The SOTU by POTUS with SCOTUS, pols and pundits fawning or scoffing, all “on behalf of the American people.” Translation: State of the Union by the President of the United States, with the Supreme Court, politicians and pundits following party lines. Anyone care? Much of America has written of Washington, a sad commentary on where we’re at.
University of Virginia scholar James Davison Hunter writes in “To Change the World” that the disappearance of America’s common culture has created a void filled by partisan ideology that politicizes everything. He sees no quick change on the horizon; divisive partisan politicization will continue. Christians are anxious because the culture is increasingly secular and sometimes hostile to the church.
1 Peter was written from “Babylon,” which was Christian code for Rome (1 Peter 5:13). Similarities abound between first century Roman culture and the American culture in which we find ourselves. Yet St. Peter wrote, “Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.” (2:17) Even if we feel like flying the flag upside down, followers of Jesus Christ know our vocation: do good to all. “Bless, for to this you were called.” (3:9)
Comments