Dear Church Family and Friends,
Amid the media frenzy that followed the killing of bin Laden, I found myself yearning for something that seemed lacking in the nightly news that I watched. Like Kristen Breitweiser, a widow whose husband was killed on 9-11, I found myself wanting a “somber” response with “deeper, more meaningful reflection.” As a Christian, I especially wanted to read and hear people wrestling with ethical questions from my own faith perspective. I would stress that for me what was really important were the questions and not the conclusions.
Whether it was on Facebook or on radio shows like Smiley and West, when I did encounter ethical reflections, I found myself appreciating the views of people all over the political map so long as they earnestly thought about their values in relation to what happened. Here are just a few of the questions I encountered:
(1) As Christians, are we ethically bound to be against killing anyone? Or, is there a danger in taking an absolute stand in all cases? Are the ethics of an action significantly determined by one’s situation?
(2) Does bin Laden’s death serve or harm the common good? Will it prevent or encourage further violence?
(3) What is justice? Is it revenge and retaliation? Or, is it something else? Do questions of justice apply in this instance? Can there even be justice in relation to a person responsible for so many deaths?
(4) Should we consider whether the ten years of war preceding the killing of bin Laden were worth the cost in lives and money? Or, should this last operation stand on its own merits?
As Christians and as citizens, I feel we have a responsibility to thoughtfully consider these questions. Otherwise, we risk turning our morality over to the autopilot of our gut reactions. I also believe whether and how we answer these questions will inform our nation’s future decision making in the pursuit of peace.
Some may feel they have already been inundated with news and discussion of bin Laden, but if members desire to have a guided group discussion of questions such as the ones I have mentioned, please let me know by phone or by email. I would be happy to arrange a gathering if there is sufficient interest.
In the meantime, I am delighted to give a preliminary announcement for the launching of a book group that I have privately desired over the past several months. This summer Dr. Ed Martin will lead an adult education program entitled “A Taste of Seminary.” The book we will read this summer will serve as an accessible introduction to Christian ethics.
Your brother in Christ,
Pastor Brooks