Cruelty In The LA Fires

The LA fires were and still are a tragedy. But I noticed an even bigger tragedy: the insensitivity displayed by some individuals towards the victims of this disaster. This insensitivity can manifest in various ways, highlighting a lack of empathy and understanding for those suffering. Here are a few key aspects of this troubling behavior:

1. Minimization of Suffering

I saw Some people downplaying the severity of the situation on social media, suggesting that the victims deserved what happened to them. Some people said they knew the risks of moving to the area. All of these opinions, without acknowledging the emotional and psychological toll this traumatic incident took on the people who lost everything, are very disheartening.

2. Blame and Judgment

In the aftermath of the fires, the victims, local government officials, and firefighters were blamed for their circumstances, with comments suggesting that they should have been better prepared or more vigilant. While this claim may be valid in some instances, this kind of judgment fails to recognize how unpredictable natural disasters and tragedies are. And it is being insensitive to the people affected by this tragedy.

4. Insensitive Comments

Social media and public forums were the worst. Many people posted insensitive remarks, where individuals made inappropriate jokes or comments about the disaster. Such behavior not only disrespects the victims but also trivializes their experiences.

We Have to Do Better

Those of us who have been saved and live with Jesus in our hearts should not be making light, fun, or demising comments about people going through tragedies. It's called judging when we do. We all have and will go through challenges. Hopefully, not to the extent of the LA Fires. There are several passages of scriptures we should govern ourselves by when making opinions about the LA Fires and other events that seem not to affect us. Here's a few of them:

Matthew 7:1-3 (NKJV)

“Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. 3 And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye?

Psalms 34:18 (NKJV)

The LORD is near to those who have a broken heart,

And saves such as have a contrite spirit.

Galatians 6:2 (NKJV)

Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.

James 2:15-16 (NLT)

Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?

We should pray for everybody, regardless of their social, economic, and racial status. Jesus loves everyone and so should we.

Prayer: Father. Thank you for being so kind and loving that you gave us your only Son Jesus to die for our sins. Thank you for the tender mercies and compassions you renew every morning. We honor you and pray you will send the needed help to people in LA. It is not our call to say what someone deserves. I remember what Jesus told His disciples after they asked what a blind man did to cause him to be blind. Jesus told them the man didn't do anything, and his parents didn't do anything. He was blind from birth so that you could be glorified. Please forgive those who displayed cruelty in the LA fires. Knowing you are close to those suffering, we seek your glory in this tragedy. In the name of Jesus. Amen.