I don’t usually give credence to the personification of evil, or even its existence, because acknowledging something gives it power. But I see how it is truly being given life by the US administration these days. Over and over again, governmental officials and their allies are making choices that seem evil to me, especially when it comes to harming the innocent. And those choices give evil power in this world.
Evil was a very present and potent reality in the Bible. Jesus spoke of it often. He also told his followers not to resist evildoers, and Paul aligned himself with that perspective in his letter to the Romans (which I shared in last week’s post). We seem to have forgotten this in our rush to proclaim that we should force the world and its leaders to conform to what we think is best.
This is not to say that we should be passive. Just a few verses before Paul tells us not to resist governing authorities, he exhorts: “Let love be genuine; hate what is evil; hold fast to what is good” and “Do not repay anyone evil for evil.”
What, then, are we to do? Paul says, “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.” Our job is to counter that evil energy, over and over and over. Love your neighbor. Love the stranger in your midst. Love even those who intend evil by their actions. (And yes, I know this can seem impossible.)
This also means we must vote for what will be best for the entire community and nation, not just our tribe or faction. Ballots for the general election were sent out in Arizona last week for those, like me, who vote by mail. Around the country, people are preparing to vote for or against those in power who are acting in evil ways.
The time is now to resist evil through the power of our voices and our actions—in support of a democratic process. Loving neighbors and strangers must include voting for what will benefit the powerless, not just what will keep us “safe” or “secure.” It is that type of tribalism which has landed us in this mess. We must vote out of faith, not fear, and support others in doing the same.
How will you resist evil, in this election season and beyond? What can you do to give love more power than hate and fear in this polarizing time?
My first thought was pray for wisdom. I’m so skeptical and cynical about almost anyone in politics right now. It’s very hard to discern who has that greater good in mind – and heart; whose quest for office is really driven by pure motives. My ballot has been sitting on my desk for a week. I know it’s time to decide and the burden of that seems more intense than I ever recall. So much at stake.
Oh, Joyce, I hear you. It is difficult to see beyond the cultivated surfaces shown us in the political realm. And unfortunately, people can be corrupted by the powerful influences in Washington, DC too. Perhaps it does become a question of prayer discernment and making the best possible choice given our admittedly limited sources of information…blessings on your faithful living through of that process.
Peace,
Shirin
I was taught and believe evil is an absence of good, maybe and a distance from God. With that definition I see an absence of empathy, an absence of humility, an absence of compassion, and absence of generosity. In other words an abundance of greed, selfishness, delusion and grandiosity. This Fall and always I want to restore goodness, kindness, and thoughtfulness for all. I will take my power to the ballot and vote.
Thank you, Melissa, for these thoughtful and wise adjectives to guide our discernment. I’m glad to join you in restoring thoughtful goodness and kindness in our body politic—and thank you for exercising your power!
Peace,
Shirin
It may be that some little root of the sacred tree still lives. Nourish it then, that it may leaf and bloom and fill with singing birds.
—BLACK ELK
Thank you, Mo, this is a lovely reminder!
Peace,
Shirin
Vote from faith rather than fear💜🙏
Yes, Anne, thank you! A great reminder.
Peace,
Shirin