By: MARILYN TINNIN

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden.” Matthew 5:14

“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” John 1:5

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Just looking at this month’s cover makes me smile. It makes me smile in the same way I smile when my children send me pictures of my grandchildren. There is a certain fresh and unjaded look in their smiling faces. The world has yet to inflict its cynicism, apathy, and greedy marks on the way God intended the world to be at the very beginning. They inspire me, and I think they will inspire you, too.

I read an editorial this past week bemoaning that Christians have lost the culture war. According to this recent survey from LifeWay Research, there is plenty of evidence to suggest such. The world these young people will lead will likely be less welcoming of their faith than was the world of their parents and grandparents. All the more reason they deserve our encouragement, prayers, and congratulations.

In the middle of the pessimism, the thought of light shining in darkness is the perfect metaphor for the power of influence. It is impossible to extinguish the light of Christ. When it’s real, it is impossible to miss. And it is powerful. It can indeed turn the tide in this post-Christian environment that is the United States of America. I, personally, am praying for these young leaders.

We have filled this issue with inspiration aimed at the high school graduate. However, the truth is, that like a good piece of music—really good stuff is timeless and ageless. I am just betting that regardless of your age and stage, you will enjoy every article from our contributors. One of my favorite things we have included this year is a little “alumni” update from some of our past Christian Leaders. How reassuring and heartening to know that there are young people out there like these.

I also want to call your attention to the article on Human Trafficking. As you will read, it is a problem on the other side of the world—and, shockingly, a problem right here in our own city. It is indeed “heavy,” but it is true. If Christians are to be salt and light in this increasingly difficult world, we cannot ignore the darkness around us. How do we prepare our children and grandchildren to persevere in the face of opposition if they are not totally aware of the power and pervasiveness of the enemy? Not the usual fare for Metro Christian Living—but something we really believe we needed to highlight.

By all means read “Living My Call.” We featured Joel Bomgar on our cover several years ago. The company that began in his Belhaven University dorm room continues to garner global recognition, and he continues to unapologetically state that his company, as well as his personal life, operates on Biblical principle. Inspiring. Encouraging. Real. Read it. He is what every Christian should aspire to be—informed, intelligent, articulate, and consistent. Thanks for picking up Metro Christian Living. Drop us a note. Send us an email. We love hearing from you.

God bless.