This past Sunday the minister said it. That phrase that rankles me so much. The one that makes me want to start screaming in my seat because of the bitter irony.

"God can even use evil for good."

I know this is a scriptural sentiment. Joseph tells his brothers how what they meant for evil God used for good. We see it used in theologies of salvation — Jesus died, but after death, the ultimate evil, he is resurrected and overcomes death. God used evil to bring about good.

Now you're probably thinking, "What on earth can she have against seeing good come from evil?" I have no problem with seeing good come from evil. I have a problem with people, specifically the church, putting limits on from where good can come.

When my aunt was diagnosed with a terminal brain tumor, many people said how "some good will come from this, you'll see." That stems from the "God can even use evil for good" philosophy. This was not, of course, the phrase that anyone who is grieving wants to hear, but it is meant with good intentions, and I really have to say that I agree with it. There have been some very good things that have come from this evil. My family is very close, we appreciate the little things so much more, and many past grudges have been broken down.

Here's the thing, though: My aunt still has the tumor. She is still declining. We are still grieving. God may be able to use evil for good, but please don't ask me to see it through my tears.

My other problem with the phrase "God can even use evil for good" is that it's so silly in the face of the rules made by the church about the roles people may play. God may be able to make good come from evil circumstances, but God is not allowed, according to the church's rules, to have leadership come from a woman with a genuine desire and gift to lead. People who have been divorced, though perfectly willing to serve God, are only allowed to serve in certain capacities. It doesn't matter why they divorced. It doesn't matter what talents they have. They have been relegated to the back of the bus in the church.

What about people who have been hurt by the church and choose not to place membership? Well, if they're not willing to become members of the congregation, surely they can't offer any wisdom about the direction of the church — but we'll gladly take your offering, and we would like for you to make a giving commitment larger than last year's.

What about single moms? God can bring good from evil, but we still have to make sure these women feel the guilt and shame of what they've done.

How about those who have made the mistake of adultery and repented? God can bring good from evil, but the church doesn't want to use those people.

What about someone who has been caught cheating his or her company out of money?

What about someone who has denied that Jesus Christ is the savior?

Oh, wait.

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Emily Oliver is a graduate student of theology at Xavier University. She is married to Mitch, who supports her theology habit by being a brilliant computer programmer. You can email Emily at {email habakkuk317@yahoo.com}habakkuk317@yahoo.com{/email}. © copyright 2006 by Emily Oliver