Birthdays are often a time of reflection on past accomplishments as well as evaluation on what the future may hold. Many also examine past mistakes and make correction so as not to repeat them. As we celebrate our nation's 235th birthday, we as a nation should reflect on the things that make us great and avoid the mistakes that have caused setbacks.
In May of 1765 Patrick Henry stated, "This nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religion, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ." Possibly the owner of the most famous signature in history, John Hancock said, "We recognize no sovereign but God, and no King but Jesus!" on April 18, 1775.
Statements like these by our Founding Fathers could fill volumes. In an effort to be all inclusive, America has inadvertently turned her back on the God who made her this "shining city on the hill." If the actual statements of our founders were examined it is evident that this nation was founded on Christian principles.
Modern Christianity has confused the tenant of love for the sinner with tolerance for sin. Liberal theologians love to cite the story of the woman about to be stoned for adultery but seem to forget Jesus' words, "Go and sin no more." (John 8:11) True followers of Christ could never persecute sinners, but by the same token could never tolerate the sin.
The recent legalization of homosexual marriage in New York is a slap in the face to the Christian principles upon which the United States was founded. Because this is a Christian nation is why our homosexual citizens can practice their lifestyle without fear of persecution. However, legalizing these unions is officially expressing our tolerance of their sin.
It is time that we as followers of Christ get off of our Blessed Assurances and down on our knees and pray that this nation will return to the principles that it was founded on. We must not stop there. We must also prayerfully vote for men and women who will lead this country in the right way as well as pray for our current leaders. The cure for all that ails the United States can be found in 2 Chronicles 7:14, "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sins, and will heal their land."
