History is one of those topics in school that is often neglected. However, there are moments in time when a student can retrace history which helps make things click. If you live on the East Coast, remains from the Revolutionary or Civil War are close, possibly a stones throw away. As for me, I live less than a mile from a famous battle which turned the tide in the Revolutionary War. Although obscure to many, traveling over this bridge daily can unlock the history to America’s faith.
To this he replied: “Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Harran, Acts 7:3.
Prior to Acts 7, important religious information was left to spiritual forefathers, prophets, kings of Israel, Jesus or one of the 12 disciples. Perhaps, the average person felt left out, not one of God’s chosen people. Yet, beginning in Acts 7, the history of faith is conveyed by a relative outsider. This new voice provides a brief glimpse of how Jews and Christians are linked together by a history of faithful leaders.
“You stiff-necked people! Your hearts and ears are still uncircumcised. You are just like your ancestors: You always resist the Holy Spirit!” – Acts 7:51
In view of Stephen’s speech to Jewish leaders, I wish Americans would begin to retrace their own history of faith. Political correctness and revisionist historians are trying to hide the spiritual foundation of America’s forefathers. Just as government officials in the first century were resistant to change, stubborn hearts are preventing many from seeing the truth. Maybe adults need to take their children on local field trips to a nearby museum or historical site so that the history of faith will be unveiled to those currently grasping at straws.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 