One of the hardest things about responding to tragedy, whether as a parent or in your own life, is recognizing that life will never be void of it. No matter how hard I try to shelter my children from sadness, evil, or the broken state of things, it is a reality that none of us can avoid. Jesus knew the reality of this suffering well and talked about it often. Contrary to what you may see or hear from many preachers, Jesus does not falsely promise that we will not have suffering or pain in this world. In fact, he guarantees that we will. “In this world you will have tribulation, but take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NIV)
As Christians, we have a framework for confronting the harder conversations in life that include the recognition of sin and brokenness in our world. Some tragedies are a result of sin. I am often at a loss for words for why racism continues to exist in our world other than sin. While there is a vast history of racism in our country that needs to be confronted and dismantled, ultimately it is the pride, sinfulness, and sometimes pure evil that exists. Other times, even when sin isn't the direct cause, death and sadness abound simply because we live in a fallen world. This cannot be brushed over, or avoided. It’s this very depravity and tragic state that gives us the NEED for a savior. Without sin in the world, without this broken state of things, Christ would not have needed to die on the cross. As such, recognizing the hurt and sadness is an essential part of a Gospel worldview. In fact, an entire book was written on lamenting as is much of Psalms. The hard moments are painful. They will tear your heart apart, and many nights they will keep you wide awake in sorrow. Without brokenness though, the cross is not needed.
Be bold in confronting the sin that exists. Mourn loudly the injustices and tragedies of the world. Ultimately, for the Christian, this leads to our hope that Jesus has come, and has died and risen for our sins, so that even though we will experience the unimaginable in life, we can find Joy in the hope of salvation and for the promise of eternity.