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I know this is a very sensitive topic that many readers will react to with anger, or at least denial, but recent video footage of some of the US Capitol mob praying in the Senate chamber, at the same time that other people outside were praying for peace, prompts me to write it.
For me, a huge question for those who believe in a God directly involved in human affairs is this: Who among us human animals is entitled to speak and act on God’s behalf? Many people claim that entitlement, but they convey very conflicting messages. Theologians of various persuasions claim expertise in answering that question, but they too disagree.
I know that presuming to speak and act on God’s behalf has led to many acts of love and compassion as well as much cruelty and violence, but how can those who believe in a loving God be so sure they are right and that those who believe in a vengeful God are wrong? And, especially, how can any human justify a claim to be enacting justice or vengeance on God’s behalf?
