Why?

The age old question most non-Christians—and even a large portion of Christians—ask, “How can God allow man’s depravity to run rampant throughout this world?”

It’s a fair question, although one that will never be understood…at least for humankind as we know it. Perhaps we will understand things with more clarity once the veil of man’s sin is lifted after His second coming, or perhaps not. Abiding with our Savior for all eternity in heaven may allow us that insight…perhaps knowing the answer to that question won’t even be relevant. Truth is, we’re not omniscient and our faith must pick up where the unanswered questions leave off.

I bring up this subject, in part, due to recent events centered around a troubled man and ex-coach at Penn State. It’s unfortunately nothing new within the world’s history…but it certainly brings up again my original question: “Why?”

As I read through the grand jury’s twenty-three page report I cried. It affected me, angered me, triggered sympathetic pains deep within me. Through the accounts of eight victims we discover very troubling, inappropriate actions from a man of prominence and respect. Although they are only allegations at this point…I do know the effects of these kinds of actions and it brings me great sorrow. I don’t want to focus on him, per se, but it certainly exemplifies my point.

Of course God can change the course of all creation in an instant. He sees mankind’s sin and debauchery and weeps like many of us do. His desires should not be in question. His true desire is that His creation accept Him by a free-will choice. With that free-will comes the repercussions of many bad and devious choices. Choices that make people do unspeakable atrocities towards others…yes, even children. My heart breaks even more viscerally when evil is done to the young and innocent.

It stirs up for me some very ambivalent feelings about this world. I realize my commission to speak God’s truth to all who will listen; yet sometimes I long for the Great Judgment to just come now and relieve us from having to watch and endure all the sin that surrounds us. I speculate God is getting very ready for this as well.

The simple truth is that God’s timing is His timing…and we don’t know when that is. Sure, we can make calculations and deductive hypotheses based on Biblical writings…but we really don’t know and God makes it clear that we won’t know. I do know that I can continue to pray—pray with all my heart for the protection of innocent people as well as pray for the divine intervention to keep violators at bay. I can pray these things because I have the confidence that God truly does listen and respond to our prayers when made in sincere faith.

Writing this at the end of 2011 may not be the most joyful way to share the holidays…but I write what is on my heart. Holidays often mask the truths around us and this season I am not ashamed to embrace the reality that among all the shopping and eating and singing…there is still a very needy world around us that requires a lot of prayer.

I pray each person reading this will join me in seeking, not so much answers from God...but His grace that can—and needs to—pour out over this world.

Greg Morton
© December 1, 2011

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