In Theory

The new year is here. What is your message for a prosperous 2009?

In spite of the much turmoil of 2008, we have great opportunities ahead for 2009. There have been many victories, such as the victory of Proposition 8 which was a major plus for the citizens of the state of California, as well as the USA. Then there were many difficulties like the economy and all that it affects. However, we still live in the greatest country in the world where we have the kind of freedoms and blessings countries all over the world only dream of having.

My message for 2009 is simply “Keep The Faith.” The Bible tells us that there is only one faith and that faith is in Jesus Christ and no other. I watched so many wonderful people in 2008 lose hope and faith. Many gave up on church and God completely as though God had anything to do with the financial and political corruption taking place that brought about so much discouragement.

I realize it’s not only religious people who read this section of the paper, but let me at least try and encourage all who read it what we have in the great privilege of sharing in the “In Theory Section.” Whenever I get down and begin to reflect on all the circumstances around me I turn to the Word of God, which brings everything back into its proper perspective, for instance, concerning the church today. As I read the scriptures. The church looks exactly what the scriptures say it’s to look like in the days before Christ’s return.

“But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power.” (2 Timothy 3:1-6)

So the things taking place in society as a whole and in the church are not coincidental. Just the signs of the times! But we look for better things in 2009. I believe we will see more people returning to the faith and to the church. That is my hope, and my prayer.

God bless everyone in 2009.

 GARY RUFF is pastor of Calvary Chapel of the Foothills in La Cañada. Reach him at (818) 790-0064.