Is there a potential for things to get worse?

If you haven't watched the latest episode of Ross Kemp Extreme World, which focuses on Belfast, then I really encourage you to go away and watch it. Hate. Division. Violence. It's shocking and sad to see something like this in the 21st Century and in first world United Kingdom, never mind 30 minutes from where I live. Here's a short video taster of the episode if you haven't already watched it...

What happened to trust? to peace? to love?

The clip ends with a rather negative note - "Is there a potential for things to get worse there?" Living in Bangor, 15 miles away, is sort of like being in a bubble. We see it on the news, read about it in the papers, hear it on the radio. We just continue to live on in our bubble, hoping that things don't get worse. But when do we actually ever strive to make things better?!

"You are the salt of the earth."

"You are the light of the world."

- Matthew 5 v 13 and 14

It's very easy for us to be indifferent about things happening in the world, or even on our doorsteps. But the Bible tells us, that as Christians, we need to be a light in darkness. That is a strong image of two complete opposites. There is no indifferent alternative between light and darkness. You're one or the other... Which one are you going to be?

It's the same with these Neknomination videos online at the minute. We can think that by simply not being part of it we are doing good. But why not go one step further? I saw one video of a South African guy who was nominated by his friends, but instead of downing alcohol, he went to give food to homeless people. Light in darkness!

Let's be active as Christians! Let's be the light! If we are Jesus' love and peace to people in our broken, evil and hateful societies then I have to believe that our good acts and kindness will stimulate others to live in love, peace and forgiveness as well.

If I was Ross Kemp in the video, I would have ended with a more positive question...

"Is there a potential for things to get better?"

How can you make it better?