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We live in a season of considerable national turmoil. The economy is stumbling and uncertain, the very role and purpose of government is the subject of heated debate and enormous grassroots action, and morality itself is being redefined as issue advocacy groups on the political left and right battle for the soul of the culture. The stakes are high, and there’s little doubt that this conflict will significantly shape the future of the country. So in the midst of all this warring, what role does the Church play? Where are Christians to stand, or are we to take a stand at all?

Every parent understands that raising children is hard work. I have six kids, and the demands on me and my wife are constant. As I reflect on the joys and challenges of parenting, I marvel at how it often parallels pastoral ministry. Both require a holy dependence on God’s grace. Both require imperfect people to do a perfect job. Both have weighty consequences for failure. Both are a team effort. Both are a gift from God given to sanctify us and cause us to depend on God’s ways above our own.

One of the most profound memories I have of my missions overseas is the effect that the local food had on my body. When I traveled from California to Ethiopia as a college student, I was not prepared for the change in diet. For two long months I could barely keep anything in my body long enough to benefit from it.

“Why didn’t you confront me? Why didn’t you challenge me sooner?” The words echoed around the room and were seemingly screamed into my ears.

As I read the opening words of the Book of Ephesians, I’m struck by Paul’s desire to worship. He exalts God with praise and thankfulness, and from the very first verse acknowledges that he became an apostle “by the will of God.” It was an undeserved privilege granted to him before he even wanted it.