The Hidden Harm of Operation Christmas Child: Reasons to Rethink Participation

As the holiday season approaches, churches nationwide engage in Operation Christmas Child, an initiative involving the distribution of pre-printed shoebox-sized cardboard boxes filled with toys and necessities to children in non-first-world countries. While the concept may seem benevolent, it's essential to scrutinize the program's impact. Below are several compelling reasons why Operation Christmas Child may be more harmful than helpful.

 Supporting Franklin Graham's "Ministry"

Participating in Operation Christmas Child means endorsing the leadership of Franklin Graham, the organization's figurehead. Known for his divisive views and controversial endorsements, Graham has used his platform to promote discriminatory ideologies. Graham's online presence is rife with racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, and xenophobic remarks, making him a questionable figurehead for a charitable religious organization.

 Mismatched Gifts and Cultural Insensitivity

Many of the items packed into Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes may not be suitable or even understandable to the children receiving them. The initiative often results in the dispatch of cheap, easily breakable trinkets and toys that may not align with the cultural preferences of the recipients. The cultural insensitivity can lead to comically anticlimactic situations where children struggle to comprehend or use the donated items.

 Disruption of Local Economies

Sending mass shipments of goods from Western countries into struggling economies can have detrimental effects on local businesses. Local toy shops, vendors, and manufacturers face the risk of being pushed out of business by the influx of inexpensive Western goods. This not only harms local economies but also disrupts the delicate balance of supply and demand.

 Racist and Sexist Shoebox Designs

The imagery used on Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes has been criticized for perpetuating racial and gender stereotypes. Illustrations on official boxes have depicted barefoot black and brown children in ways reminiscent of colonialist missionary narratives. This racial insensitivity is particularly troubling considering Graham's stance on immigration and his involvement in controversies related to race and gender issues.

 Perpetuation of White Savior Complex

The narrative presented to children involved in Operation Christmas Child reinforces the notion that they, as Westerners, are needed to provide for less fortunate communities. This perpetuates a damaging ideology that instills in recipients the belief that they require assistance from white people, potentially making poor communities even more vulnerable over time.

 Contributing to Unexamined Faith and Injustice

Participating in Operation Christmas Child can inadvertently contribute to a culture of unexamined faith and half-hearted justice efforts. While the initiative may offer a sense of goodwill, it distracts from deeper introspection and fails to address the root causes of injustice. This lack of consistency in addressing the consequences of good intentions can result in unintended harm and perpetuation of harmful ideologies.

Operation Christmas Child, despite its well-intentioned appearance, raises concerns about its impact on local economies, perpetuation of stereotypes, and alignment with controversial figures. In light of these issues, we have chosen to support the work of Church World Service. This year we are planning to assemble “Hygiene Kits.” We forget about how hard it is for people who do not have funds to just have hygiene supplies. It can be as simple as a toenail clipper, or soap, or a washcloth. But often those are the type of items people just can't afford. Our goal is to collect 100 kits to help those in need.

Rejecting Conspiracy Theories: A Christian Call to Discernment

In an age marked by rapid information dissemination and a seemingly endless stream of content, conspiracy theories have found fertile ground to take root and spread. These stories, often fueled by distrust and suspicion, can lead individuals down a treacherous path of unfounded beliefs and divisive thinking. As Christians, we are called to a higher standard of discernment, compassion, and truth-seeking, making it crucial to recognize why conspiracy theories should be avoided and why they are fundamentally antithetical to our faith.

Distrust and Division Contradict Christian Unity

Conspiracy theories frequently thrive on sowing distrust and division among people. Whether it's belief in secret societies, cover-ups, or hidden agendas, these theories often pit individuals against one another, breeding fear and suspicion. Christianity, on the other hand, calls us to unity, love, and the pursuit of peace. The Bible teaches us in Galatians 3:28, "There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." Embracing conspiracy theories can hinder our ability to bridge divides and promote harmony among believers and the broader community.

Truth and Honesty Are Fundamental Christian Values

Christianity places a strong emphasis on truth and honesty. Jesus Himself declared, "I am the way and the truth and the life" (John 14:6). As followers of Christ, we are called to seek the truth, even when it is inconvenient or uncomfortable. Conspiracy theories often rely on misinformation, half-truths, or outright falsehoods. Embracing these narratives contradicts our commitment to living in the light of truth, which is essential for personal growth, integrity, and our relationship with God.

Fear and Anxiety vs. Faith and Trust in God

Conspiracy theories often thrive on fear and anxiety, stoking concerns about impending disasters, secret plots, or imminent threats. As Christians, we are encouraged to place our trust in God and not be consumed by fear. In Philippians 4:6-7, we are reminded, "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Embracing conspiracy theories can lead to unnecessary fear and anxiety, diverting our focus from faith and trust in God.

Loving Our Neighbors, Not Casting Judgments

Conspiracy theories often lead to a mentality of "us vs. them," where those who do not share our beliefs are seen as part of the conspiracy or as enemies. As Christians, we are called to love our neighbors, even those who may hold different views or opinions. Jesus instructed us in Matthew 22:39, "Love your neighbor as yourself." Embracing conspiracy theories can hinder our ability to extend this love and understanding to those around us, causing divisions within our communities.

Focus on the Kingdom of God

Finally, our faith encourages us to focus on the kingdom of God and our role in spreading the message of salvation and love. Engaging in and promoting conspiracy theories can divert our energy and resources away from this important mission. As Christians, we are called to be salt and light in the world, demonstrating God's love through our actions and words. Conspiracy theories often distract us from this higher purpose.

Ultimately, conspiracy theories are fundamentally at odds with the core teachings of Christianity. They promote distrust, division, fear, and anxiety, all of which run counter to our faith's emphasis on love, unity, truth, and trust in God. As followers of Christ, we must exercise discernment, seek the truth, and be mindful of the impact our beliefs have on our relationships and our witness to the world. By rejecting conspiracy theories and embracing the values of our faith, we can more effectively fulfill our calling to be Christ's ambassadors of love and grace in a world that sorely needs them.

Rethinking "Spare the Rod, Spoil the Child"

In Sunday’s sermon, I opened with a question about how you were disciplined growing up. I mentioned that for many of us, spanking was the traditional form of punishment, noting that these days that seems to be somewhat less common.

 I thought it might be helpful to add a little theological commentary to the conversation that did not fit into Sunday’s message. I imagine that if you were spanked as a child, you are probably familiar with the age-old adage, "spare the rod, spoil the child" (Proverbs 13:24).

 This scripture has been used for decades to justify the physical punishment of children. However, I would like to challenge that interpretation of this scripture. Contrary to interpreting it as a call to employ physical harm in child-rearing, what if we were to explore a more nuanced interpretation—one that views 'the rod' as a symbolic representation, similar to the poetic imagery found in Psalms 23: "your rod and your staff, they comfort me"?

 Rather than a directive to wield literal rods for punitive purposes, this alternative perspective suggests that 'the rod' conveys a deeper meaning, one of protection and defense for the child. Drawing parallels with Psalm 23 and the shepherd's use of the rod and staff to comfort, this reinterpretation emphasizes the nurturing aspect of discipline.

 Diving further into this, we find a similar idea in 1 Samuel 17:34–35, where the rod becomes a tool for shepherds to fend off external threats and safeguard their flock. This imagery, embedded in ancient wisdom, challenges the conventional understanding of the proverb as endorsing physical punishment.

 The irony reveals itself as we consider how a verse intended to applaud the protection of a child from external harm has been wielded to justify harm inflicted by the very guardian entrusted with their well-being. This reinterpretation invites us to question traditional interpretations and encourages a shift toward discipline rooted in guidance, support, and shielding from harm.

 In reconsidering the proverb, we should be prompted to explore the lasting impact of our approach to discipline and how a more informed perspective can contribute to the holistic development and well-being of our children. It challenges us to move beyond a literal interpretation of ancient wisdom and embrace a more compassionate, protective stance in nurturing the next generation.

The Fight Against Cash Bail: A Quest for Justice and Equity

In St. Louis, a powerful movement has been gaining momentum, one that challenges the very foundation of the criminal justice system: cash bail. This contentious issue has attracted the attention of both local communities and national advocacy organizations, igniting a conversation about social, racial, and economic justice within the church and society at large.

The heat of a scorching June day saw hundreds of respected Presbyterian representatives, on their way to the national General Assembly meeting in St. Louis, marching with a resounding message: "#END CASH BAIL." They were on a mission to the city justice center to protest the perceived injustices perpetuated by the cash bail system. However, some questioned whether the $54,000 raised at the opening worship service and online should have been directed toward church work instead of bailing out pre-screened prisoners.

To those involved, what they were doing was not just social or political activism; it was an embodiment of their belief in social, racial, and economic justice as a fundamental tenet of their faith. This raises the question of why they felt compelled to take action.

The issue of cash bail has been increasingly brought to the forefront, receiving attention not only locally but also from national social justice advocacy groups. The debate centers on the continued incarceration of individuals accused of non-violent offenses who cannot afford bail, which may range from as little as $100 to several thousand dollars. For these individuals, weeks or even months behind bars await, all while they are presumed innocent.

Zooming out, pretrial detention has been a significant contributor to the exponential growth of the incarcerated population over the past fifteen years, accounting for a staggering 99 percent of jail growth. On any given day, around 700,000 individuals find themselves locked in local jails, separated from their families. Shockingly, approximately 62 percent of these individuals are not serving sentences but are awaiting trial for minor, non-violent misdemeanors.

In some municipalities, a substantial portion of city operating funds is generated through traffic fines, further exacerbating the problem. For many of those in pretrial detention, the inability to pay bail transforms bail into a punitive tool, coercing individuals into pleading guilty. This criminalizes poverty and takes on the form of a modern-day debtors' prison.

The consequences of pretrial detention are dire. Those held before trial are four times more likely to receive a jail sentence than those released on bail, and their average jail sentences are three times longer. Moreover, they face a heightened risk of rearrest after their lives have been destabilized by incarceration. Loss of employment, housing, and even custody of their children are just a few of the potential outcomes. Some may resort to criminal activities as a means of financial recovery.

The harsh reality is that cash bail disproportionately affects marginalized communities. Furthermore, racial disparities are glaring, with Black individuals being twice as likely to be arrested (though not twice as likely to commit crimes) and jailed before trial. The LGBTQ and gender-non-conforming community members face even higher arrest and incarceration rates, coupled with an increased risk of sexual and physical abuse while in custody.

In response to this glaring injustice, the Presbyterian Committee on the General Assembly, along with many other stakeholders, developed a plan to address the issue during the St. Louis meeting. The church's leadership, including the denomination's chief staff officer, Dr. J. Herbert Nelson, rallied behind the "Hands and Feet" initiative, which aims to support local and national initiatives that drive change and embody the love of God.

Unlike conventional conventions that come and go, leaving no lasting impact on the host city's community, the General Assembly sought to engage with local challenges actively. They didn't want to dictate from a position of authority but rather collaborate with organizations already working towards bail relief and reform.

The local presbytery, encompassing congregations in and around St. Louis, had been dedicating three years to supporting a moral and political project involving bail payment and partnerships with various local and national groups, such as the St. Louis Action Council, Beyond Cash Bail STL, the Bail Project, Arch City Defenders, De-carcerate STL, and Faith for Justice. Their motivation was rooted in the teachings of Jesus, emphasizing good news to the poor, release to the captives, and freedom to the oppressed.

This unified effort was a testament to the belief that justice work is, indeed, church work. However, not everyone shared this perspective. Some Christians might argue that the church's primary focus should be on saving souls, relegating social justice activism to secondary importance.

This viewpoint isn't unique, as evidenced by conservative political commentator Glen Beck's criticism of Christian congregations and journals that embrace social and economic justice. Beck disparages such efforts as "code words for communism and Nazism." Nevertheless, the St. Louis Presbyterians and their allies countered this narrative, aligning with Bread for the World, a non-partisan Christian citizens movement committed to alleviating hunger, which proclaimed, "Economic and social justice are central to the gospel of Jesus Christ."

In the end, the actions of the Presbyterians in St. Louis conveyed a powerful message: justice work is indeed church work. Their resolute stand against cash bail represented a step towards realizing the principles of social, racial, and economic justice within their faith and society as a whole. The battle against cash bail remains an ongoing struggle, but with each step taken, the path towards a more just and equitable society becomes clearer.

Finding God Beyond the Spectacle: Embracing the "God of the Ordinary”

In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary Christianity, I have witnessed an issue that is of growing concern—the blending of worship and entertainment, aptly termed "worshiptainment." While my intention is not to criticize modern worship forms, I must emphasize the significance of discipleship over dependency on emotionally charged events.

Many believers, including some within our own community, face a challenge: recognizing and internalizing the presence of the Holy Spirit beyond the grandeur of worship gatherings. This unintentional dependence on the spectacular can hinder our spiritual growth and authentic discipleship.

Worshiptainment is a term used to describe the fusion of worship and entertainment. Many of us have experienced or witnessed it—elaborate worship events, complete with dazzling lighting, professional music performances, and orchestrated emotional experiences. While these gatherings hold their own value, the problem arises when they are perceived as the primary dwelling place of the Holy Spirit.

One of the consequences of the worshiptainment culture is the development of a dependency mindset among Christians. Even leaders in our faith community can struggle to recognize and experience the Spirit in the ordinary moments of life. Instead, they may find themselves chasing spiritual highs at the next worship extravaganza. True discipleship, however, requires a deep and consistent relationship with God, one that extends beyond the mountaintop experiences.

Privately, many of us have wrestled with the question, "Where is God?" in the midst of life's mundane routines. This feeling often arises from an overemphasis on emotionally charged worship events. When we expect God to manifest primarily in moments of heightened emotion, the everyday aspects of life can seem devoid of His presence. This poses a serious concern about the sustainability and authenticity of our faith journeys.

Let's take a cue from the biblical account of the prophet Elijah, a mighty figure who witnessed extraordinary displays of God's power. Yet, even he had moments of spiritual desolation. After the remarkable events on Mount Carmel, Elijah found himself in a desolate place, feeling isolated and spiritually drained. His experience mirrors the struggles of modern-day Christians who equate God's presence exclusively with dramatic events.

Addressing this issue calls for a fundamental shift in our communities' language, emphasis, and energy. Instead of perpetuating the notion that God's presence is confined to spectacular worship events, we must emphasize the continuous, ever-present nature of the Holy Spirit. We need to learn how to discern God's presence in the quiet moments of prayer, the pages of Scripture, and the ordinary acts of service and kindness.

The prevalence of worshiptainment has inadvertently led to a dependency on emotionally charged events, making it challenging to discern God's presence outside of these contexts. This is a universal struggle, as even biblical figures like Elijah experienced moments of spiritual desolation. To cultivate genuine discipleship, we must reevaluate our language, emphasis, and energy, shifting our focus from the spectacular to the ordinary. Recognizing and internalizing the Holy Spirit's presence in the everyday aspects of life is vital for a robust and enduring faith. It is only by embracing the "God of the ordinary" that we can break free from the limitations of worshiptainment and cultivate a deeper, more authentic relationship with the Divine.