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Posted by Dave
Rap News Network
3/23/2005 1:59:32 PM
Being a Christian is tough. Having to represent love in the face of consistent demonstrated hate. Promoting unity in a society where racism and sexism are more convenient. Supporting life when death is so often the choice. Representing peace with violence and murder on the forefront. And choosing to give when the quest to receive is at an all-time high. Yeh, the follower of Christ has many challenges to face, but God has equipped us for the task. We have what it takes to make the difference. And, although, many of us have families, we attend church, we read our bibles, we pray and sometimes even fast, but are we so self-absorbed that we close our eyes to the other responsibilities that go along with being a Christian? Jesus said, “Go, ye into all the world…” (Mark 16:15).
We are light and light dispels darkness. But what good are we if we are not willing to go and shine in dark places? We are also salt and salt by its self does not cure corruption, it prevents the spread of corruption. God expects us to function as a moral, spiritual influence, preventing the spread of sin’s corruptive forces. The music and entertainment industry continues to be a tool the enemy uses to promote his agenda, but we should see it as an opportunity to advance the kingdom of God. Many organizations over the years have attempted to tackle the problems arising from the industry with social and educational solutions, psychological theories and philosophical analogies. In some cases, we saw improvement, but how can we use what God has given us to make the difference?
Recently, a few women decided to step up and find ways to get the church involved in praying for “Hip Hop” culture. We call the initiative, “wRap it in Love”. We chose this group because we are aware of its influences in this country and around the world. It consistently provides a platform for the truth of what is happening in the pockets of society that the masses ignore. From the ghettos of the United States and France to the ghettos of Iraq and Mali, young people all over the world have successfully used Hip Hop music as a way to tell their stories, attempt to change the human condition and connect with one another.
While there is great value in the music, its artist and its ability to connect people across ethnic and socioeconomic barriers; it is also extremely misogynistic and irresponsible, as it has turned into a valuable commodity. Some would argue that this is the fault of Hip Hop and its artist. Artists will argue that Hip Hop is merely reflecting the society we live in. It’s a circular argument that continues to immobilize the community. The “wRap it in Love” initiative has no desire to debate the fine points of who is to blame. We simply want to move forward. Blame may be placed on countless socioeconomic, political, gender, and racial factors that can’t be ignored. But we know that God is omnipresent, omnipotent and through Him change is possible. We want to encourage the Christian community to join us in praying. If you are unaware of what’s happening, take time to investigate and educate yourselves on these issues. Join us as we go into the world of Hip Hop, wrap loving arms around the artist through prayer and encourage them to use their voices for the betterment of humankind. While the path of the Christian journey is still straight and challenging, its rewards are “out of this world!”
(w)Rap it in Love!
To get involved, send your information to:
Wrapitinlove@msn.com
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