In addition to the Presidential election, many of our high school friends will be discussing their favorite plants at the lunch tables today.
Yesterday the states of Colorado and Washington became the first to legalize the recreational use of marijuana. While it’s still illegal on a federal level, the Colorado state law will allow adults over 21 to possess up to 1 ounce or six plants of marijuana for personal use.
The Huffington Post reports, “Although Colorado ‘legalized it,’ it will be several months, perhaps as long as a year, before Colorado adults 21-and-over can enjoy the legal sale of marijuana. However, the parts of the amendment related to individual behavior will go into effect as soon as Governor Hickenlooper certifies the results of the vote, a proclamation he is obligated to do within 30 days of the election, The Colorado Independent reported.”
For most middle and high schoolers, it’s already pretty easy to get your hands on some weed. Even still, this is a game-changer. Prior to the internet, pornography was readily available, yet the extra effort it took to obtain a magazine kept many folks from being imprisoned by it. Accessibility matters.
It’s a hot button issue, but one our teenage friends are going to ask us about. Instead of endlessly debating a topic, let’s thoughtfully engage and then prayerfully steer the conversation back to Jesus. This makes our need for Him all the more evident.
The apostle Peter writes, “In your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15, NIV)
Eugene Peterson translates it this way in The Message, “Keep your hearts at attention, in adoration before Christ, your Master. Be ready to speak up and tell anyone who asks why you’re living the way you are, and always with the utmost courtesy.”
