Dying America

When I was a teenager there were always one or two classes that challenged my ability to remain cognitive. Even the good looking history teacher was hard pressed to hold my attention once he began speaking. I simply had no interest in learning about the past. Surprisingly, I am turning into someone I barely recognize. For the first time in nearly two decades I have a school girl crush again. I am growing a rapid infatuation with American History.

Perhaps we can attribute this strange phenomenon to the History Channel. Admittedly, I am a sucker for Bible prophesies and all things relating to the supernatural. While the content in some of these shows might be lacking for Biblical accuracy, they are entertaining to say the least. Have you seen Ancient Aliens? Where do they come up with this stuff? I watched a show recently that had me so captivated I actually went to the bookstore and picked up a copy of the book they featured. The title in question is called How the States Got Their Shapes by Mark Stein.

This refreshing and witty novel answers the burning question inside all patriotic Americans. How did my state get its strange shape? The short answer is that it all comes down to water. Since our nation was born kings, queens, and the average working man has been battling for rights to lay claim to any body of water within walking distance. For some states like New Jersey and New York, the boundary lines were settled in court 165 years after a settlement was made. Property is a valuable commodity when water is involved as any homeowner with an ocean view can attest. Sadly, not everyone can appreciate or desire the benefits of water. Years ago, Kathy Mattea sang a song about standing knee-deep in a river and dying of thirst. Decades later, I wonder if she considers the prophetic undertone in those lyrics. America is indeed dying of thirst.

When a family cannot grieve their loss without hate-filled hypocrites standing in protest, there is a problem. Free speech or not, every American deserves the right to mourn in peace. When a child cannot receive health care without becoming a victim first, there is a problem. When it becomes illegal to share the gospel of Jesus Christ on a public street, there most definitely is a problem. Quite evidently, a nation that was founded on the living water of Jesus Christ is running toward dry ground. The cracked and barren landscape can be seen in every exploited child and every dishonored soldier.

Jesus said, “If anyone is thirsty, let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, streams of living water will flow from within him.” Water is cleansing, healing, and therapeutic. It causes growth, change, and beauty. It sustains life and has the power to promote strength and endurance. Why do we insist on turning our noses at it and settling instead for battery acid? For those of us who have put our hope in Christ, it is imperative that we remain in the Vine and do not waver in our faith. Falling asleep in history class is not an option. We need the Word of God filling us up every single day. When our brothers and sisters succumb to exhaustion our strength will be needed to carry them to safety.

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