A new decade is upon us. It is difficult to believe that 2010 is already here. The past ten years have been difficult ones for our nation and world. These years have been marked by horrific terrorist attacks here and abroad, a war in two different countries, the decline of our economic system that has led to government intervention in corporate business, recession, and record unemployment. We have also see over the past ten years an increase the erosion of tolerance for the Christian faith, both from the inside and out. The past decade has brought increased physical persecution of believers around the world and a loss of jobs, homes, and property for simply naming the name of Christ. We have also seen mainline Christian denominations change their views of scripture to be more inclusive. This is the beginning of the slippery slope that can only lead to further questioning of the validity of our faith.

As we move into a new decade, we have challenges before us as 2010 begins. Our national government has the challenge before them to keep the American people safe. This is no small task. They are also challenged to bring stability and confidence back to our economic system. They are challenged to decrease unemployment and restore the world’s confidence and respect in the United States. They are also challenged to narrow the ever-widening gap between wealth and poverty. The New Testament church has a challenge before us as well. We are challenged to continue to sharing a life-changing gospel in the face of persecution, hate, indifference, and intolerance. We are challenged to do our part as the hands and feet of Christ to the poor, blind, homeless, sick, outcast, and hurting of this world. The ones Christ called the “least of these”. We are challenged to show God’s love, strengthen believers, and make a difference in a world where a difference is desperately needed.

I pray that in this new year you will be blessed beyond imagination and be drawn closer to the heart of God . I will be sharing my prayers for 2010 a little later. Let us remember the words of Christ as we being a new year, “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.” (Matt 6:33)