Executing Justice

Texas has executed Humberto Leal Garcia Jr. despite international protest and opposition from the president of the United States. Leal was convicted of the brutal rape and murder of a 16-year-old girl, Adria Sauceda. Many wanted Leal to receive leniency simply because he was a Mexican citizen, brought to the US when he was just a toddler. The Supreme Court, however, ruled that the execution was legal by a 5 to 4 decision.

There is no question as to the Bible’s viewpoint on the value of a human life. When a human life is taken on purpose the Scripture gives man the authority to take that life in return. Most of the opposition regarding the execution of Leal Garcia is not due to international diplomacy, but rather, opposition to the death penalty. In the end, Leal admitted to his crimes and asked for forgiveness. And the life of his victim has been given value.