We just observed the 25th Anniversary of the events that happened on 9-11-2001. Seeing all of the images and hearing all of the stories again stirs up memories and deep emotions for those who are old enough to remember that day. It was one of the most tragic days our country has ever faced.
The reactions to the terrorist attack on that fateful day were varied. Some were noble and inspiring. Unfortunately, others were not so good.
One warning was made in the aftermath that might have been lost on many of us. A warning that would be good to remember: “evil in this world begets more evil.”
Evil is self-perpetuating and we see it every day. In sharp contrast, Paul wrote to the Romans, “Overcome evil with good.” This is contrary to our human nature when evil is done to us. The human instinct is to respond with evil. The result is that evil triumphs. If we respond to the terrorist attacks with evil, the terrorists win. But the Gospel tells us to respond to evil with good.
A few days after 9/11, Chuck Colson told a powerful story of this principle embodied in a Catholic priest from Poland — Father Popieluszko….
In the early 1980s of communist Poland, this pale, gaunt priest had a twofold message: defend the truth and overcome evil with good. People responded and overflowed his church. The secret police followed him everywhere. He began to receive threats. And finally, one night after celebrating mass and preaching, the Father disappeared. About 10 days later, as 50,000 people came to mass to listen to a tape of his last sermon, they heard that his body had been found in the Vistula River, badly mutilated by torture.
The secret police braced for an uprising. But on the day of the Father’s funeral, the huge crowd that walked past their headquarters bore a banner and shouted what it said: “We forgive, we forgive!” He taught them well.
Only Christians, men, and women who are touched by and understand the present reality of the Cross, can possibly overcome evil with good. And if we don’t, rage and anger will carry the day and the terrorists will have won.
This doesn’t obviate the government’s use of the sword or a military force to swiftly and proportionately respond to those terrorist attacks. But do we respond in anger? This is a great test for us. Can we live by the Gospel?
On the 25th anniversary of 9-11, this story of Father Popieluszko is one to remember. It can inspire us to do the same in our everyday lives. Will we love our neighbors…even those who might do evil to us?
Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. – Romans 12:21
Do you have something you would like to share with our membership to spiritually edify and encourage living out our faith in practice? Email Bryan@cosw.org and let us know!
