Bad things happen—even to good people. Wildfires, hurricanes, plane crashes, mass murders, and acts of violence cause untold damage to countless lives every year, often in irreversible ways. In such moments, the burning question, “Where is God when bad things happen to us?” can make us restless and uncertain. One of the most painful tragedies in history was the Holocaust, perpetrated by Adolf Hitler. In the face of such horror, one might ask, “Where was God when Hitler was killing innocent men, women, and children?” Similarly, in today’s world, one might wonder, “Why does God not intervene to stop an aggressor?”
God created us with the freedom to think, create, act, and relate to one another. This freedom grants us the capacity to choose love or hatred, to build or destroy, to heal or hurt. God does not stop us from making these choices, because doing so would deny our humanity. But even with this understanding, the question persists: “Where is God when bad things happen to good people?”
Rabbi Harold Kushner offers insight, suggesting that in moments of suffering and tragedy, God is on the side of the victim. God is the victim. Hurting an innocent person is, in a sense, hurting God. God does not cause evil, nor does God take pleasure in the suffering humans endure due to the actions of evil individuals or groups. Kushner argues that to justify horrors like the Holocaust as part of some greater good or as a means of purifying souls is to side with the aggressor and perpetuate the evil and horror itself.
Evil, inhuman acts, and suffering are not part of God's will. When bad things happen, God is with us—God is in us. God is love, and as beings created in God's image, we are called to live with love and kindness, to stand with the victims. We have the freedom and capacity to become like Adolf Hitler or like Mother Teresa. We have the power to either perpetuate harm or to bring healing.
Notes
Kushner H. S. (1981). When bad things happen to good people (p. 91). Anchor Books.
Very well said. God incarnates and becomes the victim.
ReplyDeleteGeorge
We are born into an unfair world. Ever Since Adam and evil committed sin they along with the earth is under the curse. Since God is an ever loving God doesn't not perpetuate anything evil on the mankind or on any creations. It's the work of the evil spirit. Satan was even dared to challenge Jesus Christ and tried to tempt him as he has authority on this earth. Hope, I have made it clear for every one to understand.
ReplyDeleteGod is the victim,', is a beautiful conclusion.God was the victim, on the cross too Let anyone not put the blame on God for man's sins
ReplyDeleteA very simple and summarized response to a burning question which everyone has and is asked during suffering. The only answer which is true always “GOD IS WITH US” .
ReplyDeleteLord is always Love, He wants you to finish your run with Love. May the Lord bless us to proclaim,
ReplyDelete2 Timothy 4:7-8. Let Thy Will Be Done.
Mother Teresa is a good example of love. God is in us 🙏
ReplyDeleteFact needs to understand.
ReplyDeleteThank you John for this timely article that reminds us of our responsibility to be good and kind to others and stop blaming God for the evil acts of some of us।
ReplyDeleteThank you for this article. Needed to hear this! Bless you!!
ReplyDeleteThank you Fray
ReplyDelete