Goodness of itself cannot prevail, Phil. But John didn't say that nor does he live with a conflicted philosophy. The individual condition is a lonely one. Collectively, it may be different. Acts of love and creativity illuminate our way around selfishness, callousness and greed.
Americans yearn for a "city on the hill." The world isn't going to hell. Those who think it is do not remain for long as citizens of a great nation. A recent BBC World Service poll of 22 countries reveals that opinions on Iraq are almost identical with those held by citizens of the United States.
That's lefties, libs and righties, Christians, Muslims and Jews, yearning for "the peace of God that surpasses all understanding." From the Gospel of John, I think, and what our John is telling us.
