Can anyone really wonder at the existance of evil in the world? Fiction writers such as Stephen King are able to take the common events of life and create literary nightmares for his readers. Movies play out the drama of the unsuspecting hero who is drawn into a conflict with evil that sets the theatre on the edge of its seats. Even one of the oldest stories that will be read by high school students across the country is a fantastic account of evil personified. Beowulf is that ancient story of the mortal man against an evil beast who defies taming. No matter how far we move forward in education or philosophy we still struggle with evil.

Last week it was a radio personality who was drawn to use vile terms to describe a women's basketball team. What may be worse is the terms he used are words made popular in music that millions of teens and adults hear each day. And yes, it is true that so many who protested that language also use terms just as vile for those who oppose their viewpoint. The sad thing is those are not the only words thrown around today by people to describle those who aren't like them. Every ethnic or social grouping seems to have its own code to put down in the worst way possible those who are different. Evil doesn't play favorites or know social boundaries. It works equally no matter our standing in the community.

Millions of people stayed glued to the news today over the deaths of at least 33 people on a college campus in Virginia. There is no word for it other than evil. At this point, it seems one solitary person wrecked hundreds if not thousands of lives for reasons unknown. No matter how many security precautions are taken there is always a way for someone to violate those limits to do violence. Evil was planned today to the point that chains were found around doors so victims could not escape. Young men and women who were guilty of nothing other than choosing to seek an education will be laid to rest in these days to come. These are the acts of evil than anger us. These are the acts of evil that seem beyond a human capacity to fathom. But make no mistake about it, this is not the last act of evil we will witness.

Jesus understood the human heart. He knew what lies within the heart since He created it in the beginning. He watched over the centuries from His vantage point how much damage one human could do to another. He then entered the human drama to remind us of the truth that real evil lies in our heart. The warning was that we should be responsible for our actions. The offer was to allow God to change the heart into His image. Even His death portrays just how far man will go to pursue its selfish goals. While Jesus hung on the cross forgiving those around Him there were many calling for more carnage for Him. There is no lasting hope for evil in our world without God's help. There is no possibility for peace in any people except for the peace born of a right relationship with God. Without His presence we are also potential workers of evil among people we know or even love. How many attend church or try to follow Jesus who are suffering the effects of another's evil act? What is so unreal is the source of our healing for evil is the place where its full power is displayed. We must go always to the cross for the elimination of evil. There is no other possible solution for healing. He must take our evil at the cross and exchange it for His grace. May it happen in Virginia. May it happen in your life.

Bro. Trey