Jesus said, " They will know you are my disciples by the love you have one for another." As I have watched our political system, I am amazed at how those who are called by His name have such hatred in their hearts for another human being. Yet the one they despised three months ago is now the best thing since sliced bread; and they will accept him because his skin is pale. How hypocritical is that? Is it any wonder that our young people are confused? As a Youth Minister of 27 years working with youth in both faith-based and secular communities, I am often asked by them, "why are people so cruel to one another"? My response is always the same, "They have a form of religion and yet know not GOD". Their religion is filthy lucre and they are wilIing to sell their souls to keep it. I have concluded this based on their spoken words. Compassion is no where to be found. I often tell young people from all cultures, that everyone wants to go to Heaven, but unlike Sundays the most segregated day of the week, Heaven is not. It is impossible to say you love someone whom you've never seen, yet hate someone that you see everyday and call yourself a Christian. Another way to say this is, "Your lips say one thing, but your heart is far from Me".
As we prepare to serve our Youth this school year, our purpose is to demonstrate not by mere words, talk is cheap and deceptive, but by our actions and walk. Education is so vital to their success and it requires all walks of life in the community for their well- rounded success. The hatred spewed upon the airwaves by those I fondly call "modern-day Pharisees" are reflected in the tragedies on school campuses across America. We were all made in His image and He gave each of us choice. As we continue this journey called life let us all remember that our Creator is no respect of person. He sent His Son to die for all mankind; and His demeanor is Love! They, then, will know we are His disciples by the love we show one another.
