I’ve only viewed live crocodiles from a safe distance at a zoo.
I have to admit… I will ONLY be comfortable viewing them at a safe distance at a zoo!! But in certain places of the world viewing a crocodile may not only be a daily occurrence, but also a deadly one.
For instance, this is a Nile crocodile, the most feared crocodile in all of Africa.
This apex predator quietly watches the movements and behavior of unsuspecting prey at watering holes where tribes collect water for family and livestock.
Years ago, one particular remote African tribe was the target of a float of opportunistic man-eating crocodiles.
The fatalities became so high that word spread and concerned communities outside of the tribe wanted to help find a solution.
When help arrived at the village they were shocked by what they saw. A majority of the tribal members were maimed, and their bodies were covered with scars.
The sociologists and scientists tried to talk to the people and ask them questions, but no one would talk to them. No one would even acknowledge that there was a problem
Finally, the elderly chief approached them and said, “Stop asking us questions! It is shameful and impolite to talk about this. We cannot remember a time when it wasn’t like this.”
The scientists were dumbfounded! The whole tribe was refusing help and choosing to ignore the problem.
Similar to this tribe, we see a generation of young people that are quietly walking around spiritually and emotionally maimed and scarred. There is a deep shame that resides in them that is reinforced by culture and families that historically are uncomfortable talking about the very subjects that are taking them out. They have resolved in their hearts that this is how life is going to be and nothing will change!!
But thank you, Jesus!! – the work of the cross still heals, restores and delivers!! In Luke 4:18 Jesus declares,
“The Spirit of the LORD is upon me, for He has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free,”
And Psalms 147:3 says,
“He heals the brokenhearted, And binds up their wounds, (healing their pain and comforting their sorrow).” AMP