As on previous and recent threads the discussion about Job reveals that God is in control of everything, every abortion, every accident, every bad thing that can happen to us and we know that in all things we are more than conquerors through Christ.

The real tragedy revealed here is not the death of Maria, but the realization that so many will be lost and thereby forfeit the free gift of God's reconciliation, forgiveness, and love that is NOW available simply by accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Want to be a world changer? Accept the Jesus that stands at the door and knocks, even this moment.

Yes, the Chapman's know for a fact that they will see their beloved Maria again.

For this miracle we praise God.

Hi Laura! It's a shame nobody else will see your post before it gets obliterated. :(

Jill,

I believe that the Chapman's will be on LKL tomorrow evening.

One of the saddest stories of the year.

very sad. I disagree with HisMan. I think the real tragedy here is the dealth of Maria. The idea that "not accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior" is worse than that is deeply offensive.

Hal, I guess from your perspective it might seem that way.

However, for Christians the death of a saint is ultimately a happy occasion because that person is with God.

Now, of course, the people left behind on Earth will mourn. But, there is hope beyond death for those who profess Christ, and that is indeed joyful.

That said, I can not imagine the pain the family is going through. To me the most tragic part is that the older brother was the one who killed the daughter. I don't think I could ever get over something like that, even knowing what I know about God.

It was indeed a tragic situation, but it is even more tragic when someone dies having rejected Christ.

JLM, you're right, thanks!

very sad. I disagree with HisMan. I think the real tragedy here is the dealth of Maria. The idea that "not accepting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior" is worse than that is deeply offensive.

Posted by: Hal at August 6, 2008 6:30 PM

Be offended the Hal, because it's the truth. To me Hal, the temporary separation due to the death of a loved one is certainly saddening. For a non-believer who thinks this is all there is I can understand what you're saying. I am sure that the Chapmans have expreienced horrific pain. However, they know they will see their Maria again and in that find comfort.

What's worse, losing someone for a short time due to physical death or losing them forever, due to spiritual death?

Hal, if you don't accept Christ and your daughters and wife eventually do, the pain you feel for this story will be felt throughout eternity. And that would be truly offensive, eternally offensive and unresolvable. The solution is to all be in heaven together. You're the father Hal, it's now in your hands.

HisMan, once you reallize that 20 other religions could make the same argument to me, you'll see that none of this nonsense holds much persuasive power. It's as easy for me to dismiss Jesus as it is for you to dismiss Hinduism. I can do it in an instant, with no second thoughts. You can too, right?

So believe what you want to believe. It might even be good for you. I just had to object to what seemed to me as a minimization of the loss of this young girl. However, I do understand you've got a different view. (You're probably offended by my views on abortion).

Hal, you seem to think that we are all just Christians by default and haven't actually investigated other religions.

Perhaps for some people this is true, but I know I went through a period of "searching" where I looked outside Christianity for "truth".

The great thing is, if you are truely seeking God, he will revel Himself to you. So, yes, I can dismiss Hinduism because I've looked there for God, and didn't find Him. However, I don't just flippantly reject other religions as you seem to be suggesting.

Okay, Lauren. Fair enough.

I'm so glad the Chapmans were able to find the strength to speak about what happened.
I totally understand what Mary Beth was saying...she just wants her little girl back, and it is just beyond human understanding to think that others will be helped and reached because such a tragedy occurred. It doesn't seem "fair." And it doesn't seem right.

I look forward to the day when I leave this fallen world behind and cling to the arms of my Savior, whose grace has carried me every day of my life.

God bless the Chapmans.

Oh man I wish I had been around to hear Laura's comment.

I think there is an afterlife. I think I might have seen ghosts before. Once when I was in the old wing of the nursing home where I visit my friends in I was walking past a deserted room and I saw this elderly woman who looked like she was wearing nuns clothing walking across the room then disappearing into the walls.

Here are beautiful pictures of the Chapman family:

http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/08/06/gallery.lkl.chapman/index.html

I am so sorry for your loss. God bless you all.

Precious pictures of precious girls. Thank you, Janet.

Jill,
Lately I just come here and have a good cry. God catches every tear.

Precious pictures of precious girls. Thank you, Janet.

Posted by: Carla at August 7, 2008 3:34 PM

You are welcome. They are such an awesome family. I truly wish them well.

An aside - I'm re-reading Fr. Pavone's book "Ending Abortion" for a little inspiration and reinvigoration. I almost started crying at the orthodontist's office today. There are so many great ideas in his book - in short chapters for a quick read.

This presidential election has been a distraction in my opinion for us Pro-life "warriors" (as Fr. Pavone calls us). I'm looking forward to when it's over. We still need to pray for our future president, that's for sure!!!

God bless you Carla, and thanks for all you do for LIFE!