From one perspective the theist’s problem of evil ultimately rests with our intuitions over what a maximally loving God could possibly allow creatures he loves — loves more fully than any human parent ever could — to endure. We all know that loving human parents allow their children to suffer in some circumstances for their good and the good of others. A flu shot is a non-controversial example of both: the child receives the shot which is unpleasant and has potential side effects both to innoculate the child against a serious illness and so that the child will not infect others with a serious illness.
But there are limits, aren’t there? And we use our intuitions to find them. Consider the song “If I Could” by Ray Charles which describes a father’s desire to protect his beloved daughter from pain, suffering and disappointment. (Did Ray write this for one daughter in particular? I launched an investigation but when I discovered that Mr. Charles had 12 children with 9 women I called off the search.) If he only could he would. So why wouldn’t God? What does he know that we don’t?
And so, without further ado, here’s the Ray Charles Problem of Evil as only Ray could sing it:
If I could – I’d protect you from the sadness in your eyes.
Give you courage in a world of compromise.
Yes, I would…
If I could – I would teach you all the things I never learned.
And I’d help you cross the bridges that I burned.
Yes, I would…
If I could – I would try to shield your innocence from time.
But, the part of life I gave you isn’t mine.
I watched you grow – So I could let you go…
If I could – I would help you make it through the hungry years.
But, I know that I could never dry your tears.
But, I would – If I could…
Yes, if I live – in a time and place where you don’t want to be,
you don’t have to walk along this road with me.
My yesterday – won’t have to be your way…
If I knew – I would try to change the world I brought you to.
And there isn’t very much that I could do.
But, I would – if I could…
Oh, baby, Daddy wants to protect you.
And help my baby through the hungry years.
‘Cause you’re a part of me.
And if you ever, ever need, I said a shoulder to cry on,
Or just someone to talk to, I’ll be there. I’ll be there.
I didn’t change the world.
But, I would – If I could…
(Spoken) “Oh, darlin’. I love ya baby.”…
