MARANATHA

I recently read a speech by Chris Hedge, given at Furman University's Younts Conference Center. The address was part of protests by faculty and students over the South Carolina college's decision to invite George W. Bush to give the May 31 commencement address.
The speech can be read at: http://educationforum.ipbhost.com/index.php?s=c06bee5791fddcd9a95e46ac354c2e61&showtopic=12885&st=0&p=146577&#entry146577

Thank God for freedom of speech....It's so easy to cast blame when you're on the outside looking in. Simply an example of what's in store for America...and the entire world. Whether you choose to believe it or not, Biblical prophecy is being fulfilled each day, and we are drawing ever closer to the prophesied return of our Lord Jesus Christ. I, for one, am excited at the prospect!

It really doesn't matter who is elected president this fall....There is absolutely NO WAY to change the course of history, and our downward spiral.....EXCEPT to fall on our faces in repentance, EXAMINE OURSELVES, and turn to the only One who can help us.

"If MY people who are called by MY name will humble themselves and pray and
seek MY face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven,
and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." (II Chronicles 7:14).

Yet, as a Christian (not simply a "Believer" but a "Follower" of Jesus Christ), I am assured of safety in the midst of turmoil. (Read Psalm 37.)

Two great quotes from Alexis de Tocqueville came to mind as I read the "discourse" by Chris Hedge:
"America is great because she is good. If America ceases to be good,
America will cease to be great."

"The American Republic will endure until the day Congress discovers
that it can bribe the public with the public's money."

This "bribery" has been done through welfare, social security, "no child left behind", and the 1001 other "programs" which have undermined the work ethic which built this nation....making a living by working for it.)

A third de Tocqueville quote may apply:

"The surface of American society is covered with a layer of democratic
paint, but from time to time one can see the old aristocratic colors
breaking through."

Although I know many vehemently disagree, I see our involvement in Iraq as having been born out of concern for achieving freedom for those living under conditions of tyranny and oppression....not as a means of demonstrating to the world that America is "king of the hill". It takes quite a different caliber of man to desire that all men are guaranteed freedom than it does to wage war to protect Self Interests.

Despite current thought among the majority of our fellow Americans, I believe history will write George W. Bush as one of America's greatest presidents!

Bottom line.....it's up to US....you, me and every individual American citizen...to answer the question Jesus put to His disciples:

"Who do YOU say that I am?"

MARANATHA!