Have you felt that the world has more than enough evil? If so, you are not the only one. Many people gave up faith because they have seen too much evil in men. Some fall into total despair because evil overwhelms and deprives them of any hope. Some deny God’s existence or his goodness because of his silence. They think if God exists, he will not allow evil to dominate the world. When wars devour so many innocent lives, we doubt where God is. During the time of a pandemic like now, people question why God does not send a cure. Where are his protection and benevolence, people cry out?
We all know well the story of Joseph, a son of Jacob. Perhaps because we learned this story when we were so young, probably most of us do not feel too disturbed about Joseph's brothers. But how would you feel about your siblings if they attempted to hand you over to human traffickers? Unlike other stories of the patriarchs, God does not involve himself in the story of Joseph and his brothers. Did God work here for Joseph and the people of Israel? Or was it Joseph’s overgenerous interpretation to see all his calamities as God’s providential care? Why did not God prevent Joseph’s brothers from selling him? And how did God let Joseph’s brothers go unpunished in the end? Anti-Christian critics may call this story of Joseph euphemization and rationalization of slavery and human trafficking.
Jesus tells us how patient God is with sinners and evildoers in the parable of the wicked tenants. His delay of punishment is a sign of his mercy. Prophets and saints are a sign of his care for mankind. In the end, God sacrifices even his Son for sinners. His silence is a sign of his patience with us.
However, Jesus clearly warns that God’s silence will not continue forever. When we still have time, we want to turn to God.
