Wednesday, November 6, 2013

CRACK, LIES AND VIDEOTAPE: THOUGHTS ON THE ROB FORD SCANDAL


In May of 2013, Toronto Star reported about a video showing Toronto Mayor Rob Ford smoking crack with a bunch of gang members in Etobicoke.    At the time of these allegations, Rob Ford denied to the public that he smoked crack.   

Fast forward to October 2013.    Police Chief Bill Blair told the press that they have obtained the infamous “crack” video and is now in the courts for investigation.    Mayor Ford still held his ground and not only flatly denied again about the crack allegations, but wanted the video to be seen to the public.   

Within a week of such speculation and media hype, the gauntlet came down on November 5th, 2013 when Mayor Ford admitted to the media that he has smoked crack cocaine “in a drunken stupor”.     His admission alone heightened calls for resignation or to take a leave of absence to sort out his problems.   Instead, he vows to still remain in office until October of 2014 when he feels Toronto will decide if they still want him as mayor or not in a democratic election.

While this story unfolds, it reminds me of the classic Bible story of Jesus when he was confronted by a woman caught in adultery.    The religious people of his day asked Jesus if she should be stoned.   To make a long story short, he was writing on the ground, and after he wrote made a call to the crowd:  “He who is without sin among you cast the first stone”(John 8:7).    One by one the crowd dropped the stones and walked away, being pierced themselves of their own personal sin.

In John 8:10-11, Jesus turns to the woman and asked her where are her accusers.   The woman replied “none”.    Afterwards, Jesus forgives her of her sin and commissions her to live her life free from sin.

It is amazing that as Rob Ford confessed his sin and vowed to never go through this again, the public is calling for his head, not realizing that we are ALL sinners with checkered pasts.     Rob Ford’s situation should be seen by those as an example of how sinful, wretched we are without God’s grace.     The event should also be seen as a contemporary example of public admission of confession, guilt, repentance, and the will to make restitution for what he has done wrong.    

Instead of being quick to judge, criticize, and satirize his shortcomings, now is the time for all of us to take a good look at ourselves and observe the true human condition of our souls and look to God for help.    For those reading who profess a saving faith in Christ, this is also a time to pray for Rob Ford and our leaders like never before and pray for wisdom and strength in the days ahead.    As the apostle Paul stated, “For all have sinned and have fallen short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23).  

The “crack scandal” shows everyone, that if there is sin at the camp, it needs to be dealt with.    We can’t cover up, hide, or conceal sin because it will all come out at the dark and God knows everything.    The courageous thing to do is to do what Rob Ford did and admit his wrongs.    Once we admit our sins toward God and others, there will be healing (James 5:16).    For those that believe in God, try not to be cynical but pray for Rob Ford and our leaders.   For those that do not believe in God yet, realize that you and I have sinned before a great God and seek out his forgiveness while there is still time.


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