To Change a Nation

In 1596, King Ferdinand of Germany, decided that Protestants were bad news for the catholic religion.  He began to suppress the non-catholic communities in his territories.  Soon however, he was called out of the country and left two officials in charge.  Unfortunately, a mob gathered in Prague, threatening the officials, “If we kill these two, we can form a new, Protestant government.”  At that, the two officials quickly retreated to the Royal Palace.  But it was no use.  The mob broke through the castle gates and pursued them through the castle until they were cornered in a room towering above the courtyard at a height of fifty feet.  They landed in a pile of dung that evidently saved their lives.
Was this the best way to change a nation’s culture?  In my opinion, no.  Although Ferdinand thought his power would do the trick and the leaders of the mob thought they could change the country, both groups failed.  It only caused the start of one of the longest wars in Europe.
In my mind, the most effective way to change a nation’s culture, is gentle teaching.  Saint Patrick, a devout Catholic, taught with gentle kindness and metaphors to convert the people of Ireland.  And they believed him.  Accepted him.  He baptized thousands of Irish folk without force or cruel power.  
During the Inquisition, hundreds upon hundreds of Jewish children were taken to monasteries.  There, they were “converted” and made to slave away in the kitchens.  Most of the children never truly altered their beliefs.  Not that it would have mattered if they did, for the friars still treated them like dirt.  
However, the best example of changing a nation, is Jesus Christ.  Actually, he changed not just a nation but the whole world.  He taught through his actions and his words.  With warmth in his heart, he healed the sick and raised the dead.  And he has converted millions… still working today through his faithful servants on Earth.  His way of enlightening us in faith is unmatched by any other.   There are tens of thousands of examples of men and women in history who attempted to change a nation.  Yet none come close to the ever-patient, eternally-understanding man who taught to save, Jesus.  
No one cannot change a person’s religion.  They must accept it for themselves.  It’s personal, not mandatory.   And this is why Ferdinand and the leaders of the Inquisition failed.  Yet it is also why Saint Patrick and, more importantly Jesus succeeded.

“Jesus went through all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom and healing every disease and sickness.”  -Matthew 9:35