Protect the Children

The Progression of Transgression

Protecting Our Children in a Changing World

In today's rapidly evolving society, we find ourselves at a crucial crossroads. As the world around us shifts and changes, it's becoming increasingly important to examine our values, our faith, and how we protect the most vulnerable among us - our children.

The concept of "transgression" - the act of morally trespassing beyond established boundaries - is one that deserves our attention. In our current cultural climate, we're witnessing what could be called a "progression of transgression," where societal norms are being pushed further and further away from traditional moral standards.

This progression isn't happening in a vacuum. It's affecting every aspect of our lives, from politics to education, from entertainment to family dynamics. But perhaps most alarmingly, it's impacting how we view and treat children.

The Bible speaks clearly about the value of children. Psalm 127 tells us that "children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him." Jesus himself said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these" (Matthew 19:14). These passages underscore the divine importance placed on young lives.

Yet, in our society today, we're seeing a troubling trend of dehumanizing children, even before they're born. The sanctity of life, once a universally held value, is now being questioned and challenged at every turn. We must ask ourselves: How did we get here? And more importantly, where are we headed if this progression continues unchecked?

The exploitation of children is another deeply concerning issue. With the rise of social media and online platforms, our kids are more vulnerable than ever to predators and harmful influences. As parents, guardians, and community members, we have a responsibility to be vigilant and proactive in protecting our youth.

Perhaps most disturbingly, we're witnessing an over-sexualization of children in various forms of media and entertainment. This is a clear violation of the innocence that should be preserved and protected during childhood. As the Apostle Paul warned in Ephesians 4:19, there are those who "have given themselves over to sensuality so as to indulge in every kind of impurity, and they are full of greed."

So, what can we do in the face of these challenges? How can we stem the tide of this progression of transgression?

1. We must engage. Apathy is not an option. We need to be informed about what's happening in our schools, our communities, and our government. We should exercise our right to vote, ensuring that our values are represented in the policies that shape our society.
2. We must communicate openly and frequently with our children. Create an environment where they feel safe to share their experiences and concerns. Be the first to broach difficult topics, beating the culture to these crucial conversations. Know what's going on in your children's lives, both online and offline.
3. We need to be involved. Whether it's running for school board, coaching a youth sports team, or volunteering at church, find ways to be present and influential in the lives of young people. Your positive influence can literally make a world of difference.
4. We must pray. Prayer is not a last resort, but our first and most powerful line of defense. As Psalm 1 reminds us, blessed is the one "whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers."

It's crucial to remember that we are not alone in this struggle. Though it may sometimes feel like we're in the minority, there are many who share our concerns and values. We must find the courage to speak up, to stand firm in our convictions, and to be a light in the darkness.

The progression of transgression is not inevitable. With faith, vigilance, and action, we can work to create a society that truly values and protects its children. We can reverse the flow, moving from complacency to engagement, from silence to speaking out, from inaction to making a difference.

As we navigate these challenging times, let's hold fast to the truth of God's Word. Let's remember the value He places on every life, especially the lives of children. And let's commit ourselves to being the change we want to see in the world.

In the face of cultural shifts and moral ambiguity, we have the opportunity - indeed, the responsibility - to stand firm. To protect the innocent. To speak truth in love. To be, as Jesus called us to be, salt and light in a world that desperately needs both.

The road ahead may not be easy, but it is necessary. As we confront the progression of transgression in our society, let's do so with courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the values that have stood the test of time. For in protecting our children, we're not just safeguarding the present - we're shaping the future.

May we be like trees planted by streams of water, deeply rooted in truth and love, yielding fruit in season and standing strong against the winds of change. And may our efforts today create a better, safer, and more just world for the generations to come.