Belinda and I watched Freedom Writers (the movie) tonight. It was inspiring! It is based on the true story of Erin Gruwell, a first year teacher in Long Beach, CA who takes on a racially mixed class and transforms them into a family. The victories come with blood, sweat and tears. Passion, love and creative persistence overcome the resistence. Erin brings a never say it can't be done attitude to the classroom that the students eventually adopt. They are winners in the end.
As I watched it reminded me of the difference we make when we fight for freedom. In some cases it is racial equality. In others it is freedom from the bondage of addiction. Spiritual freedom from the guilt and shame of sin is a fight we are in to win. It matters! Your efforts, your prayers, your giving, your persistence--it is creating the story of someone's life. Because you put your hand in God's hand and the other hand in your brother's hand God is touching lives that wouldn't know Him otherwise.
I don't know where you are today in your passion level, your energy level or your ability to love but don't quit. Jesus didn't quit on us. Don't quit on those who need you to be Jesus to them. We all get tired. There is discouragement waiting as a shadow beside every victory. We have an enemy that wants to take us out. But keep the faith! Pray! Live from your heart. Be real, value community and love with all that is within you. I don't know if Erin knew Jesus but He was speaking to me through her tonight.
If you've seen the movie I'm interested to know what you think. If you are thinking of quitting--don't. You are making an eternal difference. Nothing is impossible with God! Three things remain, faith, hope and love but the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13
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