We're Number Six

The most recent study of violent cities in America was released yesterday and Richmond was listed as the sixth most dangerous city in America.  There was another study which listed Richmond as the most dangerous city of its size in America.  We usually get excited when our teams are ranked high or out city is ranked high in different polls.  However, this is not a ranking that anyone wants, especially those of us who live or work in Richmond.  It is a sad commentary on the hopelessness and bitterness that permeates our city.

I'm sure our city leaders will come after this will multiple explanations of why Richmond ranks so high.  They will probably say the study focuses on certain factors but doesn't take into account other factors which would lower Richmond's ranking.  They may blame the lack of employment opportunities or lament that we don't spend more money on education.  They may even get radical and state that the large amount of fatherless homes has given rise to a culture of violence and anger in our young men.  I'm sure the paper will be filled with elected official seeking to spin this news in a way that benefits them.

However, my take is a little bit different.  I believe the violence is simply an expression of the spiritual darkness which our city leaders have fostered for decades.  When Hillcrest was founded, we were located in downtown Richmond.  But in the 60's we were "redeveloped" out of downtown Richmond.  There have been about three waves of redevelopment in the city.  Each of these redevelopments have seen the city take property of the churches and sell those properties to companies or developers.  Through this process, the light of Christ has been diminished more and more over the decades until we have the current situation.  So ultimately, our city leaders have moved the church out of the city, giving residents few choices and opportunities to experience the transformation of Christ. 

Please know that this is not a political sip - Politicians will always do what is politically expedient for them in the short term.  This Sip is a reminder that we are in a spiritual battle.  When we remove prayer, God's Word, Godly counsel, fasting, mediation and accountability from our lives, we get what we see personified in Richmond.  Each one of us have spiritual battles going on in our lives.  But do we respond with the spiritual weapons at our disposal or do we try to fix the problem with our own solution?  What is the first step we take when we face obstacles?  Do we pray?  Do we get discouraged?  That rebellious child first needs prayer before we discipline.  That financial hardship should put us on our knees, not whipping out the credit card again.  The solutions are not nearly as important as the faith we grow during the process.  But most of us want microwave faith with split second solutions.  Sorry, but it just doesn't work that way.

Take a moment to read Ephesians 6:10-18 and meditate on the impact of this passage in regards to the spiritual battles you are facing.  Then after reading and meditating on this passage, will you face your struggle in a way that is in keeping with this passage?  Let's let this study of Richmond be a reminder that our greatest weapon in life is being humble on our knees in prayer before the majestic and sovereign God!