Tag: Change

When We Care More About Position Than Protection

Today’s a new day!

I know many people may disagree with what I am about to say, and that’s okay. Healthy disagreement is part of life and part of the Church. But I stand firmly by these words.

I care far more about the victims of abuse in our churches than I do about whether a woman teaches a Bible study, preaches a sermon, or stands behind a pulpit in a Southern Baptist Church—or any other church.

For years, countless hours, meetings, conferences, articles, and social media debates have focused on the role of women in ministry. Entire denominations have wrestled with the question. Churches have split over it. Christians have passionately argued both sides.

Yet while some believers are consumed with debates about who is allowed to speak from the platform, children, teenagers, and vulnerable adults have suffered abuse in churches that were supposed to be safe places.

That should break our hearts.

When Jesus walked this earth, He consistently placed people above power, compassion above control, and protection of the vulnerable above religious posturing. He reserved some of His strongest words for religious leaders who burdened others while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness.

I cannot help but wonder what Jesus thinks when churches spend more energy debating who can preach or teach than they spend ensuring children are protected.

I cannot help but wonder what He thinks when victims are ignored, silenced, questioned, or blamed while church leaders focus on preserving reputations and institutions.

The Church should be the safest place on earth for a child.

The safest place for a survivor.

The safest place for the wounded.

The safest place for those seeking healing.

And yet, too often, it has not been.

This is not a statement against theology. 

Theology matters. Scripture matters. Church governance matters. But if our theological discussions become more important than protecting people made in the image of God, something has gone terribly wrong.

If Christians are more concerned about a woman’s role in ministry than they are about children being abused, they have missed something essential in the teachings of Jesus.

If we can passionately argue about positions while remaining silent about victims, we need to examine our priorities.

If we are quicker to defend institutions than to defend the brokenhearted, we need to return to the heart of Christ.

Jesus welcomed children.

Jesus protected the vulnerable.

Jesus stood with the hurting.

Jesus confronted religious leaders who had lost sight of what mattered most.

The Church should do the same.

The world is watching how we respond. More importantly, survivors are watching.

They don’t need another debate.

They need safety.

They need accountability.

They need justice.

They need compassion.

They need to know that the Church values their well-being more than its reputation.

My prayer is that Christians of every denomination would become known not merely for what we believe, but for how fiercely we protect the vulnerable, how seriously we take abuse allegations, how compassionately we care for survivors, and how faithfully we reflect the heart of Jesus.

Because at the end of the day, protecting the vulnerable is not a political issue.

It is not a denominational issue.

It is not a conservative issue or a progressive issue.

It is a Jesus issue. ~OC

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The Book Of Jude And Today’s Political Climate

Today’s a new day! 

As I have been studying the Book of Jude, here are some of my thoughts:

The Book of Jude may be one of the shortest books in the Bible, but its message feels remarkably relevant in today’s political climate. Written as a warning to believers, Jude addressed a culture filled with deception, division, and individuals who sought power for their own gain. While Jude was not writing about modern politics, many of the principles he shared can help us navigate the world we live in today.

A Warning About Deception

Jude urged believers to “contend for the faith” because certain individuals had slipped into positions of influence and were leading people away from truth. Today, we live in a world overflowing with information, opinions, and competing narratives. Politicians, media outlets, influencers, and commentators all seek to shape public opinion.

The challenge for Christians is not to blindly follow a political party, personality, or movement. Our ultimate allegiance belongs to Jesus Christ. Jude reminds us that truth matters and that believers must exercise discernment rather than simply accepting whatever aligns with their preferences.

The Pursuit of Power

One of Jude’s concerns was people who pursued their own interests rather than God’s purposes. In today’s political environment, it can sometimes seem that the pursuit of power has become more important than serving people.

Political leaders are human. Some enter public service with honorable intentions, while others may become consumed by influence, recognition, or personal agendas. Jude reminds us that God sees the heart and that positions of authority come with accountability.

As Christians, we should pray for our leaders, support what is righteous, and speak against what is unjust regardless of which side of the political aisle it comes from.

Division and Hostility

Perhaps one of the most obvious connections between Jude and our current culture is the growing spirit of division. Families are divided. Friendships are strained. Churches sometimes find themselves fractured over political disagreements.

Jude warned about those who caused divisions among people. Today, social media algorithms, political rhetoric, and constant news cycles often encourage outrage rather than understanding.

The enemy would love for believers to become so consumed with political battles that they neglect the mission of the Gospel. Christians are called to be peacemakers, not merely partisans.

Mercy in the Middle of Conflict

One of the most beautiful passages in Jude is his instruction to show mercy. Even while warning about false teaching, Jude encourages believers to reach out to others with compassion.

In our political conversations, mercy is often in short supply. It is easy to label people, dismiss them, or assume the worst about those who disagree with us. Jude challenges us to stand firmly for truth while extending grace to others.

Truth without love becomes harsh. Love without truth becomes compromise. The Gospel calls us to embrace both.

Keeping Our Eyes on Christ

The greatest lesson Jude offers for today’s political climate is that our hope is not found in Washington, political parties, elections, or government programs. Governments rise and fall. Political movements come and go. Kingdoms throughout history have appeared powerful only to disappear.

Jesus Christ remains King.

Jude concludes his letter with one of the most encouraging doxologies in Scripture, reminding believers that God is able to keep us from stumbling and present us blameless before His presence.

When political tensions rise, Christians must remember that our citizenship is first in the Kingdom of God. We should be informed citizens, engaged in our communities, and faithful in prayer, but our confidence must never rest in earthly leaders.

Final Thoughts

The Book of Jude speaks directly into a culture of confusion, deception, division, and competing voices. While political climates change from generation to generation, God’s truth remains constant.

Rather than placing our faith in politicians, we are called to place our faith in Christ. Rather than allowing politics to divide us, we are called to love one another. Rather than being consumed by fear about the future, we can trust the One who holds the future in His hands.

In a world filled with political noise, the message of Jude remains clear: stand firm in the truth, walk in mercy, and keep your eyes fixed on Jesus. ~OC

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A Stand For Freedom

For twenty years, I have been on the front lines in the fight against human trafficking. It’s not a battle you walk away from unchanged. The stories, the faces, the weight of it all—they stay with you. There are moments, though, when I close my eyes and allow myself to imagine something different. A world where no one is bought or sold. A world where freedom isn’t a privilege, but a given. A world where the word “trafficking” is something future generations only read about in history books, unable to fully comprehend how it ever existed.

In that quiet place of imagination, there are no victims—only people living in dignity, walking in purpose, and free to live the lives they were created for. There are no broken families from exploitation, no silent cries in the dark, no chains—visible or invisible—holding people captive. It’s a world filled with justice, restoration, and hope.

But then I open my eyes.

And I am reminded that the world we live in is still deeply broken. Human trafficking remains one of the most horrific crimes against humanity—hidden in plain sight, thriving in darkness, and fueled by indifference, greed, and silence. It’s easy for people to look away, to believe it’s too big, too complicated, or too far removed from their everyday lives. But the truth is, it’s closer than we think—and it demands a response.

That’s why I don’t stay in that dream.

I wake up more determined.

Determined to be a voice for those who have been silenced. Determined to stand in the gap for those who feel forgotten. Determined to push back against the darkness, no matter how overwhelming it may seem. Because every life matters. Every story matters. And every effort—no matter how small—has the power to make a difference.

Over the years, I’ve learned that ending human trafficking isn’t about one person or one organization. It takes all of us. It takes awareness, education, and the willingness to have uncomfortable conversations. It takes communities choosing to care, to pay attention, and to act. It takes persistence—especially on the days when it feels like nothing is changing.

But change is happening slowly. 

Every life rescued is a victory. Every trafficker brought to justice is a step forward. Every person educated is another light shining into the darkness. Progress may not always be loud or immediate, but it is real—and it is worth fighting for.

So yes, I still close my eyes sometimes and imagine that world without human trafficking.

But I don’t stay there.

Because the real work is here, in the waking moments—in the conversations, the advocacy, the prayers, the actions. The dream isn’t meant to be an escape; it’s meant to be a vision. A reminder of what we’re fighting for.

And until that vision becomes reality, I will keep waking up determined.

Because giving up is not an option—and neither is ignoring the call to stand for freedom. ~OC

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Change

Today’s a new day! As we walk through this journey called life, we’re gonna face change – it’s inevitable. But it’s how we respond to those changes that matters. We can choose to move forward with positivity and lessons learned, or stay stuck in the past. The choice is ours. 

Change can be scary, it can be tough

But God’s got a plan, it’s time to trust

Let go of what’s behind and grab hold of what’s next

‘Cause when we move forward, that’s when we’ll be blessed

Staying stuck won’t change the past

But moving forward will shape our future fast

God’s got amazing plans, don’t miss out on the view

Keep your eyes on Him, and the path will unfold anew

So when change comes knocking, don’t be afraid

Open the door, let God’s goodness be displayed

He’s got a purpose, He’s got a plan

Keep moving forward, you’ll see God’s hand.

It’s our choice how we navigate change. Let’s choose to trust God and move forward with faith. ~OC

***If you would like to hear this post done in Spoken Word, check it out at my YouTube channel Todd E. Shoemaker Music

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Walk With a Limp

Today’s a new day! As I continue to walk out my faith journey, I have experienced wilderness moments on more than one occasion. Those moments when life just beats you up. During those seasons, I am always reminded that I am not God. During the tough seasons in life, I am thankful that God still wants to have regular face to face encounters with me. He wants to hear about my thoughts and concerns. God desires to hear from us and to speak to us. As I continue to walk this journey called life, I am often reminded that my thoughts and opinions cannot compare to the divine, sacred and loving wisdom of our amazing Savior.

As I continue to walk out my faith journey, I no longer walk straight. No, these days I walk with a limp. A beautiful reminder of everything God has brought me through. The struggles I have overcome. As I write this post, I am reminded of the quote by well-known Christian pastor and author, A.W. Tozer, who wrote, “Beware of any Christian who doesn’t walk with a limp.”

Dear Friends, our world does not need more people screaming from the rooftops and declaring that their opinions are the only ones that matter. No, we desperately need more limping Christians, who have walked through the wilderness and encountered God in a powerful and life changing way. We need more Christians walking with a limp, who are more passionate about helping those individuals who are currently walking through their own wilderness experience and who are less concerned about their own opinions.

I believe as we look at today’s headlines and the world around us, we need to stand up and speak out for what is right—to seek justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with God. I also believe these days are ones to walk with a limp in humility, kindness, love and grace. I pray we will spend more time seeking God’s purpose for our lives and less time screaming that our opinions are the only ones that matter. Today, I pray we walk with a limp. ~OC

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It’s Time

Today’s a new day! As we continue to celebrate Black History Month, I wanted to share the following with you. ~OC

Today, It’s our calling to support our friends, colleagues, and family members and to stand against senseless acts of violence and systemic racism. We need each other now more than ever if this nation is to ever truly move forward and heal the broken systems established years ago.

It’s time we stand in solidarity as individuals and communities to change a system that has been filled with racism for way too long.

It’s time we educate ourselves.

It’s time we change our broken systems.

It’s time we respect our black brothers, sisters, and People of Color.

It’s time we demand equal rights for all.

It’s time we allow the destruction for powerful reform to take place.

It’s time to accept and respect each other regardless of our differences.

It’s time we stopped using hate to conquer hate.

It’s time we truly love our black brothers and sisters. And not just for the month of February.

It’s time we bring real change to America and beyond.

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The Power of Groups

Today’s a new day! I believe committed individuals and a small group of passionate people can help change the world.

Let me remind you that Jesus chose a small group of disciples to share an example of what happens when a group of committed individuals come together for a greater purpose. If we follow just that example, we can see how a small group of people can change their communities and beyond. Just think, we are still talking about twelve individuals who came together and committed themselves to the cause of Christ, thousands of years later. Small groups are still the primary focus of most churches, especially ones that want to accomplish purposeful ministry.

I can look no further than my godson Ricky Aiken, who saw a need in his community and started Inner City Innovators (https://innercityinnovators.org/), which is not just making a difference in Ricky’s community, but communities across America. One person with a dream and some committed people to help him develop and create a life changing organization.

As we celebrate Black History Month, I think about some unknown heroes who were committed to the Civil Rights Movement. They are the individuals and families that opened up their homes to the leaders in the Movement because they were not allowed to stay in most hotels or restaurants in the South. These individuals and families offered food, rest, conversation and shelter to the heroes we read about in history. A group of unassuming individuals and families opening their homes and encouraging the Civil Rights leaders, as they led peaceful marches and protest across the south. Without these kind and loving souls, the bodies and minds of the great leaders of the Civil Rights Movement might not have carried on.

Small groups of humans, just like your friends or colleagues that gather for common themed conversations, have been changing the world since the days of the caveman. It is no surprise, at least now reflecting on each phase of my own life that every step I have taken to make an impact for the greater good has been in the company of a small group of people with similar questions, passions, ideas and the determination to take action.

What is your mission and purpose in life and who will sit around the table with you to help encourage and support your dream to make a difference? ~OC

“For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.”” ~Matthew 18:20

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” ~ Margaret Mead

“While others hit the streets, marching, singing protest songs and risking arrest, these women made their contributions to the Civil Rights Movement in their kitchens.” – Rosalind Bently, Hostesses of the Movement

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Seasons of Life

Today’s a new day! The seasons of life bring change.

They bring good. They also bring new challenges. But as each season before always prepares for the next…. So does the seasons of life. Storms and droughts will come. But so does Spring and sunshine and rain clouds.

It’s often darkest before the dawn. And although we won’t forget the dark and hard times… they are what get us ready for the next season.

The night gets ready for day.

And day gets ready for night.

Such is life.

Each season has a storm of its own kind. But it also has it’s beauty. Don’t miss either!

Such is Life. ~OC

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Today’s My Birthday

Today’s a new day! Another December is here, which means the month of my birth. Today, December 4th is actually my birthday. Some people reading this or watching this video will be surprised. You see, most of my friends have never known the date of my birthday. I have never been one to celebrate my birthday. For me it’s always just been another day of the year. No reason to stop and celebrate. Until this year. Here is why.

A few months ago, I was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia. So in my dark humor way, I think is this the last birthday I will actually remember. A few may not find that funny, but this is my journey so I get to tell the jokes. Also later this morning, my bride and I will meet with some of my doctors to discuss a concerning MRI that is revealing some suspicious tumors. That visit may or may not change the outlook on my life moving forward.

But the dementia diagnosis and what might happen at my medical appointment this morning, will not change how I choose to live out my journey. Okay,maybe a little since I did just reveal the date of my birthday. But I promise you, I will not allow my declining health define my future. I will never be the “sick guy.” No, I will continue to overcome all the odds stacked against me and I will thrive.

Instead of acting like today is just another day, I will spend some time reflecting on all of my blessings and celebrate the day God brought me into this world. I will be thankful. ~OC

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