So Abraham called that place The Lord Will Provide. And to this day it is said, “On the mountain of the Lord it will be provided.” (Genesis 22:14 NIV).
In American I think all would argue that political, economic, and personal freedoms are inter-related and correlated. Absolutely essential for the existence of these freedoms is the paradoxical need for extensive regulation. As I have said before, this paradox is to my mind a significant indicator that we are getting near the heart (and truth) of the matter. That is, on a personal level it makes no sense whatever for me to have unlimited freedom for that would impinge upon the freedom of others. Political freedom in America is tightly regulated though an arrangement that divides central government into three parts and fractures power extensively by devolvement of power to state and local government—all underwritten by the ballot. Very few would advocate a more monolithic or less democratic governmental arrangement. Economic freedom is ensured though multiplicity and diversity and through supporting legislation that benefits the commonweal. Personal freedom depends most directly upon the ethically wielded sword of the state—yet personal freedom can be rendered significantly nugatory under conditions of habitual wealth maldistribution. Insufficient wealth distribution leads to anemic economic activity and consequential underemployment and general economic deprivation even amongst the most fundamental producers of wealth.
No one in their right mind wants to see all eggs of power and influence in one institutional basket. Just so political, economic, and personal powers in concert imbed a mutual check on each other that is beneficial. Since America significantly strives to be a land of mutual respect and equality—of brotherly love—the ingredients are there to foster essential goodwill and trust. Therefore, the American system is characterized by second-chances and extended forbearances. Since the ground beneath our society is constantly shifting, its social system is inherently dynamic and the disciplines of love form the essential components ensuring America’s longevity and cohesion even during seismic discord and stress. May God continue to bless us with creative riches in the days ahead.
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