Resurrection power is our hope
by Edwin G. Moyer, Quakertown, Pa.
In Berry Friesen’s article (“A Poisonous Brew,” Sept. 2), he writes about how in recent years there has emerged “a synthesis between Christian triumphalism (we deserve the best) and U.S imperialism (we are the strongest).” This is indeed a “poisonous brew” because it fosters the view among both our leaders and our citizenry that God’s favor rests upon us more than any other people. It tends to promote the feeling that we will always be blessed—in this life and in the life to come—just because we are Americans. We tend to become indifferent to those outside our circle who need our understanding and help.
Jesus’ prayer to his Father was for God’s kingdom to come, God’s will to be done, on earth as it is in heaven—here and now, not just in some future millennium, not just in America but all over the world. What are the ways, how can we speak and live to bring people into his kingdom here in our time? How can we stand up against the tide of popular religiosity and American patriotism, both within ourselves and our leaders?
As Friesen says, it is only as we put our hope in the Resurrection, the power that enabled the early Christians to remain true to their Lord.
Associated Issue: Let the light of Christ Jesus shine through - Sept. 2, 2008
Associated Article: A poisonous brew
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