Forgiveness? or 'an eye for an eye?...

Every now and then, I take time out with a work colleague to share, read a bible passage and a devotional, then pray. Lately, there have been so many sad shootings that have happened in our nation, in America and wars between countries.

So what can we do about it? But pray. We often underestimate the power of prayer and sometimes even forget that it is a powerful weapon against evil.

Last week, with the shooting of Charlie Kirk, a Christian and political figure whom I had known nothing about until the day he was shot. It was sad to reflect that someone could take the life of another just because they disagreed with their ideas, philosophies, etc.

But then again, that's how wars begin, with people's ideologies in wanting to have power over others. I'm definitely not a history buff, but it's sobering to know that the death penalty could come into effect for the alleged killer of Charlie Kirk.

"An eye for an eye" is an old biblical understanding, but in the New Testament, Jesus preached forgiveness, which is not an easy thing to do. It will be interesting to see how this plays out in the court of the state of Utah, which still has the death penalty, with the whole world watching, but especially sad for his widow, children and family.

The international news has shown how polarising his passing has been, particularly in America, but also in other countries, across the political and religious spectrums. Some were mourning and gathering for nighttime vigils, demonstrations, and walks of support, while others were celebrating, and some even lost their jobs as a result. 

I've also heard of revivals and large church attendance that fills churches to overflowing in some states of America and overseas. I remember how, similarly, in Christchurch, New Zealand, some years ago, a shooter entered a mosque and took the lives of innocent people. He is still in jail, and I remember hearing that the bill for his stay in prison would have easily been taken care of had we had the death penalty.

I often pray to let there be light in the darkest reaches where evil lurks and is willing to kill, steal and destroy in overpowering the vulnerable and the weak. Who abuse and take the lives of innocent children, women, those with disabilities and the elderly, etc. 

We are not helpless, and we do not need to despair, as we do have the power of prayer and can trust in a living God who has our backs and is delighted to welcome us to heaven. Yes, death is the end of our journey on earth and the beginning of another journey in the afterlife. Do not despair and pray!...