I love the year end scorecards. The 'how did we do' data. Whether its unemployment or drop out rate, I just love reading stats and figuring out how much of it matters and stuff like that. Last month the scorecards came out and Mississippi's had the most interesting scorecard of all. Check it out...
Our state is the most religious state in the union. There are four ways to measure it and in all four category we are #1! (See article here)
Our state is also #1 in poverty, teen parents, obesity and std's.
Hmmmmm...I was just wondering, shouldn't one affect the other?
Doesn't that alarm you? How is that the most religious state is also #1 in all these areas that you would think religious folks would be real good at fixin'? Here's some thoughts, and I'd welcome yours as well:
- There really is a disconnect between church and real life. We 'go to church' more than any state (#2 is Mormon Utah). But what we hear there doesn't change what we do during the week.
- For many, religion ('the routine of living out your faith', like church attendance and daily prayer, etc) replaces godliness. You can be very religious and very ungodly (that's the point of the polls). Real faith comes from a trusting relationship with Jesus that transforms your life and your community. No transformation, no real faith.
- The Pharisee's were the most religious of their day (as we are the most religious of our day). I'm curious if there are any similarities. Jesus said they tithed religiously but they neglected the more important matters of social justice and love.
Is it possible that we have neglected the "more important matters" of our day? Love to hear your thoughts... I'd also love to partner with ya to solve some problems.
BC
1 - read/write comments:
I think part of the problem is the church doesn't want to get real. Seems like the things the church doesn't want to talk about or address are the things that become a problem. You can keep sweeping dirt under the carpet and pretend it doesn't exist but eventually it will seep out and you are going to have to deal with it. Hopefully it isn't too late when you do.
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