Tag: Speak Out

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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A Free Press Matters

Today’s a new day!

When I was in high school, I had a dream. I wanted to be the next great sports journalist. I loved sports, but even more than the games themselves, I loved the stories behind them. I admired the journalists who traveled the country, asked tough questions, told inspiring stories, and brought fans closer to the athletes and teams they followed.

Journalism fascinated me because it was about more than reporting scores and statistics. It was about seeking the truth, telling the stories that needed to be told, and helping people stay informed.

That is why I find myself disappointed by the growing attacks on journalists that we see today.

No, journalists are not perfect. They are human beings, and like every profession, there are good ones and bad ones. Some make mistakes. Some have biases. But the answer to imperfect journalism is not to destroy journalism. The answer is to pursue better journalism.

Throughout history, journalists have played a critical role in holding powerful people accountable. They have uncovered corruption, exposed injustice, highlighted the struggles of ordinary people, and brought important issues into the public conversation. Many have risked their careers, their freedom, and even their lives to report the truth.

A healthy democracy depends on an informed citizenry. People cannot make wise decisions if they do not have access to information. They cannot hold leaders accountable if no one is asking questions. They cannot understand what is happening in their communities, their nation, or the world if there is no one reporting the facts.

That is why a free press is so important.

We may not always agree with what journalists write. We may disagree with their conclusions, perspectives, or reporting. But disagreement should never become hostility toward the very institution that helps keep citizens informed.

As Christians, we should be people who value truth. Scripture repeatedly calls us to walk in truth, speak truth, and seek truth. While journalists are not the source of truth itself, many faithfully work to uncover facts and bring important information into the light.

When I think back to my high school dream of becoming a sports journalist, I still have great respect for those who dedicate their lives to telling stories and informing the public. Their work matters.

A democracy without journalists is a democracy left in the dark.

We may not always like what we hear, but a society that values truth must also value those who seek to report it.

Let us encourage honesty, integrity, and accountability in journalism while recognizing the vital role a free press plays in preserving freedom. An informed people are better equipped to make wise decisions, engage in meaningful conversations, and help build a stronger future for the next generation. ~OC

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When Will The Christian Community Speak Up?

The image spread quickly, sparking a mix of reactions—some amused, some outraged, and others deeply troubled. The current President posting a picture of himself styled like Jesus Christ on social media is not just another moment in the endless churn of online controversy; for many, it raises serious questions about faith, reverence, and the intersection of religion and political power.

What stands out most is not just the act itself, but the response—or lack of response—from large portions of the Christian community. It’s difficult to ignore the contrast. If a different President, particularly one from the opposing political party, had shared something similar, many believers would likely have responded with swift and vocal condemnation. Words like “blasphemy” and calls for accountability—even impeachment—might have dominated headlines and pulpits alike.

So why the relative silence now?

One possible explanation is the growing entanglement of faith and political identity. For some, political allegiance has become so deeply intertwined with religious conviction that criticizing a political leader feels almost like betraying one’s broader worldview or “side.” When faith becomes aligned with power, it can become harder to speak truthfully and consistently—especially when that truth challenges someone perceived as an ally.

This is not to say that all Christians have remained silent. Many have expressed discomfort, disappointment, or outright criticism. But broadly speaking, the volume and intensity of the response appear muted compared to what might have been expected in a different political context.

This moment invites a deeper reflection: What does it mean to hold leaders accountable, regardless of political affiliation? And what does it mean to truly center one’s faith above all else?

At its core, Christianity calls for devotion not to earthly personalities, but to Jesus Christ and His teachings. That includes humility, truth, and a willingness to confront wrongdoing—even when it is inconvenient or uncomfortable. 

When those values are compromised for the sake of political gain or loyalty, something essential is lost.

There is also the matter of witness. The broader, unbelieving world is watching closely. When responses appear inconsistent or driven by partisanship rather than principle, it can reinforce perceptions of hypocrisy. For those outside the faith, this can become a barrier—an example not of the Gospel’s transformative power, but of its perceived misuse.

The question, then, is not simply about one image or one leader. It is about priorities.

When does political loyalty begin to overshadow spiritual conviction?


When does silence become complicity?
And when will faith communities choose to apply their convictions consistently, regardless of who holds power?

These are not easy questions, and they do not have simple answers. But they are necessary ones.

For the Christian community, this moment can serve as a turning point—a chance to reflect, recalibrate, and reaffirm what truly comes first. Because in the end, the credibility of one’s faith is not measured by political victories, but by faithfulness to its core message.

And that is something no political leader, post, or moment should ever outweigh. ~OC

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With Tears

Today’s a new day! Yesterday, as I scrolled through social media, I was struck by a disturbing post shared by the current President of the United States—an image involving a former President and First Lady that many, myself included, perceived as racist and deeply offensive. What troubled me just as much as the post itself was the near-total silence that followed from Christian leaders, organizations and the Christian community as a whole. I looked for statements, condemnations, or even thoughtful reflections grounded in Scripture, but found very little. That silence was deafening. It raises a painful question: how can the Christian community remain quiet—or worse, quietly supportive—when words and actions so clearly contradict the character and teachings of Christ?

This moment exposes a deeper concern that has been growing in my heart for some time. Too many Christians appear to have chosen political allegiance over Gospel faithfulness. When loyalty to a party or a person outweighs our commitment to love, truth, humility, and justice, something has gone terribly wrong. Jesus did not call His followers to power, outrage, or mockery; He called us to love our neighbors, defend the marginalized, and speak truth with grace. When the Church mirrors the cruelty, division, and bitterness of the world, rather than standing apart from it, we lose our witness. It is hard not to imagine Jesus weeping as He watches His Church drift further from His example, trading compassion for convenience and conviction for comfort.

If the teachings and love of Jesus are to remain alive in the Church and the Christian community, we must be willing to speak—even when it is uncomfortable, even when it costs us politically or socially. Silence in the face of injustice is not neutrality; it is a choice. The Gospel demands more from us. It calls us back to Christ-centered courage, where love is louder than hate, truth is stronger than fear, and faithfulness to Jesus outweighs every earthly allegiance. ~OC

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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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Embracing Our Differences

Today’s a new day!

For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ.” ~1 Corinthians 12:12 

I love hearing people’s stories. I love hearing what God is stirring in their hearts, and talking to them about God’s beautifully thought-out and purposeful design for them as individuals. I love the realization people have when God reveals this to them. We are all unique and different. How exciting is that! However, lately I have really been thinking more about this as it pertains to those in the Christian community.

How many Christians really take the time to think about diversity? Just for a moment, I want you to take some time, look around and asked yourself is my life full of diversity or not? If so, great. If not, ask yourself why not? Because a world filled with diversity is truly beautiful. A life full of diversity is a beautiful mosaic of amazing colors, gifts and talents. Throughout 1 Corinthians 12, the Apostle Paul talks about the many spiritual gifts that we have been given by the Holy Spirit. These gifts all vary person to person. My gifts and personality are not the exact same as yours. We are all different and we were made like this on purpose for a purpose. God did not create us all to be the same old boring carbon copies of each other. Praise God! Nor should we strive to be like each other. We should be living out who God called us to be and strive to be like Jesus. Together, we have unity in Jesus Christ.

Even so, our flawed human nature wants things our own way. A lot of times we see our differences, and they cause pain and dissension. But, is that really what God intended? Did God design us to be different and then fight one another to make the other fall in line behind us? No! We should not be calling for everyone else to be like us, we should be calling on Jesus to show us, together in unity, the way we should move forward. Together we can find a better way. Two minds are greater than one. Our differences make us stronger. Not weaker.

As Believers, we have a great opportunity to approach our differences and conflicts in a God-honoring way. Here are some lessons I have learned over the years. 1). To recognize that people are invaluable. They are children of God. He created them with love and intentionality. 2) To recognize that people might see things differently than I do, so I want to understand and see how they see. 3). To look to God and pray for wisdom. How do we move forward towards a common good for all? What is God’s best for this situation? 

There will be times that we’re in a tough spot and can’t see eye to eye, that might be a bigger discussion for another time. We cannot take control or responsibility for other people’s actions. However, we can control and take responsibility for how we approach the differences. 

Reflection:

Think about your current circumstances: What conflicts are currently in front of you?  Are you approaching them in a Godly way?  If not, what steps can you take to change your perspective, conversations, and actions?

Prayer:

God, we are incredibly thankful that you have created each of us uniquely and perfectly in your own image. We praise you today, that we have brothers and sisters who think and see the world differently, because together we are stronger. Help us to see this truth in every situation and conversation. We pray for your wisdom, your guidance, and your grace – that our words and actions are a reflection of who you are and what you have already done for us in Christ Jesus. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen. ~OC

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Our Choice

Today’s a new day! We can choose to stand up for truth and justice or we can continue to walk in the excuses of “It’s always been that way.” Our choice. ~OC

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End Modern-Day Slavery

Today’s a new day! Freedom is something we all want and everyone deserves. No one would prefer not to be free. Yet, there are an estimated 40 million slaves in the world today. This brutal criminal enterprise generates an estimated $150 billion annually. Every minute of every day, people are being sold into slavery — and it is possible to stop this crime against humanity. I know it’s possible to stop slavery and trafficking in our lifetime, but the anti-trafficking movement needs more people to join the fight. Will you join the fight to end human trafficking? Someone’s life is depending on it. ~OC

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