“In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will” (Ephesians 1:11)
John Allen Muhammad, the 2002 D. C. sniper, was executed earlier this month. I heard live coverage on the radio and was troubled that he didn’t select a spiritual advisor and he chose not to make a final statement whatsoever. Even after being on death row for so many years it seems that he had not done any introspection about his crimes. In my view, this was incredibly tragic.
He caused ten people to die without warning. They were ushered into eternity whether they were ready or not. It wasn’t as if they were soldiers with some expectation of danger or death. And they didn’t die for a worthy cause. They died without rhyme or reason; there wasn’t any meaning in their deaths. This was also very tragic.
When evil persists, when tragedy strikes, I can take comfort in God. He is never impotent; he is always omnipotent. As Joni said so eloquently, “Either God rules, or Satan sets your life’s agenda and God is limited to only reacting” and also, “If God didn’t control evil, the result would be evil uncontrolled.”
“The LORD has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all” (Psalm 103:19).
Lord God, you rule! You notice every detail of my life and are always in complete control. Whatever happens, good or bad, you are the one who gives and takes away. May I rest in you even when I don’t understand your purposes. Amen.
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An encouragement, a simple prayer, or a pithy observation... I would appreciate hearing from you. May God richly bless your day! ~Joanna