There’s so much hurt and sin across America today. Broken families, divided churches and lack of leadership are all factors that play into the rampant sin in America and in the Christian Church. With all this distraction, we have little time to reflect on our own lives and all the things with which God has blessed us.
First, the source of our blessings has always been God. As a country throughout the past 200 years our leaders have recognized God’s providence. John Adams once said “We recognize no sovereign but God, and no King but Jesus.” Ronald Reagan said “If we ever forget that we are one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under.” Lastly, George H.W. Bush said, “We asked for God’s help; and now, in this shining outcome, in this magnificent triumph of good over evil, we should thank God.”
However, as we look back at where we began as a nation and where we are now, things look much different. There is much conflict and heartache in America today. For example, the push for homosexual marriage shows defiance to God’s word and principles. The second example I see is rebellion against authority. In Ferguson, Missouri, protestors burned down buildings and torched vehicles all because a cop lawfully and justifiably shot a man that physical evidence shows was attacking the officer. In homes across America teenagers are rebelling against parents and disobeying. Lastly and most devastating we are seeing the breakup of the family across this country. The family structure is under attack and that is arguably where all rebellion is stemming from.
I believe I know the cause of America’s problems. Denial of Jesus Christ as the Son of God and the failure to accept God’s authority as creator of all things is the problem. What is the only thing that has brought men from wretchedness to righteousness? Jesus Christ, the Son of God, the one Messiah is the only way out of our sinfulness. In John 14:6 Jesus said, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”
We constantly seek solutions to the problems we face today, whether as a country or as individuals. What we mostly fail to see is that the solution to our problems isn’t found within our own strategies. Romans 3:23 says “all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” Who is the only person that can pardon a murderer that is in jail for the rest of his life? Jesus Christ. I hear story after story of prisoners who hear the Gospel of Jesus Christ while in prison and repent and believe in Jesus for the forgiveness of their sins. Yes, I will see that soul in heaven one day. That shows the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Engaging in politics in important, fighting the culture war is important, defending the family is important, and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ is important. We are to be salt and light, always prepared to give an answer for the hope that is within us.
What better time than Christmas to shine the light of Jesus Christ. Revival and lasting change will come to America when hungry souls turn to Jesus for salvation. That is the answer to our problems.
