We are in a very dark time in our history as a country. I was a baby at the end of the Civil Rights movement. Thus, I did not experience the difficulty of that day. What I know of then, I have learned through history books and talking with people who did live through it. No doubt, those were dark days. The difference between now and then maybe what we are moving toward. During the 1960s we were moving toward better equality and a brighter future. Now, I don’t sense that optimism as all. It feels like we are moving toward a cliff that will throw our country into complete and utter chaos, maybe even another Civil War. The hatred and divisiveness all around us is palatable. It is truly a scary time.
Not only are these dark times for our country, they are even darker times for the CHURCH in the United States. We have lost direction, and we have allowed outside influences to divide us. We have cared more about our own rights and safety then the rights and safety of others. We have placed nationalism above discipleship, and obtaining power above washing the feet of the most vulnerable.As a result, many churches and pastors are suffering. Churches are closing. Pastors are leaving the ministry, dealing with depression, and even committing suicide.
There is no peace in the land. In the words of Francis Schaffer, “We have our feet planted firmly in mid-air.”
The only thing I know to do is repent.
“Father, forgive me of my own sins. Forgive me for my part in causing the hurt and divisions among us. Forgive me for not speaking the truth in love. Help me to forgive those who have hurt me. Restore to me the joy of my salvation, and the joy of serving You and Your CHURCH.”
Not only must we repent, but we must also pray for courage.
Courage to stand up for what is right.
Courage to not compromise our values.
Courage to become prophetic.
Courage to call people to repentance.
“Father, give me the courage I need to keep on keeping on. Give me the courage to not be silence. Grant me the courage to speak Your truth and to call us all to repentance.”
This is my prayer.
In Jesus’ name.
Amen.
Floods of Justice 
AMEN! You are totally right. But nothing can separate us from the love God has for us in the Lord Jesus Christ. Like Paul, we need to say: “But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”
Thanks Kevin. Going through a dark time now and trying to make sense of it all. Trying to find your way in personal darkness can be complex. Following Proverbs 3:5-6.