Criminal Minds

I am excited about the direction we are taking as we approach Easter. On March 2, we will begin a new series called Criminal Minds. We will be looking at the dark characters behind the crucifixion - Judas, the disciple traitor; Caiaphas, Israel's High Priest; and Pilate, the Roman Governor. We will also be looking at some criminal activity in our world and taking some action against it. In Oct 2006, I was made aware of an organization called The International Justice Mission. I was appalled at the great injustices in the world - the selling of young children in the sex trade, forms of slavery and forced labor, the exploitation of widows, etc. I was equally amazed at the courage and the tenacity of this organization to rescue such people and to prosecute the evil men behind these crimes. These are issues and people that cannot be ignored by those who love the Lord and are called by His name. These are things that are close to the heart of God. The Bible is full of verses such as Isaiah 1:17 that has God crying out for us to get involved. Sunday afternoon I am going to hear another man speak from a local group concerned about these same issues called Innocence Atlanta. We need to raise some money to help these organizations. We are also looking into some ministries in our own community that help with injustices. I can't wait to see what doors God may open to us as we seek ways to help the oppressed. Start praying now about these issues.