The phrase “thoughts and prayers” should be permanently struck from our vocabulary. Any sincere sympathy it once had has been soiled by cynical politicians and others who have no intention to help.
“Thoughts and prayers” is less than the least thing anyone can do. A thought? What kind of thought? “Thank God it wasn’t me!” “I hope it doesn’t cost me reelection.” And prayer? You want to pass off your responsibility to God? Doesn’t the Bible say “faith without works is dead?”
“Thoughts and prayers” has become something people utter when they know they’re supposed to feel bad, but they don’t really give a damn.
If you’re one of those people, spare us your “thoughts and prayers,” as well as “God has a plan” and “they are in the better place.” Don’t say anything at all. Get out of the way and let those of us who actually do care go out and do something.