Our fortieth President from 1981-1989 was Ronald Wilson Reagan (1911-2004). Though his latter years were spent in sadness and physical decline, still his memory is cherished by conservative Christians who are students of American history. We only wish we had a Reagan among us now to confront the absolute political and social madness of our times. Reagan was originally a Democrat, but switched parties in the 1960s, and it amazes us that anyone (with any degree of spiritual concern and political conservatism about them) could remain a Democrat in our day. For those of a new generation who either did not know or have no appreciation for Ronald Reagan, here are some quotes from him for the historical record, and may these words be burned into our sad, fearful hearts:
"We must have the clarity of vision to see the difference between what is essential and what is merely desirable; and then the courage to use this insight to bring our government back under control and make it acceptable to the people."
"Work and family are at the center of our lives; the foundation of our dignity as a free people. When we deprive people of what they have earned, or take away their jobs, we destroy their dignity and undermine their families."
"We have been told that there are no simple answers to complex problems. Well, the truth is that there are simple answers, just not the easy ones."
"Government doesn't cure inflation, government causes inflation."
"If we can get the federal government out of our nation's schools, maybe we can get God back in."
"I don't care if we are liked around the world, I just want us to be respected."
Such was the strong language of our beloved former President Reagan. No man has ever graced the Presidency with more dignity and statesmanship, writing a book against abortion (contrast this with our current President-elect). But, alas, ours is a different day, and it certainly seems our God has hidden His face from us, and in such a trying time we can only think of these words of Jehovah to Israel: "For a mere moment I have forsaken you, but with great mercies I will gather you. With a little wrath I hid my face from you for a moment; but with everlasting kindness I will have mercy on you" (Isaiah 54:7-8). No, we have no Reagan, but may this mercy in Christ Jesus be our portion, or for sure we are doomed.
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