According to the New York Times, the opioid epidemic is devastating America. Overdoses surpass car crashes and gun violence and is the leading cause of death for Americans under age 55. It has killed more people than HIV at its peak; the death toll exceeds those of Vietnam and Iraq wars combined. Every 11 minutes, another life is lost. Experts say choosing opioids just once can entrap a person to overdose and die prematurely. Certainly the wisest choice is to never try it. Like youth today, Judas made a fatal choice when he opted to betray our Lord. Despite our Lord’s warning that it would be better not to have been born than to carry out this dastardly deed of betrayal, Judas plunged ahead and used a fatal kiss of death to betray our Lord. We read this in Mark CH. 14 44 Now the betrayer had arranged a signal with them: “The one I kiss is the man; arrest him and lead him away under guard.” 45 Going at once to Jesus, Judas said, “Rabbi!” and kissed him. 46 The men seized Jesus and arrested him.” Decisions we make today can have consequential outcomes. That’s why we should have a good relationship with God so He can help us make wise decisions.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
