In 1982 a theory about broken windows was introduced by James Wilson and George Kelling, both social scientists.  It posits that “visible signs of disorder—like broken windows, graffiti, and litter—signal a lack of social control, which can encourage further criminal behavior.”  The argument is that maintaining order in communities by addressing minor offenses more serious crimes can be prevented from occurring.  Clearly, the current judicial system has decided to ignore this way of thinking.  Crime has become a major issue especially for large cities.  Lawlessness has become the norm.  People are being killed on public transports almost at will by criminals who know they will not be prosecuted.  A recent report suggested that the District of Columbia has virtually made it impossible to jail anyone younger than 25 for most crimes they may be committing.  The fancy term for such a social make up is anarchy. 

Not trying to speak for the whole world at this point, we must focus on our current surroundings, meaning our own nation.  The general public wants to see a reduction in crime.  Families want to know they can travel in a relatively safe manner.  Individuals want to know they will be able to interact with people in general settings and feel safe.  Sadly, this is not always the feeling that people may have.  According to recent polls, the general public is feeling a lot less safe than it did just a few short years ago.  Unless we are willing to admit this reality, it will only get worse.  But, where do we start?  Let’s consider this interesting statistic – the age group committing the highest percentage of crimes (35%+) is 21 and under.  This begs the question: where are the parents?

It is at this point, given that this writing is meant to be a spiritual endeavor, one may ask what does this have to do with the church?  The simple answer is to say a great deal.  So, let’s start with I John 3:4 – Everyone who makes a practice of sinning also practices lawlessness; sin is lawlessness.  This tells us that the Bible, vis-à-vis God’s Word, equates breaking the law with sin.  Crime is a sin.  The second thing to consider is what we have in Matthew 24:12 - And because lawlessness will be increased, the love of many will grow cold.  The context of this statement is Jesus teaching about the things we will observe just before Jesus returns.  It tells us that many people even within the family of God will lose faith and turn away.  Apparently, one of the reasons will be an increase in crime – lawlessness – anarchy. 

Knowing all this should never discourage us.  It should embolden us and drive us deep into God’s Word to learn two principle things: One – how can I remain faithful to God in the face of anarchy?; and Two – how can I encourage young people to learn who Jesus the Christ is and how to follow him?  The church is mandated to answer these two questions.  Without doubt, God is working in our midst.  We see increases in our youth meetings; we see faithful attendance at Bible Studies; we see increases in worship and especially during the children’s message.  This adds up to a positive influence on our community and our worshiping families. 

Speaking prophetically let us remember that there is one primary attitude that will kill the church and cause young and old alike to turn away from obeying God’s commandments.  It is apathy.

As God cares for each of us, may we care for one another and especially for our young people.  And, together we can find the answers to our two questions.

Pastor David