Always Killing the Prophets
I realize now why I have been telling every courageous young person to get into journalism. They may offer our last, best chance--against climate change, militarism, racism, and predatory capitalism. So don't let me get away with passing along the truth-telling responsibility to another generation.
We talk about the prophetic Word and pretend that it is preached from your pulpits. But James Foley's death should make clear . . . In a world where to share the truth of what is going on is met with threats, violence, and death, real journalists are our prophets. I grieve for James Foley's family. If salvation is about opening up a space, then let us open up a broad and good space for those journalists who tell the truth about the vanguards of violence, the habitual purveyors of death, the authoritarian bullies. Do not let us be carried away by the shifty, snake-oil salesmen, the news anchors disguised as cheerleaders. You are wild and gritty by nature. Make us free and tough in our search for the truth.
Make me free and tough . . . and no matter what the cost, a truth-teller. And I pray that Jesus was wrong. Do not let Jerusalem kill any more of her prophets. Amen.
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