I remember when evil in the form of two bombs interrupted the annual running of the Boston Marathon. Three died, including an 8 year old boy. Many others were injured, some losing limbs.
Why do horror stories like this happen?
What causes people to carry out such atrocities?
Experts in every field will offer various explanations.
It’s the Bible that gives the real answer.
Sin.
Sin is the problem in the world.
Before the flood, mankind was in the full grip of sin. Sin had taken humanity to its lowest place. Moses described the situation: “The Lord saw how great man’s wickedness on the earth had become and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was only evil all the time” (Genesis 6:5).
The world today is traveling toward that same destination. Sin is leading the way.
The bombing in Boston was an act of rebellion against God. It was built on the foundation of sin, carried out under the control of sin, and resulted in the consequence of sin.
What is the answer? Is there a solution? Can these atrocities be stopped?
Yes.
Jesus is the answer. He is the solution. He will end these atrocities.
* Through His death, He frees sinners from the penalty of sin.
* Through His resurrected life, He frees those spiritually dead from the power of sin.
* Through His return He will free the world from the presence of sin.
* All things will be made right.
Until then, these acts of rebellion will carry forward. Horror stories will continue to dominate the news.
Even so, sin is not the main story line in this world. God’s work through Jesus Christ to save people from their sins is.
We participate in that story. God uses us to tell others of His love and kindness. God uses us to rescue people from the control of sin.
The world needs Jesus. The world needs us. Let’s enter the fray.
