|
 While
in Baltimore, Md. I visited successfully old Ft. McHenry which
withstood a British naval attack in the War of 1812, inspiring
Francis Scott Key's poem "The Star-Spangled Banner."
Fifty or sixty tourists sat in a small theater to see a stirring
dramatic film presentation of the battle. "The rocket's red
glare gave proof through the night, that our flag was still
there."
At
the conclusion of the film, the curtains on one side of the
theater were slowly opened, the thrilling strains of our
National Anthem were played, and we saw Old Glory flying
gallantly from the tall standard in the fort. It had a wonderful
impact.
And
I sat right there with all the rest of those sophisticated
tourists. I had the immediate impulse to arise, and stand
respectfully at attention. But I didn't!!
As
we filed from the room my conscience was hurting, and I
mentioned my abortive impulse to one who had sat near me.
Sheepishly he admitted that he too had had such a thought,
"but no one started it!"
Do you get the point of this article? "No one
|
|
led the way!!"
I
could have obeyed my impulse — when it really counted — and
my neighbor would have stood with me. I am persuaded that every
man and woman in that room would have arisen and paid the homage
due our flag. (Rom . 13 :7) But a few moments later IT WAS TOO
LATE!
This
is not written simply to "wave the flag," although I
think a little patriotism would do us good. This is written to
stress the need for "speaking up" and
"acting" when the need is present.
To obey that impulse to do what is right, instead of weighing
the cost of possible embarrassment, etc. , "and holding
off."
There
are churches that could have been saved from digression — if
"some one had led the way" when it would have counted.
There are souls that would have been saved — if someone had
invited." At this moment, someone is waiting for our word
of encouragement, our example. WILL WE GIVE IT???
[Previous
Article] [Next
Article]
|
