America's Hope!

Those who knew me best, know that I am not usually the outspoken crusader who boycotts, rallies, or prepares petitions for just causes. I am more of a background supporter.

But this year, my heart has been stirred by story after story..some so scary and unbelievable that I want to deny these things are happening TODAY in the world in which I live.

We know that Christians in other nations are suffering and even some are making the ultimate sacrifice for their faith...with joy! But maybe those of us living in the United States of America are taking our freedoms for granted! It's not a sacrifice for us to drive to church on Sunday morning (if we feel like it), our children are not being taken away because we are Christians, we don't face imprisonment for our beliefs! At least not yet...but could that change?

Recently,the Department of Homeland Security sent out a special report on rightwing extremism to law enforcement agencies nationwide. On page 2 of the assessment, it was noted that rightwing extremism in the United States could include groups dedicated to a single issue, such as opposition to abortion or immigration. It also included concerns about the proposed imposition of firearm restrictions and those who are against this act. I was astonished! To count pro-lifers and veterans among the most dangerous of domestic terrorists sent a chill through my soul. Who will be next?

I wondered if I could be as coureageous as Ms. Carrie Prejean, Miss CA and first runner up for Miss USA 2009, who spoke from her heart, stayed true to her beliefs at "considerable personal cost". I have to ask myself..do I really believe she lost the title because she stood up for marriage as defined between one man and one woman? What future sacrifice could I be asked to make in order to uphold the beliefs I hold as truth?

Our nation and our world are facing some of our greatest challenges: threats of war are on every side, terrorism, the possible pandemic outbreak of the H1N1 virus and on and on. What about the economic crisis we are facing, the staggering number of jobs lost, homes foreclosed, and loss of future security? What family is not affected by illness or trouble? What parent's aren't worried about the choices of their children?

Dear Readers, where is America's Hope? I believe that our hope lies in the Lord Jesus Christ and He is the God of the Impossible Situation. So no matter what we are facing today, or how it looks, or what the future holds tomorrow, let us look to Him!

I hope you will join me on Thursday, May 9th, the National Day of Prayer, to take a few minutes in prayer for our nation, our leaders, our communities, and our families. Furthermore, not just on this one day set aside but each day let's not forget to stand in the gap! Each one makes a difference but a three-fold cord is even harder to break.

Prayer...is America's Hope!!

Praying for you and yours...until next time!! "C"