Read articles written by the Elders or others in the congregation that equip the saints for the work of ministry and build up the body of Christ.

Steve Hankins                                      April 16, 2008

April 16, 2008 marks the one year anniversary of the most tragic shooting on a college or high school campus. The entire nation was shocked by the brutal murder of 32 students on the campus of Virginia Tech, in Blacksburg, VA.

Being a graduate of Virginia Tech, I was especially touched by this tragic loss of life, as well as other alumni in the Cincinnati area. We could not understand how such a senseless act could occur on the beautiful, placid campus that we love so dearly.

But we should never be surprised by the presence and demonstration of evil in this world in which we live. Our enemy Satan prowls about like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour. (1 Peter 5:8.)

From a television documentary by the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, we learned that some of the students who lost their lives were strong followers of our Lord Jesus Christ, and were making significant impacts on the lives of others. The testimonies of their friends and families were truly inspiring.

While believers are clearly not immune to evil, God never ceases to amaze us by transforming the evil acts of men into acts that will glorify Him. Even though He permits evil to occur, as His followers, we can never ultimately be defeated by evil. We may be tested and refined for a time, but it is always for our benefit and the benefit of others.

In 2 Corinthians 1:3-4, Paul tells the Corinthian church that they have suffered so that they can comfort those who will suffer in the future.

On February 14, 2008, Northern Illinois University also experienced the tragedy of students being shot to death in a campus classroom. The Virginia Tech community was one of the first who were willing and able to reach out to those at NIU who were now too mourning the senseless murder of young life.

This was an admirable outreach initiative, putting into practice the Virginia Tech motto - “Ut Prosim”, which translated means “That I May Serve”. And only in hindsight can we see how God may choose to use us to reach out and comfort others.

What about you? How do you respond to trials and suffering? Do you see them as opportunities to minister to others?

Lord, please renew our understanding and acceptance of suffering, and use our experiences with suffering to be a blessing to others.
 

Past Articles:

Remembering the Virginia
Tech Tragedy

Let's Hallow the Name of
Christ This Halloween

Partners in the Gospel:  The Story of Our Christ-Centered Connection with Clearcreek Chapel

Choosing Songs Wisely: a seminar with Bob Kauflin of Sovereign Grace Ministries Part 1 | Part 2

Desiring God 2007 National Conference Audio/Video

Lessons in Biblical Meditation
from Dr. Donald Whitney

Notes from Blacksburg, VA, the week of the Virginia Tech Massacre