Dear John,
If you’re like me, you’re still reeling from last week’s tragic events in Utah. Part of trying to process the unimaginable is grappling with the question of how Christians should respond — as individuals and as the Church. Last Friday, while our team here at Focus on the Family was discussing this very topic, one of our friends sent a text message. It’s a timely reminder that God is in the details. With permission, here is that text:
“Good morning! I have to believe that you and your household have been as devasted as we have been with the murder of Charlie Kirk.
But interestingly, this morning, the Focus on the Family August-September [magazine] issue with Truth Rising was lying on my desk.
Coincidence? That Focus worked on this and released it days before his death? God is at work. Our hearts and voices have been activated.”
We have been working on the Truth Rising documentary for quite a while. But none of us could have known that just as the film came out, societal events would so vividly highlight the importance of the message we’re seeking to convey. Everyone — regardless of their background — can see that our world needs healing. And we know that healing can only come from God.
Earlier this week I recorded a podcast with Brant Hansen and Gabe Lyons, authors of the book Unoffendable. The show is titled “Speaking Peace into Chaos in a Troubled Culture.” During the interview, we discuss the life and impact of Charlie Kirk and also tie in key points from Truth Rising. You can hear the podcast at this link: https://www.focusonthefamily.com/episodes/broadcast/speaking-peace-into-chaos-in-a-troubled-culture
Meanwhile, if you’ve not yet had a chance to watch Truth Rising, I hope you’ll be able to find some time to do so soon at www.truthrising.com. In addition to viewing the full film on the web site, you can also download study guides and find ways to screen it in your home and church. This important documentary offers a powerful message about how all of us can actively engage the culture for Christ!
My prayer is that today you feel empowered as a Christian to be bold, to identify sin and brokenness for what they are, and to speak truth in your circles. Thank you for being a valued member of the Focus family. God bless you!
Jim Daly
President
