Without Hope

I wasn’t planning to write today, but I came across a story that brought me to a stop. It is the saddest, most horrific thing I have seen. Possibly in my life. The story is so sad, my heart breaks for total strangers. The events took place in California. A man and his wife were apparently let go from their jobs after filing a union grievance. As the parents of 5 young children and owners of a home, they felt hopeless and destitute. They apparently planned a murder/suicide as a “final escape” for their family. The story is heartbreaking.

If only they had known God’s promises to supply all of their needs. If only someone had realized they were in need of help and reached out to this young family. In Jeremiah 29:11, it says: “For I know the plans I have for you,” says the Lord. “They are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” NLT (YouVersion)

While I can’t understand why parents allow their own despair to cause them to kill their own children, I imagine their hearts must have been so heavy. If only they could have reached out to someone. Was no one willing to help this desperate family? Perhaps even a caring counselor could have helped.

I do hope this will make each one of us pay more attention to others instead of being obsessed with our own problems. We never know what hopelessness will do to someone. Without knowing the entire saga, I can only wonder and speculate… Please join me in praying for the survivors of this tragedy.

And my God will supply all of your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:19 NASB)