Dear Solid Rock Church,

First of all, let me say that I'm sorry your "Touchdown Jesus" statue was struck by lightening and burned to the ground. As a Christian, I'm never a fan of burning or destroying anything in the image of Christ, and I'm sure that must have been traumatic for you. I'm so glad no one was hurt and your church can be repaired!

The real reason I am writing though, is to beg you NOT to build the statue back. I know you probably think that's an odd request coming from a Christian, but please hear me out.

I'm sure you had great reasons for building the "King of Kings" statue (also known as "Touchdown Jesus"). I read online that you wanted to build it to be a "beacon of hope and salvation". Unfortunately, 75% of people polled from your city said they consider it to be an eyesore. So, today I am asking you to consider NOT rebuilding.

You see, I read in this article that the statue was insured at the cost of $300,000. From what I understand of insurance, that means you'll be given that 300,000 to cover the damage. I am begging you to consider using that money for something different than to rebuild.

As a missionary, I know there is SO much good that $300,000 could do in the world! You could feed the hungry, build homes for the homeless, care for orphans in need, or provide medical attention to those who can't afford it.

These are just a few ideas - the possibilities are endless! With a sum of money that large, you could bless THOUSANDS of people!

As Christians, I believe it is so important that we focus on BEING
Jesus to people instead of building statues and buildings to make Jesus
look impressive. Jesus was never impressed by beautiful buildings or grandiose statues. It is our job to bring HOPE to the world, and you have an AMAZING opportunity to do that with this money!

I urge you, before you decide to rebuild, please go back to scripture. Re-read the verses that say:

Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to
look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself
from being polluted by the world. (James 1:27)

Sell
your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves
that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be
exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Luke 12: 33-34)

This letter is not meant to condemn you in any way, but to encourage you to make a lasting difference in the world in the name of Jesus Christ. Please, use the money for something that moth, rust and thieves (and lightening) will not destroy. Use it to bring real HOPE to those in desperate need. We are praying that you will do the right thing!

Your sister in Christ,
Ericka Jackson
Port Huron, MI

*If you agree with this letter, please "sign it" with your name, city, and state (and feel free to leave a comment) in the comments section below! We are hoping to get enough 'signatures' to make this church consider changing their mind!