Fighting For Faith, Family & Freedom
Sunday, December 12, 2021
To: Friends & Supporters
From: Carol Bauer
As you know, my wife, Carol, prepares a monthly prayer alert. I hope you will share Carol's thoughts with your friends and fellow worshipers. Thank you for taking an interest in her monthly devotion. --Gary
The end of the calendar year prompts one to reflect, to look back at the year that is drawing to a close and to look ahead with anticipation and hope at what may lie ahead in the coming year. This year is no different in that regard.
Looking back, the year 2021 has felt like a year of political upheaval. It feels like new political ground was broken. The promises of candidate Biden have not panned out. We were told a return to "normalcy" was on the horizon with the candidate claiming he would be the president of "all the people." Happy days would indeed be here again.
Yet, in a maddening "bait and switch," we have instead gotten a "leader" without the ability to lead and inspire, and one who often seems vindictive, power hungry, more far-left than anyone could have imagined. In addition, he simply does not seem up to the demanding job.
His job performance on the world stage, with allies and adversaries alike, and on specific issues like inflation, immigration, crime and energy has negatively impacted American families in our daily lives. Many polls show the sense of frustration with his policies is far deeper than partisan politics. The sense of betrayal is wide and deep.
Most American families would likely say that they and our country are worse off now than we were at the end of 2020. It has been frustrating, demoralizing, and discouraging. And yet, here we are.
Looking forward, there is no doubt that the year ahead will be the most intense midterm election season we have ever seen. One side will be playing defense while trying to paint a rosy picture with facts that just don't add up for the average American. There will be wild broadsides, personal attacks and distractions to divert attention from what voters can see with their own eyes. No doubt billions will be spent to influence voters.
To counter this the other side needs to be clear and factual in presenting a positive and specific roadmap to cut inflation, reduce crime, increase energy production and restore our borders. An added wildcard in the 2022 election season will be newly redrawn congressional districts after the 2020 Census. Five states will gain a House seat, Texas gets two. Seven states lost a congressional district. Many state legislatures are involved in redrawing the congressional district maps that will be the basis for the 2022 midterms.
You can look back at the last year and be downcast and discouraged at what has happened in the United States. We have lived through it and know it is real. And you can look ahead with anticipation, hope and optimism that a chance to change the trajectory of the United States is within our grasp.
Indeed, with widespread political involvement, fair campaigns and secure elections, I, too, am hopeful. I encourage your involvement and applaud your commitment to not take for granted the rights and responsibilities we have as citizens of this country. To sit back and not be involved would be sheer folly and irresponsible.
But this season of reflection of both the past and the future must also be put into an eternal perspective. As believers, this is the season to celebrate the coming of the Christ Child, born among us mortals and born to die for our sins.
We look with awe at God's gift to mankind and marvel at the impact of the birth of the tiny baby Jesus on a hurting and needy world. Life would never be the same for those who knew Him, walked with Him, served with Him or died as martyrs for Him. And, even in times of discouragement and disappointment our knowledge of Jesus and his offer to forgive our sins and offer us eternal life prompts us to a deeper understanding of our role in this world and the promise of the next.
And so, in the rush of the season's activities whether in your home, neighborhood, church or workplace, I encourage you to pause, take stock and revel in the true Reason for the Season … our Savior born to die for our sins that we may enjoy everlasting life with Him. All efforts looking back at the past year or looking ahead to the next must be viewed through this eternal prism.
May you and those you love enjoy a Blessed Christmas season. And all the best in the year ahead!
In Him,
Carol Bauer
