Shock

One way to measure societal change is to distance yourself from something for a while and then return to check on it. Revisiting provides clarity but is often accompanied by a sense of shock. This was the case on a recent, but infrequent, bookstore visit. Profane and vulgar titles were strategically placed to make books about false gods and artificial intelligence appear divine. Featured bestsellers vented about a coming new world, claiming humanity will recreate immortality itself. Deceptive, yes. And always a jolt to see a rise in satanic indoctrination together with a line-up of compliant buyers.

But also a reminder that, for followers of Jesus, our sense of shock is a valuable tool as we monitor the world around us and continue to observe God's Word unfolding.

"But evil men and seducers shall wax worse and worse,

deceiving, and being deceived.

But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned

and hast been assured of,

knowing of whom thou hast learned them."

2 Timothy 3:13-14 KJV