On February 22, FoxNews reported that four Americans aboard a yacht hijacked by Somali pirates were gunned down by their captors. The two couples that were killed were known for sailing the world with bibles aboard their vessel. It seems so strange to think about modern day pirating and the risks of traveling abroad. I know the couples aboard the Quest bore the responsibility of sailing in dangerous waters, but it unnerves me to consider the growing boldness of evil.
Growing up under the strong influence of television, I always assumed that Americans held a special position throughout the world. That position was a result of a healthy fear and respect that other countries gave to the United States and its citizens. Hostages may be taken, and lives may be in peril, but sooner than later the U.S. rescues its own and enforces protective privileges given to its own. Soon, either Chuck Norris or John Wayne would crash through the door, shoot the bad guys, and usher the valued hostages to safety. Any would-be hostage-takers would think twice about messing with Americans again.
As I watch the events in the Middle East, I can't help but notice America's influence for positive change diminishing. It appears that we have temporarily lost the weight of our words in expressing the ideals of freedom. Maybe no one is listening as intently as in years past because of the passive posture that is being held out to our own people and the nations abroad. I think that liberalism always undermines the strength of any nation. While liberal ideology may be necessary for healthy political debate, it has proven itself weak and impotent as our leaders test these ideas in the ears of militant and evil empires.
Like it or not, evil must be met with great strength and steadfastness. Wavering and bowing lend credence to the idea that one may be moved from one's firm position. Even when it appears that evil has an upper hand, the belief in rescue and justice carries its people through great difficulty.
In the kingdom of Christ, strength and deliverance are a reality. Rescue is at the very heart of the gospel. Even though evil may flourish for a time, it is always wriggling under the pressure that Christ has prevailed and will soon manifest the reality of absolute victory.
Consider these verses:
Col 2:9-10; 15 For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodlily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the head over every power and authority... And having disarmed the powers and authorities, he made a public spectacle of them, triumphing over them by the cross.
Col 1:13-14 For he has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son he loves, 14 in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.
Rom 16:20 The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.
Stand Firm
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