06/11/2026
Good morning, Emmanuel family and friends. In the Book of Lamentations we read this about Jerusalem and the nation of Israel: “Jerusalem has grievously sinned; therefore, she is removed. All who honored her despise her, because they have seen her nakedness; yes, she sighs and turns backward.” [Lamentations 1:8 (KJV)] This verse tells us why Judah was in captivity in Babylon. They had ‘grievously sinned.’ ‘Grievously sinned’ means the sin was so great it required punishment. Her punishment was removal from a position of honor among the nations into a state of captivity. Figuratively, ‘nakedness’ means ‘shame,’ or ‘disgrace.’ Is this not a description of America today? Even her one-time allies are turning against her. As we look at the national scene in America, it is easy to envision it as a political problem and blame the politicians. But the truth is harder to face; it is not a political problem, it is a sin problem. Sin is a reproach to any nation, and our sinfulness has removed us as a leader of the free world and brought dishonor and disrespect upon our nation. Although we might elect more capable leaders and more moral politicians, only repentance will turn away the disgrace and shame of our unrighteousness. 2 Chronicles 7:14 is still the only chance we have for our nation’s honor to be restored: “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and heal their land.” God is calling America back to Himself. Pray that we answer that call. In His love, Pastor Lynn
