While the conversation and the fallout continues over the abhorrent chant by members of University of Oklahoma’s now defunct chapter of Sigma Alpha Epsilon, I want to remind us that we do not shape our responses to society based on the actions of its members.  Instead, our actions and reactions must be molded to fit the cross of Christ.  Let us not forget that this is the season of Lent; the time when we walk in the footsteps of Christ and “die daily” to ourselves in order to be more like him (First Corinthians 15.31).  What did he pledge while he hung on the cross?

Christ was brutally hazed for our sins.  He was beaten, taunted, mocked, spit on and later crucified.  And he didn’t do it for himself but “the chastisement of our peace was upon him” (Isaiah 53.5).  He did it so that we could be called the children of God.  We  bear his name because of it and we pledged to be like him no matter what people say.

So, let us pledge to live, remembering that Christ died for us.

Let us pledge to lead, remembering whose steps we follow in and to what end: the cross.

Let us pledge to love, remembering that there are no conditions, that God loves us freely, that there is an enchanting and eternal chant: J-E-S-U-S.