A friend asked on Facebook, “Quick question for everyone: why do you think things are so messed up right now?”

I skimmed through every one of the 158 comments, and they ranged from politics to social media, from division to pandemics, from fear to history. You know what I noticed? No one said, “I am.” 

My concern is that when we think everybody else is the problem, then it’s easy to believe everybody else is responsible for the solution. When “they” change, act better, are more loving, and make better decisions, then the world will get better.

I think we’d be better off if we did three things. 

First, recognize we’re part of the problem—we’re all sinful, short with others, quick to be harsh. Second, thank God that Jesus came to solve our biggest problem—our sins separate us from God. Jesus’ payment brought us back to God. 

Third, recognize that God has put us in this exact time and place in the world to spread his love. “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16).