Freedom?

My heart is distressed. Last night, the President of the United States appeared live on national television to announce that Osama bin Laden had finally been found and killed by members of the Navy Seals. The coverage since then has been largely focused on that event and the reaction of Americans. There was celebrating in the streets and at national monuments. People cheered that bin Laden had been killed. At a gathering in NYC's Twin Towers site, one person celebrated by playing "Amazing Grace" on the bagpipes. My friends on Facebook were equally vocal in their reaction to the news. Many of my Christian friends (even a few who consider themselves leaders in the Christian community) celebrated that bin Laden got what he deserved -- Hell.

Is this what Jesus would do? Would the savior (who died so we might have life and have it abundantly) be happy that we are rejoicing in the death of another human being? Would Jesus be happy that a song with the lyrics "Amazing Grace.....that saved a wretch like me?" is being used to celebrate someone's eternal suffering and separation from God? Really? We're really going to use "Amazing Grace" to celebrate someone going to Hell? Is that why Christ died?

Is it okay to be glad the world is rid of Osama bin Laden? I don't know. That's not my job to decide. Do I think it's okay for Christians -- who are supposed to look like Jesus in their words and actions -- to celebrate bin Laden's death? Well I think we've lost sight in who the true Enemy is. The true Enemy deceived bin Laden into his wrong religious beliefs and now he is paying the price for all of eternity. The true Enemy wants to deceive you, too....so be careful to make sure your response is from the heart of Jesus.