Hey, did you hear about...

I have been recently convicted, of something that I thought was extremely basic. Gossip. I guess I never noticed it. Because where I live, everyone thinks nothing of it. Everyone participates. Maybe its just because I am in a small town, where everyone knows your name.

But the more I consider this, not only does it seem silly and immature. It's not biblical. We are not supposed to talk about someone behind their backs.
And I'll be honest, it is hard not to be a part of this. It's hard not to jump into a conversation about someone. And worse yet, it's harder not to tell someone to stop! Listening to it is the same as saying it!
And another thing, am I the only one who walks away from a Gossipation (A conversation consisting of all gossip) asking what people say about me? Doesn't that just make you NOT want to trust those people?

Wouldn't it make sense then to assume that other people walk away from you (if you participate in gossip), wondering what you say about them? And generally not trusting you?
Gossip is damaging. It is damaging to the people that you say it about, to your integrity, and to your mind. Because all you can think about then is what you don't like about people. What they do wrong.
And, you become a victim. You can't help but wonder, are they mad at me? Why are they mad at me? What did I do? So on. Why? Because you've created a mentality of everyone is doing something wrong, and constantly wondering what people are saying about you.

This, if not controlled, goes into other areas, other relationships. Let's say you start to date, and that guy or girl, asks for some space, just for space. Maybe just to have some pure alone time, or to get their thoughts straight without their emotions concerning you getting in the way. If your thoughts are constantly, they are mad at me. Then your actions and words will be that way. You may even begin to talk to people about it, and may give him/her a bad image.

I write all this, jumbled mess to say, keep your mind pure. Conscience clean. Don't live your life worrying about what people are saying, and don't give room for people to wonder that concerning you. If it is not helping people, don't say it.

Thanks for reading,

John Mark,

Kony2012

You have, or may not have seen the video that is trending World Wide, Kony2012. If not, you need to google it and get informed. It is a great documentary on a serious issue, Joseph Kony, and his war crimes. The video is a well filmed, and professionally put together. It lasts about thirty minutes long, and drives home a strong point.

If you are anything like me, the video immediately made you want to join the movement, order the kit, wear the bracelet proudly, and litter society with the posters.
If you are anything like me, you wanted to get a gun and fight Kony yourself.

If you are anything like me, you crave for a movement.

You see, I have been noticing lately, how much teenagers, and college students want a movement. How much they want something bigger than themselves to fight for. Why do you think the military is so compelling? There has been many times I have been ready to enlist.

You know, I wish Christianity was like this. I mean, yeah, we are a movement, but... we're not... moving...
I mean, do you ever see Youth so caught up in telling people about Jesus? Not too much. Teenagers need people to pour into their lives, tell them that they can make a difference, change the world, and revolutionize history. After that, they just need direction. I mean, watch the video! That's the entirety of the message!
I strongly encourage you, if you are an adult, to pour into the lives of the Youth Group at your local fellowship. And direct them in how to change lives. Give them the opportunity, tell them how they can!
If you are a Teenager or College Student, you can! Even if you only change the eternity of one life, it is worth it! I challenge you, go! Change lives! Have people stand against you! Hate you! Some will love you! Change the world, be, Great!

If you are anything like me, you also wanted Kony dead... and then you thought about it and regretted that thought. This is only happening because the lack of the Gospel in this region. I ask you to do whatever it takes to reach these people with the Gospel. This should be our heart and burden, to reach an unreached people. Go. Please.

Thanks for reading,

Sincerely,

A Desperate, burdened, Heart.