May 1, 2011

May 1, 2011 will be remembered as a day in history that evoked great emotion. It is one of those days in which we will remember where we were when we heard the news. Me? I was brushing my teeth. Steve called to me with these words: "UBL is dead." I put off going to bed, and starting watching the breaking news with Steve. Ironically, we watched while completing a large puzzle of the New York City's famous skyline.

My initial reaction was 98% interest with a smattering of shock. As I watched celebration break out in the streets, I felt discomfort. Did I feel a touch of relief? Yes. Did I ponder thoughts of justice? Yes. Did I wonder about UBL's place in eternity? Yes. Did I lose any sleep last night? No.

This morning I jumped on FB to take in the chatter, and I found myself disturbed. The responses were all over the board from friends whom I greatly respect. There was everything from, "Do you think I like to see wicked people die? says the Sovereign Lord. Of course not! I want them to turn from their wicked ways and live!" Ezekiel 18:23 (NLB)" to "Usama Bin Laden now in hell" to "USA, USA, USA!" As a human, I felt disturbed by my own pleasure in knowing a wicked man is now dead. As a Christian, I felt disturbed by the battle raging within me - questioning how Christ would respond were He a human living here and now on earth. 

We are human, but by the power of Christ in us, there is potential for so much more. It is in these moments, when our humanity is raw, that we have the opportunity to grow and to experience the transformation of Christ. So, what is justice by Godly standards? Does God love UBL any less than me? Is hell God's revenge? Does God take pleasure when wicked people die? Am I any less wicked?

I prayed to hear from God today; to hear from Him regarding a response that is pleasing to Him. Late this afternoon, I read this:

My face is shining upon you, beaming out Peace that transcends understanding. You are surrounded by a sea of problems, but you are face to Face with Me, your Peace. As long as your focus is on Me, you are safe. If you gaze too long at the myriad problems around you, you will sink under the weight of your burdens.... The closer you live to Me, the safer you are. Circumstances around you are undulating, and there are treacherous-looking waves in the distance.... I am always with you, helping you face today's waves (Young, 2004, January 15).

 Young, Sarah (2004). Jesus calling: Enjoying peace in his presence. Kindle Edition: Thomas Nelson.

There is so much on this earth that makes no sense - not the least of which is the battle between good and evil. My faith in God points me to seek Him more than trying to understand the craziness around me. So today, in the midst of conflicting human emotions, I choose to seek God's face, rather than celebrating death, propagating hatred, or enjoying human revenge. Eternity is God's, as is life/death, love, and justice.