It’s easy to see why people attack that which they don’t have or trivialize what they don’t understand. Society expects access upon demand to what technology has to offer and cries foul when limitations stand in the way. However, those rewards that are achieved through following a set of guidelines or criteria are selective to give the result its value. Gain without effort or sacrifice, the win is hollow and loses value. On the other hand, a victory through personal cost or self-sacrifice and the takeaway is sweet joy. Even the relationship we have with our Creator includes a very specific criteria for entry into heaven; you can’t buy your way in or be accepted as a better person over the next guy.
So, it’s interesting that, in a time where technology has provided almost instant, unlimited access and enormous power in the palm of our hands, our country is fractured over its claim as a sovereign nation. Fairness has recently been argued as the benchmark over law; there are many who feel that our laws should not exclude a person wanting to gain entry who doesn’t wish to follow the rules. It’s no surprise that despite the stains and blemishes since its founding, the United States remains a sought after prize; the constitution granting and protecting rights and freedoms for its people, not the government. Though not a guarantee of personal success, the opportunities exist for people of this country to seek their goals and live their lives under the protection of certain inalienable rights. And, my friend, we have so taken that for granted.
Yes, membership has its privileges. One of those protections is the freedom of religion; and combining that with the freedom of speech, this has provided citizens opportunities to practice their faith without persecution. Why is this changing for the Christian faith? It might be understandable if this were a belief where there were no mercy and grace, no benevolent non-profits, no golden rule, no random acts of kindness, no virtue, no honor, no personal responsibility, no joy in the simple things, no gratefulness, no self-sacrifice, etc. But aside from some bad actors who try to con their way, it’s not. Sadly, this is nothing new; throughout history, the teachings of Jesus and the instructions of the apostle Paul are the principles being attacked. Seems those who mock and take offense are often the same who don't want any instruction on how to live and then end up having meltdowns over Christian principles when they can’t find peace and meaning in their own lives.
The conflict is as old as Adam, but what appears to be changing is that for the first time Christians in our own country are now on the defense. For much of our history we’ve been mostly immune to hostile criticisms and biased hatred. Not anymore. Accepted norms and rules of behavior have been flushed down the toilet. Common decency is no longer a default characteristic. Trust in your fellow human is naïve. Patriotism and love of our national identity is assaulted. No longer do we get to coast along in our faith, simply assembling and enjoying the fellowship of other believers. Now, it’s work; a focused effort to believe what you say and say what you believe. The defense of faith and living out a Christian worldview in the mainstream requires as much conviction now as ever; with Satan ramping up the battle for those with a biblically-sound moral compass and a reference point of Christian values.
Social justice warriors speak much about tolerance. Sad that this type of tolerance appears to be the virtue of a person who lacks conviction. It’s only tolerant if you’re on their side. There’s no honest debate of ideas, no acceptance of a greater good, no acknowledgment of personal responsibility. The struggle is real. But God’s instruction in the face of intolerance is the same today as it was two thousand years ago; love those who get in your face, who bully, who are insensitive to your own opinions and pray for them. Don’t respond with fear and hate; instead, express the love of Christ. Our Creator relentlessly pursues; and if they knew the alternative, those without Christ would desperately seek membership. It's open to all.
“Three-minute exposure; a snapshot of life’s imperfect harmony,” by Stew McAuley. Encouraging your Christian Worldview.
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