But there's more to the story. Since the offense was governmental and the damage monumental, years of court battles finally resulted in the Willises and their lawyers receiving $100 million from the state of Illinois. The Willises used their share to fund a family philanthropy they started, the Khesed Foundation -- "khesed" is the Hebrew word for mercy. Their charity will save or transform lives.
There's more. Janet Willis wrote and illustrated a lovely book, "A Dad's Delight," that movingly tells of an episode involving baseball, mercy and one son who died, Hank. His name and those of his other brothers and sisters, living and dead, are on a scorecard-like dedication page. The three surviving, older children have fruitfully multiplied, giving Scott and Janet Willis 25 grandchildren.
These recent chapters of the story, like the last chapter of the biblical book of Job, do not compensate for the death of children and the anguish that will never fully depart. But there's a lesson about mankind: In the Willises' words, "corruption has consequences; in this case they were severe." And a lesson about God: "We live with a God-promised hope in Jesus Christ."
Marvin Olasky
Marvin Olasky is editor-in-chief of the national news magazine World. For additional commentary by Marvin Olasky, visit www.worldmag.com.
Be the first to read Marvin Olasky's column.
Sign up today and receive Townhall.com delivered each morning to your inbox.