The God whom Christians serve is not a god who delights in evil. In fact, God hates evil with a passion. This is a good thing. The Lord is most certainly the God of grace. But mercy has no meaning unless there is sin. God’s justice is an extension of his mercy. In today’s psalm, the psalmist laments the evil of the world and finds solace in the righteousness of God. In a world where rapists get a slap on the wrist, terrorists are found all around the globe, and politicians run amok with people’s approval, I am more than glad that God does not contend with evil and that I can find refuge in him from all the massive crud of the world.
Notice the pervasiveness of evil: “For there is no sincerity in their mouth; their heart is corrupt. Their throat is an open grave; on their tongue are subtle lies.” It is not a stretch to say that we have an egregious situation in the two leading political candidates in America; they could well be characterized by this description from the psalmist. It is even more lamentable that far too many church members have mouth, heart, throat, and tongue issues that damage the Body of Christ.
What to do about it? Rely on the justice and mercy of God. “Declare them guilty, God; make them fall by their own devices. Drive them out for their many sins; for they have rebelled against you.” Trust in not just a nice idea; committed belief in God is absolutely necessary for life, spiritual health, and peace in this fallen world. We can all do our part by living a humble penitent life, attuned to the holy God who will not put up with evil forever.
Just God, you know the hearts and tongues of every person on planet earth. Holy God, either save them by grace or take them away so that righteousness might dwell in every corner of your creation. Amen.
Rev. Tim Ehrhardt 