As I look at the country around us, the divisions between us are hard to miss. You can name almost any subject, and it will not take long to pick out the different beliefs that have led to different sides. However, what concerns me is not that there are opposing sides around different issues because there have always been different opinions about almost everything. What concerns me is that our differences have led to hostility, anger, distrust, slander, and even murder.
What if things could be different?
As I worked on one of my degrees that emphasized evangelism, I learned about something that I had never heard before. In the early 20th century, there was a revival that spread across the country of Wales, and it changed everything. People turned to Jesus in large numbers and began living like they had turned to Jesus.
Think about a few of the changes Wales saw and consider whether our country could benefit from the same. Pubs (that had become a major problem) began to shut down due to a lack of customers. People began to repay their debts. The police had very little to do. People began to look for ways to help those who were poor and sick. Their horses that were used in the coal mines had to be retrained because the miners no longer used the same language nor the same actions to control them (they no longer cursed or lashed out in anger).
Can you imagine living at a time when people cared about one another instead of when people are afraid of their neighbors?
We can continue to gripe about the situation, but that has not solved anything. We can continue to point our fingers at those with opposing views, but that has not solved anything. We can blame, yell, fight, and even kill, but those things do not change a culture.
The only hope we have is Jesus. Hearts do not change from outward pressures. Hearts change from within, and only Jesus can get to our hearts.
Our association of Leake County Baptist churches chose to do something about it last year when we chose to put on a county-wide crusade next week. People have been praying. People have been working hard. We want Jesus to move mightily.
The revival in Wales began when Evan Roberts (one person) realized that his country needed Jesus. He prayed and prayed. He helped others see the need. He did all that he could and turned it over to Jesus, and Jesus moved.
Do you want to see hearts changed?
Will you do what’s needed to make that change?
When Dr. Jay Cook is asked to share a little of himself; his reply is, “Good question. I ask it a lot.” His delight is sharing that he is a blessed man – married to a wonderful woman (Kristi Cook) – and awed by his two amazing kids (Jameson & Amelia Rose). He has served in ministry for over 30 years and loves to help others in any way he can. Jay is the Associational Missions Strategist for the Leake County Baptist Association, and a part of an amazing new church (3:16 church) in Canton, MS. He also helps other churches (as he is able) through revivals, conferences, or however God leads. He shares his thoughts of a man just trying to live for Jesus (and wanting to help others do the same) through his blog at Dr. Jay Cook.
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