Ken Lay & Justice

This past week Kenneth Lay, former CEO of Enron suddenly passed away at age 64 from heart disease. Most are aware of his rise to stardom in the business world and his quick demise that not only took down a company but destroyed the financial lives of many. In May Mr. Lay was convicted on 6 counts of fraud and conspiracy and 4 counts of bank fraud. He was to be sentenced this Fall. Each count carried a sentence of 5-10 years so it was likely Mr. Lay was going to spend the rest of his life in prison.

Now we're told that his conviction will likely be erased because of his death. Apparently the law views it as though he had never been indicted, tried and convicted because an appeal was pending at the time of his death.

Needless to say the many who have been hurt by Mr. Lay's actions feel that they have been robbed of justice. In their mind having to spend years behind bars and pay millions in fines and settlements would be justice. In our world there is truth to that line of thought.

However, in my mind Mr. Lay is in a far worse state. If Mr. Lay had lived he would have had opportunity to repent, make restitution (to some level) and reconcile himself with God and others. Now that opportunity is no more. Now Mr. Lay stands before the King of kings and the Lord of lords. There will be no legal maneuvers and no loop holes. He will be judged.

On a personal level I grieve for his family and for all those that have suffered because of his actions. I'm also moved to examine my own life. If I (you) should die today, am I (are you) prepared to stand before a holy and righteous Judge?

Let us receive His mercy and grace TODAY to right wrongs, pursue and give forgiveness, reconcile and make restitution. We're not promised tomorrow.