Friday, June 17, 2016

Is it sinful to step back and let something happen?

Last week we heard of the tragic news of a mass shooting in a night club in Orlando. Our hearts weep for the families of all those affected. Not only did fifty people die leaving behind loving families, but the tragedy has left countless others who either survived or witnessed the shooting. This week's "Ask Father" question has a deep connection not only to the shooting in Orlando, but addresses every time we find ourselves in a position of “doing something” or “letting something” happen.

In the days and weeks after such a tragedy many will ask themselves, “Why didn’t I do something sooner?” We have heard reports of some who knew directly of the plans for the shooting, and others who knew the perpetrator but did not take action to interfere. Still others attempted to be involved to no avail.

The truth is, the question of whether or not to intervene is an ancient dilemma for Christians. One very famous opportunity to “do something” was when Pontius Pilate washed his hands ceremonially in an attempt to remove his guilt in the crucifixion of Our Lord. He continues to be associated with that event to this very day, and we often find ourselves washing OUR hands of getting involved to help others or to stop a tragedy. It may be an ancient dilemma, but that doesn’t mean the answer can’t help us for today.

Stay tuned for this week's "Ask Father" Sermon....

No comments: