God Casts No Shadow...

"Dear God, why don't You do something about evil?"...

This hypothetical prayer may have passed many lips this past week in the wake of the Newtown massacre. It probably came from believers and unbelievers alike striving to cope with the seemingly random act of violence against kindergartner children. "Dear God..."

The book of James reminds us, as does the whole Bible, that God does not ignore evil and in fact has already done something. He encourages his readers by saying,...

"Don't be deceived, my dearly loved brothers. Every generous act and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights; with Him there is no variation or shadow cast by turning. By His own choice, He gave us a new birth by the message of truth so that we would be the firstfruits of His creatures." (James 1:16-18)

I take comfort in knowing that every generous act and every perfect gift is from above. I don't have to understand or even have the question of "why" answered as to a particularly horrific event like Newtown. I can rest that no matter what evil may come, it is not from God. He is the author of good and perfect gifts. 

James goes on to describe God as, "the Father of lights" and "with Him there is no variation or shadow cast by turning." 

There is nothing sinful in our hearts or conduct or in this world that can be ascribed to God. He is light. In Him is the light of men. He is perfect. He casts no shadow no matter which way we view Him from. He is always good. He is perfect knowledge, purity and happiness. To ascribe evil or our evil actions to God is pure blasphemy. He is God. Period.

So when we ask the question of God, "why this evil?", He reminds us in His Word that it is a result of our choice, our rejection of His perfect plan and way. When we ask Him, "why don't You do something about it", He answers, "I have. I gave My One and Only Son, Jesus." 

"Jesus" is the answer to goodness, evil, present struggles and future glory. He is, after all, the Alpha and Omega.

"Dear God, why don't You do something about evil?"

"I did, my child. I sent my Son Jesus..."

Merry Christmas!