“Let him who is without sin cast the first stone”
Let me begin by acknowledging that I realize this will be an unpopular post today. But I just felt the need to share some initial thoughts upon hearing of Osama Bin Laden’s demise, and the resulting reaction by everyone from co-workers to the mass media.
Upon hearing of the news, my first reaction was “it’s about time”. We’ve been chasing this guy long enough, and he certainly was the mastermind behind many evil deeds.
But the more I heard and saw the reactions and comments of people in general, the more I began to notice a trend-absolute nationalistic fervor and vitriol toward everyone not American. Here’s where I will get in trouble. Yes, he was an evil man. Family members of his victims are calling this justice, and no doubt it probably is. But I feel like the Spirit is impressing upon me one thing over and over: but for the grace of God through Christ, I am capable of the same horrific acts; worse even. And besides that, our God is a holy God, so holy in fact that the impure thought you or I had 10 minutes ago is just as much an abomination before him as murder. This is not me speaking this truth, it is God’s Word.
So what am I to do with this prodding? I am just thankful that the Lord will, in due time, exact vengeance on all enemies of the cross, in whatever form they take, and that by His matchless grace I am not among those. But it does not change the fact that I deserve to be.
But for the grace of God through Christ …… me too, brother, me too!
Thanks Michael! It’s an unpopular opinion but I happen to share it. How much joy can I take in it, how much can I celebrate before I am reminded that God’s grace saves me from my own awfulness every day?
I think that all true believers (at least after some reflection) would have to agree. “But for the grace of God, there go I.” It is sad to see a life so wasted on evil and wicked deeds done by a man made in the image of a holy God.