The terrible massacre in Aurora Colorado is a reminder, if any were needed, of how precious and fragile life is. What could be more average than going to the cinema to watch a new blockbuster? What could seem more ordinary, everyday, safe? Is there anyone who can't imagine the absolute ubiquity of the taking of seats, the smell of fresh pop-corn, the rustle of plastic or the chatty excitement of a crowd gathered before the lights dim?

Which makes this grim and premeditated execution of completely innocent people all the worse. While the major news outlets unpack the broad details of the attack, the stats and the political handwringing of elected officials, the lives of folks damaged or touched by events goes on. No-one but the families and friends of those killed or injured can testify to the pain, grief and disbelief that such violent and unpredictable loss is engendering. Now and for years to come.

I know that this time will test the faith of many in a loving God who is acting in the world and in our lives. One cannot see a purpose or a plan in senseless murder. It is simply beyond our comprehension. I will pray for those who are mourning, whose loss is beyond words, whose pain is seemingly beyond healing. I know that God hears prayer and is with those who are suffering. And I know that He loves us unfailingly.

Life seems a curious ocean of peaks and troughs at the moment. The times I am happiest or most confident coincide almost exactly with the times when I am in the company of others, whether it be at work, or choir or church. The times I am least happy are when I am alone or have experiences that bring to mind the recent past, what I seem to have lost, or those which cast the future in a dimmer light. Fortunately the latter are becoming less frequent with the passing of time. On the other hand, the veneer of confidence is just that, easily exposed by people or events that are often visceral reminders of what really is still quite fresh in my memory and experience.

No we are not at the mercy of random phenomena, nor proverbial corks bobbing on the restless, foaming sea of destiny. It may seem that way to some, even to me at times. I don't need to display a t-shirt with a fatalistic message( though many of my t's have odd inscriptions) and yes, I do see meaning in my life. Sometimes hitting rock bottom is the only way of seeing the way up and that has been my experience. In which journey I have a merciful, loving God to thank.