It was tragic. Recently we were all horror-stricken to hear that a gunman was shooting people on an army base. The army base, Fort Hood, is the biggest we have and close to us. Thirteen people died. Thirty were wounded. Families were shattered. Emotions of grief were exhibited by all that heard of it. It was a sad day.

We wonder what would drive a person to do such a thing. Could it be hatred? Perhaps jealousy? Maybe greed? Could it have been because someone’s pride was hurt and this was their way of striking back? Could it have been a little bit of all of these and other things as well? I would suggest to everyone that Satan is alive and active in our world.

I have had people ask when tragedy strikes, “why did God do this? Surely He could have stopped it.” How many times have you ever heard anyone say, “why did Satan do this?” I can’t think of a single time. Many times God gets the blame for Satan’s work. The reason we have sin and evil things in this world is not because of God, but because of Satan.

Jesus said, “You are of your father the devil, and you want to do the desires of your Father. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. Whenever he speaks a lie, he speaks from his own nature; for he is a liar, and the father of lies.” (John 8:44) Jesus described the adversary very well, didn’t he?

Jesus came into this world to show everyone what God the Father is like. He is a compassionate God. He is a God who wants the best for everyone. He is a God of love as demonstrated by His giving of His Son on a cross for all mankind. (John 3:16). Our God cares when people are suffering the loss of their loved ones. He raised a widow’s son (Luke 7:11-16) and Lazarus from his tomb (John 11:1-44). Paul described God as the “God of all comfort.” (2 Cor. 1:3)

Suffering will come. Heartache will ever be with us. And our God will be there to help us through the turmoil of the moment. As we turn to Him He will care and offer strength. What a glorious thought! Someone is not trying to hurt, but help me - Jesus cares. Whatever your problems are today reach out to Him for comfort. He is not far away.