The British press is often filled with stories on the theme of justice; those who deserve it, those who have escaped it, and those making money off of it. Right now the focus seems to be on the part of the cycle where several have escaped their just dues while others are trying to cover up their failings in bringing the truth to light. I don’t know that things are any better or worse than days past; I do believe that the role of justice is our life has never been more confused.
In the course of going through the day many civil laws are broken. The most common one is speeding. I am easily as guilty as are many others on the road. There are clearly worse offenders however that does not have any bearing on the role justice plays. In England people riding the trains without tickets are rampant. They span all ages, economic groups, and other traditional demographic parameters. Everywhere I travel people talk of bending the rules. Some stories are humorous, only because I do not have a weakness in that particular area. Others are incredibly sad, your heart cries out because of the price those involved in the relationships pay.
The fact is that black and white “justice makes no sense to the evil minded; those who seek GOD know it inside and out.” (Proverbs 28.5) For most the clear sight of their souls in a mirror is one they cannot bear to really look at or reflect on. In my experience those who are seekers of the Divine are not only willing, but actually take the time to seriously reflect on what they find – good and bad.
It is in these moments of insight that I understand how awesome, beautiful, and wonderful God is. He knows us even better than we know ourselves. He hates evil even more than we will ever be able to reject the “I” syndrome. He also loves each passionately, unconditionally, and without limits. He offers us something mysterious in lieu of justice – mercy. Thank God.
