Do not be conquered by evil but conquer evil with good (Romans 12:21)

The thematic take-away from the recent visit of Pope Francis to USA and Cuba is that we should diligently exercise God’s greatest commandment, Love. We do this by being the bearers of good spirit in good works. This is a tall order given the worldly news which vividly remind us of the worse of this immoral world and leaves many of us fearful of everything and everyone. Yet, we are called to not be afraid of those who may kill the body but to be afraid of the one who kills the spirit (Matthews 10:28). As we listen and look at media that proclaim these times of terror and horrific criminal acts; we are softly killing our spirit and our ability to love our neighbor and one another. Our faith that good conquers evil is diminished with every report of evil. Therefore, we attempt to irradiate evil in our belief that it is right to revenge the avenger by taking a life for a life (Leviticus 24:17—21). It seems a logical consequence and is based on Leviticus Old Testament stance which provides that evil should be returned when evil is received. This philosophy does not follow Christ’s greatest commandment of Love rather it opens the door to perpetuation of evil acts. The entitlement of retribution is delivered under the right of principalities to administer penalties for crimes against citizens of the State. Therefore, the State can proclaim the right to execute penalties for particular crimes. The State does this, NOT as a stance on morality but to provide retribution; vengeance for victims; deterrence from future crime; and prevent recidivism. Why is it not working? What is the price of justice?

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