My heart has a growing burden for Canada. We're living in an age of comfort and prosperity. There's no persecution here, no fear of being dragged before authorities because we proclaim the name of Christ.
This has got me wondering about our condition. Aren't there numerous passages in the New Testament that firmly say we WILL experience persecution? Passages that tell us to take heart because Christ was hated first? I'm also troubled by verses like Hebrews 12:6 that say "For the Lord disciplines the ones he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives". Where's our chastisement? Some would argue that it's "inward, personal" chastisement which we feel here in Canada. I agree - the Lord is definitely capable of working in people's hearts in a quiet manner. But the fact remains that Canada is not a Christian nation. If it were, we'd be under a lot more trials than at present. I fear we are a very pharisaical nation to which Jesus would say, "I come to help the sick and dying, not those who consider themselves 'well'". If we don't see and acknowledge the sin that we are immersed in and our helpless state, then what draws us to the Great Physician?
There is a world of hurt, lies, and deceit lying right outside our doorstep. Yes, other people in other nations need Jesus, too, but we cannot let our own nation fall into decay. After all, our homes are where the true states of our hearts are revealed.
"God keep our land glorious and free", but not at the expense of our souls. No amount of comfort is worth that cost.
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