GOD'S CHILDREN ARE NO LONGER FOR SALE
It’s a sure-fire way to get in trouble—sort of like ordering only one type of pizza for your entire family. I’m referring to recommending a movie; especially a controversial one. On July 4, Sound of Freedom officially opened, starring Jim Caviezel.
The film deals with the topic of child trafficking, perhaps the greatest social issue of our time. Like most of us, I’d like to pretend it doesn’t exist, but the Lord compels me to highlight this dark issue for one week. Next Friday, we’ll get back to more encouraging topics.
Human trafficking is the fastest-growing crime network the world has ever seen—surpassing both illegal arms and drug trafficking. It’s a $150 million industry, with over ten million people trafficked annually—27% of which are children. The U.S. is the #1 destination for the sale of children. Drugs can only be sold once; a child can be sold multiple times each night. It’s the darkest form of evil, and we cannot remain silent about it.
Think of the great Bible characters who took a stand for righteousness—such as Moses, Elijah, Esther…and Jesus. They weren’t timid in their opposition to wickedness. Jesus felt so strongly about this issue that he stated, “If anyone causes one of these little ones—those who believe in me—to stumble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea” (Matthew 18:6).
The film is a true story, based on the life of Tim Ballard, who quit his job with the DHS to rescue children being trafficked in third-world countries. In one scene, when asked why he does it, Ballard replies, “Because God’s children are no longer for sale.”
Sound of Freedom premiered as #1 at the box office, grossing $14 million. Portions are difficult to watch, but we need to see it. You’ll cry tears of sadness…and tears of joy. (Spoiler alert: it has an amazing ending.) As followers of Jesus, we’re called to shine “like stars in the sky” (Philippians 2:15), and to act like yeast that “works its way through the dough” of our culture (Luke 13:22). That begins by being informed, praying, being filled with righteous anger, and speaking out. Ask yourself: What would I do if it was my child?
UPDATE ON LINDA: Linda is experiencing a lot of ups and downs. She has energy in the morning, but by evening, she is wiped out. She continues to maintain a joyful spirit and believes she will be healed. Please continue praying for her to stay strong.
Principle: Child trafficking is an issue we need to take a strong stand on.
Ponder:
How can you make a difference when it comes to the issue of child trafficking?
Whose ticket can you purchase to see this movie?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Matthew 18:1-9.
Prayer: Abba Father, break my heart for what breaks yours. Please protect our children, and free those who are trapped in this worst form of slavery imaginable.