Hotel Rwanda reflection

I have watched "Hotel Rwanda" 4 times in the last week as I have been preparing for class and viewing it in all my English sections. One might think that such excessive exposure to images of dead bodies lining the street or children being massacred might make me more numb to the situation or might reduce the movie's emotional impact. However, I have found quite the opposite to be true. Every single time I watch the movie, I am moved. I am struck by how low humanity can stoop and by how oblivious I am to suffering around me. Each time I view the atrocities that occurred in Rwanda, I am convicted that I need to become more aware of oppression in the world. I am not sure what all I can do to helpin each situation, but at the very least I can learn about the powerless in the world. Only by seeking understanding and showing compassion can I help those who are suffering. But how do I find the time to be an informed global citizen? What is the extent of my obligation?

I am a firm believer that God has blessed me in many ways, and with my blessings come responsibilities. The Bible calls us to protect the needy and serve those who are suffering. According to this, I have an obligation to act for people in need. I need to se the resources God has given me for the good of those he loves.

Last week, I met with some teachers to discuss the book A Thousand Splendid Suns. Like "Hotel Rwanda," this book reveals hardships in the world that have gone unnoticed (specifically this text focuses on the repression of women in modern day Afghanistan). While the plots and the situations differed greatly between these two texts, their impacts on me were the same. After viewing each text I was left with a desire to do something. However, each text also showed me the need to not act hastily-- to understand the situations and know what support would be most beneficial. In other words, a superficial understanding of a scenario might lead me to act in ways that might be conterproductive. However, by taking the time to really investigate a situation and consider possible solutions, I can make a difference.

I pray that God can use me to make a difference and help protect his children.