Musings: 6/07/08; Reciprocation. by JAH

Benjamin Franklin said, "All mankind is divided into three classes: Those that are immovable, those that are movable, and those that move." What did he mean? I suspect he referred to those who implacably and stoically stagnate in their old ruts, those who can be persuaded to try new things, and those who are making things happen.

There have always been "movers and shakers" who shape the future for their segment of mankind, if not for the whole world. Many have noted that Europe is in the twilight of their Christian era, and that it is almost completely secular now. Tony Blair Great Britain's former Prime Minister kept a low profile concerning his faith until recently, but he admits readily now that people's faith is involved in shaping the whole world. Even those who disavow God have faith. It may be in themselves, or in a particular form of government, or a branch of learning, or some other idolatry. (I use that term advisedly because faith in anything other than God is idolatry).

We don't need a Christian government, but it would be wonderful to have solid Christians doing the governing. Our nation was founded on Christian principles regardless of the opinion and statements of some historians and other ungodly people. That is what makes it so attractive to people around the world. It is a free society, and as such, must allow for all sorts of religions to exist without interference unless their faith makes it impossible for someone else to be free.

We should have the right to set limitations on the general population regardless of their religious affiliation. It is a fact that we honor Muslims' desire to have their mosques and the freedom to worship as their religion dictates. I believe it is only just for us expect their nations of origin to reciprocate, and honor the desire of Christians and Jews in their lands to possess a Bible and worship as their hearts dictate. There's no ban on the Koran in this nation, but the Bible is banned in every Muslim nation with which I am familiar. Reciprocation should be the rule of practice among all nations, and I say that, not to take freedom away from anyone, but I believe no country should expect a freedom in our country unless they grant the same freedom in theirs.

One-way streets are nice and convenient in a congested area, aren't they? Wouldn't it be absurd to have all of them run in the same direction? Our world has become a congested place. Why is it, that the world has so many one-way streets that seem to run only one way, from East, and Middle East to West where they dead end!

My faith is that our God, the God of all creation. will take care of every problem that faces His children. We just have to make sure we are His children. Then we can understand and fulfill Hebrews 4:15,16, "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are--yet without sin. Let us then approach the throne of grace with confidence, so the we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.