Scripture reading: Matthew 23:37–39

Ichabod

And she named the child Ichabod, saying, “The glory has departed from Israel!”

because the ark of God had been captured. (I Samuel 4:21)

 

I know a land that’s very strange The people there are odd.

They’re free to do most anything Except to mention God!

 

And though they claim to trust in him; (It’s printed on their money!),

The law forbids to speak his name In public! It’s not funny.

 

I wonder what the Lord must feel.

Is his great patience wearing? His name is only on their lips In cursing and in swearing.

 

They pledge allegiance to their flag We’re “under God,” they say.

And then forbid the kids in school To look to him and pray!

 

And when they celebrate the day For giving gifts on earth,

They willfully neglect the fact This is about his birth.

 

But Rudolph, Frosty, Santa Claus And little drummer boy,

Will never satisfy our hearts Or bring us peace and joy.

 

 

 

 

We’ve welcomed many ethnic groups, Religions by the score;

And yet the God who gave us birth Is locked outside the door.

 

I find it hard to comprehend This phobia of God.

But if the sickness lingers on This land is Ichabod.

 

 

 

 

If you will not have God (and he is  a jealous God),

you should pay your respects to Hitler and Stalin.

—T. S. Eliot

 

 

 

 

point to ponder • When a nation refuses God it should come as no surprise that God will one day refuse that people.

 

prayer focus • The United States of America.