We are the World . . . Kinda.

When a bunch of uber-talented celebrity musicians and singers got together 25 years ago (I wasn't even a year old yet) to record "We Are The World," something big happened. However, I think that it was only big because of all the big names involved. Can the song bring a tear to your eye? Yes. Was/is the problem of AIDS in Africa and all over the world a huge problem? Yes. But there's only one true answer for an eternal "better day," and that's the gospel of Jesus Christ.

So when "We Are The World 25" was recorded for Haiti, a lot of people were critical of its scope and purpose. Not only that, some Christians got bent out of shape about a line about God being taken out of the new version. I think these Christians are missing the point. Why should we expect a lost and dying culture to speak prophetically and biblically to itself? That's the redeemed of the Lord's job! Let's offer help and justice to the poor and downtrodden, but let's also offer them the life-changing gospel in the process!

Russell Moore offers some helpful comments on our expectations of the world, especially in relation to We Are The World.

Our church carefully decided to help the people of Haiti by donating through Churches Helping Churches. If you're interested, check out their straightforward website to see what they're all about.