Reflections Inspired by Jesse Jackson
This message for Ash Wednesday 2026 draws inspiration from the late Jesse Jackson.
Back in 1977, just four years after the Roe vs. Wade ruling, Jackson expressed something profound:
As a minister of Jesus Christ, I must remind you that there is always the chance for forgiveness, even in the case of an abortion. The God I know is a forgiving God. Even those who committed heinous acts, like the murder of President Kennedy and Dr. King, can find forgiveness. But what if someone is so entrenched in their beliefs that they refuse to forgive? What does it mean for those who accept abortion without regret? And what does that do to our moral fabric, to our very essence as a society? If this attitude continues, what kind of world will we be living in two decades from now? This is a matter of how we value life, and we have to confront it. If we can’t answer affirmatively about the value of life, we risk facing dire consequences.
While we can’t know Jackson’s ultimate fate when he passed, his earlier words offer a warning about distancing ourselves from spiritual truths, especially considering his later choices during his political journey.
In contrast to Jackson, who seemed to lose his boldness in the pursuit of worldly success, we should strive for courage, even when it comes at a cost.
After delivering one of the strongest condemnations of casual abortion, Jackson seemed to shift, making choices that prioritized personal gain over conviction. He faced the familiar temptation of wanting to “be like God,” treating his influence as a commodity and ultimately exchanging it for worldly power, which led to personal scandals and a tarnished reputation.
It’s curious how we, as humans, often play the role of God ourselves. As Obama pointed out, we like to think of ourselves as “the change we’ve been waiting for.” Yet, in this process, some have forgotten that there might actually be a God out there.
Trust me; I’ve been there too. I’ve stood at the edge of that same precipice, questioning things I shouldn’t have. Like, is that stove truly too hot to touch?
It’s a tough call. Maybe it is. But maybe it’s not. Still, hell is undoubtedly worse.
By sheer grace, during my own dark times, I was reminded of my sins and the mercy I needed. I understood that God’s truth is essential. As I get ready for a memorable trip to Israel and anticipate welcoming my second grandchild, I find myself reflecting on heavenly matters.
In the end, I chose to embrace Easter. But we all know that God’s mercy is vast and can cover many missteps, allowing us to gamble with our own salvation at times. True, but mercy doesn’t erase the consequences of our choices.
For over two millennia, Christians have debated the question of salvation and whether it can be lost. It’s a complex issue. But believers should certainly strive to keep these questions alive, instead of getting too comfortable in our existence. So, are you ready to navigate those narrow paths?
Friends, let’s keep pushing forward. The stakes are eternal.
Unlike Jackson, whose boldness seemed to fade, we need to become more audacious, regardless of the risks. Taking that leap of faith is the price of discipleship.
Let your yes be a clear yes and your no a firm no. Thus says the Lord.
