SUNDAY, August 30
13 Pentecost
Romans 12:21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.
How do we overcome evil with good? First, we have to understand that simple understandings of good and evil don’t hold up well in the real world. We catch “good guys” in “bad” acts and “bad guys” in “good” ones. Once we understand this complexity, the label of “evil” becomes much harder to dole out.
The most helpful definition I’ve heard for evil is the “absence of God.” Before this understanding, I sought rationalizations for people’s behaviors. I tried to overcome evil with logic. Now I see that the way to overcome evil is obvious: I need only announce God’s presence.
God, empty me of that which does not serve you. I am a vessel for your love. Pour me out for your people.
MOVING FORWARD: How will you announce God’s presence in your next difficult moment?
Read the original post at Forward Day by Day.