Gumshoes Accuse - Gum Chewers Lose

Since 1992, gumshoes (detectives) in Singapore are on the lookout for chewing gum, which is legally banned there. Its possession isn't punished, but importing it reaps a hefty fine and a year in jail.

When the punishment doesn't fit the crime, we regard it as an injustice. Shoplifters' penalties may be severe, while rapists or drug traffickers get slap-on-the-wrist sentences or early paroles. Such human inequities make us blanch with indignation. But it's comforting to know that the Lord's sanctioning is quite different, since "'My thoughts are not your thoughts ' declares the Lord" (Is 55:8).

First of all, amnesty is always available to culprits like you and me. Whether our infractions are serious or minor, one simple act of true repentance brings total forgiveness from a God whose penalty for sin is imposed only on those who refuse his tender and abundant mercy. "You are a forgiving God, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love" (Neh 9:17).

Second, even for the unrepentant, God's mercy tempers his justice, because he "sympathizes with our weakness" (Heb 4:15): "God, you have punished us less than our sins have deserved" (Ezr 9:13).

Like the good thief Dismas, who at the throne of the cross "stole paradise," let us too "approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace" (Heb 4:16).

This excerpt is from the book One-Minute Meditations for Busy People, by John H. Hampsch, C.M.F., originally published by Servant Publications. It and other of Fr. Hampsch's books and audio/video recordings can be purchased from Claretian Teaching Ministry, 20610 Manhattan Pl, #120, Torrance, CA 90501-1863. Phone 1-310-782-6408 or www.Catholicbooks.net