So last week, I shared my thoughts on Kony 2012. There was something I overlooked that I would like to address. In addition, very shortly after I shared my thoughts, I found out about some really unfortunate events that I also want to speak to. So, here are my second thoughts on Kony 2012. If you have no idea what I'm talking about, click the link above to read my first article.
Vandalism for Justice and Jesus?
The Kony 2012 campaign calls everyone everywhere to get Kony signs and post them all over the place on one specific night. It hadn't occurred to me on my first viewing, but its actually illegal to just put up signs wherever you want. I think its even considered vandalism.
So... should we do it? Well, read these verses and then attempt to answer that question.
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. -- Romans 13:1-2
If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. -- Romans 12:18
These passages tell us to firstly obey the laws of the land and secondly do our best to live at peace and not cause trouble. So, with those commands from God in mind, is it alright to vandalize your city for the Kony campaign? I don't think so.
But guess what?! You actually don't have to. There are lots of ways for you to spread the message about Kony like Facebook, conversations, wearing the bracelets, and more. In addition, there are tons of places you can legally put up posters. The windows of your house or car, the community board at the library, and the common areas at your schools are just a few examples. Just make sure you ask permission and check the requirements for putting up posters. Don't be a vandal, but, if God has laid this cause on your heart, then support it the right way.
What about Jason Russel?
As you have likely heard, Jason Russell is the man behind Kony 2012. He was the narrator of the viral video and the main spokesperson for the Invisible Children organization. As the Kony 2012 campaign got more and more mainstream, it began receiving loads of criticisms and attacks. Invisible Children's spending practices, information, intentions, plans, and more were all called into question.
A little over a week ago, Jason Russell was arrested and then hospitalized after running around in public nude while shouting and pounding his fists on the pavement. Obviously, this is not good for the Kony 2012 campaign and will cause many to have further doubts in Invisible Children's cause. However, I want to encourage you to do a few things.
Have Compassion
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. -- Romans 12:15
Really put yourself in his shoes for a moment. This video was clearly a huge piece of his heart that he shared with the world in order to accomplish what he would consider his life's goal. And when many began to attack and criticize it, I'm sure that left Jason Russell feeling torn to shreds. His behavior was not right, but have compassion and understand that at the end of a long battle for his cause, the pressure and criticism broke him down. He is a professing Christian, so we are called all the more to grieve with him in this.
Pray for him
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, -- 1 Timothy 2:1
Jason Russell is being treated to get the help he needs. Keep him in your prayers. Pray that God would heal him and help him to get good help. Pray that God would give him a deeper faith in Christ. Pray that God would help him to be able to recover from this and do whatever God is calling him to next. Pray that any influence, attacks, or plans of the devil or his servants would be prevented by God and that Jason and his family would be safe from the evil one.
Discourage Joking
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. -- Ephesians 4:29
Its easy to make fun of people when they're down. Don't stoop to that level. This man and his family are going through a difficult time that is now being made public. Don't add to their shame and don't get laughs at their expense.
Conclusion
As I've said before, its tough when you end up in the spotlight, especially for those who profess faith. Don't let this discourage you from good causes. If God has laid Kony 2012 on your heart, then keep going. If not, please check out the International Justice Mission's website and prayerfully consider how God might want to use you to stand up for justice in the defense of the oppressed worldwide.
PS. Don't forget to vote for next Tuesday's question at the top right of the page!
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