Got Him!
So we finally got our man. It took ten years and two different presidents but Usama Bin Laden is dead.
I must admit, however, that it felt strange for me to watch Americans celebrating in the streets all because we had managed to kill a man. I’m rather used to seeing that sort of thing broadcast from other countries. But this time the people looked just like me and lived just down the street. I was not comfortable as it was described as a wonderful day and a great victory.
Now don’t get me wrong. I am fully in favor of the government bearing the sword as Paul describes in Romans 13:1-7. It is clear that one of the prime responsibilities that God has given to those who govern is to see that evil is held accountable.
But here’s the rub… I am a follower of Jesus first and then an American. As a follower of Jesus I have been instructed to love my enemies and pray for those who persecute me. That’s Matthew 5:44. Romans 12:17 instructs me as a follower of Jesus to leave the matter of vengeance up to Him. Verse 21 of that same chapter tells me that my response to evil is to overcome it with good.
My heart remains heavy as it appears that 5 more people entered eternity without Jesus. Just doesn’t make me feeling like celebrating…
