what is the problem

So at any point in the day you can turn on your local news station,
C-SPAN, or CNBC and you have available to you (in HD none the less) some of the most heinous and horrible things imaginable. Scandals, theft, starvation, rape, murder, genoside.

As americans in the 21st century we have the ability to have a global understanding of the issues that plague humanity, and yet we don't do anything about it.

Many times we look at the world, and say that isn't right, or thats not fair !

I have been reading a book recently called "Blue Like Jazz" - by Donald Miller in it he wrestles with this issue of what is the world's problem. And he comes to the conclusion that the people who committ these horrible acts are really no different than he is. He realizes that he has the potential to do all of the before mentioned acts. He writes these statements:

"I am the problem"

"The problem is not out there; the problem is the needy beast of a thing that lives in my chest"

"I don't have to watch the evening news to see that the world is bad, I only have to look at myself"

What do you think about this ?


How do we correct the problem, if we are the problem ?


I personally see this a very poignant thought . . . the problems I see in the world, are not the issues I have with others, they are the issues I have with myself. When I hear of someone committing adultry i am ultimately disgusted because of the lustful feelings that have been in my heart. When I hear about a murder, I find it horrible becuase I know it was done out of hate or greed, and I have hated and been greedy. For every horrible act committed I know that I have sinned in the same or similar way. . . meaning I have the propensity to sin

This speaks very specifically to the "log in your own eye" mentality that Jesus had. I think for me this plays a lot into the way that I view those outside of the kingdom.

Only God can judge them, and I have no right to put upon them the mantle of my beliefs. Those beliefs are ones that I have glady put on during my journey. They however are not the ruler by which to judge others.

If I am the problem...and I believe I am; then change starts with me.

I need to get the log out of my own eye, before I can help you with your speck.

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any thoughts ?