As I look around the world right now I’m seeing deeply stressful times and events fracturing people, institutions, parties, etc. It might be the fact that I’m going through stressful times that I’m seeing this, but I don’t think so.

Let’s look at a few things I’ve noticed of late:

The Democratic Party:

The modern Democratic Party is largely composed of a multiude of diverse interest groups. From the abortion rights folks, to the femminists, civil rights groups, peace niks, anti nukes, enviromentalists, etc.

Many of these groups wouldn’t naturally go together, but they’ve gathered together under one roof to promote their agendas. But lately I’m seeing stress fractures all over the structure of the party. Israel’s actions in Lebanon is a great example. If they support Israel and please the many Jewish organizations that are part of their party, they will offend the Muslims. It’s tough for a modern Democrat to choose which minority to offend!

The Republican Party:

Huge stress fractures here. There’s always been a lot of stress between the Conservatives and the “Country Club” type of Republicans that used to dominate the party.

But now in light of the tough situation in Iraq, the Bush doctrine is being questioned and rejected by many, resulting in a growing split in the Conservative Movement. So you have the odd situation of Pat Buchannan sideing with Chris Matthews against the so-called “NeoCons!”

Where this will all end up I don’t know – but theres a lot of buzz today about a third party. I dont expect to see a really viable third party, but I do expect to see the fracturing of the two main parties to continue.

Stress Fractures can easily be seen in the religious world as well. I can’t name one leader in the Evangelical Christian world who isn’t under strong and increasing attack from within the ranks.

You can also look at international alliances, unions, etc. and see the samething happening.

Some people would say this is the force of the world changing to a “post modern world view” that’s causing all this. Others that God is judging the world/America/whatever. I’m sure that many other reasons could be given as well.

Frankly, I don’t know why it’s happening, I just know it is happening!

It’s part of the spirit of the age we live in, and we’ve got to be aware of it. The Bible tells us to speak the truth but to also remain united in the church.

What usually happens is that the worlds issues, spirit and outlook infiltrate the church, and “reform” the church into it’s image.

Let us not allow that to happen with all these Stress Fractures. Rather, let us wisely use these tumultuous times as opportunities to spread the Gospel of Christ to all who are wounding and wandering in the midst of the breaking storm.

And let us continue to think clearly and deeply about all this. I don’t claim to understand it, I just see it. Clearly, deeper understanding can help us respond to it in a way that will bring more glory to God, which in the end is what our lives are all about anyway.