It is hard to know what to do with evil people in life. Does one take a Machiavellian approach and kill them (metaphorically of course!)? Is constructing a defensive barrier the right answer? Can one safely ignore them?
When I consider the question, Life always brings up images of evil people that I have met over the years. In the worst of the worst, I do not remember anything redeeming about them. Each was a schemer, looking out for her/himself, a user and abuser of everyone nearby. Every story that I was aware of was ugly to the core. If I single anyone of them out, a description that fits would use old words; “Every time he goes to bed, he fathers another evil plot. When he’s loose on the streets, nobody’s safe. He plays with fire and doesn’t care who gets burned.” (Psalm 36.4)
The fact that these individuals exist and often thrive is a harsh reality of the world that we live in. We cannot change this. Denying that it exists will not help. I do not think ignoring the situation is a viable answer.
In wrestling with the question of response, I am not a believer is being judge and jury. There is far more about another’s life that I do not know than what I do. Leaving judgment to Divinity is an act of kindness I think everyone is called to embrace.
Even as I give God the larger issue of judgment, I am left with the question of my response. Smart compassion is an ideal that I find myself reaching for. While not succeeding every time, I find that being protective is only half the answer. You and I are called to make a positive difference. In every situation there is at least one action I can take, starting with lifting the evil one towards God in the hope that there will be a miracle.
Protecting one’s self while being intentional in action with compassionate requires patience, trust, and a willingness to let go. Each an element I need today.
