Editorial: The Best Medicine for Terror

Editorial by Jose H. Cortés, New Jersey Conference president

We are living in difficult times. It seems as if our civilization is falling apart because of terrorism, abuse and hatred. It is shocking to watch the news, as apparently harmless people—men, young women, sometimes children or elders—detonate themselves with explosives, killing and injuring dozens of people they do not even know! Can it get any crazier?

If we look at the other side, we see that our sophisticated society is plagued with abuses and violations: child abuse, elder abuse, domestic violence, racial hatred, prejudice and discrimination. Even politicians are lowered to dirty diatribes, verbal and physical attacks. Where are we going to stop?

If we, as believers and truly civilized people, want to make a difference—and I think all of us want that—the best way is to dedicate ourselves to doing works of compassion. If we have not already done so, we should begin to help the weakest, to share what we have with those in need. They may be in need of the basics such as food, clothes, water or, in many cases, they are lonely or hungry for love, friendship, a smile or a hug.

Today is the day to begin. The best medicine against terror, fear, hate and abuse is showing compassion toward people. Jesus practiced it amid a barbaric era, and thus, He opened doors for hope, love and unification. "When He saw the crowds, He had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd" (Matt. 9:36, NIV).