Edmund Burke, eighteenth century philosopher often credited with the beginnings of modern conservatism, said, “all that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing. “
Shaken by recent world developments, I found my reservoirs of creative energy empty when this week’s blog loomed. The reports of violence against children, the threat of a militant group determined to destroy Middle Eastern democracy, and the ongoing needling of Israel by its neighbors all hovered like a cloud of hurricane proportions. What could I possibly write to make a difference in the face of such evil?
Then someone asked, “Why doesn’t God speak anymore?”
The question jumpstarted my thinking. I knew the answer.
God did speak. Eloquently. He sent his only son Jesus to the earth to live among men and teach them about God’s kingdom. He watched those same men accuse his Son of blasphemy and send him to the cross at Calvary. Then our loving heavenly Father stood back while his Son bled to death. An earthquake shook the ground at his passing. The holy veil in the Jewish temple was torn in two. Three days later Christ rose from the tomb. After forty days spending time with those who believed in Him, Jesus ascended into heaven with more than five hundred witnesses marveling at His transformation.
God had spoken. What more was there to say?
The choice is now ours to make—for the person who has spent their life warming a church pew to the man for whom the name Jesus is nothing more than a swear word. We can examine the claims Jesus made while he lived among us. We can explore his horrific death. We can look at how he changed history.
Acts 16:31 says, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you shall be saved.” Evil may torment us, destroy parts of our world. It may encroach upon our freedom—even our lives. But evil cannot separate us from the love of God if we place our trust and eternal future in Jesus’ care. He promises to walk with us through our challenges.
John 14:27 reads, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Heaven awaits. God is in control.
Evil—you will not triumph.