One of our family’s Christmas traditions is watching different versions of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. My favorite is the one with George C. Scott made in 1984. Regardless of the version, the two major themes running throughout Dickens’ story are redemption and injustice. Those themes continue to characterize the need in our world even in the years that have passed since 1843 when Dickens wrote his much-loved story.
Government can address many of the injustices in our world, but because of our flawed human nature, the bigger government gets, the more flawed it becomes. Sir John Dalberg-Acton was a politician, historian, and a contemporary of Dickens. He is best known for his remark that, “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely…” This demonstrates that justice alone is not enough; we also need redemption and a change of heart.
Thankfully, that change of heart is possible through Christ, and in Him we are given a new and righteous heart. While filled with the Spirit, the Prophet Isaiah was given a glimpse of a “Christmas Future,” where our redemption would be complete and all injustice on earth would cease. God gave him a glimpse of a world-wide government whose leader would not be corrupted by power and glory. Isaiah names and describes all the governmental offices and titles that Jesus will hold in his “Eternal Kingdom.
“For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and peace There will be no end, Upon the throne of David and over His kingdom, To order it and establish it with judgment and justice From that time forward, even forever. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform this.” – Isaiah 9:6-7
Each Christmas, we celebrate that wonderful future by faith as we remember the birth of Jesus Christ.
Dickens’ story ends with a change of heart for Ebenezer Scrooge and his promise that, “I will honor Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year.” When we have made Christ our Savior and Lord, that same heart change takes place in us. There is a coming day when the “Spirit of Christmas” will permeate our government as well. But until that day comes, Family Policy Alliance of Wyoming will work at making our state a place where God is honored, especially in the areas of religious freedom, family, life, and moral values.
On behalf of our team, I want to wish all of you a very Merry Christmas! We are honored that you have partnered with us, and we look forward to greater growth and effectiveness in the coming New Year 2022.
Nathan Winters
Executive Director