We have all grown up in an age where institutions have been promoted as the solution to our problems. We have taken to this idea with such relish that we have almost come to worship it.
So often, when there is a problem in my life, I have often been heard to say, "THEY should do something about this" or "SOMEONE should do something about this" or "SOCIETY made me do it" or "It's the school system to blame" (insert any blameworthy insitution eg. government, Muslims, Christians, the Church etc. etc.).
Let's notice two truths that immediately present themselves.
1. Institutions don't really solve any of the crucial social ills. Before the elections they claim they will. The first year after the election they try a bit. The second year after the election they tell us why they can't. The their year after the election they start claiming they can if they get re-elected.
2. It is the individual (you and me) who has the real power to bring about change that is good and real.
Jesus came to world riddled with institutions. Similar institutions to the ones we have now except we just have better technology. Not just institutions like government, the military and religion but institutional ills like slavery. He never once spoke against the institutions. He did have a go at some individuals in those bastions. He never tried to enter government as many of the upstart saviours of the day. He didn't start a social justice movement aimed at the violations of human rights.
He walked up to people and said, "Love God. Love each person around you". He was very focused on every single person. He challenged each of them and now challenges each us to throw off our victim status and and begin solving our problems by doing what He says.
Science, government, academia et al promise to save us from all our woes. Yet their promises ring hollow. They give us a better standard of living but they don't really effect in any major the crimes stats. Seriously, do you think that fewer children are being violated, fewer women getting raped, etc.? Only Jesus can save. He has been tried and found effective by millions of people for two thousand years.
Yes, Jesus. Not the church. Not religion. But Jesus' teachings being lived out in the life of people like you and me. Not an institution but a Christian.
