Monday Memory Moment

Today marks the 10th Anniversary of the Columbine Massacre. I was in a Sociology class in the UCC when someone walked in a told us there was a high school shooting the the process. I later recall watching further news of the event with another girl on the hall. We were both shocked at the events. There are many who may wonder how or why God allows such terrible things to happen. The best explanation I know of is in the Book of Mormon, Alma 14:9-13

9 And it came to pass that they took Alma and Amulek, and carried them forth to the place of martyrdom, that they might witness the destruction of [whosoever believed or had been taught to believe in the word of God]were consumed by fire. 10 And when Amulek saw the pains of the women and children who were consuming in the fire, he also was pained; and he said unto Alma: How can we witness this awful scene? Therefore let us stretch forth our hands, and exercise the power of God which is in us, and save them from the flames. 11 But Alma said unto him: The Spirit constraineth me that I must not stretch forth mine hand; for behold the Lord receiveth them up unto himself, in glory; and he doth suffer that they may do this thing, or that the people may do this thing unto them, according to the hardness of their hearts, that the judgments which he shall exercise upon them in his wrath may be just; and the blood of the innocent shall stand as a witness against them, yea, and cry mightily against them at the last day. 12 Now Amulek said unto Alma: Behold, perhaps they will burn us also. 13 And Alma said: Be it according to the will of the Lord. But, behold, our work is not finished; therefore they burn us not.

As we look at the events that happened we may focus on the devastation. We may also look on the number of children who were saved because the destruction was not as complete as the boys had intended. From what I understand the situations the boys were able to follow through with all of their plans. However, not all the bombs went off, and therefore lives were spared. We can also look at how many have chosen to learn from the event and strive to make the world a better place. Last fall I went to a "Rachel's Challenge" Assembly and was greatly impressed with the goods works coming forth from a life which was cut short. She was a girl who only wanted to do good and bless lives. I invite you to visit the website for Rachel's Challenge.