Something to consider.
One of the developments that’s recently disturbed me is the growing number of religious organizations in America that are constantly “against something.” Every month, I get magazines and direct mail from organizations and ministries upset about the latest movie, court decision, TV show, cartoon series, or mad at the homosexual community or some other special interest group. For a long time it’s bothered me, because as Christians – of all people – we should be known as “people who are for something.” We have the greatest story in the world to tell, but instead of focusing on that story, we continually get distracted by turning our focus on issues that are peripheral to our real calling.I worked at a large Christian non-profit and have wondered myself. I still look forward to the possibility of working within Christian organizations. It is one thing I enjoy about working for Gran Comision Latin America--they are for action and solutions that change lives in Latin America.
I'm glad many churches are welcoming the Da Vinci code controversy, and using the opportunity to engage in their communities and spreading the gospel message--the true gospel message. If you are from the North Virginia area (Manassas), check out this web site.It’s a real paradox that we criticize mainstream news organizations for reporting on negativity, rather than paying attention to positive stories of hope. For the networks, it’s all about ratings, and negative, sensational stories score higher ratings. But the fact is, when it comes to fundraising, Christians do the same thing. The negative, the lurid, and the evil gets a bigger response. I guess it’s just the part of human nature that makes us gawk at car accidents when we pass by on the freeway.
In fairness, it’s not just religious organizations that should be blamed. Political groups, activists, environmentalists, and others do the same thing. Demonizing an enemy gets the supporters worked up and the cash register rings.
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