To The Editor:
I have always wondered what kept Jesus on an old rugged cross, what made him go through so much pain. What made him stay after being beaten, backstabbed and left to die. What made him care so much, what made him so invested? With all of his power, what kept him on an old abandoned ran down tree? Was it the large gruesome nails? Hammered into his hands and feet without mercy. Was it the rope that bound his arms to the cross, by the Roman soldier? Or the stump of wood just under his feet? At any moment Jesus could have cried out to God to save him from the most painful and humiliating death of crucifixion. Stripped naked, bleeding from the beatings, whippings and scourging. His beard plucked out, His back torn to pieces. The crown of thorns that was put upon his head, He was then hit time and time again on the head, thumping the thorns deep into him. His appearance was so marred, that it did not resemble that of a human body. At anytime Jesus could have cried out, “Lord no more.”
But love for us kept him on the cross. His love for all of us kept him on the cross. Jesus’ love was beyond the cross, the nails, and the pain. Jesus loved us in spite of who we are. He loved us because we are his children even though many of us do not want to let him lead us as our father.
I wonder sometimes what keeps so many people in towns; where they do not feel like they are being treated fairly or noticed, and every time I come to the conclusion that it is love. The compassion they have for family members, friends and neighbors all play a part as to why they never leave. However, the biggest reason they never leave is their love they have for the memories there! As humans, we grow from devotion. We love each other even when we do not agree with each other. John 15:12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.”
Love is what will help change broken situations in government. Love is what connects government and people. Love is what cleans up a corrupt and broken democracy. When hatred is present, the answer is not to rebut with more hatred, yet it is to give love and kindness. Rather than stooping to others’ lows, show people your highest of highs by exemplifying selflessness, passion, and a love for all. When we allow God’s light to shine in the broken parts, we begin to see mountains move, darkness turn into light, and a restoration of faith. Regardless of the difficulties you may face, always remember that love will forever triumph hate. We will see change when we start loving each other: let the change start with you!
Godspeed,
Jacorie McCall
P.O. Box 1808
Dillon, S.C. 29536
