Justice (Romans 12:19)

"Justice had been done."

These are the words President Obama used when announcing the death of Osama bin Laden at the hands of U.S. forces. Indeed they are correct. Few would, or should dispute that bin Laden received what he deserved. Across our nation, even around the world, people are celebrating the death of one who took so many lives. It does not bring back those who were lost. It isn't the end of fear, hatred or evil, but many describe a feeling of closure or relief. A sense that somehow, scales have been balanced; life is fair . . . whatever that means.

There exists no justification for the acts of 9/11, so in writing further, I mean no disrespect for the memories of those murdered. I applaud the brave actions of the U.S. military in the war against al Qaeda. Judgement of crime by governments and communities is necessary for benefit of society as a whole.

So . . . what about justice? Justice is a concept we reserve for "them". I'm sure you know who "they" are. "They" are the ones who injure us, or those like us. "They" are the ones who stand in the way of our goals, the things we want. "They" are the ones who oppose our ideas, beliefs and philosophies. Sometimes we call it revenge or karma, but when we are speaking of others getting the punishment they deserve, we mean justice.

It is not a term often applied in the first person. Listen. Often, you might hear I deserve . . . a raise, a break, a new car, an Amazon Kindle Wi-Fi or Nook Color (for both personal enjoyment and professional enhancement they are priced quite reasonably now and . . . ). Rarely do we hear, "I deserve to be judged and punished." When we hurt others, it is an accident or mistake. For ourselves, we apply mercy and grace, not justice.

We all have crimes. Cruel words we wish we could take back. Lies that have broken trust. Selfish moments where we, having plenty, have refused giving up luxury so others can have necessity. We are guilty of action and inaction. We prefer mercy, but what do we deserve?