What Does That Mean?

Scanning the “news” this morning I was quickly attracted to a news story out of Holyoke, MA.  Evidently someone was doing some shooting (firearms of course) and a couple of bullets struck a school bus – no one injured. Now, there is no question that is a serious matter and needs resolution. But, what does one say to the press (Media)?

The mayor and police chief vowed to crack down on violence after a school bus transporting 10 children was struck by gunfire. “This kind of criminal behavior cannot be tolerated in the city of Holyoke,” Mayor Alex Morse said in a statement, while asking witnesses to come forward. (Associated Press)

Here are my questions – “Mr. Police Chief, does your department have a policy of not cracking down until violence reaches school buses? And, Mayor Morse, exactly what kind of criminal behavior will be tolerated in the city of Holyoke?”

The reason I ask is because it reminds me of so many mixed messages that come from the mouths of Believers. It recalls the multitude of “sermons” that are so “deeply theological” the average joe in the pew has no idea what the message is in relationship to the needs, failures, problems and trials he is experiencing. Cliches are useless in dealing with real issues – whether it is criminal, or spiritual. The Truth has to be plain, simple, applicable, and address real problems Believers are facing.

Our Pastor is preaching a series on “Commitment to the Church.” Many, if not most of us, have “issues” in that matter. We don’t need platitudes, or consolation for our failure. We need what works to spur us to Scriptural obedience. Everything else is just holy talk.