Happy New President Day!

I witnessed a piece of history today. Live. (Not in person, of course, but watching it live is close enough.) I'm glad that I didn't have class or any other commitments today during that time so that I would be able to.

My boy's speech was much more somber than I expected it to be. I suppose he felt it appropriate for his tone to match the gravity of some of the hardships our country is experiencing. I appreciate the fact that he emphasized responsibility and sacrifice, and I feel that he captured the seismic mindset shift of this era with the messages he had for other parts of the world:

"To those leaders around the globe who seek to sow conflict or blame their society's ills on the West, know that your people will judge you on what you can build, not what you destroy.

To those who cling to power through corruption and deceit and the silencing of dissent, know that you are on the wrong side of history, but that we will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist.

To the people of poor nations, we pledge to work alongside you to make your farms flourish and let clean waters flow; to nourish starved bodies and feed hungry minds.

And to those nations like ours that enjoy relative plenty, we say we can no longer afford indifference to the suffering outside our borders, nor can we consume the world's resources without regard to effect. For the world has changed, and we must change with it."

The world has changed, and we must change with it.

As a child of the postmodern, I have a tendency to connect the external with my personal experience. Obama's speech, more specifically, his reflection on our country's ideals accompanied with a call for a different approach, made me reflect on my faith.

The world has changed. But the principles that the United States of America was founded upon have remained the same. What it means to be an American has remained the same. The rights and reponsibilities of American citizens have remained the same. But, as Americans, the way in which we respond to the world must.

The world has changed. But the principles of the Word of God have remained the same. What it means to be a Christian has remained the same. The blessings and the responsibilities of being a member of the Body of Christ have remained the same. But, as Christians, the way in which we respond to the world must.

Changing with the world is not, as some fear, disturbing the solid foundations that define us as a people, be it as Americans or as people of faith. Changing with the world means adapting method and mindset without compromising message.

(P.S. To participate in a contest of "spiritual implications," scroll down or click here.)