America is experiencing a
transition, moving from a unified culture to one divided into various
subgroups, or tribes. People now identify more with their political parties,
professions, religions, sexualities, aberrant behavior ... leading to increased
division, tension, aggression... Christianity's integration into America’s
mainstream over the past century has intensified these divides, as Christians
strive to maintain their influence. In this era of uncertainty and chaos, how
should leader’s travers this fragmented landscape?
More importantly how should we? How about confronting issues with a concerned,
yet calm presence.
Our current cultural disarray results
in several expected outcomes: greater variance, heightened apprehension,
elevated anxiety... Various groups and political factions perceive events as
pragmatic or existential challenges. Consequently, how do leaders guide society
when it is experiencing anxiety and disorder? Isn't the current climate
ideal for spreading the Christian message and for leaders and laypeople to lead
with passion? I have heard it argued that this state of chaos and
uncertainty is like a “seedbed for new growth.” Do you suppose as I do, that in
these circumstances, dedicated soldiers of the cross will stand out?
Jesus called his disciples
"the light of the world," so hiding this light causes metaphorical
darkness. Living by God's teachings can inspire others to recognize our good
actions and honor God in heaven. Compromising with negative aspects of society
often means sacrificing beneficial outcomes for oneself and losing the ability
to influence society positively. By distancing ourselves from harmful cultural
influences, we gain the opportunity to guide others towards positive change.
Rejecting societal issues allows us to embody the progress we seek to achieve.
