There are so many thoughts swirling around my head and heart right now as I soak in this historic news.
I consider myself to have a very healthy and appropriate level of patriotism and thus am very excited about this American victory. I remember very distinctly being in my first period class in high school the morning of September 11th and watching the news unfold throughout the day. Being 18 at the time, I remember the uncertainty of a looming war in conversations with my friends at the lunch table for weeks after, wondering if a draft would be calling upon us.
It is with that context that I celebrate with my fellow countrymen. This is a great victory for those of us that watched the events unfold before our eyes-one I rejoice in for justice sake.
On the other hand, I am very torn.
I feel I cannot rejoice in the death of an individual that did not have a relationship with Jesus Christ. While a great instrument of terror is now gone, another soul is forever separated from the presence of God's glory and grace. This saddens me greatly.
I do not aim to be "holier than thou" on this matter and claim that I am not happy that we do not have to fear Bin Laden any longer. Nor do I appreciate the sacrifice the men and women in our military have given any less. Instead, I am in a solemn state where I look to God for guidance as to how to handle such immense things. He is the author of creation, life, king and kingdoms. In that, I take ultimate refuge.
On a history note:
This is BIG!
On a political note:
I'd like to remind you that it was not Bush, setting these events in motion, not Obama, giving the final order, that made this happen. It was the brave, fighting men that carried out the operation-fighting on the front lines for years now-that made this possible. Ultimate credit is due to them-not political constituents. (Please keep in mind that politics is one of my least favorite subjects in this world-I do not associate with any major political party)
As the days and news around this progress, I will expound my thoughts and maybe write some more of them down. Until then...USA! USA! USA!
-peace
