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From Season 4 Episode 1 of Murdoch Mysteries

I am a big fan of mysteries — both reading mystery books and watching mysteries on television.

One of my favourites to watch is Murdoch Mysteries. I really like that it is set in Toronto, Ontario, Canada — the country where I was born and only 2 hours west of where I currently live.

I admit that I’ve binged watched the series on Netflix more than once.

In Season 4, Episode 1 called, “All Tattered and Torn” a man was about to be tried for killing the three men who had raped and murdered a woman, Harriott King.

In response to knowing that he faced the hangman’s noose he said, “Now I’m right with God and Harriott King.”

As a viewer, I admit I felt some satisfaction with his response. Yes, they deserved it. Yes, it’s justified. Yes, he’s right with Harriott King.

But is he right with God?

No.

God does not condone murder no matter how justified it may seem.

As a matter of fact, it is included in the 10 commandments.

You shall not murder(Exodus 20:13 NIV).

But Jesus takes it even further by saying that you shouldn’t even wish someone else dead.

“You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’ But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca, is answerable to the court (Matthew 5 :21, NIV).

It is not up to us to avenge injustice. It is up to God.

And although we may think He doesn’t notice the evil or isn’t going to do anything, He does and He will.

We will never be right with God by enacting revenge on anyone. We must trust that God will take care of it; in His way and in His time.

Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord (Romans 12:19 NIV).