Without Sin

 

Published 08/15/07

 

Are there different “grades” of sin?  Should some “sins” be judged more harshly when their consequences are more severe?

 

My definition of a “sin” is any act whose consequences are inconsistent with the promotion and support of life.  In that sense, acts such as lying, theft, and burglary, in general, and murder, rape and assault in particular, should all be judged (but not necessarily punished) equally.

 

While it’s true that the sin of murder has far greater immediate consequences than that of theft or lying, such acts are committed by very few people and so have a limited impact on the overall human situation.

 

“Small” sins, on the other hand, are committed by BILLIONS of people.  Consequently, can it not be said that, taken together, such sins produce an equally negative impact on humanity?

 

These thoughts occurred to me as I read the details of the events at the Harrison County Jail which culminated in the killing of Jessie Lee Williams III.  I’ve heard several people voice angry, judgmental condemnation toward those charged with the crimes.  Such feelings are only natural.  

 

However, if we all acknowledge that we’re capable of harming others (however slightly), must we not then acknowledge that, given different, perhaps unforeseen circumstances, our sin may result in terrible consequences as well?  And if we acknowledge THAT, can we, with just hearts, hate or revile those who stand accused of such terrible crimes?

 

Those who have admitted to, or who are eventually convicted of committing the alleged crimes at the Harrison County Jail should be punished in direct proportion to the magnitude of their crimes.  However, we should mete out that punishment with regret and compassion for all those involved, both the perpetrators as well as the victims.

 

“Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.”  (John, chapter 8)