There has been a great deal in the news about the bonuses paid to executives of the financial group AIG. The payouts have irritated Americans for many reasons. Probably chief among the complaints is the question: "Why would you give bonuses to people when you are in need of a handout from the Government?" The bonus certainly can't be a merit bonus for the good work you have done! People should not be rewarded when they are borrowing money from the government (and generations to come).
I'm sure this is a much more complex issue than we understand, but these bonuses certainly send the wrong message. They lead us to believe that these people are ripping the government (which is us) off.
My point is not to discuss the de-merits of the stimulus plan enacted by Congress. (Isn't it interesting that some people have now lost their jobs because companies are postponing work they were going to do because they now believe they can get the government to pay for the work?) I'm more concerned about a Biblical lesson contained here.
The Bible commands that we avoid even the appearance of evil. We are to avoid those things that might lead people to think we are doing wrong (even if we are not). In other words, if we have the choice between doing two things that are legal and above board but one of those things will look like we are doing something wrong, we should choose that which will be recognized as good and pass on that which gives the wrong message. . . even if it is more personally beneficial.
The Bible's point is that our integrity is worth more than any material benefit we may be able to gain from the world We should rather be wronged than undermine our position as a representative of Jesus Christ.
So, if you were a Christan and an official at AIG, even if your contract required the payment of the bonus, you should be willing to give up the bonus (as many of the officials have done) in order to avoid the appearance of ripping people off.
This principle is not just for those at AIG . . . it is for all of us.
