June 9

Proverbs 22-24
Solomon advises his son to steer away from revenge.  This is very counter to modern thought.  Movies, television shows, books, all promote revenge.  The old saying, “Don’t get mad, just get even” is the common mantra.  Yet, when revenge is exacted nothing is accomplished.  One is left feeling empty, instead of fulfilled.  There isn’t anything to be gained.  When Osama Bin Laden was killed, many rejoiced in the immediate aftermath.  However, it didn’t take long before most of us realized that we had gained nothing.  His death didn’t bring back the nearly 3,000 souls who lost their lives on 9/11.  Revenge wasn’t sweet, it was just final.  The terrorists are still out there.  They still want to kill the American “infidels.”  Instead of revenge, Bin Laden’s death should be viewed as justice – nothing more, nothing less.  When justice is done, something has been accomplished, and we can feel good about it.  Some might say I’m splitting hairs, but motive is everything when it comes to guilt.  I have no guilt when being a party to justice.  However, when I seek revenge, I am as guilty as the party I am exacting vengeance from.