There's Sad Music Too

Yesterday, we talked about the stones in the stream that created the delightful spring gurgles that signal a return to life and make us aware of  the beauty of creation and life  Today I read an article about the increasing incidence of suicide among teens and young adults on the Pine Ridge Reservation where I spent 14 years trying to spread the Good News of God's love for us.  No one has an explanation regarding the alarming figures of completed and attempted suicides, but disrespect for one another, bullying, oppression at all levels, are seen to be contributing factors.  I would add that a slipping away from God,  a falling from faith, has created a void hopelessness that makes escape through death the only "way out."  This stone creates sad music.  Three conversations locally yesterday with young men who have drifted from active practice of their faith played sad music for me too. Yet, all three had not lost hope do have some relationship with God.  I wouldn't think suicide is in their plan book; rather there are gurgles of hope in the stream of all three.   How do we encourage them to go further and return fully to the Community of Believers, the Church?  What can the families in Pine Ridge do to instill a sense and knowledge of God in their children?  As we approach Pentecost (May 24), let us begin now to ask for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit that will revive these dying souls and turn sad music into happy music once again.
Bro. Rene