The Watchman's Diary

It would be an understatement to say that there is a lot going on in the world today. One may argue that there has always been a lot going on in the world but that we are now more aware. There is truth in that, but I believe this is a unique time in our history. At no time in history has there been such fear of wars with the possibility of a nuclear attack. At no time in history has so many voices been able to reach the ears of power as today, thanks to advances in technology. One thing remains true, the rich and powerful are often those whose voices penetrate to the seat of power. The question is, what interests are they now trying to protect or advance, and is war a means to their ends? I suppose this begs another question—how are Christians to behave in this time and how should we use our voice?

I started to use the phrase “true Christians”, but I think it is time we get away from that. I am either a Christian (follower of Jesus) or I am not; and if a follower then I must adhere to all His teachings! So then, how are Christians to behave when the world is slipping farther down an abyss of hate and chaos? How are we to treat those who are around us? The advent of social media has given us the ability to share our lives with the world and many have taken this as a personal challenge. Unfortunately, many who profess Christianity have often shared things that are not at all reflective of the person of Jesus. 

Light shines brightest in the dark and it is in dark times that Christians should shine the brightest. If our words and actions are no different from that of the unbelieving world, we are not reflecting the heart of Christ. The world carries out the deeds of the god of this age and to act as they do is to advance his kingdom, not the Kingdom of Christ. Why should we behave in the way of the unbeliever, “whose minds the god of this age has blinded, who do not believe, lest the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine on them” (2 Corinthians 4:4).

Christians believe that we have the truth and have long professed this to each other and the world. Should we then excuse the lies others tell and hold them up as standard bearers and examples for our children to follow? Christians believe that we are to be noble in our actions and set apart (holy) unto God. Should we then give honor to those the bible describes as scoffers. 

"A proud and haughty man—“Scoffer” is his name; He acts with arrogant pride" (Proverbs 21:24)

Christians are to be just in our behavior and to seek justice for others. Should we heap honor on the unjust who lacks empathy toward others? Christians are to love purity and seek to leave behind a good report. Should we then cozy up to those who desecrate the word of God and the image of Christ?

Christian, you know the only answer to these questions. We should live accordingly, without the need to justify and find the nuance in any of it. 

“If you love Me, keep My commandments” (John 14:15).