Destruction
While humanity is capable of amazing acts of goodness, we are also capable of utter destruction.
From the barbaric spectacles of the Roman Colosseum all the way up to war crimes and atrocities from our lifetime, there are countless examples of inconceivable evils committed by man.
At the same time, reading about this kind of destruction only gets us so far. As Americans, we typically don’t experience stuff like this. While the evils we face may not be physical destruction, we are certainly living through a time when the human person is under attack. And, this is equally, if not more, destructive.
What can we take away from all of this?
While it shouldn’t be a reason to despair, we must remember that evil exists — it’s undeniable.
But, in the face of such evil, goodness becomes more solidified. Seeing evil allows us to more clearly see goodness. Our duty then is to flock to the good. Bolster it, uphold it.
It’s also a chance for us to learn to love our enemies, and to pray for them. This is a very challenging thing to do, but a task Christ Himself calls us to nonetheless.
Finally, we must remember that none of us are without sin. But, as followers of Christ, we are promised the unbelievable gift of forgiveness, provided that we repent.
The only thing that can stand in the way of God’s mercy is our own pride.