What do we do?

by, Isam Itson III

“But you are not to be called ‘Rabbi,’ because you have one Teacher, and you are all brothers and sisters. 9 Do not call anyone on earth your father, because you have one Father, who is in heaven. 10 You are not to be called instructors either, because you have one Instructor, the Messiah. 11 The greatest among you will be your servant. 12 Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted. 

Christian Standard Bible (Mt 23:8–12)

Our newsfeeds are filled with reports of greed, hypocrisy, and self indulgence among our leaders. From foreign and civil wars to political bribes and business fraud, we see the disorder, decay, and destruction that overflow from the abuse of power by leaders committed to their personal enrichment. Our societies are devoured from within by authorities who are motivated by fear for their lives, property, and prestige. Fearing loss, shame, and punishment, they deny personal responsibility for their decisions by shifting blame to either their political opponents, or the victims of their corruption. Namely the poor and powerless. Our societies will eventually fall under the weight of their self-centered and self-righteous leadership.   

How do we personally respond to the fear and corruption of our leaders that breed violence, injustice, and immorality in our societies? We follow Jesus encouraging people with the power of God’s love, wisdom, and faithfulness.

We recognize our fundamental responsibility for one another as brothers and sisters made in God’s image and commit our lives to the wholehearted service of others. 

We meaningfully unite in Christ across the ethnic, economic, and social divides that exist within our congregations. Then, we follow Jesus by helping each other bring healing and restoration to the most vulnerable people in our communities. Following Jesus demands that we embrace personal sacrifice, suffering, and even public shame, as defining aspects of our lives committed to the glory of God and the good of others. Just like Jesus embraced for us on the cross.