Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with God’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Romans 12: 9 – 13
I know very little about U2. If I heard one of their songs, I would probably recognize it, but I can’t name one. I have heard Bob speak of them and especially their lead singer, known as Bono, from time to time, and know him to be a great humanitarian and global activist. Bob has mentioned how much He admires him for his work with President George W. Bush and other world leaders to fight poverty around the world, in part because of his deep faith.
In searching for an article I wanted to read, I came across one about Bono doing “a fascinating radio interview” with FOCUS on the Family (FOF), a Christian organization. Because of what Bob had told me, it grabbed my attention. I read the article, and listened to the 30 minute interview. I was astounded by the words of this famed musician, his passion for helping the poor, but I was especially moved and impressed by his intense faith in Jesus Christ. His knowledge of Scripture was incredible. He quoted many passages and gave examples of faith, love, and service from His Word.
These are a few of his most profound statements from the interview:
“It’s very annoying following this person of Christ around because He’s very demanding of your life.”
”It’s important to be honest with God. He is more interested in who you are rather than who you want to be.”
”Go about doing God’s work. Don’t just speak about it. Do it! Believe in Him to help you make a difference.”
”Jesus didn’t have many manners or try to be polite. He spoke directly to the people about justice and what needs to be done by His followers.”
”You have to decide whether to embrace this Christ, the Son of God, or believe He is a total nut case. It is necessary to choose one or the other, and if you choose the first, you must live the life of love He teaches.”
”Beyond accepting Jesus Christ as the Son of God, the 2nd most important thing to do is to bring love and grace together in 1 cup of justice. We must take care of the people in poverty and need.”
”Jesus will not let you off the hook. Scripture won’t let you off the hook. We are expected to help others.”
”Jesus, the Word of life, appeared, as written in 1 John 1:1. You don’t have to be a PHD to understand His Gospel. Believe with your heart.”
”If you and your life are in alignment with Christ, special things will start happening in your life.”
What a lesson for all of us and what an influence Bono has been and can be on the world stage – especially among young people who like his music and know of his fame. For the past 25 years he has worked tirelessly to make a difference in young people’s lives. It was stated that over 7000 kids live every day because of the collective efforts he pushed to fight AIDS, malaria, and other diseases. 51 million children in Africa go to school because of his work and vision to get government allotted funds available for them. He especially wanted to give credit to the American people who have given generous gifts to His cause to save 9 million lives with AIDS. He spoke of how we all have our philosophical disagreements, our different theological beliefs, and our opposite political positions, but this is one thing we can come together on – our belief that we can change lives and love others in the name of Christ.
The above verse speaks to how all of us should be devoted to each other in brotherly love and in service to Him. Bono is definitely a testament to that! I know nothing of his life outside of what I read and saw in this interview, but his love seems sincere, and he appears to always be “clinging to what is good.”
He is devoted to helping his fellow human beings around the world, and he honors and values life. His zeal and passion for the broken-hearted is obvious as he seeks to serve the Son of God with love and compassion. I think I like this man! I might have to check out his music!
And what a Savior! I am in awe of the many ways He uses individuals we would never expect to carry His message of love to others!
Prayer
Dear Lord, thank you for such a man who is willing to use his platform to glorify you and to help those in need. We pray many hearts will be opened to you through his life and service. May we all serve and honor you with the same love, zeal, and compassion. Thank you for your presence with us and for your saving grace. Amen
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