These words were scribbled on the tomb of an Anglican bishop in the crypts of Westminster Abbey:
“When I was young and free and my imagination had no limits, I dreamed of changing the world. As I grew older and wiser, I discovered the world would not change so I shortened my sights somewhat and decided to change only my country, but it too, seemed immovable. As I grew into my twilight years, in one last desperate attempt, I settled for changing only my family, those closest to me. But, alas, they would have none of it. And now as I lie on my deathbed, I suddenly realize: If I had only changed myself first, then by example I would have changed my family. From their inspiration and encouragement I would then have been able to better my country and, who knows, I may have even changed the world.” (Author unknown)
How sad and how true are these words. In what manner are we as leaders, traversing through this life – are we the generation who through moral and innovative leadership are willing to make the sacrifices and take a stance to bring forth the kind of change that will turn our world right side up? I believe we are the elected and chosen who through the fruit of the Spirit can demonstrate moral fortitude and with the gifts of the Spirit innovatively lead a broken people and nation back into the presence of God as one united family.
Our nation and our world are in big trouble and in dire need of world changers. We cannot continue to go in our present direction because history tells us that the bridge ahead is out. Consider this: A Gallup poll last year found that three-quarters of Americans said our country’s moral values are worsening. They blame this on a decline in ethical standards, poor parenting and dishonesty by government and business leaders. In addition, they point to the rise in crime, a breakdown of the two-parent family and a moving away from God as contributing factors.
As a result, we find that America, founded on Godly principles, is lost and in desperate need of modern day prophets – we are in need of moral and innovative leaders who can facilitate change by redirecting people away from an immoral form of communion and commerce towards the same principles and values that our nation was founded upon.
One may generically assume that in response to this onslaught of immorality perpetrated by big-money, self-interest groups, and seductively promoted and sensationalized by worldly mass media outlets, that there no longer stands moral agents for change. Yet, this is far from the truth – there are a great many strong in their faith and genuine in their integrity that have the ability to reawaken this great nation.
There are two great hungers in our world today. There is a hunger for spirituality and a hunger for social justice. When we combine the two, we have a ‘social mission’ that becomes the platform for engagement and transformation. As the torchbearers of this present day, the call has been established. There are many across this great nation who are hungry for such a renewed vision. This is the time to boldly stand up and enact changes that address the most dramatic moral issues that are eroding our society, communities, and families. We will hold to the founding principles of this great nation and bring forth a movement that can bring about a Great Re-Awakening for the 21st Century.
