The tragedy that took place in Aurora, Colorado on last Thursday reminds us of the fragile and unpredictable nature of life.
I woke up early on Friday morning to hear of the carnage that was left in the wake of a very disturbed young man. I had to ask the question, How could such a terrible thing happen to these innocent people? The victims of this terrible tragedy were simply looking forward to an evening of entertainment. Perhaps many of the folks that were in that very theater had looked forward to Thursday, July 19th with great anticipation as third movie of the Batman Trilogy was scheduled to begin at midnight. I imagine that these very same people had to wait in a long line to receive their tickets. That evening was indeed an anticipated event. No one could image the horror that would unfold in that movie theater. No one could imagine such a tragic evening. After all, these folks were just going to the movies to enjoy a time of entertainment. No one had an idea that they were going to enter into eternity that early morning.
Death often comes like a thief in the night. I have conducted many funerals where people had no idea that their life would end here on earth in just a few moments. The Bible mentions “the sting of death” and often it takes place in just a flash, but the sting will linger on for a very long time for those left behind. James 4:14 states, “Whereas you know not what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor, that appears for a little time, and then vanishes away.” We make long term plans that can be instantly changed in a second. I do want to say that there is nothing wrong with planning. I think we should plan like we will live forever, but we must be prepared to die tonight. As a Child of God, I know that my life will be better on the other side of eternity, but as a human being, I want to spend as much time as the Lord allows here today! The Word of God declares that we all have an appointment to meet the Lord. Hebrews 9:27 & 28 states, “And it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation.” We all have an appointment and the fact is we do not know when. Notice that verse 28 informs us that those who look for Christ will be saved. We still have an appointment, but we can live life with assurance that the Word of God declares salvation for those who place their faith in Christ.
It is my prayer that the Holy Spirit will comfort everyone affected by this horrific tragedy. It is also my prayer that we will turn our attention toward Christ, because He is the only One who has the answer for us in need as we all know that one day we too will have an appointment.
