What a tragic day for Virginia Tech. It was difficult listening to the horrific details as they unfolded on the news. But one constant message was that of ‘caring,’ offered again and again by the news people and politicians, all saying the same thing with varying words and style:

‘You are in our prayers.’

‘Our prayers are with you.’

‘We’ll be praying for you.’

‘I’ll pray for you.’

‘I’ll keep you in my prayers.’

‘Our prayers and thoughts are with you.’

‘Laura and I, and many across this nations are praying . . .’

I heard the promises to pray for them, offered by at least 30 different people, including our President. Were they empty promises? Did God hear from these people? Was God called upon as a reflection of compassion and faith? Or were they empty words, simply said as a cliche for caring. I wonder how many prayers are promised that never get prayed. I wonder what God thinks about such promises?