Actions speak louder than words

For broadcast on 2CH Sydney, 29 Sep 2013.

On Monday September 16, a disturbed 34-year-old named Aaron Alexis entered the Washington Navy Yard and opened fire. By the time the shooting was over, thirteen people were dead.

US broadcaster Eric Metaxas said “what happened that morning was yet another reminder of the fragility and seeming senselessness of life.” He said what Christians have to offer is not better policies but hope. He is partly right. Christians do offer a unique and concrete hope through Jesus Christ to a wounded and hurting world.

But Mr Metaxas is wrong in dismissing the possibility that Christians might have relevant alternative policies to address public issues.

The Good Samaritan in the parable of Jesus did not pray for the injured man, or lecture him about what life might be like when he was well again. The Good Samaritan stopped and helped, and made a difference. Christians are called to do the same.

I’m Rod Benson for the NSW Council of Churches.