Let him who is wise understand these things;
let him who is prudent know them.
Straight are the paths of the LORD,
in them the just walk,
but sinners stumble in them.
Until we read the prophets the way of the just and the prudent seems simple. Do good; avoid evil. What could be simpler than that? But the way of the world in which we live is compromise. What I want is not what others want, and we differ about the good. Even in the face of God's demand, "Choose life!" we're confused.
The prophets recognize evil. They judge our customs and traditions, our practices and standard operating procedures, and see injustice. In a large, diverse population its seems inevitable. There is hardly enough time to seek universal consensus; but what seemed reasonable yesterday, proves unbearable today. In 1973, few Americans thought seriously about abortion, despite the fervent discussions on college and high school campuses. Not many supposed the Supreme Court would cancel every law against abortion in all fifty states. The Court, however thought the nation should progress in that direction; history's trajectory seemed certain and irresistible, and religious opposition, though strident, would inevitably fade into silence.
The Court did not reckon on the Spirit of God. The same Court that invited the American Civil War with its Dred Scott Decision, attempted to annul the hope, promise, precious beauty, and irresistible demands of unborn children.
Abortion is an inexcusable crime against our human nature. Though it may be necessary in some circumstances, it cannot be an option when addressing unwanted pregnancy. Sanctioned by a state or federal government, it invites catastrophe.
The prophetic spirit, which is never silent among both religious and secular societies, demands justice and threatens punishment. For if lies, deception, cheating, violence, and all wickedness do not have evil consequences, there is no truth. And we know that cannot be. Even the stories we tell one another would have no story lines if actions cause no reactions.
The United States must suffer the consequences of its crimes against the unborn and their families. If we bear the punishment together, making atonement and reparation, we might deserve to survive as a nation.
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I love to write. This blog helps me to meditate on the Word of God, and I hope to make some contribution to our contemplations of God's Mighty Works.
Ordinarily, I write these reflections two or three weeks in advance of their publication. I do not intend to comment on current events.
I understand many people prefer gender-neutral references to "God." I don't disagree with them but find that language impersonal, unappealing and tasteless. When I refer to "God" I think of the One whom Jesus called "Abba" and "Father", and I would not attempt to improve on Jesus' language.
You're welcome to add a thought or raise a question.