Friday; May 1

        Several of us grew up with various commemorations based on May 1, but how many of us are familiar with it being “Law Day”?  According to a document that cited the American Bar Association, Law Day is, “A national day set aside to celebrate the rule of law.  Law Day underscores how law and the legal process have contributed to the freedoms that all Americans share.”.  That sounds good doesn’t it?  However, while we seem to value the rule of law, how easy is it to try to skirt it?  We like the idea of the equal application of law – until it comes to us.  Now, let me explain myself – I am not saying that we live in anarchy, I just think we have to be careful that we give credence to voluntarily following the law and, if necessary, accepting responsibility when we violate it.

          I believe this is important in our republic democracy, but I also think that Christians have a parallel responsibility.  The Apostle Paul reminds us, “Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God.” (Romans 13:1).  I realize this is a loaded debate these days, but I think we get derailed when we start to analyze the government’s viability in the process.  For just a moment, let’s make the assumption that, for the most part, governments make most laws to protect people so as Christians why wouldn’t we want to obey them?  Are there exceptions – probably – but, when we live within the rules of society and the rule of law, we’ll be in a position to help support one another.

          Think About It!