series is designed to help you find the true answer and the only hope for all of us. May God reconcile your heart to His and bring peace in your storm. May His will be done and His love be all consuming and comforting in your situation and in the lives of all of those grieving at Virginia Tech, their families and friends.