Enemy Mine
Is it possible to live peaceably with everyone?
Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord. Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer. Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are. Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all. If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” No, “if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads.” Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. - Romans 12:9-21
Paul says we should leave the punishment to God and instead, treat those who are evil with kindness.
It surprises them, he tells us. Does he think it will change their minds or change their ways?
We have an experiment taking place in large cities across the country that may give us the answer.
It appears that failure to prosecute crime only results in more crime. What would Paul say about that?
In New York, violent crimes are up 34% over last year, and in San Francisco, that number is 37%. Would Paul say that we should leave the work of punishing these criminals to God and instead feed them, comfort them and love them?
That is going to be hard to do.
No matter how loving we try to be, there are people who will continue to take advantage of a system that fails to prosecute and punish.
Paul was not always for leniency and love of enemy. He was one who persecuted the early Christians, so maybe his position is partially influenced by guilt.
It is true that Jesus told us to love our enemies, and I agree, but sometimes it is more loving to stop someone from harming others while we find ways to help the troubled soul, or possessed individual.
The question, I guess, is what is evil and what is good.
I don't think that letting criminals roam the streets is a good idea, and it may just be evil, especially in the eyes of those who become their victims.
More to come...