Many who serve in roles having to do with security have likely come face-to-face with evil more than once. Those among them who serve internationally, especially in low-visibility roles, have moved among evil for so long that it becomes easily recognizable, even when skillfully masked.

One of the hallmarks of pure evil is the ability to appear normal, or even good. A specialty of evil leaders seems to be the ability to gather large and devoted followings. Many of those who support them are convinced that the causes championed are meant for the greater good. Deception is a high art for the most wicked among men and women. Of such abilities Jesus remarked:

And no wonder, for Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. It is not surprising, then, if his servants also masquerade as servants of righteousness. Their end will be what their actions deserve (2 Corinthians 11:14-15 NIV).

For several years I have been praying that evil would start to be unmasked as it never has before. That the motives of all people would be revealed rather than remain hidden. This prayer theme may have started around the time I was asked to advise several individuals who were arrested and being harshly interrogated in China. They endured days on end of psychological torture. What I learned about the leaders of China during that experience, and since, has been shocking. It’s difficult to understand how any nation could partner with these leaders in any way.

The leaders of China are not alone in masking their true intentions. Political leaders in many nations seem to be highly skilled in manipulation of the masses. As one who for years has advised individuals and teams serving in some of the most challenging international locations, I regularly receive reports of almost unbelievable atrocities. Far more common, however, are news reports of political leaders who press agendas that seem so reasonable, yet in reality are designed to do away with traditional values and to empower those who seek government control at the expense of life and liberty.

The current COVID-19 Pandemic has been tragic in many ways. Tens of thousands of lives have been lost, and the ability of millions to support their families has been dramatically impacted. Perhaps the only good to come from the Pandemic has been at least a slight pulling back of the masks covering those who secretly delight in evil. For perhaps the first time many are beginning to see some of the true intentions behind those who masquerade as servants of good. A partial day of reckoning may at last be dawning, and it will not go well for many. As Isaiah prophesied long ago:

Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter! (Isaiah 5:20 ESV).

I’m encouraged, and I hope you are as well, that the mask is being lifted, even if only slightly, on evil. My heart’s desire and prayer is that those who delight in evil will not only be unveiled, but that they will admit to what they have done and come to a knowledge of the truth.

When one considers what’s happening in the world it’s easy to become discouraged. Biblical teaching, however, offers great encouragement. The fact is that one day all will be known. One of many verses that speaks to this reality is found in the Gospel of Luke:

There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known. What you have said in the dark will be heard in the daylight, and what you have whispered in the ear in the inner rooms will be proclaimed from the roofs (Luke 12:2-3 NIV).

Yes, an ultimate day of reckoning is coming, and without the grace of God none could stand. The great news is that for those who trust in Christ during their lifetime there will be forgiveness and acceptance. Jesus paid the penalty for everyone who draws near to him in faith. May even the most evil among us come to know this and turn from darkness to light!