Why? God, Why?

Like many of you, I’ve been almost manic, checking the news to find out if there are any new developments following the terrorist attacks in Paris. There was one news story in particular that caught my attention.  It showed a church full of those mourning the losses. The pews were full.

 I can’t remember ever seeing news coverage that showed large numbers of people attending church in Paris. Until this week.  With gaunt eyes still reeling from their loss, they looked to be seeking comfort, praying and many seemed to be searching for answers as to why. Some most likely went to find a sense of connection with others whose lives had been ripped apart, searching for the sense of togetherness that comes from being with those who know exactly how they feel.

These people wanted comfort, answers and hope.  They sought to connect with their lost loved one by cards and flowers and candles and stuffed animals. They tearfully laid these gifts near the sight where their cherished friend, spouse, child or even a co-worker breathed their last.

There were so many souls in the same place, innocently living their lives cut down by evil.

Which begs the question: Why?

Why?

I’ve been in that place, the place where it just doesn’t make sense.  The place where all that kept me going was hanging on to God by my fingernails. My life was nothing but pain and frustration and questions.

I needed an answer.

Those who are living this nightmare need an answer.

There’s a text from God waiting to be read. God is not silent.

1.       How does God feel about those who inflict evil against the innocent?

“The Lord examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, He hates with a passion.” Ps. 11:5 (NIV) Nough’ said.

2.       How does God feel about bringing evil to justice? Deut.10 “¹⁷ For the Lord your God is the God of gods and the Lord of lords, the great, the mighty, and the awesome God who does not show partiality nor take a bribe. ¹⁸ He executes justice for the orphan and the widow, and shows His love for the alien (foreigner) by giving him food and clothing.”  Evil inflicted on the innocent does not go unnoticed by the King of Heaven.

3.       Does God actually love people? John 3:16 ¹⁶ “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” (NASB) He loves every single person BEFORE they ever love Him.

4.        Why didn’t God stop this from happening? John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” (NASB) Look at the word ‘whoever’. Some will believe; some won’t.  All humanity has a choice.  

We were created with Free Will. 

All people.

Even the ones who will inflict evil. 

 God would not be just if He withheld the right to choose from humanity, including those who harm others. Keep in mind: There are always consequences for the choices a person makes.  If that choice is evil, the Supreme Court of Heaven will bring justice to those doing evil.

5.       What now?

Isaiah 30:18

Therefore the Lord longs to be gracious to you,
And therefore He waits on high to have compassion on you.
For the Lord is a God of justice;
How blessed are all those who long for Him.

It’s your call.  God is waiting to have compassion on and give compassion to those who turn to Him. He’s fair and He’s a gentleman. And He's right next to you, waiting for you to let go.

It’s your call.

He's waiting. "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you." Matthew 7:7