Sometimes it takes an awesome setting to get the memory juices going. As I stood under Air Force One, looking out over the Simi Valley, the sheer beauty and majesty seemed to overwhelm me. And I was reminded of what a great country we still live in, and my mind went back 30 years. Thirty years to when Ronald Reagan became our president, and how things were, and how they are now. For you see, I was looking out from the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley-a must see for Americans, both a trip back to how things were, and also a trip ahead of how they can still be.
And I remembered being a young father, and having a family. The American dream of home ownership had just been realized, for $45,000, and a loan at 13%. Yes, 13%, and we were glad to get that. An FmHA loan. If you wanted a motorcycle, loans were in the 24% range, cars 18-21%. And inflation kept prices going up over 10% a year, but not my paycheck. We were victims of an ongoing social/political climate, and had just endured four years of Jimmy Carter, a man of God, but not a man of the people. And the scene was set for someone to take over-and either make or break this fine country. I was reminded of Lincoln, the perfect man at the right time for our country over 100 years before, and it was that time again. And so God, who was still being remembered then, sent us Ronald Wilson Reagan. And that Tuesday morning in Simi Valley, my visit to the library bearing his name was timely for me.
History allows us to look back, and like the song America, God shed his grace on thee for those eight years. I had forgotten how it takes a man of character to lead, and not a man of the opinion polls. How strong personal beliefs, and values should influence and not deter correct decision making. And how, when we don't care who gets the credit, we can get more accomplished. One of Reagan's popular beliefs, instilled in him by his dad. How it is correct to say exactly what your enemy is, and realize that we are at more than a war of ideologies, but a way of life, with a core belief that God is the creator and leader of our country. But that He chooses to do it through a man. The right man at the right time.
Romans tells us that Jesus died for our sins, while we were yet sinners, at just the right time. And we are forgiven, when we accept His forgiveness. That following the correct man is not always easy, but always worthwhile. That patience under duress builds character, and either turns us to God, or in our selfishness turns us against God. But doesn't turn God against us. For He still sheds His grace on thee, and me. And touring the library reminded me of how much He has to our nation, and me personally. And how it just wouldn't be the same if I didn't have Jesus in my life. You see political parties can persuade, and economies can control, but the freedom God promises can only be found in a relationship with Him. All are welcome, all invited. But not all choose Him. Today your choice, among the turmoil in your life, is who will you trust and follow. Man and his shortcomings, and unfulfilled promises of a quickie answer, or the God who created you, and has the answers-all you need to do is trust Him with your life. And how you will be remembered is how you remember Him.
Not fifty yards from where Ronald Reagan is buried is a piece from the Berlin Wall. I touched that wall, that tall, gray concrete barrier, and realized that man can put up barriers to separate, but only God can tear them down. And what a tribute, the proper headstone if you would, for the man who was instrumental in tearing it down. His view on Communism, simple. You lose, and we win. And buried in a relatively simple tomb, overlooking the same valley as Air Force One, you can see both the freedom of following God in Ron, and also the burden of man in the Wall. And as I stood and honored our ex-president, I remembered that although his body was in that tomb, that this man of God's soul was with Jesus. Perhaps the perfect reminder of only two days before the resurrection of our Lord, celebrated on Easter. And how those of us who believe will be resurrected with Him. And that although freedom is so often thought to be won on the battlefield, that the true price of freedom was paid for at the cross. Reagan knew that, and that is why he was the man and leader he was.
Presidents come, and presidents go-and our country has endured almost 234 years, longer than the historical average for nations in the history of the world. Aren't you glad you chose a eternal God whose reign never ends? Just a trip to a library, and not a hint of the Dewey Decimal System. But a trip opening the portals of precious memories for all who visit. I was especially proud to be an American that morning-and I pray God continues to pour out His grace on thee. The decision is up to you.
God bless America! America, let's bless God!
love with compassion,
Mike
matthew25biker.blogspot.com