Back then these words stood for something: they were more than a motto.  They were a spiritual truth which most people swore to.  It was accepted, even expected, that we put all our trust in our Creator.  My how times have changed...

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"In God We Trust."  Is it really true?  Can the majority of the citizens of our great country rightfully say that they put all their trust in Him?  Can most of us say it here at St. John?  I fear not.  For most Americans, the one true God is not their god.  They have chosen gods of their own making or have reshaped their belief in the one true God to fit their lifestyles, making Him no God at all.  One can only imagine what God thinks of this transformation from "One Nation under God" to "One Nation Serving Whatever god We Choose."

 

From Romans 1: "For although they know God, they did not honor him as God or give thanks to him, but they became futile in their thinking, and their foolish hearts were darkened.  Claiming to be wise, they became fools, and exchanged the glory of the immortal God for images resembling mortal man and birds and animals and reptiles" (vv. 21--23).

 

But all is not lost.  God has promised that if we just humble ourselves and turn from our wicked ways, He will hear our prayers, forgive our sins, and heal our land (2 Chronicles 7:14).  So, how do we make a stand?  How do we turn the tide of disbelief to once again trust in the one true God?  How do we convince others that our way is the right way?  That's a pretty tall order, isn't it?

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But really, the answer is simple.  All we need to do is be the people we were created to be.  Let others see your conviction in Christ.  Let them see Jesus in all your actions.  Put others before yourselves.  Don't be shy to share your faith and the reasons for your faith.  Glorify God in all you do and quit making excuses for yourself.  Trust God to be true to His Word and trust Him to lead your life.  Don't get so lost in the comforts of this world that you forget from whom all your blessings flow.

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You and I can be catalysts for change.  Little by little, by the power of the Holy Spirit, we can bring God back into the picture for people.  As a church, let the community see us as people who care, an active church so busy being Christ to the world that we have no time for the devil's temptations.  Let them witness our faith as we draw nearer to God, sharing the message of salvation even to those who resist it.  Little by little, we can make a kingdom difference.  And best of all, we that the power of almighty God behind us.

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God's richest blessings!  See you in Church!

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Pastor M.  <t><

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