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Friday, June 3, 2011

Riley Choate had a name








The other day I heard one of the most grusome stories that I have heard in a long time.
I read the story, and I wanted to cry. I've heard stories like this, but I wanted to cry for this young boy.


His name was Riley Choate. He was 13 years old. He lived with his dad and stepmother. He was abused. They kept him locked in a cage. They literally treated him like an abused dog. He was kept in diapers. He was kicked in the head until he died. His dad buried him with a Bible on his chest.




When I first heard Riley's story, I wanted to cry so badly. I couldn't cry at first. I think, as a nation, we hear so so many stories about abuse and torture that our hearts become hardened. It's sad how nothing seemingly surprises me anymore.


Later in the day, it hit me like a stack of bricks. I could see the helplessness and desperation. I could see such a darkness. Such despair. I broke down. I cried for quite a while. But I wanted to cry. I needed to cry for Riley. Riley deserves people to cry for him.

Riley Choate, I am so sorry for what happened to you.. I wish the nation and the world would shed a tear for you. Although you didn't make it in this life, I pray that Jesus takes you into His arms in the next.


I wish I could give you a decent funeral, Riley Choate..I know that your family didn't care about you...but there are people out there that would have loved you and treated you with the dignity you deserved. I wish I could give you a thousand yellow roses. Or whatever flower was your favorite. I'll ask Jesus to give them to you in Heaven...
I am sad, Riley Choate. But I will pray for your family because, now that you are with Jesus, that is what you would want.
I love you, Riley...
http://www.suntimes.com/news/crime/5294165-418/dad-stepmom-charged-in-murder-of-boy-found-under-concrete-slab.html

Where are the abused children? What can we do for them? I know there are places like temporary homes and shelters in cities and communities across the globe.
It's time to reach out and spread the light. Do it for Jesus. Do it for kids like Riley.


Riley Chaote has a name. His name means "valiant" or "courageous." I guess one would have to be courageous to endure such hardship and abuse. God Bless you, little Riley...

May you rest in the arms of your Maker

2 comments:

  1. God warns us in his word that we will punished when we deliberately hurt children...He is with Jesus in heaven at this very moment and has no recollection of the horror that he received on earth. So don't mourn for him, pray for the mercy of his abusers.

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