America: Ready for…

I’ve been feeling like our nation has been in a bitter struggle to define who we are for years now. It almost feels like a “cold” Civil War. To a growing minority of Americans who do not believe in a holy, personal God and a fallen, alienated mankind, government seems the most likely source of ultimate security and significance. To them, it needs to grow, and to concern itself increasingly with “social justice” matters that end up infringing on our liberties, including the right to freely proclaim the gospel.

“Cru19”—Main Session

Teaching at Campus Crusade’s 2019 National Staff Conference

If it’s true that the real problem is that “some have not the knowledge of God,” as 1 Corinthians 15:34 states, what do I do? It’s easy—and satisfying—to blame the most visible and belligerent unbelievers. They abruptly moved from a demand for “tolerance” to blatant intolerance of opposing viewpoints. They’re immoral, hypocritical, blasphemous, and frequently act with arrogant contempt of laws they pledged to uphold as well as of the founding principles of our nation.

Our 15 years of service on staff banquet.

Behind this serious problem, though, is a deeper one. 1 Corinthians 15:34 doesn’t end by pointing out that people don’t know God: “Wake up from your drunken stupor, as is right, and do not go on sinning. For some have no knowledge of God. I say this to your shame” (1 Corinthians 15:34, ESV)

Luke enjoying Estes Park after his high school graduation!!

Do we really believe that Jesus is the only name in which there is hope? (Acts 4:12) Then we’ve increasingly fallen short in making a compelling case for the gospel in all of its implications.

As the concern about expanding government shows, implications are also of critical importance. For a long time, our ministry has challenged ourselves on what to do if tomorrow, Google starts refusing religious advertising? It no longer seems like an abstract thought experiment.

All smiles! Emily starting her junior year, Luke starting his freshman year. We appreciate your prayers for them!

Since our founding, we have emphasized worldwide evangelism, with over 90% of our contacts coming from outside the USA. In 2019, we launched a Jesus-centered site to share the Good News with America. I have to admit I wondered if the response would look more like the poorer, more spiritually-hungry Asia and Africa, or wealthier, “post-Christian” Europe.

I’m pleased to report God is moving in the hearts of Americans today. In terms of indicated decisions, somethingBetter.us is our seventh-most effective campaign so far in 2019! America is ready for something better!

As you pray for our nation, would you include this outreach? At our Fiscal Year 2020 introduction meeting a few days ago, our founder, Walt Wilson, challenged us to think this way: over 20% of those who visit SomethingBetter.us indicate a decision for Christ! imagine what it would mean for America if the message of that site could be seen by everyone?

Like Western Europe, advertising to the USA is expensive! (It’s still the least expensive way to share!) We’re praising God that it isn’t being wasted! Thank you so much for your prayers and support for our vital work! You are helping make this historic outreach possible!

Love, in Christ,