| IncarnateBodies.com |
|
by Georgie Márquez-André November 15, 2005
AUTHORITY, n. The power derived from opinion, respect or esteem; influence of character or office; credit; as the authority of age or example, which is submitted to or respected, in some measure, as a law, or rule of action.
RESPECT, n. That estimation or honor in which men hold the distinguished worth or substantial good qualities of others. It expresses less than reverence and veneration, which regard elders and superiors; whereas respect may regard juniors and inferiors.
((Definitions taken from Webster's 1828 Dictionary.)
I am writing this as we cross the Atlantic Ocean, four hours into a nine hour flight back to the United States. Interesting events in the news in Europe.
On the one hand, The European Union grows in strength and influence, one common economy/currency (the euro is actaully stronger than the dollar at the time of this writing), commonality in matters big and small (traffic signs in Spain don't say PARE anymore... but STOP). However, also in Spain, the Catalanes, the Basques, and the Andaluces, are all vying for nationhood.
In France, meanwhile, that bastion of liberality, immigrant youth riot and martial law is imposed. No one under 16 is allowed out into the streets at night unless accompanied by an adult... and they can't buy gasoline, either. Politicians throughout Europe wring their hands, and many wonder, which country will be next. The immigration of the poor, uneducated is growing, unregulated.
I read an interesting editorial in one of the European papers. Now, my disclaimer is that I don't know if it was a conservative or a liberal newspaper/writer... but his take on the situation was quite enlightening. I tend to agree with his assessment. It all comes down, he proposes, to a breakdown in the family unit. In particular, the lack of respect towards the elders in the community. Especially troubling is the inability of fathers to be heard and respected by their children. Who would have thought it? That family in general, and fathers specifically could be so important as to have an effect on national security.
Sadly, no solutions were offered, but a dire warning was. The door is now open for the Muslim imams to come in and speak into these troubled youth's lives. With their strict boundaries and spiritual authority, they are ready and able to fill the void these children are screaming to fill. And in a world of "tolerance" how do the authorities keep the radical Islamists from recruiting this vibrant, energetic, young blood for their cause?
And so I ask... where are the Christians? The harvest is ready... where are the workers? If you feel called to respond to this need... please don't turn your back on it. There have got to be many who haved been called... but sadly... few, it seems, who have responded.
Have a blessed week.
And, please, don't forget... the agencies that provide relief to those still in need, are still in need of YOUR help: The Salvation Army, Operation Blessing, American Red Cross.
Sign up now for Georgie Márquez André's Motivation of the Week e-zine. Receive inspirational thoughts, Bible studies, fitness tips and just general motivation to grow in body, mind, and spirit in your email box weekly. Yours FREE!! Here is a sample of the motivational messages you'll receive:
Complete the Form Below to Subscribe IncarnateBodies has a zero spam tolerance policy. We will never sell or rent your contact information to any third party, for any reason. |