If you’re like me, the past couple of years have felt like a couple of decades, especially if you follow the news cycle closely like I do. If I try to think back to 2019, before the pandemic, it almost seems like a lifetime ago.
And yet, remembering the past is important. Especially if we wish to learn from it and use that knowledge to focus our goals, aims and dreams heading forward into the new year.
With that in mind, here are the top five stories from 2021 that Christians should remember heading into 2022.
Texas Heartbeat Bill Goes into Effect
For months now, abortions have been illegal in the state of Texas past six weeks gestation following the enactment of the state’s heartbeat bill. This is a monumental victory for the pro-life movement – and marks the first time since Roe v. Wade was decreed by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1973 that abortions have been prohibited pre-viability.
Pro-life state legislators, activists and influencers deserve a tremendous round of applause, for successfully enacting a law which, to date, has saved thousands of preborn babies – and is saving hundreds more each day.
U.S. Supreme Court Considers Overturning Roe v. Wade
On December 1, the high court heard arguments in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization, which concerns whether Mississippi can prohibit abortions after 15 weeks gestation.
Mississippi’s law goes directly counter to the Supreme Court’s precedent in Roe and Casey, giving the court a chance to overrule those previous, highly flawed decisions.
In particular, pro-life organizations were encouraged the by the questions the justices asked during oral arguments. We’re expecting a decision in the case by the end of June 2022.
A Record 100,000 Americans Die from Drug Overdoses
The U.S. hit a tragic milestone in 2021, with more Americans dying from drug overdoses than ever before in our nation’s history.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimated that from May 2020 to April 2021, 100,306 Americans died from a drug overdose. Spurred by lockdowns, unemployment, isolation, mental illness and addition, America has a significant drug problem that has only gotten worse over the last several years. The lives of Americans deserve multipronged, all out approach to beat this epidemic.
The Taliban Captures Afghanistan
In a tragic and rapid development that shocked the nation, the nation of Afghanistan fell to the Taliban within weeks of the U.S. withdrawing military forces from the country. Shortly thereafter, 13 U.S. soldiers who had been sent back into the nation were killed.
A veteran of the War in Afghanistan told The Daily Citizen that, “the situation for women, individuals that cooperated with the U.S. and NATO forces, and the few non-Muslims in Afghanistan will undoubtedly take a turn for the worse.”
Since the takeover, it has.
Please continue to pray for the people of Afghanistan, and especially the women, children and Christians who will likely continue to be targeted by the Taliban.
Inflation Hits 39-Year High
In November, the Labor Department announced the inflation (the increase in the price of goods and services) increased by 6.8% year-over-year compared to November 2020. This was the highest rate since 1982.
In general, inflation hurts the poor and working class the most, since they are the most sensitive to increases in the price of gas, food, energy and transportation.
It remains to be seen whether inflation will continue to increase unabated in 2022. But even if inflation falls to 0% next year, Americans will be stuck paying at least 6.8% more for good and services than they were just one year ago.
Heading into 2022, remember that no matter what happens, Christ is still victorious. He still reigns and he still commands. Whatever you face in the new year, for good or for evil, remember to put your trust in the Lord. Proverbs 3:5-8 says:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.
Be not wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.
It will be healing to your flesh
and refreshment to your bones.”
Photo from Shutterstock.
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