Charles N Mock

As America approaches its 250th birthday, some question what is left to celebrate amid modern political and social issues. The article argues that the Christian nationalism movement threatens the religious neutrality intended by the Founding Fathers. The Declaration of Independence used generic terms for God to protect against any single religion dominating the nation.

The Rev. Jesse Jackson was described as a "bridge over troubled waters" by his son at his homegoing service. Like a physical bridge, Jackson connected people and served humanity without seeking recognition. The article questions what movements will now serve as bridges for justice following the passing of leaders like Jackson and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. In Jesse Jackson Jr.’s reflections at his father’s homegoing service, among the many attributes he associated his father with was a bridge.

Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s book, "The Cost of Discipleship" is a highly recommended read for understanding faithfulness under oppression. Bonhoeffer was a Christian activist during Adolph Hitler’s 20th century reign of terror. Hitler’s "Final Solution" was his way of ending problems he said were posed by Jews in Germany in the 20th century. Bonhoeffer’s political activism cost him his life.