OK, so we live and work in a town known for its government agencies, the Pentagon, embassies from around the world and lobbyists. But what about the entrepreneurs who have made our country great? During the July 4th weekend, I spoke to our church about the blessings that God has given to our nation. We prayed for and thanked God for all of the different types of careers represented in our DC area and the people who work so hard to make this country great. But I focused my attention this year on God's gift of the entrepreneur.
Often, the message of the church seems to be that entrepreneurs carry around an extra load of guilt and I'm not sure we really appreciate what a gift from God entrepreneurs are. To hear more of this message, check out the link on our home page under my picture, "listen to one of Rick's messages."
There are a couple of points I'd like to add to what I said. First, by creating capital, taking sizeable economic risks (so the rest of us don't have to), innovating, looking forward into the future, creating jobs (and blessing families), entrepreneurs are a significant force for growth and the greatness of our nation. Look, the Bible instructs us to tithe and give to the poor. And so there is a responsibility for business people to give to the church and to help those less fortunate. In fact, it's a strong mandate. But, even if a business gives nothing charitable, it is still a blessing to our nation because of the growth and opportunities it provides.
The parable of the talents, in Matthew 25:14ff offers a real life example of Jesus endorsing entrepreneurship. The servants who took risk, looked for the best return, and who reaped a reasonable profit were commended by Christ. True, the first and foremost implication of this parable is a spiritual one (we are to use the talents God has given to us and He expects a return on them). But, he uses an example from the business world and gives his approval by its example.
This was a unique sermon for me, but I really enjoyed preparing it and presenting it. I tried to present biblical principles as they relate to capitalism -- an imperfect system, but the best the world has ever seen. God works through capitalism and we see the blessings of God poured out, in part at least, through our economy based on Christian principles.
God bless America. America, bless God.
For more info on this kind of economic perspective, check out the Acton Institute for the Study of Religion and Liberty.
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