08/28/2025
In light of the tragic school shooting in Minnesota yesterday, I was asked what would comfort the children who survived and help them understand why their friends were killed. This is a profoundly important and sensitive question that many people grapple with.
When discussing God’s love in the face of tragedy or suffering with a child, it’s crucial to be honest, gentle, and age-appropriate. One way to approach this conversation is by sharing Psalm 34:18-19, which states, “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. The righteous person may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them all.”
You might say something like this: “Yes, it’s incredibly sad and perplexing when unfortunate events occur, especially for children. This doesn’t imply that God doesn’t love us. God’s love envelops us all the time, even during the most challenging and frightening moments. Sometimes, we may not comprehend the reasons behind these unfortunate events, but God assures us of His presence when we are in pain.
He has gifted us the capacity to care for one another, and He desires us to be His hands and heart in the world.” It’s perfectly acceptable to acknowledge that certain aspects of life remain beyond our comprehension. Faith isn’t about possessing all the answers; it’s about trusting even when we lack them. Reassuring a child that they are not alone in their emotions and that both God and the people around them love and support them can provide immense comfort. Blessings and peace.