Shreveport Shooting

Eight children ranging in age from 3 to 11 are dead after being shot in Shreveport, Louisiana by a 31-year-old man who was father to seven of the children. Two women—the suspect’s wife and girlfriend—were also shot but survived. The suspect was pursued by law enforcement and eventually shot and killed, as well. An investigation is ongoing, but authorities say the shootings were a “domestic incident.”

Analysis and eternal perspective: This is one of the more difficult stories to read and consider. To be frank, it is stories like this one combined with the body of research that suggests our brains were created for small tight-knit communities that cause me to conclude that each of us should be carefully monitoring—and restricting—the amount of “news” we consume.

The reality is that extremely difficult news has long been happening on a daily basis. But only recently have you been able to be aware of nearly all of it nearly instantly. The result is not only a deluge of heavy stimuli to your brain but also an entire industry that profits from searching out the very worst stories to keep you engaged and coming back for more. It is a recipe for disaster and there is a better way for you as a Jesus follower.

Choose the true.

Choose the noble.

Choose the beautiful.

These encouragements from Philippians 4:8 are a reminder that you are responsible for your focus. When a story like this makes its way into your awareness, you should absolutely hit your knees and pray. God, pour out your mercy and healing on this hurting family and community. Surround them with your unfailing love!

You should also pay close attention to what is local to you. If you are in the Shreveport community, you should search out ways to support your neighbors in their time of need.

If you are not from Shreveport, there still may be ways to help, but even more crucial, let this be a reminder to be aware of those living right around you. Although you have access to stories from every corner of the globe, don’t be overwhelmed and distracted from the ones playing out on your street.

As you pray for the hurting in Shreveport, commit anew to the daily renewing of your mind (Rom. 12:2) and make intentional decisions about the portfolio of news you consume. These proactive measures will help you heed both the greatest commandment to love God with everything you have and the second greatest commandment to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Matt. 22:37-39).