I’m wearing a red “X” on my hand today. It’s not because I got bored and had a red Sharpie too close to me. It’s not because I paid to get into a high school sporting event and someone went a bit crazy with the low-tech hand-marking system. I didn’t fall asleep at a slumber party and fall prey to friends who thought mark me with their creativity.

The “X” is a symbol of support for the End It Movement. People all over the world are shining a light on slavery today by showing a commitment to end slavery. It’s been thrilling to see the vast numbers of Facebook friends and Twitter followers sporting the “X.” We’re all posting our photos in unity as instructed. Groups of people are gathering together for a photo that captures a moment of solidarity and commitment. It’s encouraging.

Yet I wonder…”What about tomorrow?”

What happens when the photos fade and the “X” is washed from one hand after another at the end of the day? We might be raising our voices today, but what impact will we have on tomorrow?

That’s up to me, and it’s up to you.

1. Get informed. What do you know about slavery in today’s world? Get the facts. Check out END IT, A21 Campaign, Rapha House, and International Justice Mission to name a few.
2. Get involved. You’re not going to solve the problem by yourself. None of us can. While we won’t all travel around the world rescuing people, there are many who are already working in many areas. Whether you are supporting them financially, relationally, or prayerfully, you can be an important part of the team fighting slavery. (And by the way, slavery hits closer to home than you think. Start asking questions and keeping your eyes, ears, and heart open. You won’t like what you discover, but your indifference is no longer an option.)
3. Give yourself. It’s more than putting a red “X” on your hand and signing a petition. Those things are good, because they show a growing support that cannot be ignored. But you have more. So do I. We have enough time, energy, and resources. Are you willing to do what it takes to get involved? People around the world haven’t been given a choice to give of themselves. Those in slavery don’t have a choice right now, but you do. Give something of yourself on behalf of someone who can’t.