A few days ago, I theorized in this space that violent behavior stems from our beliefs about what God is and what God does. If we believe ancient stories that tell us that God solves problems by killing people, we’re more likely to view violence as a logical and acceptable way to solve our problems.
Within 24 hours of posting that essay, a Kirkwood, Missouri man left home saying, “To God be the glory!” Moments later, he shot six and killed five people that, he believed, were causing him a problem.
These horrific murders caused me to examine my theory more closely. What I found was scientific evidence that I might be on the right track. I posted those findings in today’s edition of The Daily Voice, where I serve as the spirituality editor.