I have been reading Judges this week and am soaking it in. I am amazed at the Israelites and thier disobedience. So much whining and crying and complaining and God continually shows himself as a God of love and compassion.
The Israelites have long been brought out from the arm of Egypt. Unfortunately, the Israelites did not care that there is a cost to their freedom. That cost is obedience. Today, that has not changed.
This is my country. I was born here, raised here and would venture to guess I will finish my life here. I am honored beyond words to have the freedom that has been paid by many along the way. From past generations to today, many have laid down their life to protect that freedom.
I graduated from High School on the bicentennial birthday of our country. Our school colors were red, white and gray so we were two thirds of the way there for our country's colors. We got to wear red, white and blue medallions in our graduation pictures. I can assure you that in 1976, the birthday of our country was the last thing on my mind.
Today however, I am more grounded both in life and in my Christian walk. I am often saddened at the parallels between our country today and the Israelites
They were lost in their worship of false gods, attention to man-made idols and a love and desire for temporary satisfactions. They called on gods that neither heard nor answered but today, we live in a country that allows us the freedom to worship the one true God. A God who hears our cries and gives us the promise forgive our sins and to heal our land if we turn from our wicked ways. (2 Chronicles 7:14) So today, as you take advantage of a day off or grilling time or fireworks, ask yourself this..."What other nation is this great?" God Bless America!!
What other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws as this body of laws I am setting before you today? Only be careful and watch yourselves closely so that you do not forget the things your eyes have seen or let them fade from your heart as long as you live.
Deuteronomy 4:8-9
No comments:
Post a Comment