Global Night Commute

Tonight I saw a documentary on the sufferings of the people in Uganda. Entitled "Invisidble Children," it highlights the struggles of the children that are forced into fighting a war in order to survive. Although in the military, I was not forced into war; I chose to sign up -- but I also am an adult and can choose and I find that, for the most part, the US military is more about saving lives than taking lives. When you view the documentary or read about the real struggle to survive there in Uganda, you, too, will want to do something to change it.

I have been, am now, and will continue to be critical of peace rallies, anti-war movements, and demonstrations in general. However, I am seriously considering participating in the Global Night Commute. While it does have partners with whom I do not always (more honestly, hardly ever) agree (Amnesty International being the one that jumped out at me), I am willing to give this one a shot and see how it goes. I want to see with my own eyes and talk with the people there what they think this will do.

One thing I am sure of, and no demonstration regardless of size will change it, is that the only way that Uganda will have peace is through the Prince of Peace. Only the love of God can successfully end war, especially one that has been raging for over 20 years. So why participate in a secular rally that may not make much of an impact?

First, I can see with my own eyes whether this event will be hijacked by groups to support something I disagree with.
Second, some awareness, however misplaced, is better than no awareness. (But I have to be careful with that reason, because sometimes doing the partially-right thing is more damaging than doing nothing)
Most importantly, I can share with the attendees (and my readers) the REAL way for the situation to be solved (not awareness of a cause, but a relationship with God).

So as of right now, I plan on sleeping outside on the street on April 29th. I will of course keep an update on the status and possible results of my participation.