The Church In Shackles

As a young child, I was brought up in a Christian home and always taught the value of loving people. My entire life's view was harnessed in this scripture:

Love is patient, love is kind, it always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always preserves, love never fails. (1 Corinthians 13:4, 7-8)

I now find myself questioning my worldview and those that call themselves believers of Jesus Christ. Do I believe that God's people are an active presence in this chaotic world, and do they make a difference? What is my place of importance in this world?

Now, more than at any other time in our history, we see the urgency to act. I see a world filled with conflict, political unrest, food insecurity, and violence. What has astonished me the most is the targeted violence to our most vulnerable, our women and children. How many more children must die before we say, "Enough"?

If hunger does not kill a child, severe acute malnutrition at an early age can cause lifelong physical and mental damage. In a country that is so wealthy, one must ask how this condition exists.

After much prayer and reflection, I choose to believe there's a greater purpose for my life, and I have the power to influence and bring about change for the good of others.

God has given me purpose and clarity of mind. It's my prayer that after reading this book, you will also be strengthened through the word of God to act and compel others to act.

Followers of Christ understand the duty we have towards others. We value life and have the courage to speak the truth even in the face of intense opposition.

What if we all lived up to this value as a person of faith and conviction? Would we be able to stop the killing of our most vulnerable, the children? Would we restore the faith in love, kindness, and good in this world?