Men and women who lived during the 1940s are considered to be a part of America ‘s greatest generation. The Second World War forced everyone to get out of their comfort zone and do their part to protect the American way of life. Many heroes emerged as people forgot about their personal needs and came together as one to protect our freedom.

If you ever listen to people my age or older, you probably hear, “Those were the good old days.” How time has changed the attitude of most Americans! We have become a nation of selfish, “what’s in it for me” people. It’s certainly not a reflection of the Americans once called the Greatest Generation. How does this current attitude affect us? I think it gives us a chance to do our part to shine and be a light in this dark world.

At a recent men’s Bible study, the subject came up about the moral condition of America. That’s scary, but it should not be a surprise if you read and believe the Bible. What we are experiencing was predicted thousands of year ago in God’s Word. Instead of discouraging most Christians as it has, it should encourage us to be a light in these dark times. In Matthew chapter 5 it says, “We are the salt of the earth, but if the salt loses its flavor we are good for nothing.” It continues, “We are the light of the world and should not put our light under a basket for no one to see.”

I’m reminded of something I heard years ago, comparing our light in the world to a person in Tiger Stadium on Saturday night with 92,000 people. You will go unrecognized, but just imagine if at halftime, all the lights were turned off and you were allowed to go in the middle of the field and light one match. Everyone would see that little light.

The Bible encourages us to let our light so shine before men that they might see our good works and glorify our Father in Heaven. During these trying times, we as Christians, are challenged to be a light in this dark world.

Harold Keller may be reached at hkeller@comcast.net.