A Nation’s Identity Crisis
As I departed from an office, a receptionist’s parting words stuck with me: “Have a nice day.” My response, “and may you have a blessed one,” sparked an unexpected conversation. She confided that she had wanted to express her faith, but was forbidden from doing so, fearing offense to others. I couldn’t help but feel sympathy for her, trapped in a work environment that stifled her ability to express her beliefs.
A Christian Nation in Decline
This encounter led me to ponder the state of our nation. Our founding fathers proudly declared the United States a Christian nation, and yet, we’ve gradually drifted away from our spiritual roots. God’s words and scripture references adorn our currency, courthouses, and halls of justice, but have we forgotten the significance of these symbols? The once-bold declaration of faith has given way to a timid, watered-down expression of Christianity.
A Warning from the Past
In the late 19th century, Charles Spurgeon cautioned that the church was compromising the purity of the gospel, sugarcoating God’s Word instead of boldly proclaiming its truths. This compromise led to a significant weakening of Christianity’s influence in 19th-century England. Today, the church in most of Europe has become insignificant in a post-Christian era, and the United States is following suit.
Ashamed of Jesus?
Songwriter Joseph Grigg wrote nearly two centuries ago, “Ashamed of Jesus! of that friend on whom for heaven my hopes depend! It must not be! Be this my shame, that I no more revere His name.” I am dismayed to see how ‘political correctness’ has infected even the minds of Christians. We tiptoe around others, afraid to offend, diluting our public prayers and backing away from sharing our faith when opportunities arise.
Breaking Free from Captivity
We are being held captive by post-modern culture, afraid to speak out and speak up for our faith. But the Apostle Paul’s words to the Romans (Romans 1:16) still ring true: “I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentiles.” We must break free from our fear of offending others and boldly live and share our faith.
Shouting from the Hilltops
In a time when our culture is decaying from within, we must be bold and unashamed of the Gospel of our Lord. We must shout it from the hilltops and share it with all. Will you join me in declaring your faith, without apology or fear of offense? Have a blessed day!
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