Many people think that Christians are always negative and fighting against something. That's unfortunate, because we should be known as positive people who promote what is good and right.

One newspaper columnist addressed this issue, saying that we have strayed from our Savior's commands. He wondered if we are loving our enemies and praying for those who persecute us. Are we feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, and visiting those in prison? (Mt. 5:44-45; 25:34-36).

Many of us are disturbed by the evils in our society but we do little more than talk negatively about it. We leave the impression that we hate those who don't live by our standards. They see us as self-righteous snobs.

How unlike the Lord Jesus and His first followers! Although they did not hesitate to denounce sin, their primary focus was to demonstrate the purity, compassion, unselfishness, and humility of Christ's love.

How much better to be a beacon of truth rather than an instigator of condemnation. Instead of merely complaining about the problems in the world, let's be part of the solution! Following the example of Jesus, we need to reach out in love to those around us who need Him.  — Herbert Vander Lugt