Pause + Pray

The Question of Why

Woman with blue hat, looking at water

Reflect

Almost four years ago, a young man walked into a Walmart here in my hometown of El Paso. He opened fire in what became one of the worst mass shootings in our country. Since then, I have sat with people of faith who have asked, “Why did God allow this to happen?” It is easy to criticize those who dare to ask why, to accuse them, perhaps, of being weak in their faith. In my case, I have come to accept that I need a God with whom I can argue. Thankfully, the God of my understanding is willing to listen.


Pray

Lord,
Thank you for your patience
as I struggle with making sense of tragedies.
Help me not forget what I have learned—
that in the midst of senseless tragedy,
you are there.


Act

If you struggle with the whys in life, take a few moments to picture yourself sitting in the presence of Jesus as you struggle. Notice Jesus’ patience as he listens.


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