Our scripture this morning is Romans 12:17-21.
“Never pay back evil with more evil. Do things in such a way that everyone can see you are honorable. Do all that you can to live in peace with everyone. Dear friends, never take revenge. Leave that to the righteous anger of God. For the Scriptures say, “I will take revenge; I will pay them back,” says the Lord. Instead, “If your enemies are hungry, feed them. If they are thirsty, give them something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals of shame on their heads.” Don’t let evil conquer you, but conquer evil by doing good.”
Paul was never soft on bad behavior. He warned us regarding anger and revenge a number of times. However tempted we are to respond to evil with evil, it is not what God wants. It saddens Him when we don’t treat each other as we should.
I must admit I have struggled with this. I hope I have never been part of evil action. Before I became a pastor, I served in the military for twenty years. Following that I was a Corrections Officer at the County Jail. There were times I was involved in violent actions, although I wasn’t the instigator. I felt I was protecting those who needed it. I can only hope that the Lord sees it the same way.
God calls us to care for one another and love as Jesus did. We must do our best to not let evil enter our thoughts and actions. When we are faced with evil it is important to limit its effect on us and defend others from harm. We are called to respond in ways that show God’s love.
Heavenly Father, we are sorry for the times we don’t love each other as You intend. Help us to be the loving and obedient children we were created to be, sharing the joy of Christ with everyone. Amen.