The United States has always been a beacon of hope to the rest of the world. Many would say that as a nation we are blessed by God, so that we can be a blessing to the world. For centuries people from all over came to live in a place that offers tremendous hope. They migrated to America for host of reasons including, economic prosperity, religious freedom, education, and safety from conflict or persecution. However, there might be another reason why individuals are attracted to this continuously expanding melting pot.
2000 years ago in Jerusalem, Peter shared the good news of Jesus Christ on the day of Pentecost. That day, 3000 people were baptized and added to the church. Because of Pentecost there were people visiting Jerusalem from every nation under heaven. After Pentecost, these God fearing Jews returned to their homes around the world. Some think they eventually became the “persons of peace” spoken of in Luke 10:5. Perhaps they were the ones who two years later, welcomed the good news, and who created an opportunity for the gospel to flourish (Acts 8).
Now fast forward two years. The church in Jerusalem was growing steadily despite opposition. Then, God raised up a martyr. Stephen was a man full of God’s grace and power. He preached and healed among the people. Some resisted, and because they could not stand up against the wisdom the Spirit gave him, they stoned him. On that same day, a great persecution broke out against the church in Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went, and there was tremendous joy in those cities. Many believe it was these “persons of peace” from the day of Pentecost that welcomed the preaching of the scattered believers from Jerusalem. Did God use Stephen’s death to move people around the world to further His Kingdom? On the day Pentecost He brought the nations to Jerusalem, and on the day of Stephen’s death, He sent out the church from Jerusalem.
What does all of this have to do with the United States being a beacon of hope, and the migration of nations to America? Consider how God has used martyrs in America to move His church. In the 17th-century, 8 Jesuit missionaries were killed by the Iroquois in North America. The “Martyrs of Florida” were Spanish and Native American Catholics murdered in the 16th and 17th century. Abolitionist, John Brown who was executed in 1859, is considered by many to be the spark that led to the Civil War, giving freedom to almost 4 million slaves. Preacher and civil rights activist, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated April 4th, 1968, for championing civil rights for African Americans. In like manner, maybe God will use the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk to reach some who've been drawn to this beacon of hope.
The expression, “beacon of hope” is a metaphor that implies optimism, guidance, and encouragement during difficult or dark times. Murder often reveals the war that rages in the heart of man, a darkness that often lurks in the shadows. Followers of Jesus are to be a beacon of hope to those seeking optimism, guidance and encouragement. As I mentioned, many come here for prosperity, education, or safety, etc. But true hope is found in Jesus Christ who was sent by God to restore mankind to Himself. Jesus spoke these truths to His disciples, before being murdered for what He said (Luke 16). Then He challenged them to go into a difficult and dark world to do the same.
If we look at things from God’s perspective, we can gain comfort and direction. He is orchestrating things far beyond what we can see. God reminds us in the Bible that He has a plan and purpose, and that we can have peace in the midst of it. “In this world you will have tribulation. But take courage. I (Jesus) have overcome the world.” Followers of Jesus are to be a beacon of hope in a dark world. That doesn’t mean that everyone will agree with you. Some will resist, preferring darkness. Nevertheless, allow Jesus to shine through you for all to see. He is our light and our salvation. He gives it freely that others might receive it. He has made us beacons of hope, who reside in a place that is a beacon of hope. What an incredible privilege. With that great privilege comes great responsibility. "Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans." Proverbs 16:3