We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5:3-5
This week the International AIDS Conference is taking place here in Washington, D.C.
Sadly, it is not far away from the battlefield of fighting this horrific modern plague. It is on the front lines. I strongly encourage to watch the link attached. It is about 4 minutes long. It describes some of the realities of the community that I have had the honor of serving in for the past several weeks.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-18919153
Today, I took my team to a non-profit that serves individuals with life-challenging illnesses. For the first 12 years of their organization, it was solely for victims of HIV/AIDS. Now, it encompasses more but are still dominated by that particular illness.
As I came back from my route, I saw a kid from another group wondering why condoms were in a basket on a desk at the organization. I told him the story about the work that they do and the people that they serve and while he was young, he didn't seem to understand that it is a non-curable disease. Hopefully, as he gets older he will not have to live in a world where it remains an issue. But, until then, We all do. Therefore,
Ladies and Gentlemen, I am an advocate for a healthy and committed relationship between individuals who has committed themselves for life and before God. But, if you are active: use protection. Get tested. Be open. Be honest. And, do not hide from reality. We as brothers and sisters in humanity need each other to lean upon in difficult times. And, as humanity we lean upon the Cross and the sacrifice it represents.
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