Christianity still has influence
Letter to the Editor, St. Joseph NewsPress
March 5, 2009

I cannot forget a story in the News-Press, referring specifically to Christianity, about “the declining influence of religion in the United States.” My mind wrestled with a contradiction that prompted me to write.

I agree it appears that the moral trend of our culture has shifted to what I would describe as “let it all hang out.” But this does not mean Christianity has lost its clout, for what you see is not always what you get.

The power Christianity has on individuals and society is still alive and well. Testimony to that is not only the visible signs in the form of “a church on nearly every corner,” but from the intangible spirit of love and helpfulness that emanates from these buildings that provide a shelter for the real church, which is the people who worship there.

I am sure some who read this will disagree with my assessment of the situation. Christians have been accused of negative behavior, which is often used as a reason to reject Christianity before investigating what it has to offer. This criticism may be justified to some extent, because Christians, being human, fail to live up to the high standards of conduct taught by our savior, and yes, there are those who use it for their own “self-serving” purposes.

However, despite the brokenness of its followers, Christianity still makes itself known in many ways and in many places. Not in obvious ways that draw attention like the flamboyant dramatics of the world or the outrageous atrocities of crime and rebellion. Seldom do we see headlines about the little and big acts of kindness and generosity that add quality to our lives. These are the offspring of the lessons learned from God’s word and permeate society in their quiet, unobtrusive way just as surely as secular shenanigans do.

Laurel Evans
Stanberry, Mo.

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