As I left church this afternoon I noticed a cloud of smoke rising over the tree line. It’s not an uncommon site especially given the fact that we recently had an ice storm that caused a lot of debris to litter people’s properties and therefore many burn the limbs and brush that have accumulated. While driving away I didn’t give it a second thought as I reflected on the morning services and the upcoming Super Bowl. It wasn’t until I sat down tonight and read the news that I found the cause of the smoke. On my screen came a horrendous story that made me sick to my stomach. Josh Powell, a man who was under investigation for the disappearance of his wife, had set fire to his own home with his two young boys inside. All three perished in the fire.
Josh Powell is not my concern at the moment and to be honest I’m praying that God will give me a gracious spirit when my thoughts drift to thinking of him; my concern and the weight on my heart is for the boys. Two innocent young children lost their lives today. They were subjected to the actions of someone who was supposed to be their shepherd, safety, and protector. When children die it is difficult to understand. That’s an understatement, it’s probably the most difficult thing to understand. Why did they have to die? Why didn’t someone prevent it? Why didn’t God intervene? If God is so loving why would he allow these two small children to suffer in the way that they did? Regardless of your commitment to Jesus these questions will come into mind. I’m struggling. Theodicy (the study of God and suffering) was one of my focuses in Grad School yet even with all of my study and understanding of theodicy no academic concept, philosophical insight, or theological reflection can ease the burden that comes when children die.
As I have been praying about this I have found solace in a few thoughts that I believe God has reminded me of. In His graciousness God often gives us glimpses of hope that help us to cope, help us to heal and to grow. Those thoughts that have given me comfort are what I wanted to share with you.
God did not decide for them to die.
I am comforted by the fact that God did not have anything to do with the death of these children, or any children for that matter. It was not God who took those children’s lives, it was the decision of a sinful and fallen man. God is not to blame. In our own choices we can decide the outcome of someone’s life. This is the responsibility that we bare with free will. Free will is a blessed gift that can be turned into a horrendous weapon. God did not send these children to die, that is not what God wanted for them.
God is weeping.
I truly believe that God is weeping over these children and if I push myself, I believe He is weeping over Josh as well. God loves unconditionally and He is impacted when our decisions cause pain and suffering. God is in all and through all and therefore is impacted when people are hurting. God is grieving over the loss of these children.
God works for the good through all things.
While it is difficult to see now, I know that God is working to redeem this story. He is working to bring good out of it. People will come to know Jesus because of this story; I strongly believe that. I don’t know what God is going to do but I do trust that He is working for the good even in this tragedy.
My hope and prayer is that for those who have been impacted by this tragedy, especially those who are closely connected to it, will find some solace in these thoughts. This story is right in my backyard and it will impact our whole community. We must pursue God through this and trust in who God is rather than trying to understand why these things happen.
For those hurting during these times I strongly recommend the book “Torn” by Jud Wilhite. It may provide more comfort and hope than these simple words do.
I find it interesting, and maybe more than a coincidence, that you posted this on the anniversary of a friend of mines death. Thank you for this
You’ve been making me cry much too often,lol
Emily, I hope that it was helpful.
Ryan, I too saw the smoke and thought nothing of it. In fact, I forgot I had seen it until I read this. I first saw the story about an hour after I got home yesterday, and my heart broke! I, too, believe Jesus wept, although I like to think he later rejoiced in receiving the boys home. It’s often so hard to understand the actions men take, but I have no doubt He also wept for Josh, as He does for every soul lost for good.
I don’t read your posts all that often, but when I do I always take away something positive, uplifting, or thought-provoking. Well, sometimes all 3. Sure glad I took the time for this one!
Thanks for your kind words Cheryl. I agree that amidst the pain that Jesus was welcoming the boys into his arms.
Thanks for this, Ryan. When I heard the story, my heart broke too. Especially the update of newfound evidence on what Josh Powell did to his sons before the explosion. I literally flinched. Something really strange & spiritual happens when you become a mom and you have this undeniable compassion for any kid you come across.
While I believe, that you’ve posted are very good reminders for tragedies like these, I also think these truths can be applied to children who have been abused growing up. God never chose abuse for their life. I am certain God wept when they were struck, demeaned, or worse. But I believe He has the power to change those kids’ lives and use their experiences for the good.
I think this tragedy is an opportune time to pray not only for the Powell file, but also for fathers and father-figures across the nation. For a radical change to take place in the roles they play. May His Kindom come and His will be done.
Caroline, you are so very right. I, too, believe that those truths can be applied for abuse as well and even beyond that they can be applied to anyone not just children.