Beware Of The Railroad!

When a customary or traditional way of doing something is challenged, we often react strongly, perhaps even irrationally. Don Humphrey, in his book Hearts On Fire, provides an excellent illustration of this tendency by sharing a letter written by Martin Van Buren to President Andrew Jackson in 1829.

“President Jackson: The canal system of this country is being threatened by the spread of a new form of transportation known as railroads. The federal government must preserve the canals for the following reasons: One, if boats are supplanted by railroads, serious unemployment will result. Captains, cooks, drivers, hostlers, repairmen, and lock tenders will be left without means of livelihood, not to mention the numerous farmers now employed in growing hay for horses. Two, boat builders would suffer and towline, whip, and harness makers would be left destitute. Three, canal boats are absolutely essential to the defense of the United States. In the event of the expected trouble with England, the Erie Canal would be the only means by which we could ever move the supplies so vital to waging modern war. As you may well know, Mr. President, railroad carriages are pulled at the enormous speed of 15 miles per hour by engines which, in addition to endangering life and limb of passengers, roar and snort their way through the countryside, setting fire to crops, scaring the livestock, and frightening women and children. The Almighty certainly never intended that people should travel as such a breakneck speed. Sincerely yours, Martin Van Buren, Governor of New York” (pp. 71-72).

Looking back from the perspective of the year 2008, Mr. Van Buren’s opposition to the railroad seems almost absurd. His reasons for resisting the railroad are centered on fear. He even claims God as an ally. Sadly, some modern opponents of responsible spiritual change and progress use the same tactics. They, too, prey on our fears. And they are usually quick to claim that God is on their side as well.

When others look back on us after 179 years, will they see “railroad proponents” or “railroad opposers,” spiritually speaking?

God loves you!

Mike