This phrase taken from the end of the 11^th^ Chapter of Matthew is a great promise to all who are “weary and heavy-laden” (Mat. 11:28, NASU). This phrase, however, has been greatly misunderstood and taken out of context by many Bible readers. Some have taken this phrase to imply that the Christian life will be “light” and free from labor – this is not the intention of Jesus’ words.
Many people born in this country do not consider what a privilege it is to be one of her citizens. Being a citizen of this nation means having the protection of her laws, the wondrous opportunity to be found here, and certain protections not afforded to others when traveling abroad. Bearing the name “American” describes one’s home, one’s culture, one’s loyalty and allegiance.
In recent years there has been much discussion and controversy over the matter of the environment. These discussions range from the impact of man’s choices upon the world, to theories regarding the climate, and so on. These discussions have wide ramifications within the scope of faith, politics, and ethics, but are mainly based on a series of assumptions which are not valid. It is not the purpose of this article to examine the veracity of various climate theories or other environmental questions, but to deal with the larger question: What is man’s role in regard to the earth?
There seems to be an innate need in man to have changes in the norm take place, even if minor in consequence, somewhat frequently. This is not, of itself, a negative quality, as the call for change for the better is the driving impetus behind invention and innovation. Without change, our standard of living would remain as poor as the ancients.
Have you ever, perhaps when you were a child, played a game with someone who changed the rules in the middle of the game? Maybe it was a game you had never played before and, always right before a move that would benefit your opponent, he\she reveals a rule they “forgot” to tell you. Or maybe it was a game of “cops and robbers” or a variation; you use your weapon against your opponent and he\she suddenly has a “shield.”