Perry’s Scope: Christian sermons, lessons, and resources for teachers

I have ancestors who fought on both sides of the War Between the States. My Union ancestor was from East Tennessee. My Confederate ancestor was from Georgia. As a result, I am a member of both the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War and the Sons of Confederate Veterans. The SUVCW is the successor to the old “Grand Army of the Republic.”

The Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) was a fraternal organization  composed of veterans of the Union Army, Navy, and Marine Corps who had served in the American Civil War. It was founded on the principles of “Fraternity, Charity and Loyalty” in Decatur, Illinois on April 6, 1866. It was inclusive of Blacks and Whites who had fought together for the Union cause.

This organization of Union Veterans became the most powerful political arm of the Republican Party and grew during the latter part of the 19th century. It helped elect several United States presidents, beginning with U.S. Grant and ending with William McKinley. Five members of the GAR were elected to the presidency. For a time, it was impossible to be nominated on the Republican ticket without the endorsement of the GAR.

What if American Veterans organized into a strong political base like the GAR of long ago? Do you think there might be a resurgence of Patriotism? Do you think there would be more Fraternity, Charity and Loyalty in our country? Do you think these patriots would demand that out political leaders really defend the Constitution? Veterans took that oath as do our political leaders. The difference between them and the politician is the veteran literally put his life on the line, not just his political life.

I believe it would be a different country if a GAR-type organization held our politicians accountable along with the rest of us. The flag would be saluted. Our true history would be remembered and taught. American Exceptionalism would be reclaimed. Above all, God would ultimately be honored for He is the Foundation of our Republic.

Keep The Light Burning!

Perry Greene

Samuel Whittemore was an American hero in the early days of the Revolution. He had come to America as a British soldier during the conflict with France. He loved the Colonies and decided to stay and purchased a farm in Massachusetts.

Sam believed in American independence and took up arms against the British. On April 19, 1775 the 80 year old warrior joined the Minutemen to attack the British on their retreat to Boston following the battles of Lexington and Concord. He chose a strategic spot on the road and at just the right time fired his musket into the British line. He then fired two pistols at the soldiers and then wielded his old saber against the Redcoats. After inflicting casualties, he was wounded and beaten by the British and left for dead.

Following the conflict Sam’s neighbors came to tend the wounded. They found him not only alive, but trying to reload his musket! They brought him to the doctor, who gave them no hope of survival. To everyone’s surprise, Sam did survive and lived another 13 years!

We might question Sam’s tactical judgment but we can never question his courage or his patriotism! You know veterans of the same caliber as Mr. Whittemore. It is because of these bold patriots that we enjoy God’s liberties! Thank a Veteran for serving!

Keep The Light Burning!

Dr. Perry Greene

http://perrysscope.com

Are you glad the elections are over? I am, too. However, our vigilance is just beginning. We must hold our political leaders accountable to “We the people.”

One of the personal stories that caught my attention last night was that of Marco Rubio. He was elected to the U. S. Senate by Floridians. In his victory speech he mentioned that he was the “son of exiles” from Cuba. What a great American success story! This IS the place where extraordinary things can happen!

I am reminded by his words that we too are children of exiles. Our parents, Adam and Eve, were exiled from the Garden of Eden. In their case, it was their own sin that led them away from the tree of life. Yet, God provided a way to bring us back.

Jesus is the “way, the truth, the life” who leads us back to the Father (John 14:6). Jesus is the source of the extraordinary in our lives. Jesus is the key to real success in our lives (Matthew 22:34-40).

Marco Rubio and his family may never get back home to Cuba. Unless dramatic changes occur there, they may not want to go. We can, however, “go home” to God. Jesus made that possible for us. In a little while, our exile will be over and we can enjoy the eternal presence of our God (see Revelation 22)!

Keep The Light Burning!

Dr. Perry Greene

perrysscope.com