State of the Union

Anyone who is a true friend of liberty must be disturbed by the substance of the president's address last night. Most of his comments reflect an assent to Socialism in virtually every area of our political life.

While he would describe himself as a strict constructionist of the Constitution, his words prove that his interpretation of the powers and duties of the federal government are just as "dynamic" as the most ardent liberal.

"Each of us is guided by our own convictions -- and to these we must stay faithful. Yet we're all held to the same standards, and called to serve the same good purposes: To extend this nation's prosperity; to spend the people's money wisely; to solve problems, not leave them to future generations; to guard America against all evil; and to keep faith with those we have sent forth to defend us. "

Notice, not guided by the Constitution, but by "our own convictions." We must each "stay faithful" not to the Constitution, but to these convictions. This means that the Muslim, intent on the reconstruction of America according to Shira law must stay faithful to his convictions. It also means that pro-abortionists must stay faithful to their convictions.

Of course, the Constitution provides no warrant for "extending the nation's prosperity" as a function of government, except that government should not interfer with or restrict the liberty of individuals and groups to engage in commerce. The idea that the government should determine the direction of economic activity is Marxist, not American. The Soviet Union followed this modle of "command economy" with disastrous results. Such policies result in shortages, inferior products and political bondage.

To "guard America against all evil," is at once presumptuous and blasphemous and displays, once again, that whatever brand of Christianity the president may subscribe to, it is not grounded in biblical theology. Only the gospel can "deliver" men from evil.

"Our job is to make life better for our fellow Americans, and to help them to build a future of hope and opportunity -- and this is the business before us tonight."

In order for the government to "make life better," it must first determine what a "better life" looks like. This makes priests of government officials. Those "Americans" who have a different idea about what makes life "better" must, of course, be dealt with. This is not merely political rhetoric, it is a declaration of war on personal freedom and responsibility.

There is too much in the address to deal with extensively. However, it would be instructive to know how all those who were so recently alarmed over attempts to restrict their "freedom of expression," will use their freedom to respond to this address.

Will Dr. Dobson take the president to task for taking such liberties with the Constitution? Will other "pro family" groups recognize that there are no "parental rights" in a government that assumes powers to itself as it sees fit?

President Lincoln correctly observed that no foreign power could ever defeat our freedom, but that domestic enemies are always at work to destroy liberty.

The real threat to our liberty is not Al Queda, Iran or any other foreign power. The real threat to our liberty is those who seek to "make life better," and they are seated in the offices of our Executive, Legislative and Judicial institutions.