Happy 250, America!

Because you have had a new birth, not from the seed of man, but from eternal seed, through the word of a living and unchanging God. For it is said, All flesh is like grass, and all its glory like the flower of the grass. The grass becomes dry and the flower dead: But the word of the Lord is eternal. And this is the word of the good news which was given to you. 1 Peter 1:23-25 BBE

I’m so very grateful to have been born in post WWII America. It has been a window in history and geography that allowed a peasant like me to live a life beyond the wildest dreams of my ancestors. Thanks to the courage and sacrifices of the few, the Gospel has been preached, and the world has seen hope, a shining light on a hill. Thank You, Lord, for America.

That said, there are a few things facing us now that need our attention.

• The political union between the communist insurgents and the Islamic jihadists is troubling. Eventually, I hope they will eat each other, but the damage they can do in the meantime is frightening. They are there for us to expose and/or convert. Fear not!
• The immigration issue remains a problem. The church must strike a balance between condemning undocumented immigrants as criminals and recognizing them as valuable souls for whom Christ died. Hatred is not becoming of a follower of Jesus. What if we treated undocumented immigrants as our target audience?
• Sexual perversion is all around us. Though sexual restraint continues to decline, at least there are voices speaking up. Due to technology’s pervasiveness, our children are exposed to things no child should see. Perhaps the first step is paying attention to what they’re looking at. On second thought, perhaps the first step is to pay attention to what we’re looking at. Filth is filth. Example matters.

I believe the American church is in a transitional period. We are moving toward the older paradigm of local gatherings with accountable leaders and members, real Bible study, and genuine community. I wouldn’t mind seeing worship reborn as a communal activity, with songs that glorify the Potter, not the clay. While politics is important for Christians, it’s not our primary mission. The goal is truth spoken in boldness and love. However, idols are still idols, even if they’re eloquent and carry a Bible. Be wise as serpents and gentle as doves.

Here’s the point: It’s important for me to remember that my eight decades and the USA’s two-and-a-half centuries are short chapters in a much larger story. The Author is still at work, using us as part of his master plan. He has placed us in a time and place that gives us choices others don’t have. For whatever reason, He has given us some measure of agency in writing our part in the story. I must ask, “This is my moment. Lord, I’m still breathing. What is my role in the drama?” I know the climax will be thrilling.