1. Exactly what could be on sale at Wal-Mart that is so necessary to one's needs or wants that breaking through a glass door, jumping over a barricade, and mindlessly stepping on a body to obtain it was acceptable behavior? Was it an IPOD? An IPHONE? A Flatscreen? A Surround-sound system? The latest DVD? What could have been the enticement that turned this crowd into a frenzied mob? Why were they so worried that all of the goods would be gone before they got one or two or three of them? At the heart of why humans turn into mobs like this over materials is materialism that is fed by idolatry, greed, covetousness, and the craving to satisfy one's self with something. This mob represents individuals who are empty in soul and seeking to fill that void with stuff. They are so eager to be satisfied by things they willingly become violent to do so, and these things, whatever they may be, will never satisfy! (BTW - hear ye, hear ye, all believers - when we crave the latest "thing" we look empty like the world!)

2. The family of the victim is suing Wal-Mart for not having enough safety measures and security in place! Now let me say clearly: I cannot imagine the anger and pain this family must feel! I have no idea what it means to walk in their shoes, and my heart goes out to them. This is a terrible, nonsensical tragedy. However, is it really justice this family is after? Is Wal-Mart really accountable for the actions of their shoppers? NO! If justice is to be done, the people who trampled this innocent employee should be imprisoned! Compensation from Wal-Mart, no matter how much it may be, will not take away the pain or prevent this from happening again. Think about it. To keep this from happening next Black Friday, we would have to call out the National Guard in every city! To do what? To keep us from acting like wild animals! With compassion in my heart, I believe this family is basically seeking the same as was the mob - satisfaction through material gain. Money will not satisfy the pain and questions!

My analysis then is this: This horrific event points to a spiritual need that can only be solved by a relationship with God through the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He who fills all things is the only One who can fill the empty heart and bring ultimate, complete satisfaction! And joy! And eternal life! And every other spiritual blessing!