Reflections From 2016 to Today: Seeing the Crisis, Living the Promise
Introduction: Looking Back, Looking Around
Sometimes, it’s only when we look back that we see how much things have changed. I remember in 2016, watching the news and pondering about the strange times we lived in. Even then, it felt as though the fabric of American culture was deeply unraveling. Yet, if I’m honest, I didn’t imagine how much heavier the darkness would feel today. In these years since, things haven’t gotten easier—they’ve gotten worst, more confusing, and the world seems to be spinning faster out of control. But in the midst of this, I’m learning that God’s promise to His people shines even brighter.
Observing the Darkness: Headlines and Heartache
Just open your favorite news app, scroll social media, or glance at the latest headlines: division, violence, and outrage seem to be everywhere. Issues that once would have shocked us now barely make us blink. We see families struggling, communities fractured, and a generation searching for meaning in all the wrong places. There’s a growing sense that something is missing—something deep, moral, and spiritual.
Many have called this a moral and spiritual crisis, and I believe that’s exactly what it is. It’s not just about politics or economics or technology; it’s about the soul of our nation. The old landmarks are being moved, and what once was considered common sense or common decency is now up for debate. It’s as if, as Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 4:4, “the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers.” There’s a blindness to truth, a loss of hope, and a hunger that no new headline or trend can satisfy.
Scriptural Perspective: God’s Glory in Dark Times
And yet, the Bible speaks directly to times like these. In Isaiah 60:1-2, God says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you. See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the Lord rises upon you, and his glory appears over you.” Did you catch that? Darkness may spread, but God’s glory will rise upon His people.
What is God’s glory?
When we talk about God’s glory, we’re really describing something far greater than we can fully grasp. It’s the breathtaking beauty and greatness of who God is—the shining light of His holiness, the depth of His love, and the power that moves the universe. God’s glory isn’t just something we see with our eyes; it’s the very heart of His character, revealed in everything He does—from the wonders of the natural world to the story of Jesus. It’s what gives meaning and purpose to our lives, showing us that we exist for something bigger than ourselves. God’s glory is the reason for all creation and the hope behind our redemption, making His presence unmistakable and inviting us to know and reflect His goodness in our own lives.
The prophet Haggai spoke to a discouraged generation, reminding them that “the glory of this present house will be greater than the glory of the former house” (Haggai 2:9). Even when the world around us grows dimmer, God promises to pour out His presence and power in ways we can’t imagine. In the darkest hour, God loves to show off His goodness.
Hope and Revival: Outpouring of God’s Spirit
History tells us that some of the greatest moves of God happen when times look the bleakest. We may feel overwhelmed by bad news, but God is never surprised or outmatched. He’s not wringing His hands in worry; He’s preparing His people.
Paul writes in Colossians 1:27 about “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” That hope isn’t wishful thinking—it’s the very presence of Jesus living in us and shining through us. 2 Corinthians 3:18 reminds us we are “being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory.” God is preparing His church, not for defeat, but for revival. The coming days may be hard, but they will also be filled with opportunity for God to show Himself strong.
Believers’ Response: Shining Light, Living Out Faith
So what do we do? Jesus gives us the answer: “You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden…. Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” (Matthew 5:14-16). We aren’t called to curse the darkness—we’re called to turn on the light.
Every act of kindness, every word of truth spoken in love, every prayer lifted up is a lamp in the night. We don’t have to retreat or despair. Instead, we can live boldly, humbly, and joyfully, trusting that God can use even us to point others to hope.
Encouragement: Staying Steadfast, Preparing for God’s Move
If you feel weary or worried about the future, you’re not alone. But take heart—God has placed you exactly where you are for such a time as this. Don’t give in to fear or cynicism. Don’t let the darkness make you shrink back. Instead, let’s keep our eyes on Jesus and our hearts soft toward others. Let’s pray for revival, serve our neighbors, and keep believing that God is still at work.
Remember, “the darker the night, the brighter the stars”—and God’s people are meant to shine. His Spirit is moving, and He’s faithful to finish what He started.
Conclusion: Blessings and a Call to Action
As we journey through these challenging days, let’s take God at His word. Let’s arise and shine, knowing that His glory is rising upon us, no matter how dark it gets around us. Let’s encourage one another, stand strong in faith, and be ready for the revival God promises.
May you feel His peace, find His strength, and carry His hope wherever you go. The world may be shaking, but God’s kingdom cannot be moved. Let’s shine not with our own light, but with the glory of Christ—bright, bold, and full of hope for all to see.
Minister A Francine Green
January 2026
afrancinegreen.com 