The recent attacks in Sydney and Paris warn us that
radicalised terrorism is not just a distant issue in Arab or African nations,
but is emerging right in the heart of western café culture.
Could it happen here?
Most of the radical front-liners are disaffected young men and women who
are attracted to the solidarity and antiestablishment mentality offered by
these groups. Gangs have always been
effective at recruiting members for the same reasons so radicalised youth is a
possibility here. Our nation’s slim hold
on spiritual truth also increases the risks:
if there are many sources of truth, then why not join a group which
offers spiritual guidance?
What can we do?
If
we follow the command to love God and love others (Matthew 22:37) we can create
an environment in which radicals cannot get a foothold. If we love the youth around us they will be
less likely to join radical groups. Showing
that love could involve starting conversations with young neighbours, offering
them baking or excess fruit, helping
with their cars, learning their names. If you know people who work with youth then
support them in their work. They might
need resources, babysitters, or prayer.
We also need to seek the truth in God’s word – The Bible – and
ensure our families and friends know the truth too so that when someone presents
an alternative they can recognise and reject the counterfeit.
Be bold for “our struggle is not against flesh and blood,
but against… the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of
evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that
when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground” (Ephesians
6:12-13).
We can fight radicalism before it starts because “perfect
love drives out fear” ( 1 John 4:18).
Larisa Hockey – Mangapapa Church.
Larisa is a homeschooling Mama and green-horn farmer enjoying God's creation on Hikuwai Farm with husband John and three kids. She is also an occasional Worship Leader and speaker at Mangapapa Church.
Larisa is a homeschooling Mama and green-horn farmer enjoying God's creation on Hikuwai Farm with husband John and three kids. She is also an occasional Worship Leader and speaker at Mangapapa Church.
