Angels and Evils, Where to?
Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako
An unusual title. However, when we have a look at today’s world, we find it necessary from time to time to discern between the two. This is what I am going to do here.
“Angels” are meant to be, people with a gentle human touch and committed unconditionally to noble principles and good morals, trying to serve all consciously to the best of their ability, seeking rights, freedom and dignity of citizens.
Unfortunately, such people are generally suffering, and been attacked because of their honesty, courage and carefulness. They resort to the law to regain their rights and dignity, but the law become “stranded” when the government is unable to implement it.
This phenomenon is essentially linked to the authority / government, whose success is measured by preserving security, people rights, preventing the spread of corruption and bribery, as well as achieving development and prosperity, rather than comforting powerful people at the expense of justice.
On the other hand, “Evils” are meant to be people with immoral and uncivilized behavior. They may have religion, but they have no faith, since their behavior intersects with faith. They tend to use every possible way to undermine human, spiritual and national constants and values, also override all considerations in order to force their personality, influence to serve their interests (power and money). Whenever they become empowered by money and weapons, they consider themselves above the law! Hence, Intimidating and terrifying others.
As for what lays between both angels and devils is “gray”, which is no less serious, but today’s comparison sheds the light on the general situation we live in our countries.
In the past, the conflict was direct, confined between two or several people or communities, while now a day the situation has worsened as the door is wide open to media especially, social media in all its forms, where rumors and misleading information can be easily spread by “electronic armies” affecting people’s thoughts, decisions and stances. The problem, is that such users are supported by influential parties and have never been held accountable.
Returning to the morality, I confirm that the doors remain unlocked, since the initiative of forgiving is possible, if these people change their behavior, in a way that shows a high degree of trust. Otherwise, the situation may lead to even greater turmoil
Expressing different opinions can no longer be done in a civilized manner, for instance, a so-called Christian Iraqi militia, who is actually a source of worry for Christians, established an affiliated “electronic army” directing several websites to deceive people by publishing countless lies and false facts in order to control Christians’ capabilities, monopolize them, and dominating their future completely. Once, someone criticizes them, they file slander lawsuits against him! Instead of learning the lesson!
I advised this group: to adhere to the rules of the Popular Mobilization Forces; the orders of the Commander-in-Chief of the Army; and not to interfere with Christian affairs, leaving it to Christians, then everyone will respect them.
I consider the conditions and sorrows of Iraqi Christians as the “Way of Cross” believing deep in our hearts that God will protect us, and that evil won’t last, as the “last judgement” day is coming!