A few weeks ago I did something I’ve never done before. I attended a public protest. It was one of the many Tea Party protests that sprung up in response to the massive and destructive spending spree our government has engaged in. I didn’t really think beforehand about what it would be like. I felt strange being there, even though I am in full agreement with the subject. Maybe it is because being in the presence of anger has always made me a little uncomfortable. Maybe it is because most of the time when a protest is publicized it’s for causes I would oppose. Protests are something radical ’60s hippies did, not something I do.

I’ll do it again though. I’ll even encourage all of you (the 3 or 4 who may read this) to do the same. I hope to see you at the next Tea Party. For too long too many of us have set passively by while our freedoms and futures are chipped away by government officials who have either forgotten or disregarded their purpose. Whether mere protest will have any effect I have my doubts, but we must appeal to whatever conscience is left in our elected representatives or at least convince them that their self interest is not served by ignoring us.

Long term, protest certainly is not enough. We must as good stewards of that which God has given us in this country perform our duties as citizens. This includes a diligent investigation of the issues of the day and the people whom we elect. It includes taking the knowledge gained to the polls and casting our votes. Consider these words from Jesus’ story of the talents in Matt 25.

“For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have an abundance; but from the one who does not have, even what he does have shall be taken away. (Matt 25:29 NASU)

I can’t end a post like this without pointing out something you’re probably tired of hearing me say, but it’s essential. Our primary mission is to preach the Gospel. If we do not repent, no amount of political maneuvering will save us. If we turn our hearts as a nation to Yahweh, then we may expect real change. So do everything you have the power to do in this country to preserve it, but also remember that our true salvation is in Jesus.