God is patient

Tim Beamer (“Where is God?” Feb. 17) asked good questions that basically boil down to, “If God exists, why is there evil in the world? Where is God?”

To answer these, we have to ask more questions: “When someone like ISIS or Boko Haram kills someone, would it be good for God to immediately strike them dead? Or if the crime is less, should God intervene and give some sort of punishment?” Justice is good, but love and mercy are greater.

Jewish and Christian Scriptures say, “Do I have any pleasure in the death of the wicked,” declares the Lord God, “rather than that he should turn from his ways and live?” – Ezekiel 18:23. Christian Scriptures further state, “The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance.” – 2 Peter 3:9

Where is God? He is here showing men a better way than being wicked; giving them a chance to change. Love cannot exist without free will. He cannot force them, otherwise it would not be love. There will be a time for judgment, but in the meantime God is patient.

William Schara

Spokane