The Way of Christ

Hello Friends,

Like many of you, I have been heartbroken over the hatred and conflict that has invaded our culture. Extremist came into our state and cast a dark shadow upon not just here, but the entire country. How do we respond to these events? How do we let our light as Christians shine at such a dark time?

First, we must understand that those who seek to instigate and foment this conflict are not the majority of Americans. I would go so far as to say that they are a miniscule part of our society. Most of us get along with one another, work together, play together, worship together, and live together. And while we may disagree on certain issues, we don’t become hateful in our speech or actions.

We also must not condone or approve of evil behavior when it is done by people who are doing so in the name of something we support. We cannot and must not excuse bad behavior by those who claim to support things we do. And even more importantly, we must not align ourselves with such people or groups.

Most importantly, we must remember what Jesus taught us. We must love our enemies and do good to those who hate us. In this way we show the true love of Jesus Christ. And we follow the example he set for us when he spoke concerning those who crucified him, “Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.”

Finally, don’t compromise on the truth. We must realize that if these extremists win, it will be devastating for our entire society. We must always speak the truth in love. Only then can we hope to bless our God, our nation, and ourselves.

Many argued during the struggle for civil rights that the only solution was to undertake a violent struggle to secure the rights of those oppressed. But Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. showed us a better way, the way of Christ. It’s my prayer that all people, especially people of faith, would continue to follow in that way.

Until next time.

All glory be to God,

Tim