Where is God At Times Like These? A meditation in the wake of a violent atrocity [Prayer Ping]

Archdiocese of Washington.org ^ | 12-14-12 | Msgr. Charles Pope

[steve86]

I do not think God "makes" anyone a lunatic, paranoid schizophrenic, murderously sick and evil.

Well, I do think God allows the creation of lunatic, paranoid schizophrenics among his otherwise majestic creations.

But even paranoid schizophrenics typically have a trace or even a dollop of free will -- maybe fleeting or ephemeral -- but able to influence behavior over time just the same. The perp involved in planning, preparation, and execution of a mass murder would make any number of conscious, immoral decisions along the way. This is the part God didn't "make" -- he only allowed the choices.

Have a Merry Christmas, BTW.

[Heart-Rest]

There are no words that are adequate, but in hopes that these may be helpful and provide at least some small, tiny level of comfort (along with much prayer), here are a few books that may merit some thoughts for some people in this unbelievably difficult time.

     Godforsaken: Bad Things Happen. Is there a God who cares? Yes. Heres proof. - Dinesh D'Souza

     Making Sense Out of Suffering - Peter Kreeft

     The Problem of Pain - C. S. Lewis

[Truth2012]

Romans 14:11-12

[fidelis]

A Prayer To The Holy Innocents

Holy Innocents, you died before you were old enough to know what life means, pray for all children who die young that God may gather them into His loving arms.

Holy Innocents, you were killed because one man was filled with hatred, pray for those who hate that God may touch their hearts and fill them with love.

Holy Innocents, you experienced a violent death, pray for all who are affected by violence that they may find peace and love.

Holy Innocents, your parents grieved for you with deep and lasting sorrow, pray for all parents who have lost young children that God may wrap a warm blanket of comfort around them.

Holy Innocents, those around you certainly felt helpless to prevent your deaths, pray for all who feel helpless in their circumstances that they may cling to God for courage and hope.

Holy Innocents, you who are now in Heaven, pray for all of us that one day we may join you there to bask in God's love forever.

Amen.

[kelly4c]

I agree. I have been raised to believe, and have parents who pray, that prayer results in answers. Then they add on that...”but only if it’s in God’s will”...or “But you may not like the answer.” Well I have told my mother that I don’t believe in “prayer.” I do talk to God. And I do request things. I think He does want our fellowship, to know what’s in our hearts, in other words, to commune with us in spirit. But I think we are basically on our own. For the most part. God IS powerful and if He so chooses can intervene however he likes...but in this earth age, this age of grace/faith...I believe perhaps he is letting things play out as they will.