Good Can Come From Tragedy

Regardless of anyone's opinion on the death penalty (and sincere Christians worldwide are divided on the issue), a beautiful thing happened during the 16 June 2011 execution of Eddie Duval Powell at the prison in Atmore, Alabama (USA).  Duval was executed for the brutal 1995 rape, sodomy, and murder of seventy-year-old Mattie Wesson during a home robbery.

Duval died by lethal injection, holding the prison chaplain’s hand.  Before the execution, he was described as talkative and calm.

Executions in Alabama may be observed by the victim's family and by the family of the person being executed.  Before the procedure began, Duval turned his head toward the observation room and said, "I would like to say I'm sorry for all the pain I've caused to my family and the victim's family. I've made peace with myself and God and hope everyone can move on from this situation." 

"While nothing can ever replace our Mother, Mother-in-law, Grandmother or Aunt, or replace the times we've missed, we take comfort in knowing that justice has been served in this case.  We would like to offer our condolences to the family of Mr. Powell. We truly understand the grief they are experiencing. It is our prayer that Mr. Powell has found forgiveness from our Lord Jesus and that he will spend eternity in Heaven."  The statement was signed by Mrs. Wesson’s sons and their family members.

There are consequences for actions, but even in horrible situations there can be forgiveness and redemption.

“Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:10