The Real Christmas Question 2017AD

[HKHaugan]

The Real Christmas Question 2017 AD 

Consider this: all the medical advancments, economic achievements, educational progress, political development, spiritual involvement, amazing technologies, the building of hospitals and social services, missions to the poor and disabled, advancments of theater, fine arts, architecture and the vast discoveries and inventions having occurred in these last centuries; what initiated them? You might quote that ‘necessity is the mother of invention.’ That would be a mild and diplomatic reply. But what has really been the drive and the atmosphere that allows for a drive like that to emerge in the world? 

I don’t want to spend the time speculating, but rather make a bold statement. The Lord God drove people from what they felt were oppressive environments with static spiritual institutions and social class levels to make their way to a land that offered them freedom as individuals.  But not only freedom on a socially level plain but a spiritually experienced, forward looking, vertical horizon where the Lord directs each of us personally. With all the obstacles both physical and emotional that stood before them, pioneers came to the shores of America and settled its frontiers meeting every challenge with discovery and invention. We in our time are their beneficiaries. These pilgrims forged our heritage, a spiritual heritage that seems to have been forgotten in our educational and social institutions and denied politically. 

America was inspired by the Lord God and its legal and social foundations are evident in its founding documents. Yet, we have those whose knowledge of these truths is missing the history that has given them everything they have today. So many of our educators, political and economic leaders are consumed with their present position they have forgotten or revised history to satisfy their power. You can see it in the media, especially where the ‘talking and writing heads’ with their self-impressed personalities, neglect what happened to bring America into its position of world leadership. Weak kneed leadership in so many areas caves into the pressure of the social fears that occupy the public mind. 

Yes, the world around us has changed dramatically. And it is not getting any better. So, what are we as disciples of Jesus to do about this? We are moving toward the Christmas season and the answer lies right there in front of us. While the world may be constantly changing, the one stable reality is the Lord Jesus and His Word. No matter what political, social and economic trends come and go, the Lord Jesus will always prevail. His grace and truth will provide the lifestyle to witness in their midst. What we may see is the crumbling of a past religious structure and influence. 

So what?

 In Christ we have a relational emphasis to offer the broken and lonely people around us. It starts with us and how secure we are in that relationship with Him. Our willingness to share that relationship is the key to any future cultural shift. It is the Holy Spirit who will show us how adaptable we can be to make the Lord central as we encounter people while we are on the way. In the past we sought to bring people into an institutional structure. We may be seeing a movement toward more interpersonal structures from centralized buildings to home or like groups that invite relationally hungry people which, by the way, are 100% of the people we meet.

Just one question as we approach celebrating the Lord’s birth into the world. It may have to do with a new kind of challenge we can’t avoid. Are we more interested in bringing people to church or to the Lord? This is the real question for disciples in a rapidly changing culture.

[Linda]

Thank you Whitey. I'm glad I'am alone and have time to ponder your words.  This is always a very difficult time for me during the holidays. As I deal with my adult children with their cell phones and their insincere relationships it appears I need a big cry.  Not just for myself; I cry for the many people who are so lost and so far from the Lord's presence.  My plan is to keep reading your blog to buck up a little bit and get myself back out there.