We Christians like to make a big deal about how our culture, America is really going to seed. And it doesn’t take much effort to see the effects of sin upon our society. Read the newspaper, listen to the radio, check your email or go online and visit the Drudge Report or other online sources. Also, in your daily life you run into a lack of virtue.
However, two recent news events reinforce the biblical idea that "where sin abounds, grace does much more abound." (Romans 5:20-21).
First, Sully Sullenberger. Unless you’re under a rock, you know that this guy had quick thinking, calm in a storm, and landed that plane in the only spot it could safely land–on the Hudson River. Put 99% of other pilots in that position and they fold under the pressure and people die. I’m not sure if he’s a Christian (I don’t think Matt Lauer asks those questions!), but he definitely demonstrated a biblical trait: grace under pressure and peace in a storm.
Second, I’m really impressed with this captain, Richard Phillips, who recently gave up his life so that the crew of his ship, captured by pirates, would be let go. And then he daringly tried to escape. He strikes me as a fearless, courageous guy I’d want captaining any ship or vessel I’m on. Also a wonderful picture of salvation. Jesus himself said, "Greater love hath no man than this: a man who lays his life down for his friends." (John 15:13).
I know there are ten thousands reasons to be discouraged about our culture, about America, about our leaders, etc. But it is also encouraging to know that our generation has courageous, fearless men like Sully Sullenberger and Richard Phillips. They are a refreshing contrast to the lack of integrity displayed by so many in the current financial crisis.
Its tempting to think our society and our age is so dark, dark beyond reach. But if you study history, you’ll know that God always raises up good men and women in every time period.
And maybe, just maybe, God is calling us to be that light. In fact, I know He is. So maybe instead of complaining, whining, listening endlessly to talk radio and cable news, we could just do something about the darkness. We can live out our faith in a way that points others to the Savior.