Agony and Eloquence

by Rebecca Bynum

Washington’s birthday and Lincoln’s brithday both fall in February. We used to celebrate both and the schools always made an effort to teach us something about both Presidents. Now we have President’s Day which means our children are most likely not taught anything about American history. Just a day off for no particular reason.

Speaking of the Founders, I highly recommend Daniel Mallock’s book about Jefferson and Adams, Agony and Eloquence. Mallock’s take is much more balanced than the usual authors who lionize Jefferson and disparage Adams. What is important about this book is the juxtaposition of the French Revolution and the deep political divide which opened up between Adams and Jefferson over it – an ideological divide which continues to this day. The great lesson for our time is how each man eventually valued his friendship with the other more than his particular political position – a true mark of spiritual maturity on the part of both men.

As we continue our knock-down, drag out fights over the direction of the country, let us remember that our ultimate love of country and our love for each other as children of God, should always be remembered. Let us pray for each other, our country and our President this President’s day.