We know that all things work together for the good in the end. But in the meantime, it seems like the bad news just keeps on coming.

The latest comes courtesy of the FBI, whose data inform us that 2020 saw one of the most dramatic increases in crime our nation has ever witnessed. The number of homicides increased by 23%, the largest increase ever recorded. The homicide rate of 6.5 per 100,000 in 2020 represents a stunning 27% increase, also a record jump. 2020’s numbers do not end with homicide. Carjacking jumped by about 11%, the largest increase in decades. Arson increased by 21%, likely the largest increase since records began. Overall violent crime increased by about 5%.