Getting Away with Murder

Last week, something happened that made people say ‘she got away with murder.’ Of course, I am referring to the Casey Anthony verdict. In all “fairness,” the jury said there was not enough evidence to “prove” her guilt. Was it unfair? Then last week, another thing happened that strikes the same chord: President Obama said he wants to raise taxes on higher income earners to help reduce the debt. He says the rich are not paying their fair share!  People are saying, “These CEOs are getting away with murder.”

Though I’m fascinated by the political side of both stories, I am more interested in their spiritual nature. “Unfairness” has troubled mankind ever since Cain accused God of unfairly judging his sacrifice. It seems the only way he could ‘get even’ with God was to murder his brother. Centuries later, Jesus told a story about a brother who accused his father of being unfair when his younger brother (AKA, the ‘Prodigal son’) went off to a foreign country and wasted his inheritance, but upon returning found his father’s unconditional love intact. When you read that story, can’t you understand the older son’s feelings?

The reality is life is unfair. Some 'underserving' people have far more than others. And let’s face it—watching people get away with murder is very discouraging. So how do we guard our hearts from this stronghold of bitterness and discouragement? Peter says Jesus left us an example to follow. “He did not retaliate when he was insulted, nor threaten revenge when he suffered. He left his case in the hands of God, who always judges fairly.” (1 Peter 2:22-23 NLT) When life seems unfair, there is only one thing to do—keep your eyes on Jesus, and “think of all the hostility he endured from sinful people; then you won't become weary and give up” (Hebrews 12:3 NLT).