Hate What is Evil

Romans 12:9

9 Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.

I wrote this days after September 11, 2001. Images are seared into my mind of two huge towers toppling about 100 minutes after the initial attack with too many missing and too few found alive. How can I write about my faith, that aspect of who I am that is supposed to permeate every part of my living on this earth, and not address the horror and sadness I feel at this point?

This verse tells us to hate what is evil. Many of our national leaders are called this tragedy an evil act. We were told that these men who planned and carried out these attacks were/are evil. Should I hate these men or what they stand for? Should I live in fear that the next attack might target where I am? Were these attacks on America from people who are jealous about our standard of living? Were these attacks on our nation because we allow freedom of expression and do not condone an authoritarian government - at least one for the people of the United States? I certainly cannot think of a reason that would justify the slaughter of individuals.

I too often do not "hate" what is evil. I find that by simply drifting and not expressing concern for the evil acts I see around me I can live an easier, safer life. Why else would I not hate: "all-you-can-eat-restaurants" when so many people go to bed hungry at night; a tobacco industry that profits from people's addictions and slow deaths; those who destroy the ozone layer; those who abuse children. If I hated these issues that much, I am sure I would be actively involved in removing the establishments that allow these evil acts and working to make sure they are not repeated. Hating injustice helps create a better world....

A Faithful Response: Write a letter to your congressperson about a community issue you believe should be changed.