Do Actions Have Consequences?
October 2024
As human beings, we frequently judge the lives others lead. If someone lives a life of love and generosity and kindness, we celebrate when something good or wonderful happens to them. On the other hand, if we see someone who has been selfish, unkind, unethical, or immoral end up in disgrace or failure, we find ourselves approving of the person’s downfall.
We commonly use the term “Karma” to mean that each person's good or bad actions or words will have consequences in the future. There is a sense each person will ultimately deserve a reward or retribution for their actions. Many of us accept this as an unwritten rule of life.
When I was in High School there was a gang of young hoodlums who committed many crimes. Two of them, Bobby and his good friend Ziggy, ended up in a car accident caused by driving too fast and both boys died. Most of my classmates and I were not surprised and thought the kids had brought it on themselves.
A few years ago I met someone, a single immigrant, who had faithfully and lovingly taken care of an elderly woman for many years. As her employer grew more frail, the caregiver moved into her home to care for her and remained with her until she passed away. She was completely surprised when she was left a sizable gift. She had no idea what to do with it. I was asked to recommend a trustworthy banker to her. All who knew her celebrated her good fortune.
In society we have similar sayings expressing Karma: What goes around comes around. Poetic justice. Paying the piper. They had what was coming to them. Actions will have consequences. You get back what you put in. People get what they deserve.
The scriptures weigh in on this topic, but add a new dimension to the conversation. Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will they also reap. (Galatians 6:7 ESV) or Whoever seeks good finds favor, but evil comes to one who searches for it. (Proverbs 11:27)
Possibly, we are not the best ones to judge how Karma works. While we may be deceived by what we see, God is not. He alone sees the actions of the heart. If we are quick to point out that others are reaping what they have sown, the same could be applied to us. Instead, let us be mindful that the opposite of retribution is forgiveness and mercy.
Ultimately, to offer mercy requires spiritual influence and it is probably best for us to offer to others what we have experienced and received from a loving and merciful God. Just maybe, truly understanding how Karma works is above our pay grade.
Blessings,
Tom