By David Faust
The prosecuting attorney approached the bench with a confident stride. He had done his homework. Eager for the trial to begin, he came armed with a long list of grievances against the defendant.
It was time for opening statements. The prosecutor paused for dramatic effect and then began. “This trial will be an unusual one because, Your Honor, the one on trial today . . . is you!”
A murmur filled the crowded courtroom. The Judge himself was on trial? Who dared to bring charges against the court’s presiding officer?
Questions for God
The prosecutor began to state his case.
“Your Honor, the charges against you are many, and they are not new. Indeed, the complaints I raise today have been voiced by numerous accusers throughout history.
“Why do you allow evil? Why do innocent victims suffer sickness and death? Why don’t you prevent accidents? If you are good and all-powerful, why do you allow violent crimes and child abuse? What about tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis, earthquakes, famines, droughts, and wildfires? Why are babies born to face lifelong deprivation? What about cancer and Alzheimer’s? Why do you bewilder us by saying yes to certain prayers and no to others?
“With all due respect, Your Honor, some of us consider your requirements narrow and demanding.” Holding up a leather-bound volume, the prosecutor continued, “I enter this Bible into evidence as Exhibit A. Are you aware of all the critics who dispute the contents of this book? Why are your followers often so divided and so disagreeable? Their actions contradict this book’s teachings! And what about the many individuals who have no exposure to this book? Is it fair for you to judge them?
“To be frank, Your Honor, these are just a few of the accusations brought against you. As the trial continues, I shall raise many more.”
Questions from God
Breathlessly the crowd awaited the Judge’s opening statement. How would he defend himself against these charges?
“Many of your questions are addressed in Exhibit A,” the Judge said solemnly. “But now I will ask a few questions of my own.
“Were you there when I created the universe out of nothing? Can you explain how I did that? If you struggle to explain stars and seas, snow and ice, donkeys and ostriches, how will you comprehend profound mysteries of the soul? You complain about evil, but without me as a reference point, how can you be sure what is good?
“I welcome honest inquirers and earnest seekers,” the Judge continued. “If I shied away from scrutiny, I wouldn’t have sent my Son to earth for 33 years. He confirmed my existence, revealed my grace, and experienced all the temptations common to mankind.
“If you’re serious about your cross examination, have you examined the cross where Jesus died? I haven’t overlooked your suffering; I identified with it. I understand suffering more than you can possibly imagine. I confronted the problem of evil head-on when nails pierced my Son’s hands and feet, and after the cross, I pierced the darkness with resurrection hope. Have you pondered how Jesus’ death and resurrection can remove your own fear of standing trial in my courtroom?
“I care about your questions. But you won’t find the answers by merely repeating your list of grievances. Look closer. Dig deeper. Examine the cross.”
Personal Challenge: If you could speak with God face-to-face, what would you ask him? Talk about that question with a trusted Christian friend or discuss it with an unbelieving friend who may wonder about the same issue.
Author: David Faust
David Faust serves as the Associate Minister at East 91st Street Christian Church in Indianapolis, Indiana.
