Blog:FOREST LAKE TALKS

Is it just me, or is the pace of change in the world making you dizzy also?  I find myself unable to keep up with the news and distracted by the static of so much “breaking news.”  When everything is “breaking news”, then it feels like nothing is “breaking news.”  And whether you disagree or agree with all the executive orders signed into law by President Trump on his first day of office, the sheer number of them has made it difficult to focus.  Once again, we find ourselves in the unfortunately familiar spot of having each political party bash each other.  I am reminded of the warning of the Apostle Paul to the church in Galatia.

For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters, only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become slaves to one another. For the whole law is summed up in a single commandment, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” If, however, you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another.” Galatians 5:13-15

In this age, be careful not to let the noise of fighting and the pace of change dislodge you from the root of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17).  We are not to disengage or withdraw from the political arena, but instead we are to engage while taking care to keep our feet firmly planted in Scripture, prayer, worship, and Christian community.  If we do not, then we will be drawn into destructive fighting and consumed. Followers of Jesus are to be marked by the “peace that passes understanding.” (Philippians 4:7) Before we speak, type, post, act, I suggest we pass what we want to say through the filter of the GREATEST commandment (Matthew 22:34-40):  Love the Lord your God with all our heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. . . .  and love your neighbor as yourself.”

If you are rejoicing in President Trump’s approach, take care that you hold the convictions of Jesus tighter than political wins, and hold the President and yourself accountable to the Great Commandment.  If you are despairing or afraid of what President Trump’s presidency will bring, keep your eyes and hearts on the only sure, true, and eternal thing.  To both sides, Jesus says: In the world you face persecution. But take courage; I have conquered the world! (John 16:33).  For us, there is only one Lord.

See you in worship!