The Aftermath

     Our country has been embroiled for nearly one-and-a-half years in the prosecution of George Zimmerman for the death of Trayvon Martin .... both in a court of law and in the court of public opinion.  This weekend, the verdict was reached, and George Zimmerman was found not guilty of second-degree murder and the jury declined to convict him on a lesser charge of manslaughter.  Whether or not you agree with the verdict, we are faced with some very tough questions about the state of our society.
     And so that we clearly understand the charge to the jury, for a finding of second-degree murder, the jurors would have had to believe that Martin's unlawful killing was "done from ill will, hatred, spite or an evil intent" and would be "of such a nature that the act itself indicates an indifference to human life."
     To convict Zimmerman of manslaughter, the jurors would have had to believe he "intentionally committed an act or acts that caused the death of Trayvon Martin." That charge could have carried a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, though the jury was not told of that possible sentence.

     So according to the rule of law, (and I would like to think that we still abide by that in this country), we in the United States are guaranteed, under Article Three of the Constitution, as well as the Sixth and Fourteenth Amendments, to a jury by trial of our peers.  Furthermore, we agree to abide by the ruling of that jury.   Both the prosecution and defense counsels presented their cases and evidence.  A qualified and approved jury listened to all the testimony and came to their decision.  But it seems that there are many who are unwilling to accept the verdict.
     Now, the "rule of law" generally refers to the "authority and influence of law in society," especially as a constraint upon behavior.  And that, I fear, is where our society is breaking down.  Let me explain.
     The effects of the NOT GUILTY verdict in the Zimmerman trial will be felt for a considerable time to come.  But we are already seeing that the influence of our Constitutional laws upon society are waning.  Many among the media, as well as celebrities and politicians seem to feel that our rules of law account for nothing.  They dismiss the jury's decision, in favor of what they deem as "justice".
     I find it disgraceful that a paid athlete of the highest order thinks it is OK to broadcast a threatening tweet against the life of the defendant.  (Where are the critics who were so willing to castigate Paula Deen for her 30-year-old remark?)  And what about the celebrities who act as judge and jury in front of thousands of fans when they proclaim that this verdict was a miscarriage of justice.  Unless you were sitting in that jury box, I don't believe you are qualified to make a judgment on whether justice was done or not.  Then there are no repercussions when the Black Panther Party offers a  $10,000 reward for whomever can capture George Zimmerman?!  Add to that the Federal Government, who is considering overlooking the not guilty verdict in order to exact some form of punishment on a man that was legally judged innocent.   Are we a nation of laws, or aren't we? 
    I worry that this case will set a dangerous precedent; that every time a legal decision doesn't go our way, we can simply ignore the judgment and exact our own sense of justice.  So what is the point of law?  Won't we simply descend into mob rule and civil disorder?
     Just yesterday, we had a sitting Senator, Harry Reid, ask for the Justice Department to prosecute George Zimmerman. “I think the Justice Department is going to take a look at this,” Reid told NBC’s Meet the Press. “This isn’t over with and I think that’s good. That’s our system, it’s gotten better, not worse.”  Umm, excuse me, Mr. Senator, but I thought he had been prosecuted, and found INNOCENT!  And if it is our system, why aren't you willing to abide by it?  It seems that you want what you want, not what our system has decided is just.
     And of course, the politicians are never going to let this "crisis go to waste."  So how convenient is it to bring in gun control in the aftermath of this verdict?  I can hear them in late night caucuses, "We can still salvage a victory out of this mess yet!  Passions are high and we can combine racism and gun control into one issue and it will make a perfect vehicle for our agenda."
     I am praying that the foundation of our Constitution can hold up under this onslaught.  I feel that it is only hanging by a thread and the scales of justice are about to be overwhelmed.  Consider the hallowed words of the Preamble of our Constitution:

We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

     Now ask yourself this question .... in the wake of this prominent trial in Florida, are we still concerned with "establishing justice and insuring domestic tranquility"?  Or are we more inclined to throw justice to the wind in favor of personal biases, influence, and partisanships?  Is the purpose of justice to serve the common good and truth, or is it to further personal agendas?  It is a sad and tragic fact that Trayvon Martin was killed.  I cannot imagine that anyone celebrates what happened on that night.  But humanity has attempted justice in the best way we know how, and whether we like the outcome or not, our laws have been followed.  The threat of chaos and lawlessness will only serve to rip apart the fabric of our fragile society.
     Dear God in Heaven, I have always believed that this nation was set apart by your Divine plan, but I am beginning to see only the Devil's hand in the midst of this tragedy.  Do not forsake us; return us to your precepts and your model of behavior and thought.  Heal our land!

Zechariah 7:9       This is what the LORD Almighty says: "Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another."  
   
     
   

Shame on Texas!

     I am deeply saddened and yes, even angry, over a couple of situations that have happened here in Central Texas.  The first is the case of Justin Carter, aged 19, who like so many people in this technological age, has no clue that social media is anything BUT a harmless expression of our First Amendment right.
     And I say, "like so many people" because Justin's naiveté is not limited to those of his generation.  I can't tell you how many people my age that I have seen disclose political commentary, pictures of their latest firearms or commodities purchase, and angry rhetoric over everything from another person's race, to their sexual preference, to their faith -- or lack, thereof.  People wake up!  Are you paying attention to the changing landscape in our world?  Because if you aren't, let Justin's mistake teach you a lesson.

     Justin is currently on suicide watch in a jail cell in New Braunfels, Texas because he made the stupid decision to get into an argument on Facebook over the online video game, "League of Legends".  His adversary called him insane, after which Justin made a most inappropriate and morally wrong comeback about shooting up a school and eating the hearts out of kids.  He then finished his post with "Lol" and "j/k" ... Laughing out loud and just kidding.  Was that about the most ignorant, foolish, insensitive and immature statement he could have made?  Absolutely!  I would use those words to describe his actions and probably some worse than that.
     But does his comment warrant a bond of half a million dollars, and a possible 10-year jail sentence?  Because that is what Justin is facing.  In fact, he has been sitting in a Comal County jail since February, after someone filed a complaint about the comment, a search warrant was issued, and then a warrant for his arrest was carried out.
     According to Justin's father, Jack, his son has suffered "concussions, black eyes, been moved four times from base for his own protection.  He’s been put in solitary confinement, nude, for days on end because he’s depressed. All of this is extremely traumatic to this kid. This is a horrible experience.” CNN reports his father saying that his son is “very scared and he’s very concerned that he’s not going to get out. He’s pretty much lost all hope.” 
     Should there be consequences to Justin's careless and callous remarks?  You bet!  But $500,000 bond?  His attorney says he hasn't seen bonds that high for rapists and murderers in his entire career!  And what about the hateful and threatening Facebook comments made in regards to George Zimmerman or those made during the last election about "cracker babies" that have come and gone with no repercussions?  Where is the justice in this case?  And why is this kid being singled out and punished to this extent?  The world just seems upside down! 

     Then the other event that has me deeply troubled is the reaction to the abortion battle going on in my state.  Both pro-lifers and supporters of abortion have descended upon the state capital in Austin to make their voices heard.  All the drama centers around a proposed bill which would ban abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy, require that the procedure be performed at ambulatory surgical centers, mandate that doctors who perform abortions obtain admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles and that even nonsurgical abortions take place in a surgical center.
     Although I am completely against abortion, I must ask ... how is that restricting anyone's abortion rights?  For the life of me, I cannot understand any reason that a woman could not make up her mind about killing her baby before the 5th month of pregnancy.  I understand that only five out of 42 clinics in Texas qualify as ambulatory surgical centers and they are in major metropolitan areas.  That means many clinics would need to relocate to meet ventilation requirements and to have the space required for operating rooms and hallways.  But shouldn't that tell us that perhaps there are far too many "clinics" that should not be performing this procedure?  Has everyone forgotten the appalling conditions found in Dr. Gosnell's so-called "clinic"?  What's wrong in at least setting a standard for proper operating procedures and locations; for making it as humane as possible for the child whose life you are ending?
     But I think I've found my answer in the way the opposing groups chose to support their position.  As the pro-life supporters sang Amazing Grace, the pro-abortion rights group harassed them with shouts of "Hail, Satan!"  I suppose that if you can abort a baby that is 5 months or older, then there is no room in your heart for love, and it would be easy to praise Satan and proclaim him as your god.
     I know that must sound judgmental and cruel.  But, as Jesus is my witness, I cannot get into the heads or hearts of these women!  They are so deceived!  They have been led down a path full of lies and false promises.  Satan has convinced them that with control of their bodies comes autonomy and power.  But in worshipping themselves and their bodies, they have lost sight of the fact that they are killing a part of themselves.  That baby is an extension of them and they have, in effect, terminated and eliminated it.
     They will be forever changed, whether they realize it or not.  Satan deluded them into destroying a part of themselves; all in the name of women's "rights".   I have to give him credit; Lucifer has done a good job of convincing millions of women to worship at his altar of "choice", while blinding them to exactly what was being sacrificed on that altar.... millions of babies that God trusted to their bodies.   And I can't help but think that even a child conceived from rape or incest is a creation of God; the one and only Creator.  Satan cannot create, only God can.
     And so it makes me sad to see that my beloved state of Texas is home to such outrageous and monstrous demonstrations of injustice and immorality.  But I guess if I wanted to extinguish honor, justice and decency in this country, then a good strategy would be to strike at the heart of its existence.  If you can defeat it in Texas, then it makes sense that the rest of the country will follow, right?  I pray that God will give Justin and his family strength and peace to withstand their ordeal.  And I ask God to remove the scales from the eyes of those who willfully destroy His creation.  And please, God ... won't you bless Texas?

Amos 5:24    "But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream."
   

In Defense of Paula Deen

     I know that even my headline will draw the ire of many across this land.  But at least it grabbed your attention, right?  And I'm hoping it will make you want to read more, and find out exactly what I mean.
     Let me start by saying that I am, in no way, supporting the derogatory term Paula Deen used; you know the one ... that depending on what race you are, can either be a sign of brotherhood, or a hateful and abusive term.  Simply stated: no one in the 21st century can claim ignorance over how this word will be perceived; especially if you are a white woman from the South.  BUT, I am amazed that this is the only thing people are focused on!
     Everyone in the media seems to have forgotten the facts of this situation: namely, that she admits to using the word in a court deposition to "describe the man who held her up at gunpoint when she worked as a bank teller in the 1980s."  Does that make it right?  No!  But how many of us could say that we wouldn't perceive someone who held a gun to our head in the most negative light imaginable? I don't care what your race is, where you come from, your gender or what color your eyes are --- we would despise that person and you're going to describe them in the most despicable manner you can; it's a natural release of your emotions.  That is called being human; in all our sinful, shameful ways.

     And how is it different than someone of another race deliberately referring to George Zimmerman in the most insulting way she could think of ... as a "cracker"?  I don't hear America screaming that this is discrimination!  But I have heard murmurings that Paula Deen's sin is greater because it is just another manifestation of "white privilege".  Hogwash!  A sin is a sin is a sin!  If you have wronged another person, either by word or deed, there should be consequences.  Once the error of your ways has been pointed out, you have apologized for the hateful remark, and society has exacted its proper "punishment", you should be forgiven.  Whether you continue to display offensive actions will determine if, and how quickly, you can reclaim your place in a magnanimous society.
     But that is exactly the problem.  We are no longer magnanimous.  We are no longer generous or compassionate towards those who fall from grace.  Paula Deen's pound of flesh has turned into a banquet for the vultures who are just itching to devour every ounce of her soul.  It's not enough that she has been humiliated and portrayed as a bigot and rascist.  It's not enough that her successful business has been destroyed, and her future looks nonexistent.  
     I've heard no mention of her efforts, along with Smithfield Foods, to deliver 25,000 pounds of protein to Hosea Feed The Hungry and Homeless, an Atlanta-area hunger relief organization.  And what about her Bag Lady Foundation, which she started specifically to assist “women and families in need”, in part by “aid[ing] individuals, communities and like-minded organizations to empower those facing a range of challenges resulting from poverty.”  Do you not think that many of those who have benefitted from these poverty programs in the South might be a member of the race she has been judged to have offended?  As far as I'm concerned, her actions speak louder than her words.
     And shame on Smithfield Foods for terminating their partnership; and how cowardly.  They could have stepped up and worked with her to show the nation that she is more than one careless, ignorant remark.  They could have shown another side of Paula Deen and helped a human being redeem herself.  Instead, corporate greed won the day.
     And I'm going to go out on a limb here, but I believe that there is a segment of this country who so hate what she stands for, that they will stop at nothing to vilify her reputation and put her "in her place".  The arrogant, insolent Elites of this country, cannot abide a simple, "countryfied" woman from the South who through hard work, persistence, and a faith in God, is able to build a dynamic and hugely successful business.  She couldn't have possibly "built that herself"!  And because she did, they are gleefully and delightfully tearing it all down.
     What a sad and disgusting society we've become when we will not give someone forgiveness when they ask for it.  Whether you believe in God or not, there is a place and a need for forgiveness.  For me, it comes down to this:  how can I expect God to forgive me for all the wrong things I've done or said, if I cannot forgive another?  And if you need to take God out of the equation, then ask yourself this:  If you cannot find it in your heart to give Paula Deen another chance, are you willing to accept the same ruthless and intolerant treatment the next time you step outside the line?  Think about it, my friend.  It's only a matter of time before you offend someone, and which reaction do you want ... mercy or callous cruelty?

Isaiah 44:22     "I have blotted out your transgressions like a cloud and your sins like mist; return to me, for I have redeemed you."

   

We're Poles Apart

     I'm sorry.... I feel like I am beating a dead horse, but the extent to which the Talking Heads are disconnected from reality is mind-blowing.  I hate to keep picking on Megan Kelly of Fox News, but I have a hard time even identifying with any of the other networks, so I guess she's the lucky one who gets dissected.
     But I could not believe her ridiculous commentary shortly after the Oklahoma tornado tragedy.  And her line of thinking just seems to point towards the fact that anyone in the media lives inside an elite bubble, and is totally incapable of understanding us "average" folks.
     I just had to shake my head when I heard her begin a dialogue about why everyone in Oklahoma did not have a tornado shelter.  She also questioned the School Superintendent as to why the schools in the area did not have underground shelters that would have protected the children.  Her implication seemed to be that 1) why would anyone who knowingly lived in this tornado-prone state not be required to have a storm shelter, and 2) in the case of schools, why hasn't the government provided them, or forced the states to provide them.

     I guess when you an Elitist and money is no object, you can sit from your elevated position and question someone else's perceived negligence.  Once she was informed that depending on the construction and material of the shelters, the cost could run from $2500-$4000, she looked a little sheepish and had to admit they were " a little pricey".  She quickly abandoned that line of questioning.
     As for the issue of the schools providing an underground shelter, there may be some credibility to her inquiry.  When I think of the wasted money spent by school districts because they have to "use it or lose it" when it comes to federal funds, it certainly seems plausible to consider making such a shelter a priority, especially when keeping the weather in mind.
     But I guess I am left with the overwhelming impression that Megan just wants a perfect world and can't quite accept the fact that everything can't be fixed.  Money combined with power and an inflated sense of your worth will do that to you.   I suppose it becomes easy to see every situation as a problem that should be solved, and they just can't quite figure out why it hasn't been taken care of.
     Well, Megan, let me enlighten you.  Most people are struggling these days.  Their bank accounts aren't quite as flush as yours, and with the rising costs of utilities, food, health insurance, and taxes, we are barely making ends meet.  So we do the best we can.  Would everyone in Moore, Oklahoma have preferred to have a storm shelter to escape to?  You bet!  Do you think those teachers would have liked another option besides hunkering down in the hallway or bathroom of the school?  Absolutely!  And I wonder if it even crossed her mind that in these parts of America, neighbors help neighbors.  Maybe everyone cannot afford a storm shelter, so can she conceive that families would have welcomed those less fortunate into their own shelters?  Or does she condone the Progressive position that everyone "deserves" a storm shelter.
     But everyone in Oklahoma lives in the "real world", and that is a world where tornados come out of nowhere, without warning, and with un-forcastable ferocity.  And they've been occurring for hundreds of years, and with consequences just as devastating.  The difference is, that our society is becoming polarized by the "haves" and the "have nots", and our understanding of each other is becoming more disparate.
     Those of us who live in "Tornado Alley" or in the path of Hurricanes know full well that each day is a blessing and that our lives can be changed in a matter of minutes.  We know that there is no amount of money or prestige that can assure one extra moment on this earth.  Like I said, we do the best we can with what we have, and most of us never expect that our lives will be perfect.   I guess that's the biggest difference between you, Megan, and the people of Moore, Oklahoma.  They are simply grateful for what little they've been able to salvage from this tragedy, instead of asking, "Why didn't I get more?"

James 4:6     "But he gives more grace. Therefore it says, “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble."

In Honor Of A Hero

     On Monday, family, friends and fellow heroes honored slain Navy Seal Chris Kyle in Cowboy Stadium in Dallas, Texas.  At his funeral, his life was celebrated and recognized by those who loved him best: his wife and children who shared him with his country, and his brothers-in-arms who shared his life of sacrifice for the rest of us.
     Yesterday, along a 200-mile stretch from Midlothian, Texas (where Kyle resided) to the Texas State Cemetery in Austin, thousands of "the rest of us" paid their respects to a man who gave it all; and gave it from his heart.  It was raining in Texas yesterday, but that didn't prevent Americans from showing up to let Chris Kyle's family know that they acknowledge and appreciate the sacrifice he (and they) have made.

     All along I-35, flags were lining the route as military personnel, first responders and the Patriot Guard escorted the procession.  In case you are unaware of who the Patriot Guard is, they are a diverse group of motorcycle riders from across the nation, who volunteer, out of respect, to attend the funerals of fallen American heroes.  They have two objectives:  1) to show respect for the fallen heroes, their families and communities; and 2) to shield the mourning families from interruptions by protesting groups, such as the Westboro Baptist Church.  Yes, they would try to make their disgusting presence known.  But the Kyle family requested the presence of the Patriot Guard and they responded, coming from all over the country.

     But it was the faces of the men, women and children who lined the route in the cold and the rain that told of America's deep admiration for Chris, and men like him.   It's the only way we know how to say "thank you."  We realize that he is, in so many ways, better than us.  He's willing to stand in the gap for us, to face evil men who wish to kill us, our families, and our way of life.  And in doing so, he is willing to lay down his life for us. Then, when by the grace of God, he is able to lay down his arms and come home to his family, he continues to sacrifice for others.  Once again, he steps into the gap to help fellow soldiers who suffer from the ravages of war that prey on their minds and souls.  He sells his own story of incredible exploits and accomplishments, and devotes all the proceeds to fellow soldiers.  These levels of sacrifice are beyond what is demanded or expected from any of us.  Yet, Chris Kyle did them without fuss or fanfare.  He modeled his Christian faith and put his fellow man first.

     Can you say you would do the same?  I cannot, and I dare say, neither can most of America.  And so they line the highway, expressing their gratitude with a show of our flag; the symbol that Chris Kyle fought for, sacrificed for, and loved so well.  Thank you seems too shallow, and Respect  is not a big enough word for what we want to express.  Perhaps we want to say to Chris, "You will never be forgotten, and your death will not be in vain.  As of this writing, Glenn Beck's Mercury One organization has raised over $600,000 from Americans like me, who have pledged to stand in the gap for you, and take care of your family's needs, as well as continue your efforts to help you help soldiers with PTSD.  It's the least we can do."
     After the procession passes, the flags will be stored, and people will return to their lives.  But Chris Kyle will live on in the hearts of those who stood in the driving rain yesterday.  His story will burn in the memory of every child present, and they will know what it means to stand for something and offer their talents and their love of freedom on behalf of others.  Chris Kyle loved his family, his home state of Texas, and America with the full force of his personality.  God has welcomed Chris home, and I pray that his sacrifices will result in unparalleled honor for this man and his God.
   
Psalm 112:8-10      "Their hearts are secure, they will have no fear; in the end they will look in triumph on their foes. They have freely scattered their gifts to the poor, their righteousness endures forever; their horn will be lifted high in honor."

Sudden Outbreak of Shingles?

     OK, it's Saturday morning, and maybe my mind has wandered a bit outside my normal range of topics.  But I can no longer ignore what I'm about to talk to you about.  There will be some who will see me as donning my conspiracy theory hat, but I ask you to hear me out.
     About three weeks ago, PLW began complaining of a persistent earache, and then a burning sensation on his neck.  Within a day or two blistery-type lesions appeared on the back of his neck.  Within another two days or so, he had a full-blown case of the shingles .... "the worst" the doctor had ever seen.  We had a couple of scary days, as the lesions progressed to his face, and we worried about his eyes--- shingles can cause blindness.  Now, you need to understand that shingles are usually a by-product of stress, although a trauma or injury to the body can also be the culprit.  But since, if you know PLW, he rarely gives into stress, we credited a weekend project that involved him lifting sixty 80-pound bags of concrete as the source of the outbreak.

     I have to tell you, that I have never seen him so sick or in so much pain.  He also ran a 102-degree fever, which the doctor could not explain.  A late administration of an anti-viral drug stopped any further outbreak, and a neuro-gel prescribed by another doctor helped deaden the nerve endings and bring him some relief.  I  have never him in so much pain.  He said it felt like the stings of a hundred scorpions and he could now understand why those inflicted in the Book of Revelation by the stinging locusts would want to take their own lives.   I would have chalked it up to just an unusual event in our lives except for what happened in the coming days.
     First of all, the rare cases of shingles that have come into my sphere of family and friends, have always been among what our culture would term "the older population."  In fact, shingles usually happens to people over 60 and closer to 70 years of age.  Yet PLW is 10-20 years younger than those age groups.  Then the fact that two weeks later, his sister is diagnosed with shingles.  And just this week another friend of ours has come down with a severe strain of shingles that causes a palsy in the facial muscles.  His concern is that sometimes that muscle tone does not return.  The curious thing is that all these people are far younger than the average age of shingles patients.
     As you can imagine, I started wondering about this "coincidence."  And I began to hear about more and more cases of people popping up with the shingles.  Even ten years ago, you only heard of the occasional case of shingles, and then usually among the elderly.  Now, I was hearing about multiple cases, and all of them in the recent past.
     Then just yesterday morning, a very good friend forwarded me an email with a most interesting link.  it was of a Youtube video that talked about the rising number of shingles cases and questioning whether it could be in conjunction with the increasing number of sighted chemtrails.  The doctor in the video, Dr. Edward Group, is a natural healing proponent and comes with a pretty good case of credentials.

alleged "chemtrails"

     And just in case, you're not familiar with what chemtrails are, Wikipedia defines the term "chemtrails" as coming from the words "chemical trails" in the same fashion that the term "contrail" comes from the words "condensation trail." It is a term coined to suggest that airplane contrails are formed by something other than a natural process of engine exhaust hitting the cold air in the atmosphere.  Long labeled a "conspiracy theory" by so-called "scientists", there are those who sincerely believe that the criss-crossing of condensation trails in the sky are actual aerial sprayings containing chemicals such as barium and aluminum salts, polymer fibers, thorium, or silicon carbide.
     Whether you believe this as fact or call it a hoax, you cannot deny the countless reports from concerned citizens who have witnessed these strange, wispy cloud formations in the sky.  Just Google "chemtrail" and see that this subject is not treated lightly.  Read the myriad of articles and look at the images, then decide for yourself.  The fact that reports come from all over the globe, and that "official" responses to the allegations have been somewhat vague, only serve to lend more credibility to the witnesses of actual events.  For instance, in Britain, when the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs was asked "what research her Department has undertaken into the polluting effects of chemtrails from aircraft", the response was that "the Department is not researching into chemtrails from aircraft as they are not scientifically recognised phenomena...".  Not that they don't exist; they just don't recognize them and therefore aren't studying them.

accepted contrails

     And in a response to a petition by concerned Canadian citizens that "chemicals used in aerial sprayings are adversely affecting the health of Canadians," the Government House Leader responded by stating, "There is no substantiated evidence, scientific or otherwise, to support the allegation that there is high altitude spraying conducted in Canadian airspace. The term 'chemtrails' is a popularized expression, and there is no scientific evidence to support their existence."
     Hmmm, "no substantiated evidence" and "no scientific evidence" are terms I would be willing to apply to Global warming, as well.  So, excuse me, if these denunciations aren't exactly convincing.  And we've seen how the "scientific evidence" for Global Warming has been increasingly challenged.
     Then in 2001, United States Congressman Dennis Kucinich introduced legislation that would have permanently prohibited the basing of weapons in space, and he listed chemtrails as one of a number of exotic weapons that would be banned.  So why enter them into the Congressional record if they don't exist?
     I will assert that I am highly unqualified to prove the validity of chemtrails, but I will tell you that I have seen them.  These supposed "condensation trails" have appeared in the sky, been highly visible and lasted far longer than the trails from commercial airliners.  I cannot say that they are the definitive cause of the recent and unprecedented outbreak of shingles among a population that is normally not susceptible to them.  But I will tell you that I witnessed such "trails across the sky" a few weeks before PLW became so frighteningly ill.  Coincidence?  Perhaps.  But if I continue to hear of more cases among younger members of our community, then I just might have to start wearing a tin-foil hat.

Psalm 41:3     "The Lord sustains them on their sickbed and restores them from their bed of illness."

Are We Building The Tower of Babel Again?

     At first glance, the headlines seem outlandish; even imaginary or phony:  Harvard Professor Seeks Mother for Cloned Cave Baby .... Human Intelligence Will Be Overtaken By Technological Evolution.  You might think you were reading something out of the latest sci-fi Magazine of the Month.  Why would we want to even pay attention to these bizarre notions?
     Follow along with my thought process and see if it doesn't make some modicum of sense.  As you know, the Bible is my source for Truth.  I'm one of those who believes that it still has relevance in today's world; in fact, if you dig deep enough you will find parallels to many of our modern situations.

     First, let's look at what the crazy headlines above are really telling us.  According to The Daily Mail, Professor George Church of Harvard Medical School believes he can reconstruct Neanderthal DNA and resurrect the species which became extinct 33,000 years ago.  The obvious comparisons to Jurassic Park notwithstanding, this is really creepy because in order to complete his experiment, Professor Church needs to artificially create Neanderthal DNA based on genetic code found in fossil remains. He would then put this DNA into stem cells.   And here's the creepy part .... these would be injected into cells from a human embryo in the early stages of life, which would steer the development of the hybrid embryo along Neanderthal lines, rather than human ones.  The ‘neo-Neanderthal’ embryo would then need to be implanted in the womb of a surrogate mother.   Does anyone else think that this is messing with God's creation?
     Next, let's take a look at the Human Intelligence vs. Technological Advancements scenario.  Inventor and Futurist Ray Kurzweil has come up with a theory he calls "The Singularity".  What this means is that he predicts -- in the very near future -- that there will be a profound and disruptive transformation in human capability.  Translated into language we can all understand, he predicts that we are very close to creating a nonbiological (read "artificial") intelligence that will be one billion times more powerful than all human intelligence today.  Mr. Kurzweil was recently interviewed for a Time Magazine article, and the writer, Lew Grossman, summed up the Futurist's theory in this manner:  Once hyper-intelligent artificial intelligences arise, armed with advanced nanotechnology, they’ll really be able to wrestle with the vastly complex, systemic problems associated with aging in humans. Alternatively, by then we’ll be able to transfer our minds to sturdier vessels such as computers and robots. He and many other Singularitarians take seriously the proposition that many people who are alive today will wind up being functionally immortal.

     You read that correctly!  Technology is advancing so rapidly, that one day, robots will not only interpret our thoughts for us, but become part of us, thereby securing our immortality!  In addition, Kurzweil feels confident in his theory to make the following predictions:  (See this article on The Blaze for in-depth reporting on Singularity).

•  Our brains will extend to the cloud, which will allow us to learn new things at any age.
•  We will be able to selectively erase pieces of our memory.
•  We’ll be in augmented reality at all times.
•  By 2029, machines will be able to match the intelligence of humans, and they’ll be able to make us laugh and cry.
•  Around the 2030s, tiny “nanobots” able to repair and preserve our organs will keep us healthier and smarter.
•  3D printing will be even more common than it is today, with public 3D printing stations for people to print out clothes, toys, and anything else.
•  Within 25 years, computers will be the size of a blood cell and we’ll be able to connect it to the brain without the need for surgery.
•  Society will reach a state of “technological singularity” in 2045 where technology enables superhuman machine intelligences to emerge and people and machines become deeply integrated.
     I could write volumes on all that just these two headlines portend.  But I want you to consider that in one way, these events are not new.  We've been here before in the history of man.  Let me point you to Genesis 10:8-9:  Cush was the father of Nimrod, who became a mighty warrior on the earth.  He was a mighty hunter before the Lord; that is why it is said, “Like Nimrod, a mighty hunter before the Lord.”

     If you are familiar with the story of Nimrod, you know that he is largely held responsible for being the instigator behind the Tower of Babel.   Now you might think that Nimrod is a good guy, based on these couple of verses.  But every commentary I have ever read states that the Greek to English translation of this Scripture is weak.  You have to go to the Jerusalem Targum (a Hebrew translation into the Aramaic language, which was used in Christ’s day), to grasp the full appreciation of these verses.  The Targum states, “He [Nimrod] was powerful in hunting and wickedness before the LORD, for he was a hunter of the sons of men, and he said unto them, ‘Depart from the judgment of the Lord, and adhere to the judgment of Nimrod!’ therefore it is said: ‘As Nimrod [is] the strong one, strong in hunting, and in wickedness before the Lord.’”
     The word “before” in verse 9 actually should be translated “in defiance of.” Even his name—Nimrod—means “one who rebels” or “let us rebel.” Nimrod was a Rebel!  He also was a hunter, “a mighty one in the earth,” a hero of the people. With his skills of hunting and war, he protected the people against wild animals, thus causing people to turn to him for protection instead of God.
     And we all know the rest of the story.  The ancient historian Josephus says this about Nimrod:  Now it was Nimrod who excited them to such an affront and contempt of God.... He persuaded them not to ascribe anything to God, as if it were through His means they were happy, but to believe that it was their own courage which procured that happiness.... He also said he would be revenged on God, if he should have a mind to drown the world again; for that he would build a tower too high for the waters to be able to reach! 
     And what did God do?  Genesis 11:6-8 tell us,  The Lord said, “If as one people speaking the same language they have begun to do this, then nothing they plan to do will be impossible for them.  Come, let us go down and confuse their language so they will not understand each other.” So the Lord scattered them from there over all the earth, and they stopped building the city.  
     It seems to me that when man begins to think that he is bigger than God, or smarter than God, then he begins to think he can BE God.  God knew that Nimrod planned to replace Him among the people on the earth, so He confounded their plans and the Tower of Babel was destroyed.  Do you see the similarities with our modern-day hypotheses?   Monkeying with DNA .... messing with the human mind and trying to create immortal beings?  It looks to me like the created are trying to replace the Creator!   Furthermore, it appears as though we are getting dangerously close to assuming the arrogance of Nimrod; and we saw how that turned out for him, don't we?
     The arrogance of it all!  It astounds me that man, who was created in the image of God, would have the audacity to think they could improve on His work.  What God has created is sovereign and supreme!  But if these men knew who God was, they would not dare to challenge Him!  I shudder to think how He will destroy this rebellion against His authority.

Romans 1:20-21      " For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.  For although they knew God, they neither glorified him as God nor gave thanks to him, but their thinking became futile and their foolish hearts were darkened."
     
   

How Does Al Gore Sleep At Night?

     Al Jazeera America?  Really?  Why would anyone think that this controversial broadcasting company has anything legitimate to offer American audiences?  Praised by its supporters as editorially independent, Al Jazeera is believed by its detractors to be funded and manipulated by the government of Qatar, and to be an instigator of international unrest.

     But according to Al Gore and his partner, Joel Hyatt, they sold their Current TV network to Al Jazeera because it “was founded with the same goals we had for Current.” Among those goals were “to give voice to those whose voices are not typically heard” and “to speak truth to power.”  I guess it doesn't matter to them that those "voices" have been some of the world's foremost jihad terrorists.  And I guess it didn't bother Gore and Hyatt that Al Jazeera is known for such anti-American videos as those featuring the late Osama bin Laden, Zawahiri, and American traitor Adam Gadahn.  And I guess they didn't take into account the opinion of Judea Pearl, father of the journalist Daniel Pearl who was murdered by jihadists in Pakistan.  Mr. Pearl has dubbed Al Jazeera “the most powerful voice of the Muslim Brotherhood."
     And when one talks about "speaking truth to power", my first thought is whose truth?  As we have seen with our own MSM, "truth" is very often in the control of the broadcaster.  Beliefs and ideologies are presented as Facts; and those Facts can be misconstrued and exploited to further an agenda.  As a case in point, the Columbia Journalism Review has asserted that Al Jazeera has considerable clout as an opinion-maker:  The channel's tremendous popularity has also, for better or worse, made it a shaper of public opinion. Its coverage often determines what becomes a story and what does not, as well as how Arab viewers think about issues. Whether in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Jordan, or Syria, the stories highlighted and the criticisms aired by guests on Al Jazeera's news programs have often significantly affected the course of events in the region.

     In Palestine, the station's influence is particularly strong. Recent polling indicates that in the West Bank and Gaza, Al Jazeera is the primary news source for an astounding 53.4 percent of Palestinian viewers. The second and third most watched channels, Palestine TV and Al Arabiya, poll a distant 12.8 percent and 10 percent, respectively. The result of Al Jazeera's market dominance is that it has itself become a mover and shaker in Palestinian politics, helping to craft public perceptions and influence the debate. This has obvious implications for the peace process: how Al Jazeera covers the deliberations and the outcome of any negotiated agreement with Israel will fundamentally shape how it is viewed—and, more importantly, whether it is accepted—by the Palestinian public.
     Because of this market dominance, the network was widely seen as having a tremendous influence on the Arab Spring.  But the Middle East is not the only region in which Al Jazeera seeks influence.  It has greatly increased its visibility through its internet-based broadcasting division and is also seeking to launch news channels in Turkey, Spain, Latin America, China and Russia --- all in the native languages of these countries.
    The Lefties in this country hail the arrival of Al Jazeera in America.  In their view, the network is responsible for reporting widely dissenting news that put the lie to the sycophantic broadcasts of the state-owned radio and television monopolies in the Middle East.  According to one writer for The Daily Beast, he thought " that the first Arab network to spread democratic principles and free speech would be accepted with open arms in the U.S."
     What The Daily Beast and Al Gore have missed (or perhaps they actually embrace) is the hatred for America and traditional American values that Al Jazeera seems to overwhelmingly promote through its broadcasting content.  Do they not take notice that America is consistently seen as the Imperialist Enemy and our ally, Israel, as worthy of extermination?  I shudder to think of the influence this network might have upon the millions of "useful idiots" that think Jon Stewart is the paragon of news sources!
     It further disturbs me that Time Warner Cable is leaving the door open to the possibility of carrying Al Jazeera America.  Is anyone willing to challenge this playbook from the Devil?  Obviously, Al Gore is willing to sell America's airwaves to a network that consistently presents a favorable view of jihad terrorists who are sworn enemies of the United States.  And he has the nerve to call them "ideologically in line" with his own views.  I will repeat my initial reaction to this whole incident .... How does Al Gore sleep at night?
     Then again, I guess a reported $100 million payout and a seat on the Board of Directors is enough to assuage any guilt that Mr. Gore might feel.  One day he will have to answer for this immoral and dishonorable decision.

Psalm 10:7       "His mouth is full of curses and deceit and oppression; Under his tongue is mischief and wickedness."
   

I'm Ready To Secede .... From the Culture

     As the Conservatives and Libertarians lick their wounds from this last election, there is the inevitable talk of secession.  Many proponents of this idea think it is a simple matter of a state declaring its intent to secede, and if they can get enough votes from the constituents, it's a done deal.  But I would remind them that the last time a state and section of the country attempted to remove itself from the Union, it resulted in four long, bloody years of national upheaval and war.  We do not want to go down that road again.

     However, there is a way to withdraw or separate ourselves within our national structure.  And if adopted by the majority who think likewise, it could actually benefit the nation.  Let me explain.  For awhile now, PLW and I have made an exerted effort to avoid all the traps and negative aspects of our society that we dislike or disapprove of.  For instance:  We don't watch TV shows or go to movies that offend our sense of morals and faith, or watch one-sided documentaries that present a slanted version of history.  We don't read books like 50 Shades of Grey just because they're the latest rage.  We don't tweet or facebook our every insignificant thought, and we don't line up for the latest version of iphone, ipad, or whatever the latest "must-have" technological advance might be.  By now, you should be getting the picture.   We have never been, nor will we ever be, a robot that mindlessly follows the dictates of the culture.  If that makes us old-fashioned, or out of step, so be it.  At least we maintain as much of an independent style of life as possible.
     And maybe that is the direction that we faith-based/conservatives/libertarians need to consider.  Let me expound on this idea .... it's pretty much a given that the Leftist Progressives are winning the culture war.  As I wrote yesterday, they have succeeded in revising, if not completely rewriting our history, so that our kids no longer know what it means to be an American.  They have completely captured the youth through social media and entertainment.  We've lost that battle.  But is there a way to regain ground?  I think so.

     I read an interesting article the other day, and it got me to thinking.  It pointed out that both the Amish and Orthodox Jewish communities have been successful in maintaining their identities, their histories and their cultures.   Perhaps those of us with "traditional" values should stop trying to mimic the tactics of the Progressives, and take some tips from these two groups.  They have been largely successful at insulating their youth from the negative aspects of a culture that increasingly disparages the family unit.  How have they done it?
     They have created their own alternative education and entertainment, and they have grouped themselves into communities that act as a support structure for their traditional values. I'm not suggesting that we all form a commune and "live off the land", but we can form alliances with people who share our values and desires for our families.  You see it in home-schooling cooperatives, where families share education duties and offer alternative entertainment venues for their children.  Who says your kids can't enjoy their childhoods without ever having seen a "Twilight" movie?
     We must realize that the Progressive, and oftentimes, Godless movement is well aware that they move their agenda forward through the influence they have on our children through the educational system and the entertainment industry.  If they can pollute your childrens' minds through the schools, and through movies and music, then they control the future.  Remember, the elitist Left aren't really repopulating the world at an astounding rate .... so it's your kids they need to gain control of.  (And of course, that's one reason why they court the immigration issue -- lots of future voters there).

     Daniel Greenfield, who I think is one of the most impressive writers of today, said it best:  "The progressive agenda is to destroy the family, to undermine it, ridicule it, economically disadvantage it and burden it until it falls apart and is replaced by the Big Brother of the State. The "traditional" agenda is to maintain the family and pass along traditional values across the generations. That is what this cultural war is really about; whether the family or the state will be the defining unit of human experience .... Progressives want every child to grow up to be a slave of the state, thinking the same empty thoughts, laughing at the same things and trotting tamely along to the slaughterhouse. What they fear most is a future where the majority of children do not worship the state, do not accept their premises or parrot their propaganda."
     It is up to us to promote this idea of cultural secession.  We don't need to leave the Union; we need to build communities that preserve our values, teach our children our traditions and history, and protect them from the indoctrination of the State.  Their future as independent thinkers and self-sufficient citizens depends on it.

Proverbs 22:5-6    "In the paths of the wicked are snares and pitfalls, but those who would preserve their life stay far from them. Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it."
   
   

   

   
 
   
   
   
   
   

Those Are Fightin' Words!

     I'm not sure I can contain myself in this post.  I don't even like mentioning this man's name; he is such a disgusting and loathsome human being.  I usually just dismiss him for the mentally deficient excuse of a man that he is, but the hateful Bill Maher has stepped over the line this time!  In case you haven't heard, he somehow felt it was important to denigrate and malign an American icon this past weekend .... Andy Williams.

     Here's what he had to say on his Twitter feed (and I will correctly spell out his twitter shorthand -- he can use all the help he can get to look halfway intelligent): ..... Andy Williams Christmas songs: I wish I could forget I found out near the end of his life he was a teabag idiot. But I can't, so put on Dean Martin.

     OK, I know that he thinks all of us who identify in the least with Tea Party sentiments are worthless peabrains.  That's alright --- I don't give a damn what he thinks about me.  But to vilify one of the most-beloved American icons .... (who just happens to spawn emotional and sentimental feelings during the Christmas season) .... is too much for me.  I can't remain silent.

     Does he hate Mr. Williams because he represents the old-fashioned conservative image of America?  Or is the venom coming from the fact that our beloved Andy is so closely tied to Christmas, which the atheist Maher despises?  Whatever the reason, I won't let his slam go unanswered.

     If you're like me, you remember those Christmas holidays, when the entire family gathered in front of the TV for the Andy Williams Christmas special.  It was an event in our household!  All us kids quit pestering each other for a full hour, while my parents looked forward to ending their hectic day on a joyful note.  This was no second-rate TV show!  The sets and stage scenes were elaborate, and all the old favorite Christmas songs would be sung.   You looked forward to the ever-present Osmond Brothers, and my mother's favorite, the Lennon Sisters from the Lawrence Welk show.  

     Andy's own brothers would join him for a song or two, and his beautiful wife and children were always a part of the show, along with his parents.  You really felt like you were witnessing a happy family celebration.  And that voice!  His rendition of "O, Holy Night" brings tears to me eyes.  And "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year" just signifies Christmas to millions of people!  I remember that was one of the first albums my Dad bought when he purchased a new console stereo unit.  We must have played that Christmas album several hundred times.  It finally wore out!

     And from what I've heard, when the TV executives no longer found Andy "relevant", he took his show to Branson and continued to entertain millions of Americans who still valued his brand of quality entertainment.  

     So I know that loving Andy Williams may sound corny.  But hearing his smooth, mellow voice and those incredible notes can instantly return me to a time when America felt connected, and the love of Christmas was shared by all.  I'm sorry that Bill Maher can't appreciate that.  I can't imagine how miserable his soul must be.  As for me, I'll continue to celebrate Andy Williams and what he represents:  a time when Christmas was about family and not commercialism; a time when, as a nation, we valued what this holy holiday meant; and a time when a simple, understated, and uncomplicated man could be admired for a God-given talent that brought such joy to millions.  Rest in peace, Mr. Williams.  While you entertain the angels in Heaven, you will sing on in my heart and memories.

Psalm 104:33    "I will sing to the LORD all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live."

     

A Foretaste Of ObamaCare

     Today, I'm going to blow off a little steam!  For a week-and-a-half, I have been trying to refill a prescription at my local Wal-Mart.  Suffice it to say that I got a little preview of what it might be like when government bureaucracy invades our healthcare system.

     All the pharmacy had to do was fax a request to my doctor for approval to continue a thyroid medication that I've taken for years; no changes or new information.  After waiting a couple of days, I called and Wal-Mart tells me that they haven't heard back from my doctor.  I call my doctor's office, and they tell me they have never received the fax.  I call Wal-Mart back and ask them to re-fax.  Two more days go by, I call the pharmacist again.  They still haven't heard back from the doctor.  I call the doctor's office again, and am told that they faxed it back.  By now, you're getting the picture.
     My blood pressure is rising and I'm getting increasingly frustrated at the incompetence.  I finally talk to a pharmacy technician who expresses some compassion and offers to call the doctor's office.  Finally, someone who cares!  The next day I get a recorded message from Wal-Mart that my prescription is ready to pick up.  I wait in a long line (by now it is the day before Thanksgiving and you can imagine that everyone is trying to get their prescriptions filled) and when it is finally my turn, I am told the prescription is not ready..... you guessed it!  They are waiting on the doctor.
     The young girl behind the counter quickly passes me off to someone at the Counseling window, who proceeds to give me an extensive list of excuses why it is not their fault and it is the doctor's problem.  I finally convince her I will call the doctor's office myself, right then and there, and she can talk to them in person.  She adopts a haughty attitude and calls them herself on the speaker phone and I'm privy to the entire conversation, in which the doctor's office (clearly frustrated themselves) tells her they did fax it.  The haughty Wal-Mart employee asks what fax number it was sent to, and lo and behold, it is Wal-Mart's actual fax number.
     When I asked why no one followed up with a phone call to the doctor's office, when they were aware that there had been multiple conversations back and forth, she answered, "We don't do that until the customer .....".  And then she pauses.  "Let me guess," I say.  "Until the customer complains, right?"  She just looks at me and replies, "We can't help it that your doctor didn't respond."  What!!!! Did she hear the same conversation I did?  The doctor's office clearly said they DID fax it back, and to the correct number!
     She finally agrees to fill the prescription, but I would have to wait 20 minutes.  Having another appointment, I told her I would have to come back.  When I returned an hour later, I was told they only had 3 tablets of a 30-day prescription.  Now another fact you need to understand is that I live 30 minutes away from this Wal-Mart, so now I would have to make another trip!

      I left in exasperation and decided to stop in at a small pharmacy that was locally-owned.  I explained my predicament, and was told that they would be happy to call my doctor's office, switch the prescriptions to their location, and that they would be happy to have my business.  As I left this small business, one of the employees called out, "Have a Blessed Thanksgiving!"  Now that's what I call customer service!
     I tell you my little sob story because I want you to see the difference between dealing with a Corporate Giant and an individually-owned company.  The small pharmacy valued my business and went out of their way to solve my problem.  They took the extra steps of dealing with my doctor's office, and were courteous and respectful.  Now, I understand that Wal-Mart doesn't care about losing my business; I am insignificant to them.  But just imagine what it will be like when we get the Federal Government involved in regulating and supplying our health care.  The indifference and apathy exhibited by that Wal-Mart employee will pale in comparison to how a bureaucratic employee will treat you.  Get ready, folks!
     I would suggest that you frequent local companies and small businesses whenever possible.  They may soon be our last symbol of capitalism and private venture.  And believe me, they will appreciate your support and treat you like a real person, not a name in the computer.

Psalm 71:23-24      "My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I whom you have delivered.  My tongue will tell of your righteous acts all day long for those who wanted to harm me have been put to shame and confusion."

The Truth Will Set Us Free

     Last week I spoke to you of "steeling ourselves for what's ahead" and "rebuilding and restoring our liberties", along with "getting in sync with God" ---- all principles that I continue to encourage and advocate.  Make no mistake --- I am not content to accept this new reality in which I find myself.
     But over the weekend I felt myself changing positions, so to speak; actually being moved in thought and spirit to a new vantage point from which to view our difficult plight.  Maybe it was the fact that, on Saturday night, I finished leading a year-and-a-half group study on the Book of Revelation, and saw "the Big Picture" in a clearer light.  This was followed by the Sunday morning declaration of my Sunday School teacher that "America is done!"  Perhaps it was because I realized that he spoke not of a mere political or social or economic condition, but of a Spiritual decline.

     Then it dawned on me ..... nearly a year ago, I was prompted to begin this blog. The catchy little title of "Salvation and Survival" appealed to me because I wanted to wake my countrymen and women up to the necessity of physically preparing for hard times; but I also wanted to include a not-so-subtle word from God to reach those who needed to hear from Him.  I now understand it really is about our salvation and our ability to survive what the world will bring against us.
     Don't worry!  I am not going to quit commenting on what I see happening to this country that I love so much, or offering solutions to bolster your preparedness.   We have to live here and our situation cannot be ignored.  But it is so much more apparent to me that there is no political solution to what ails us.  We cannot be healed by a different leader from the other political party; or even a third party! There is no difference between them!  It matters not whether a Democrat or Republican is in office.  Indeed, it was a Republican-appointed Supreme Court (under President Eisenhower) that first took God out of the classroom in 1962.  It was a Republican-appointed Supreme Court (under Richard Nixon) who gave us Roe vs. Wade and the permission to legally kill our unborn children.  And it was a Republican-appointed nominee (Sandra Day O'Connor under our beloved conservative Ronald Reagan) who cast the deciding vote, allowing the Ten Commandments to be removed from the Courthouse.  So much for putting our faith in a political party or movement!  And that's the problem!
     What we need to come to terms with is this .... Our beloved land is sick in its soul and there is only one cure for that.  It is not worshipping a political savior!  But sadly, we have fallen short on fulfilling that potential, too.  You see, not only do we not find salvation or deliverance through our political institutions or system, but our faith and the Church have been compromised, too.  I'm sure I will be soundly condemned of blasphemy and heresy, but it just became so transparent to me in the last couple of days.
     Think about it!  The Church, in its unfounded fear of losing its 501(c)3 status has strayed from teaching Biblical Truth and become comfortable in teaching a gospel of prosperity and grace.  After all, any mention of Judgment and the pews are empty and the coffers are bare.  So the pure doctrine of the Bible is watered down and compromised, while acceptance of gay marriage and abortion are tolerated and promoted in the hopes that they will garner votes.
     I am going to go out on a limb here.  I believe that many Christian voters held their nose and voted for Mitt Romney, despite their reservations about his Mormonism and the conflict they felt with their Christianity.  Even Billy Graham's website wiped clean any mention of Mormonism as a cult, as the Evangelical voting bloc sought all possible ways to both avoid offending anyone, and eliminating any Biblical objection to voting for their candidate.  Biblical Truth was compromised for votes.
     COMPROMISE is the acceptance of lower standards.  And I venture the opinion that as Christians and Americans, we have compromised our very souls.  The Church is losing its influence as more people claim they have no room for religion in their lives; while the number of those who find their faith challenged is also climbing.  When the Truth is diluted and the power of the Gospel's message is weakened, it leaves people feeling empty and misguided.  Believers begin questioning the value of faith in their lives.  That is what has happened in this country.  The Truth has been lost and Compromise is killing our faith!
     If America is to find her way back to her purpose, we as a nation and a Church, must return to the Truth.  All compromise and deception must be removed.  I recently read a devotional on a prayer website that stated, "We are not insignificant pawns, subject to the whims of politicians, but powerful servants to the will of our God."  Did you get that?  I am a citizen of the Kingdom of God FIRST, and that is where my allegiance should lie.  So I ask you .... Are you ready to become powerful?  Not in the sense of the world, but through the Spirit of God?  And are you willing to stand for God's Truth instead of a "Gospel Lite"?  I believe our Salvation and our Survival depend on it!
     I have heard it said, who you are does not depend on your circumstances.  It is your circumstances that reveal who you really are.  And I think we can all agree that our circumstances are pretty dire.  But I no longer want to be identified by my political party or my social leanings.  I am a child of God, seeking to serve Him and fulfill His purpose for my life.  I know I am here, at this time, for a specific purpose.   My hope is that I will hear His call on my life, see the Truth in the world around me, and share it with you.  I now know there is no political Salvation, and my Survival depends on a different kind of election .... my election to an eternal relationship with the True Savior of the world.  That's what I wish for you.

Isaiah 65:1-3     "I revealed myself to those who did not ask for me; I was found by those who did not seek me.  To a nation that did not call on my name, I said, ‘Here am I, here am I.’  All day long I have held out my hands to an obstinate people, who walk in ways not good, pursuing their own imaginations— a people who continually provoke me to my very face ..."
   

What's In A Name?

     By now I'm sure you have all heard the news story about the three-year-old in Grand Island, Nebraska who was accused of violating Grand Island's "Weapons in Schools" Board Policy 8470, which forbids "any instrument...that looks like a weapon."  This is a clear cut case of some overzealous school official who doesn't have the sense God gave them.  Let me give you the facts:  little Hunter Spanjer is deaf.  So when he signs his name .... well, you guessed it .... some academic wonk was offended.  And in case you didn't know, a wonk is described as "a person who takes an excessive interest in the minor details of a political policy."

     And don't be mistaken, this school official's reaction was definitely political.  And overboard!  You can image what his name sign would look like, and the school even went so far as to suggest that Hunter would have to change how he signed his name, because his fingers are now considered an "instrument that looks like a weapon."  

     Of course it is obvious to any sane person that Hunter's identity is distinctive and individual, just as his name gesture is uniquely his own.  How anyone on that School Board could view a little boy signing his name as threatening or menacing, is beyond me; let alone suggest that he has to change the way he signs his name.  This is just one more case of Political Correctness out of control.

     As public indignation rose over this story, the School Board has insisted that they never asked the child to change his name and the story is blown out of proportion.  Yet the Marketing and Communications Coordinator is quoted as saying the name gesture was "not an appropriate thing to do in school."  It seems as if school officials don't want the negative publicity that has accompanied this story and resulted in thousands of emails and calls in support of Hunter and his parents.  Yet they still want to go on record as discrediting how this child signs his name; all for the sake of a political issue.

      Hunter should be allowed to sign his name, and be given the dignity and approval he is due.  This is no more of an issue of "school safety" or a "weapon in school" than a child named Angel would be signing religious doctrine on the playground.  But then my example is not too far-fetched, is it?  We have become a culture that is too easily offended over what makes us unique, distinctive and remarkable -- what makes each of us an individual and a special, one-of-a-kind child of God.

     All of our silly policies and rules are stripping away our "differentness" in an attempt to make us uniform and indistinguishable; an effort to make us all equal in our "unremarkableness".  Take God out of the schools and children won't hear that we each have a special purpose; are special in the eyes of our Lord, who has great expectations for each one of us.  Take God out of our town squares, and you see a society that no longer values or respects their neighbor; it's each man for himself and true compassion and kindness are replaced with discrimination and prejudice.  Take God out of our institutions of government and you get repression, tyranny and injustice.  

     You might think I am taking my opinion to the extreme, but can you see how we've let this get out of hand?  Can you imagine the issue of little Hunter's name gesture even being considered 30 or 40 years ago?  Little boys have pointed their fingers and made the sound of guns since the most primitive form of a gun was invented in 12th century China.  So can we get a grip?  Hunter's name has great significance and character; it represents one of man's earliest duties and responsibilities.  Shame on those school administrators for even thinking that he should change how he signifies his name to suit their biases.  A name is the blueprint of who we become, and little Hunter deserves to become all he was designed to be.

1 Samuel 12:22      "For the sake of his great name the LORD will not reject his people, because the LORD was pleased to make you his own."

     

       

Saturday Morning Commentary: Politics in Review

     By now, you know that I try to steer clear of political commentary and opinion.  I, like many Americans, are well aware that politics is a game;  I don't have much faith in those who go to Washington D.C. in the name of the folks back home, then quickly forget us as they make shady deals in the back rooms of dark, smoky sanctuaries.
     I'm not naive.  I know that power has always corrupted mankind, and even at the beginning of our great nation, things weren't completely honorable.  Even then, politicians struggled to establish a powerful and autocratic central government; and men were easily bought and paid for.  Politics has not changed; but we as a people changed.
     The values that pervaded the first half of our history began to erode in the last 100 years.  Hard work, faith in God and a desire to make it on our own were the hallmarks of our ancestors.  In recent years, we've become characterized as a nation that is lazy, looking for a handout, and thinks God is just a fairy tale.  Our leaders .... in both parties .... have taken us down a road towards unimaginable and insurmountable debt, while they live their elitist lives and go unscathed from the economic fallout.

     So, it was in hesitant apprehension that I tuned in to the Republican National Convention on the last night.  As a citizen of this great country, it is my responsibility to vote wisely and to be knowledgeable about what the candidates stand for.  I am very tired of the negative tone of career politicians and their campaigns.  At the same time, I am encouraged by a new group of seemingly patriotic candidates, who profess to put our country ahead of their personal gain.
     I have to admit that I only watched the Convention on a sporadic basis.  I heard Paul Ryan's speech, Marco Rubio's, and the Republican Presidential nominee Mitt Romney.  You may, or may not agree, but my impression was decidedly different than I had anticipated.  I heard a more "down to earth" and real expression of what America means than I have heard in a long time.
     Sure, there were the promises that all candidates make ... they can do a better job than the guy currently in office.  But I heard something more.  I heard old-fashioned American values expressed.  I heard how exceptional America is.  And I heard how this Presidential candidate wants to give us back our foundation and prosperity.  There seemed to be a recognition, at least, that this Party's candidates know what we prize:  the opportunity to provide for our families through a secure job; raising children in a loving, stable family; giving the next generation a chance to accomplish their dreams; and preserving our proud heritage and birthright.  Granted, these are not flashy, pie-in-the-sky promises, but they are at the heart of what Americans value.
     What I appreciated, from what I saw, was the lack of overt attacks on the opposition.  This Convention and its speakers concentrated on what was good about America and how they personally had benefitted from the opportunities America offers.  You heard positive stories; stories of the rewards of perseverance and hard work; stories of true hope for what America still can accomplish.  It was a nice change of pace.
     I know that I am an unapologetic sentimentalist.  I love our history and I still hold on to the image of a revived and resurrected America.  I may be old-fashioned, but I want my leaders to tear up when they talk about how much their parents' hard work and sacrifice is appreciated.  I want my leaders to get emotional when they talk about how much they miss the years when their children crawled into bed with them.  And I want my leaders to tell me that they still believe America is the best country in the history of the world.
     The speech I heard on the last night of the Republican Convention was not flamboyant or highbrow.  It was simple and understated, by political standards.  But it was more authentic than any I've heard in a long time.  I'm not gullible enough to think that these men and women are "just like me"; but I do have a sense that there was a change in the "political air".  That maybe, just maybe, they are listening this time.  That they might really try to give us what we want.  We'll see.  Ultimately, I know that God is in control, and He can use anyone to move forward His agenda.  Dear God, we pray that our leaders seek Your will, not theirs.

Isaiah 1:26     "I will restore your leaders as in days of old, your rulers as at the beginning."