What Changed?

We hear of a horrific shooting in Minnesota where once again, a person with a gun tries to kill as many children as possible. There was a time, in my lifetime, when we didn’t hear of people doing such awful things. Kids in the country used to be able to bring their hunting rifles to school, leaving them on the rack in their pickup truck with unlocked doors. There are voices that cry out for more gun control, but outside of confiscating guns, most laws still wouldn’t change the outcome. There is a mental health problem. Are people mentally different today than they were years ago? I don’t think so, although I suppose their definitely could be something in the processed food, over-medication , and the like. I don’t think that is the full answer. I believe the three biggest factors are the nuclear family, a fundamental belief in God, and effective discipline. I know that many good people end up in broken families because of the lack of commitment and the ease of divorce. It is not just the laws though. The church needs to be more involved in helping families that are struggling, counselors need to be taught how to encourage couples to stay together, and families and friends need to help the couples navigate the struggles. God says He hates divorce. Discipline is a lost understanding. The Bible also says, “Spare the rod and spoil the child”. Physical and other forms of discipline should never be administered in anger. That is abuse, however, the correction does need to direct the child in the way that he should go. If the child doesn’t get it, it is not effective. For one child it might be a stern look and for another one, a spanking may be necessary. The schools used to be a big part of that discipline, but now when schools notify the parents, the parents often get a failing grade for their lack of correction. Faith is the biggest issue at hand. When we have nothing to believe in, our minds are easily misled or we make worldly choices... both usually have negative outcomes. When life becomes expendable (abortion, assisted suicide, euthanasia, and graphic video violence/games), it will translate into more death. God changes us from within. He also gives us strength. Father, soften the hearts of the people, removing hatred and replacing it with a deep desire to know You more. Amen