The Proof of our Priorities

I consult a variety of news sources on a near daily basis, for local, national, and international coverage. For national and international news, I typically visit the websites for CNN, Fox News, and MSNBC, which provides a wide spectrum of viewpoints.  In today's visits I was struck by the realization that each network's leading story is proof of its priorities, which prompted me to consider how I demonstrate what the priorities are in my own life.

First, CNN headlines with "Teens beat WWII veteran to death."  This is the tragic story of two Spokane, Washington teenagers who allegedly used flashlights to kill an 88-year old man who was sitting in his car. The network comments that this is the second apparent random killing by teenagers in the past week, the other case involving three teenagers who shot and killed an Australian baseball player who was jogging in Oklahoma.  Choosing this for its leading story tells me that CNN wants to prioritize the issue of teenage violence in the U.S.

Second, Fox News opens with the following story: "Sources:  Benghazi Search Unit Pulled."  The backstory for this account derives from the brutal attack in Benghazi, Libya which lead to the deaths of four Americans, including Ambassador Christopher Stevens.  Suspects were recently charged with their murders and a team was sent to locate and arrest said suspects, but a large segment of this search/arrest team has apparently made a permanent exit out of Libya.  This leading story suggests that the folks at Fox News wants to prioritize our governmen'ts actions, or the lack thereof, in this entire situation.

Lastly, MSNBC leads with "Vegas cop-killing plot reveals shady group."  This is a story about a couple who identify themselves as "Sovereign Citizens" that were planning to kidnap and kill Las Vegas police officers. The priority revealed in the choice of this story demonstrates the editors' belief that those who hold anti-government beliefs are a threat to our nation's security.

These three varied headlining news stories reminds me that both institutions-- and individuals-- inevitably prove what their priorities really are by what they say or do not say, how they say it, and when they say it.  I will leave the analysis of these networks' stories and agendas up to each person who peruses their reports, but I do think it behooves all of us to consider his or her own words and actions and how they demonstrate what is really important in our lives.  Even the topics I choose to write about on this blog are telling about what I consider to be important.  Now that is sobering!

The Bible, in speaking of the Lord Jesus Christ, says, "...He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything He might be preeminent" (Colossians 1:18).  Merriam-Webster's Dictionary defines preeminent as "having paramount rank, dignity, or importance." The question for each of us, then, is this:  "What is preeminent, what takes first place, in my life?"  But rather than saying what are priorities are, how about we ask others to tell us what they are?  For people can read us just as easily as they can any website, perhaps more so. 

Who is perusing my life today?  What is my "headline" story?   What is yours?  May it be Christ Jesus and Him alone.    

Superheroes We All Should Seek to Be

I love a good team of superheroes as much as the next person--The Avengers, The Fantastic Four, The X-Men, The Incredibles.  They fascinate us because of their skills and abilities, because they are cool under fire, because they will fight when no one else is willing or able, and because they do what we wish we could do and are what we wish we could be.  But there is a team of superheroes that is more needed, and I dare say, more admirable, than any character found within comic books or upon the silver screen.  This team of superheroes is known simply as "The Encouragers."

Is this a team of superheroes that grabs my attention, takes my breath, and stirs my heart?  Is this a team that I long to join?  What about you?

"The Encouragers" are there when needed:  in the depths of despair and upon the heights of honor.  They sit with you at noon or night , stand with you from the cradle to the grave, walk with you through the trials and triumphs of life, and run with you as you flee your fears and chase your dreams.  They listen when you shout your successes and whisper your failures; when you speak your mind and share your heart.  "The Encouragers" speak words of comfort and correction, words that help and heal, words that are tactful yet true.

Today in worship, our church's Children's Pastor opened God's Word and gave us a glimpse of a man whose life so qualified him to join this team, that those who knew him best changed his name from Joseph to Barnabas, which means "son of encouragement."  Now that is a transformation Dr. David Banner could envy (something all you Incredible Hulk fans will appreciate)!

So, isn't it about time we looked for integrity in our superheroes more than we look for intelligence?  Good deeds rather than good looks?  Men and women whose words can be trusted and tweeted without reservations, whose actions serve as examples rather than entertainment?

If there are "Encouragers" in your life, please do not give them catchy names, keys to your city, or pedestals from which they will surely fall.  Simply say "Thank you," and let them continue to serve humbly and where they are most comfortable--behind the scenes.

Our world is full of disillusioned and disappointed people.  The need is great.  The time is now.  The team is waiting.  Will you be an "Encourager" today?

Maine Wedding

On the July 4th weekend, we traveled to Orrington, Maine to attend the wedding of a family friend, Sarah (Nowell) Ferland.  

Me and Julie 

Sarah (Nowell) and Jake Ferland

My daughter, Sarah Elizabeth Skeith, who blogs here, has gotten me set up.  I will be posting soon.