WORLD: Atheist Central

 Atheists’ Cross to Bear

Many Americans were righteously angry [after the 9/11 terrorist attacks]. During the operation to clear the debris, a worker discovered two crossed steel beams amid the rubble. The cross came to symbolize faith and hope, and some workers prayed there. Last year, the cross was moved to a permanent location: 70 feet in the ground where the towers once stood where it would become part of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum exhibit. The museum is scheduled to open next month.

The Christian faith is an undeniable part of America’s foundation. It undergirds Western civilization itself. The Muslims who rained fiery destruction down on America did so in the name of their god and against our faith and way of life. The presence of that steel cross probably quelled a lot anger and bitterness about the loss of life. Only empathy-challenged cynics would mount a legal fight against it.

Atheists enter, stage left.

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Atheists’ Camp Quest…for God?

Although I grew up going to church, I wasn’t saved. I attended vacation Bible school, where I memorized Scripture and sang catchy songs about Jesus Christ. I wasn’t saved. But my unbelief wasn’t an impediment for God. As the Apostle Paul said in Ephesians, God chose me “before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and blameless before him. In love he predestined us for adoption as sons through Jesus Christ, according to the purpose of his will, to the praise of his glorious grace, with which he has blessed us in the Beloved” (Ephesians 1:4-6). Amen!

I briefly forgot about God’s elect and predestination when I read about a summer camp for children from atheist families. The word “tragic” came to mind. Camp Quest Northwest in Seattle rents the grounds from a Christian camp, and they cover up “Lord” or “God” on signs and replace them with words like “Flying Spaghetti Monster.” Chuck Wolber, one of the camp’s founders, said they encourage kids to attend church.

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