Can We Accept The Challenge?

As I have seen the anniversary commemoration of 9/11 unfold it is only too easy to reflect on so many recent tragedies that point to the deterioration of the world around us. Because of constant media coverage we are bombarded with images of power hungry world leaders, religious intolerance, persecution, disease, and unfathomable poverty.

I refuse to accept this destiny and look only so far as a quote from one of my favorite movies – CHICK FLICK ALERT – “Love Actually”.
“Whenever I get gloomy with the world, I think about the arrivals gate at Heathrow Airport. General opinion’s started to make out that we live in a world of hatred and greed, but I don’t see that. Seems to me that love is everywhere. Often it’s not particularly dignified or newsworthy, but it is always there: fathers and sons; mothers and daughters; husbands and wives; boyfriends; girlfriends; old friends. When the planes hit the twin towers, as far as I know none of the phone calls from the people on board were messages of hate or revenge; they were all messages of love. If you look for it, I’ve got a sneaky feeling you’ll find that love actually is all around.”

I think one of the most heartfelt and widespread examples of this is the recent ALS Ice-Bucket Challenge. Who would have ever guessed that something as uncomplicated as a a bucket of ice could unite a community and a WORLD for a common goal? If we can connect for this restorative cause can’t we progress to greater heights of understanding and love? Has this brought to the forefront that often the most rudimentary action can create the greatest impact?
Could this be the beginning and not the end?
Can we accept this challenge?

John 15:12 This is my commandment: “Love one another as I have loved you.”

This devotion was written by Mary Wobig, one of Sheridan’s Women’s Ministry Team members, as a way to bring encouragement to the hearts and minds of our sisters in Christ to KNOW, LOVE and SERVE God.