My hometown is going through a crisis. There is a division so wide. There is conflict with city leaders, frustration among citizens about a dying economy in town, and an overall disparity among everyone.
I grew up in “small town America”. Everyone knew everyone. My mom and dad both worked in Lumberton in the “service” industry for years and years….and still work there. My father was born and raised in Lumberton. He chose to continue to raise his family there.
We had a good school with strong Christian teachers and leadership. But there has been a turning point over the past 20 years since I left. There is a lot of hatred, racism, envy, and anger in my hometown. There is no work for most who live there. Most have to drive at least 30 miles to go to work in another town.
The only time my hometown is in the news seems to be when there is trouble. The town is literally dying.
This has been tugging at my heart for some time. See, I don’t live in my hometown anymore. Life took me in many different directions....and God planted us here where we are now. We attend a wonderful church near us. Even some from my hometown travel to and from there each week to worship. I also homeschool my children by choice. I want my children to have a very strong background in the Word which is incorporated in their education.
I watched the movie “The Grace Card” last night. I could not sleep for thinking of how my hometown ought to watch this film! I wish all the pastors and spiritual leaders would let go of the past grudges, divisions, and hatred. I am praying now that God would soften their hearts to unite and help take this town back for God.
I wish I could take this on….but we are moving after Christmas to South Korea. However, maybe I can plant a seed, telling everyone I know to watch this movie and pray for the same things I am.
My hometown needs to be united in one purpose…..their love and devotion for God. There needs to be a lot of forgiveness, grace and mending of relationships.
Lord, have mercy on us! Hear our prayer! Amen
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