I understand the hate. I understand the anger. I understand the fear. Underneath our tough exteriors we are vulnerable people who are driven by self-preservation. I understand that drive completely. It is as much a part of my humanity as it is a part of yours. But we are wearing ourselves out while killing one another because of our need for vengeance, and that will never bring salvation for anyone.

I am not writing this message to the world where we expect to find these issues. I am writing this message to you—my fellow Christian. How can we be so hateful, angry, and fearful yet confess Christ? These things breed confusion, but Jesus is the opposite of confusion. There is nothing hateful, angry, or fearful about Him.

Though I believe it can, the big picture may never change for the better. But we as individuals will certainly never be better until we each choose to be better. Changing the big picture begins when we each begin to change.

Yes, Jesus can change our lives. But at some point we are going to have to put off anger, fear, and hate and put on mercy, love, and joy. And we're going to have to do that even in the middle of this chaotic world. How else will we ever be salt and light?

Jesus said, "You are the salt of the earth, but if salt has lost its taste, how shall its saltiness be restored? It is no longer good for anything except to be thrown out and trampled under people’s feet. You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 5:14-16, ESV).