The tragedy at Columbine High School in Littleton,
Colorado continues to profoundly impact our nation.
One story stemming from the mascare involves the
first student that was killed - Cassie Bernall.
Cassie was 17 years old. At one time she was
involved with the group that plotted and carried out
the killings, but she rebelled against her parents and
was headed for big time trouble. Her father, Brad
Bernall, stated on national tv that he and his wife
confronted Cassie with tough love. They could not
set idly by and allow their daughter to destroy
herself. They took away her cherished privileges and
refused to accept her involvement with certain
people. When Cassie knew that her parents would not
compromise their position, she began to develop other
relationships. It was through these new relationships
that Cassie became a Christian and returned to the
authority of her parents.
As the executioner held a gun to her head on April
20th, he asked her if she believed in God. Witnesses
said she hesitated because she knew a "yes" answer
would surely mean her death. Clearly and forcifully
she said, "yes". Immediately, the gunman pulled the
trigger.
At her funeral, her father, handed out a letter
saying neither his daughters bravery nor her
religious devotion surprised him. He stated, "her
life was centered around our Lord Jesus. It was
(because of) her strong faith in God and his promise
of eternal life that she made her stand."
Two things stand out in my mind as I ponder the brief
life of Cassie Bernall. First, she had the great
privilege of having parents who set boundaries for
her and enforced them. They were willing to risk
loosing her affection by being responsible parents.
Second, her family and friends must be very proud of
her. The courageous way she died and the powerful
witness of her faith surely must bring a great deal
of comfort to them. She only lived 17 years, but I
am convinced her testimony will inspire millions of
people and point many to a loving relationship with a
living Lord that is more precious than life itself!
