We have a unique area on the Mid Atlantic coast. It's called the Outer Banks, a chain of barrier islands that provides rolling waves, a constant sea breeze and most of all, beautiful solitude. A rare chance away from chaos of the racetrack to be alone with my God and my thoughts.
Orville and Wilbur flew the first Kitty Hawk flyer there. (For a few of feet, anyway) At the very tip of this chain is Cape Hatteras. A perfect location for a lighthouse to keep the sailing ships of the day from the perils of the shoreline. For over 100 years, a beacon to guide those who are uncertain in their travels.
As I stood at it's base admiring the stately spiral leading to the source of light that has guided so many, I could not help but think of the parallels to our Lord and His Church in America. His light has done the same for the many who flounder and are uncertain. That night I returned, enjoying the balmy September evening. I hoped to catch a glimpse of that powerful beam sweeping majestically through the night skies. The light has been extinguished. It stands today as an unused shell.
There are many that feel the same about the church. In the days of sailing ships His church proclaimed the truth of the gospel. America built it's foundational buildings with inscriptions like the one on the US capitol It says "Preserve me O God, for in thee do I put my trust". Today, some pulpits have become a place for preachers to use for their political and personal gain…instead of megaphones for God's truth. Their worship services have become self-help seminars and feel good messages.
There is a lot of talk today of patriotism and God Blessing America. God has blessed North America but not the Southern Hemisphere. Why not? The climate is the same, only a mirror image of one another. The land is equally fertile from the pampas of Argentina to the breadbasket of America. We have reserves of oil in both Texas and Venezuela. What is the difference? One South American President described it this way: "In South America settlers came for gold; in North America they came for God". I believe God recognized the difference.
The situation is not hopeless. It is not beyond our individual resources. You see, there is another lighthouse that gets even more exposure than any Church or coastal landmark. It is us. You, me. We come in contact with thousands of people each year. We have an opportunity to let others see a sermon, not just hear one.
Be an example of the difference He makes in our lives. Be a role model to your kids or fellow workers. And simply do what Jesus asked: Let your light shine before men so the world can see your good deeds and glorify God…be one of His lighthouses.
