So the news is out: Osama bin Laden is confirmed dead. The man behind the devastating destruction of September 11, 2001 has been killed. Emotions are running high across the world and in my heart right now.
As an American, former soldier and the wife of a solder I am thankful the man has finally paid a price for the devastation he caused. I am thankful that 9 years ago we had a president who went after him with a vengeance even though we just now saw the payoff of those decisions. I am thankful for and proud of the thousands of soldiers, marines, airmen, and navy personnel who have fought this fight. I am saddened by the loss of life we as a country have experienced and feel somewhat vindicated that the man ultimately responsible has paid.
As a follower of Christ I know that the bible teaches that, "...He is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." (2 Peter 3:9) also the Proverbs tell us, "Do not gloat when your enemy falls; when they stumble, do not let your heart rejoice." (Proverbs 24:17). Jesus tells us that we are to bless our enemies (Matthew 5:44) and that we are to forgive, "seven times seventy. (Mathew 18:22).
The bible also teaches that, "... the wicked are ensnared by the work of their hands." (Psalm 9:16) and "When justice is done, it brings joy to the righteous but terror to evildoers." (Proverbs 21:15). Jesus also spoke to the Pharisees in Matthew 23:23 saying that they, "...have neglected the more important matters of the law—justice, mercy and faithfulness. You should have practiced the latter, without neglecting the former." It seems in a brief (I understand this isn't in-depth) look the bible speaks of forgiving our enemies as well as the fact that there is a time and place for evildoers to be brought to justice.
My heart is saddened by a soul lost to the TRUE enemy (and the thousands, perhaps millions who have been gained by the enemy through him); my heart is gladdened by the fact that one so evil has been brought down.
To slightly paraphrase what a friend said, "All of our actions have consequences. Sometimes those consequences are a lecture, slap on the wrist, or prison sentence; sometimes those consequences are center mass."
Sounds like you're feeling about the same way I am...good job on the writting!
ReplyDelete