They Are Running Scared

     I have just one word for all the Hollywood know-it-alls, political hacks of both parties, and anyone who thinks we out here in middle-of-nowhere America are stupid .... "Enough!"  I've had enough of the criticism of Ted Cruz and those few like him (Mike Lee comes to mind); you can wind up your propaganda machines and slander him all you want, but us country bumpkins recognize "genuine" when we see it.
     I address this to all those who think they know more than we do, and you need to understand this:  we are no longer fooled by the R or the D behind your name.  And you can no longer call yourself a "Conservative" and then vote with the Progressives.  You've obviously sold your souls for political gain and have forgotten your pledge to the people who voted for you.  What is so valuable that your character, integrity and honor are worth sacrificing?  Is it a powerful committee chairmanship?  A kickback for your state at the expense of the American taxpayer?  Or is it simply that the temptation to enrich yourself is too hard to resist?

     I'm not claiming that Ted Cruz is perfect or without faults.  No human being is.  But up until now, he has shown great courage and principles.  The fact that everyone from the Huffington Post to the DC Power Players to Tina Fey are ridiculing him, must mean he is doing something right, don't you think?
     Was his strategy to shut down the government a failure, or did it give the American people a chance to see behind the curtain and all the "dirty politics" that come into play when you don't fall into line?  He held his own party's feet to the fire, when they wanted to cave on defunding the Affordable Care Act.  Their pitiful attempts to throw him a bone, hoping he would abandon what he calls "the train wreck that is causing enormous harm to the U.S. economy" didn't alleviate his cause to represent the people who elected him.  Citing that the American people are "energized" to turn this country around, Senator Cruz made the following statement at the Values Voter Summit earlier this month:
     "Only the American people can turn this great nation around. Only the American people!  I’m going to suggest a model for how we turn this country around in the next couple of years. It is the model we have been following together to stop that train wreck, that nightmare, that disaster that is Obamacare.
     It is because of you that the House of Representatives has been standing strong --   because the House has been listening to the people; It is because of you that for the past two months the country has been engaged in a national debate about the enormous harms that Obamacare is causing.
     There are two things I have unabiding faith in: One is a benevolent God who loves each and every one of us, and number two is the American people who love liberty and opportunity unlike any nation, any people in the history of this world.
     Each of you is called to be here. Much like Esther, you are called for a time such as this. For hundreds of years every generation of Americans has given to their kids and grandkids greater opportunity, greater prosperity, a greater future. If we keep going down this road, we will become the first generation not to do that. And every man and woman in this room believes in your heart and in your soul that is utterly and completely unacceptable.”
     Now I know that behind every great remark by a politician is a great speechwriter.  But I have watched Ted Cruz, and this man doesn't blink.  He doesn't shy away from controversy, nor does he back down from the relentless bullying and strong-arm tactics from members of his own party.  I hope I'm not proven wrong about the man, but it seems as simple as this .... People comes before Party.
     And that's refreshing!  And the people seem to recognize a champion for their rights as free citizens. Only time will tell if he can remain untainted by the soul-killer that is Washington D.C.  Until the time that he disappoints, like so many before him, I will keep my eye trained on his every move and word.  If he is just grandstanding for public opinion votes, it will become apparent as we move through the treacherous economic times ahead.  But for now, he seems to be the primary candidate for People's Choice.

2 Corinthians 8:21     "For we take thought beforehand and aim to be honest and absolutely above suspicion, not only in the sight of the Lord but also in the sight of men."

Rome or Babylon ... Call Us What You Will

     As PLW and I finished our morning Bible study, we both let out a long sigh and I could tell something was weighing heavy on his mind.  "You know how the Book of Revelation quotes the mighty kings of the earth lamenting the fall of Babylon in one hour?"  I nodded my assent.  "Well, the way our elected officials have behaved themselves in the last couple of weeks, I'd like to think that God  will narrow His view of Babylon to include just Washington, D.C., and spare the rest of the country."  He paused and then said, "But, I'm afraid we will all be judged by their actions."
     I know what he means.  When we are governed by men who think it makes "common sense" to raise a debt ceiling that is already at nearly $17 trillion, it is quite apparent to those of us in the hinterland that unadulterated madness is the norm in D.C.  I see nothing but greed and corruption; lies and gamesmanship.  For the men and women ensconced in their ivory towers, the world revolves around their tight little circle of power and influence.  Representative government no longer exists, and those few who still hold to those high principles are vilified and discredited.
     Would it surprise you to know that the so-called "deal" generated by the power brokers has left us tax-payers in an even more compromised position, as if that is even fathomable? According to The Daily Caller, there’s no actual debt ceiling right now.  That's right!  The fiscal deal passed by Congress on Wednesday evening to re-open the government and get around the $16.4 trillion limit on borrowing doesn’t actually increase the debt limit. It just temporarily suspends enforcement of it.

     That means Americans have no idea how much debt their government is going to rack up between now and February 7, when the limits are supposed to go back into place and will have to be raised.  Not only have they kicked the can down the road, but there's no can in sight! David Williams, the president of the Taxpayers Protection Alliance, told The Daily Caller, “A real dollar figure is a constant reminder to taxpayers and Congress that the country is broke. This was done to hide the real debt from taxpayers.”
     In other words, Congress has managed to put a clever smokescreen in place.  By voting to simply suspend the debt right now, they don't have to release the new numbers to the American people of just how fast the debt is climbing.  They can hide their vote in a cleverly disguised ruse to fool the American people into thinking they are working on their behalf, when in reality they have just removed any limit on the debt!  So now the next question is this:  just what are they planning on doing in the intervening months between now and February?  Rather than patting themselves on the backs for appearing to have saved the country and its economy from collapsing, they should all be revealed and criticized for what they really are... betrayers of the trust bestowed upon them by the American people.
     Obviously, it was blind trust, as the only ones they are truly interested in looking after is themselves. While the proposed deal will provide funding for a temporary time period, when all these ridiculous "negotiations" will have to be resumed after the first of the year, D.C. managed to put themselves above the rest of the country.  On the issue of District of Columbia funding, the bill gives the District the right to spend all of its local funds for the rest of fiscal year 2014, making it immune from any possible shutdown later in the fiscal year.  Not really a surprise, is it?
     In the meantime, Washington continues to ignore all the warning signs of impending doom.  There are rumors of plans to triple legal immigration to over 33 million in the next decade; the forced compliance of the Affordable Care Act looks like total chaos; China is definitely not impressed with our "debt deal", downgrading us on par with Brazil, Israel and Panama; not to mention our nearly non-existent border security and growing concerns over "dry run" terrorist activities.
     I wish I could have disagreed with PLW over his identification of Babylon.  But all the signs are there and the events are beginning to correlate.  Is Washington, D.C. totally lost?  All the power and might of the Evil that is D.C. is being brought to bear upon the few righteous men within the system.  Can they prevail long enough to bring about any real change?  Only if God decides to delay His judgment that is duly appointed.  Pray for them, and pray for this country.  It is our only hope.

UPDATE:  And I applaud Dianne Reidy, the veteran Congressional stenographer, who listened to the Holy Spirit's promptings and took to the microphone on the floor of the House of Representatives to chastise the politicians for their waywardness.  She shouted, "He will not be mocked" and "You can't serve two Masters" as she was led from the Chamber and subjected to the inevitable psychiatric evaluation.  After being awakened in the middle of the night for the last 2 1/2 weeks, Mrs. Reidy stated that the Holy Spirit was "preparing me (through my reluctance and doubt) to deliver a message in the House Chamber.  That is what I did."  How many of us can identify with such encouragement from Heaven?  I'm sure she will be represented as some crazy Christian and marginalized.  But maybe ... just maybe ... God is preparing His people for great works on His behalf.

Revelation 18:9-10    "And the kings of the earth, who committed sexual immorality and lived in luxury with her, will weep and wail over her when they see the smoke of her burning.  They will stand far off, in fear of her torment, and say,
                            “Alas! Alas! You great city,
                              you mighty city, Babylon!
               For in a single hour your judgment has come.”

Shame on Government; Hooray for Humanity!

     After my visit this week to the Fisher Houses in San Antonio, I was thrilled to see that the Fisher House Foundation was there once again for our military.  As I'm sure you know, the ridiculous ramifications of the government shutdown were elevated to a new low when "death gratuities" of $100,000 for the families of fallen soldiers were halted.

     I know they are trying to make life as painful as possible for the American public so we will fall for the crap that is political propaganda; but it is absolutely unconscionable to deny military families this money which helps pay for travel to receive the bodies of their loved ones, for funerals, and for immediate expenses after a soldier's death.
     But it came as no surprise to me that the Fisher House Foundation has stepped up to fill the gap and will supply this much-needed payment to these worthy military families.  The Fisher Houses are a dream project of humanitarian and founder, Zachary Fisher, and his wife Elizabeth.  Designed as comfort homes that enabled family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful time -- during the hospitalization for a combat injury, illness or disease -- these homes are built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers nationwide and in Europe.
     I have seen first-hand how the Fisher Foundation, through private donations and support, show honor to our military, and affect the lives of our soldiers and their families in ways that bureaucratic government can't even envision.  In fact, this latest blow to military morale by the government is just one more example of the burden they are putting on our military.
     During my visit to Fort Sam Houston, my latest fears were substantiated during a casual conversation with one soldier.  I asked about the injury to his hand and how long he would be receiving treatment and rehabilitation at Fort Sam, and followed that up with where he was deployed.  With a slight acknowledgment of weariness, he relayed the history of his injury and then said he would be returning to Africa!
     So folks, while the "official" language of this administration is that the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are winding down, it is clear that we are far from disengaging in war.  It appears that Africa will be our next theatre of combat.  To what end?  A staging ground for Syria and the Middle East conflict?  Or are we supposed to believe that we now need to defend freedom in all of Africa, amidst the rising jihadist threat?
     Before you think that I am making mountains out of molehills, this supposition was verified during the always impressive tour of the Intrepid Center, where our soldiers receive the latest and greatest that technology has to offer in rehabilitation and physical therapy.  As a retired Army Colonel was giving us the tour, she explained that they were seeing less patients as a result of the winding down of our two wars.  I took a chance and asked her point-blank, "Is it true that we are now deploying to Africa?"  She didn't hesitate and gave us a definitive answer .... "Yes."
     So, I guess I'm just trying to figure out the endgame here.  What is the purpose of stretching our military so thin?  Why the deliberate "poke in the eye" with the halting of the "death gratuities"?  Why intentionally harm the military by creating resentment among the federally paid physicians who are working "pro bono" during this shutdown?  (Believe me, I heard the grumbling while at Fort Sam).
     And another thing I witnessed ... a growing tension among the military members as they begin to realize that the government is not looking out for their best interests.  I seem to detect more awareness and questioning about their care and their future, rather than the robotic acquiescence that is desired by the top military brass.  Perhaps our troops are beginning to see the truth for themselves.

     Mind you, I know that everything is being done with a purpose and a goal in mind.  After the Fisher House Foundation announced they would pay the military families the death benefits they are due, the Pentagon released a news story in which Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel announced the Fisher House Foundation had agreed to make the payments from its own funds.  Hagel went on:  "At the end of the shutdown, the Defense Department will reimburse the foundation for the costs it has incurred."  How like the government to try to claim they were part of the solution!
     But I have personally witnessed what is at the heart of the Fisher Foundation, and it is the welfare and care of our wounded veterans and their families.  This Foundation has proven that private donations from compassionate citizens are capable of taking care of those in need... and better than the government bureaucracies.
     So thank you to the Fisher House Foundation for taking care of our military families, and shame on the political games that caused these heartbroken families to suffer during this painful time.  The three words on founder Zachary Fisher's tomb continue to be manifested in the leadership of his Foundation by his grand-nephew and CEO, Kenneth Fisher .... Builder ... Philanthropist .... Patriot.   This is one more reason that the private citizenry of this country gets it, and the government doesn't.

Isaiah 1:17    "Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause."

Diligence vs Slothfulness

We continue with our discussion on our American character and values.  Thanks for tuning in while I take a much-needed breather and mini-vacation.  I look forward to your comments!

Diligence:  Careful and persistent work or effort; continuing firmly or obstinately in a course of action in spite of difficulty or opposition.

This comparison is almost a contrast in the "before" and "after" of our American character.  Diligence was arguably a distinctive feature of preceding generations.  From the Pilgrims landing on Plymouth Rock to our parents and grandparents experience in the Great Depression and WWII, we can point to their continued hard work "in spite of difficulty or opposition."  I'm sure each of us have a story of an ancestor who overcame the odds to make a better life for himself.  Their efforts weren't about acquiring material wealth as much as it was about feeling good about putting in an honest day's work for an honest dollar.  (Note the emphasis on "honest").

Slothfulness:  Lazy; unwilling to work.

Can't get much more succinct than that, right?  Oh, sure, there have always been people who did less than they were capable of, but when a majority of the over 4 million people on welfare, and a surplus of the 47,000,000 on foods stamps are either caught in the system, or have been trained to see it as normal .... then, my friends, we have a slothful society.  And that's not even considering the younger generation who expects to have the million dollar house, the fancy car and a six-figure salary right out of college --- without paying their dues.  And they are the ones who have some initiative!

     So how do we get rid of this apathetic attitude and instill a tireless, persevering, and industrious mindset back into our national character?  God made us so that we would find satisfaction in utilizing all our energy to accomplish the tasks set before us.
     I don't want to think that we are going to have to do a "reset"; that we're going to have to lose it all to regain the respect of working for it again.  I know it's been said before, but each successive generation of Americans wanted to give their kids more than they had.  And perhaps this approach did them no favors.  Through our advances in technology, electronics and machinery, we don't have to exercise our brains, our hands or our bodies like we did in the past.  In effect, we have taken away the need to work as hard, and look what we have sown.  It's time to re-learn the rewards of our sweat and our labor.  Only then can America climb out of this culture of entitlement and sloth.

Colossians 3:23   "And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men,"

Godly Alternative to Boy Scouts

I thought you would enjoy this post while I am taking my sabbatical.  Don't worry!  I'm still on top of what's going on around us and I'll be back in a few more days, refreshed and renewed!   

     I have to say that when God closes one door, He always opens another.  In the past, the Boy Scouts of America were upheld as the iconic symbol of strength, character, leadership, and faith.  But their recent decision to alter their membership policy and accept gay Scout leaders, goes against the Christian faith of their history.

     Now there is an alternative to those who wish to stay true to the God of the Bible in organizations for young men.  According to their official website, Trail Life USA, is a Christian adventure, character, and leadership movement for young men. The K-12 program centers on outdoor experiences that build a young man’s skills and allow him to grow on a personal level and as a role model and leader for his peers. "Living the Trail Life" is a journey established on timeless values derived from the Bible. 

     Their vision is clear: to be the premier national character development organization for young men which produces Godly and responsible husbands, fathers, and citizens.  And their Mission Statement is uncomplicated:  to guide generations of courageous young men to honor God, lead with integrity, serve others, and experience outdoor adventure.

     From what I've read, this is no fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants resistance movement to the Boy Scouts.  It appears to be a very-well-thought-out and organized group of former Scoutmasters, Eagle scouts, church leaders and parents who are dedicated to resisting the culture of political correctness.  The group has already conducted its first Leadership Conference, at which they released this statement:  “All boys are welcome to the program regardless of religion, race, national origin or socio-economic status.  Our goal is for parents and families of every faith to be able to place their boys in a youth program that endeavors to provide moral consistency and ethical integrity in its adult leaders.  However, adult leaders in the program will be Christian and must sign a statement of faith and submit to background checks,” a press release reads. “Both boys and adults will be required to adhere to a code of conduct.”  Gasp!  You mean they will have Godly standards???  In addition to their stated vision, their ultimate goal is to counter the “moral free-fall” of the nation, and “raise a generation of faithful husbands, fathers, citizens and leaders."

      From where I sit, it is refreshing to see Christians taking the initiative and standing for their principles.  And now there is an alternative for those who don't want to abandon their faith, while enjoying the outdoors and developing leadership skills.  And in case you might think this organization is soft on the faith and values aspect of their organization, get a load of this official Statement which must be signed by all adult leaders in Trail Life USA:

“We believe that there is One Triune God – Father, Jesus Christ His one and only Son, and the Holy Spirit – Creator of the universe and eternally existent. We believe the Holy Scriptures (Old and New Testaments) to be the inspired and authoritative Word of God. We believe each person is created in His image for the purpose of communing with and worshipping God. We believe in the ministry of the Holy Spirit who enables us to live a Godly life. We believe that each individual is called to love the Lord their God with all their heart, mind, soul and strength; and to love their neighbors as themselves. We believe that each individual is called to live a life of purity, service, stewardship and integrity.”

Purity – Members are called to live a life of holiness, being pure of heart, mind, word and deed, reserving sexual activity for the sanctity of marriage; marriage being a lifelong commitment before God between a man and a woman.

Service – Members are called to become a responsible part of their community and the world through selfless acts, which contribute to the welfare of others.

Stewardship – Members are called to use their God given time, talents, and money wisely.

Integrity – Members are called to live a moral life, demonstrating the inward motivation to do what is right, regardless of the cost

     Trail Life USA makes no bones about it; the basis for the program’s ethical and moral standards are found in the Bible.  No apologies and no compromising.  I like that!  I'm so tired of the Bible being soft-peddled to our culture.  It's time that Christians stand --- boldly and with no regrets --- and promote the benefits of living a moral life.  Just imagine how this kind of message could initiate a dramatic change in our culture!  I applaud Trail Life USA for their commitment and their courage, and for wasting no time in offering the young men of America an opportunity to learn the meaning of ethics, morality and integrity.  As of this date, more than 30,000 former scoutmasters, Eagle Scouts, parents, and church leaders have contacted the organization about the new program.  

     I pray for God's blessings on this organization and that we may see a new breed of leaders in this country.

Matthew 5:19     "Therefore whoever relaxes one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do the same will be called least in the kingdom of heaven, but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven."

     

Dependability vs. Inconsistency

     I'm still on my temporary vacation, but this post is reflective of my thoughts on our changing American character. We have gotten off-track and lost our identity; and I'm hopeful that these brief discourses will start our creative juices flowing and stimulate action on our part to revive this nation.  These are character traits that will strengthen future generations and glorify our God.
     I'll be checking in from the road and look forward to your thoughts and ideas!

Dependability:  Trustworthy and reliable.
     There are so many other words that I can think of that tie into "dependability" ... Words like responsible, incorruptible, steadfast.  It used to be that we could count upon a certain level of trust in people; whether it be our family members, friends, employers, and yes, even our elected officials.  That led to a harmonious society in which people could lead their lives in relative peace and with a confident expectation of a positive future.
     Can you say that now?  Do you feel that anything in our immediate future is definite or guaranteed? What can you really depend on?

Inconsistency:  Erratic in behavior or action; acting at variance with one's own principles or former conduct.
     I don't think anyone would argue that our national spirit seems to be at odds with our founding principles.  Heck, we don't even resemble the country I knew as a child!  We have adopted laws and social conventions that seem as though I am in an episode of Twilight Zone.  Does it seem possible that someone would be forced to close their business because they don't want to make a gay wedding cake?   Or that lawmakers would actually approve abortions involving 20-week-plus fetuses?  Is there anything in our nation that you could declare off limits?  Something that you can say we will never yield to?

If there are certain things that we are committed to never giving up, then we must make sure that our children and their children can depend on them and count on them being consistent; principles that will be constant and undeviating --- things like the Second Amendment, and the freedom of Pastors to speak out against social ills; that our voting procedures will be reliable and honest; and that parents remain the ultimate authority over their children.

Questions:  What are you going to do to make sure that our right to protect ourselves remains constant?  How will you assure that the Federal government does not usurp your influence over your children?  How do we make sure that our educational systems and our religious organizations are not turned into propaganda tools?  What will you do to make sure we leave a dependable and stable nation to those who will inherit it?  And are you willing to make any sacrifice to stand by your commitment?

Psalm 15:4     "O Lord, who shall sojourn in your tent? Who shall dwell on your holy hill?  [It is he] in whose eyes a vile person is despised, [who] honors those who fear the Lord; He who swears to his own hurt and does not change;"

Joyfulness vs. Self-Pity

We continue with our discussion on our American character and values.  Thanks for tuning in while I take a much-needed breather and mini-vacation.  I look forward to your comments!

Joyfulness:  feeling, expressing, or causing great pleasure and happiness.
     So what does this have to do with our American character, you might ask?  I guess it all depends on your attitude.  There was a time in this country when people were content with their lot.  In times of hardship, they were thankful for what they had.  And in times of plenty, they took the time to enjoy what they had.  Their joy was a result of their efforts; they took pride in their accomplishments and were satisfied to reap the rewards of an honest day's work.

Self-Pity:  excessive, self-absorbed; unhappiness over one's own troubles. 
     I'm afraid that too many Americans suffer from a lack of self-worth and motivation.  Too many are satisfied to accept payment for something they did not earn .... and then covet what others have worked selflessly to obtain.  There is an envy and a hunger in the land to possess material wealth that belongs to others, and it has resulted in a misguided anger that threatens to destroy the fabric of our shared soul.

Questions:  So how do we re-instate a respect for our abilities and our own self-worth?  How do we teach multiple generations to disengage from a welfare system that perpetuates and encourages their self-pity?  What can we do to change that dynamic and do it without causing undue strife and stress on our society?  And what do you suggest to mend the race and class divisions that have served our politicians so well and so long?

Until people realize that they are meant to be in fellowship with God, and His joy is available to all who seek His purpose for their lives, they will continue to wallow in self-pity.  And until people decide to trade that self-pity and low self-esteem for the joy of being self-made and independent, we are only going to see more alienation and isolation.

Psalm 16:11    "You make known to me the path of life; in Your presence there is fullness of joy; at Your right hand are pleasures forevermore."

Endurance vs. Giving Up

     While I am taking a temporary vacation, this begins a short series of thoughts on the American character and what we can do, as individuals and a nation, to hit the reset button.  We have gotten off-track and lost our identity; and I'm hopeful that these brief discourses will start our creative juices flowing and stimulate action on our part to revive this nation.  These are character traits that will strengthen future generations and glorify our God.
     I'll be checking in from the road and look forward to your thoughts and ideas!

Endurance:  The capacity of something to withstand wear and tear.  
     Boy, does that describe our current state of affairs, or what?  This nation is about as ragged and tattered as I think she's ever been.  We've been turned upside down, and inside out, to where I hardly recognize America anymore.  Endurance also implies the ability to last.  So that begs the question ... will we last?  Can we get through this unpleasant and difficult situation (and process) without giving way to destructive forces?

Giving Up:  Relinquishing an attitude, a point of view, a belief, or a position. 
     Have we, as Americans, dropped the ball and become too lazy and too self-centered to fight for the principles that this country was founded upon?  Has it become too difficult in our busy, hectic lives to stop for one moment and make a small effort to regain our footing, or to reinforce the cornerstone of our nation?

Questions:  So which side of this comparison do you find yourself on?  Are you going to endure for something and Someone who are worth fighting for?  Or are you willing to let it all go because of the personal hardships it will cost you?  Do we, as individuals [and a sovereign country], have the inward strength to withstand the necessary stress to accomplish God’s purpose in our existence?  I am asking myself how much do I love my God and what this country stands for.  I am challenging myself to bolster my spiritual and physical reserves long enough to make a difference and restore both to their proper places .... God as the Ruler and center of my life; and America as a shining beacon of hope and opportunity to the world.

In what ways do we need to ENDURE, and what are you unwilling to GIVE UP on?

Galatians 6:9    And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
   

The Face of Courage

     This weekend, PLW and I kind of escaped from reality and spent the last 48 hours visiting friends on their remote ranch .... no TV, cell phones or internet .... just fellowship in God's creation; enjoying long walks, sitting by their pool, and lots of in-depth discussion about our faith and the Truth being revealed to us.  It was refreshing, inspirational, and a great way to decompress.
     So when we arrived home late yesterday afternoon, I find that our country (and the world) are on fire from the revelations of one man; the incredibly brave "whistleblower" at the National Security Agency.  I am incredibly blown away by the courage and the farsightedness of this 29-year-old government contract worker.   With considerable vision and preparedness, Edward Snowden knew that he had to sacrifice his own personal safety on the chance that the American people would respond to the frightening implications that he was about to reveal.   

     Through his extensive access to NSA tactics and techniques he was able to see an increasing pattern of State surveillance of private citizens, and the scope of the intrusion into our privacy horrified him.
     He didn't sell State secrets to the highest bidder, nor did he set out to endanger anyone personally.  His motives were about the principles of freedom:  "I will be satisfied if the federation of secret law, unequal pardon and irresistible executive powers that rule the world that I love are revealed even for an instant."
     When asked by the UK Guardian why he decided to take this bold step, he responded, "I don't want to live in a society that does these sort of things … I do not want to live in a world where everything I do and say is recorded. That is not something I am willing to support or live under."  And so he has essentially given up his own freedom to try and compel us to save ours.  What will we, the American people, do with the information he has provided?  Will he have jeopardized his own safety and that of his family and friends for nothing?  Will this story fade from the news cycles in three or four days; or will there be a sustained outcry against our loss of privacy?  "I really want the focus to be on these documents [not me] and the debate which I hope this will trigger among citizens around the globe about what kind of world we want to live in." He added: "My sole motive is to inform the public as to that which is done in their name and that which is done against them."
      For now, he sits alone in a hotel room in Hong Kong, waiting for that knock on the door.  How will the long arm of the United States choose to punish him for delivering the truth?  They can threaten to prosecute him via the Espionage Act, or the Chinese government could simply work "a deal" with our State Department.  Whatever method they choose, Snowden does not expect due process, only decisive action.  "They say it is better to kick someone out of a plane than let these people have a day in court. It is an authoritarian mindset in general."
     I know that the talking heads and the government will demonize this man.  He will be called a traitor, unAmerican, and worse.  But I can't imagine the courage it took for him to come to this decision; knowing that he may never see his family or home again.   Furthermore, I cannot imagine taking this step without seeking the counsel of the Holy Spirit and asking for spiritual protection.  Throughout his interview with The Guardian, there is no mention of God or faith, and I would think he would profess a relationship with Jesus, if it existed.  But I feel, without a doubt, that God is using this man to reveal the dangerous place in which this country finds itself.  Man's personal freedom is at stake; our God-given freedoms of thought, ideas and speech.  These are not granted by my government, nor do they need to be observed or overseen.  The only one I want to have access to my private thoughts and ideas is my Creator.
     I will be anxious to see how this plays out, as more articles and interviews from Snowden become available.  From my vantage point, he played it smart by being open, honest and choosing to reveal his identity instead of hiding behind a cloak of secrecy.  What the world chooses to do with the information he has provided is anyone's guess at this moment in time.  But I believe that our very existence as a free people is at stake.  Did Edward Snowden ultimately do the right thing?  Were his actions in time and will they save our precious freedoms?
     PLW put it in visual perspective for me:  It's as if we find ourselves in a sudden and threatening lightening storm.  We are in the middle of working on an important project on our computer and we realize that this storm is getting worse, and we are worried about losing this aspect of the project.  We decide to shut down the computer and initiate the steps to do so.  But while the operating system is going through it's time-consuming process of logging out, asking us if we want to save our document, taking us to the screen where we click on "shut down", there is a lightning strike just too darn close for comfort.  We decide we can't wait any longer for the computer system to work out its process, or take the chance that our computer is going to get fried by the next bolt of lightning.  So we pull the plug, losing the immediate file, in the hopes of saving the entire hard drive.
     That's what Edward Snowden has done for us.  He realized that this storm is coming faster than anyone expected, and there isn't time for the "political process" to play itself out.  So he made the gutsy call to "pull the plug", so to speak; to sacrifice his own personal welfare in the hopes that we will save and protect our foundation of personal privacy and freedoms.  The questions remain .... do we recognize what is at stake, and will we pick up his mantle?  I pray that his sacrifice is not in vain.

Colossians 2:8     "See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world, and not according to Christ."
   

Just Make Them Move!

     I couldn't believe my ears!  Some political and economic wonks appeared on the panel for Fox News Bulls and Bears program.  They were discussing the tremendous cost of cleanup after the devastation of the Moore, Oklahoma tornado.  They surmised that costs to the Federal government would be upwards of $2 Billion.  While giving lip service to the personal costs of those who lost their lives and their possessions, they were more concerned about how to "avoid" these tremendous dollar outlays in the future.
     Among their solutions?  Make Oklahomans pay to live there and rebuild their city, or the equally asinine suggestion, just have the government mandate relocation. After all, they know that this area is susceptible to damaging weather conditions, so why should they be allowed to rebuild when there's a chance this could happen again?  And why should the American taxpayer help foot the bill?
    What?!?  Here are just a couple of the comments:

We've gone beyond the pale here, and we really have to think smart about this, and consider moving these people out of harm's way. Look at California, we have active fault lines, and you can't build a home on an active fault. We have places in Florida; we have places in the northeast where there are repeated hurricanes. Here we have three major tornados in the same basic valley in a ten year period; they've had twenty over the last one-hundred years. I think it's time to do a little reality check and save some lives here.

People have a right to live where they want, but we don't have a right as taxpayers to continue to pay for it over and over again. Let the free market decide. You can't just keep dragging along the federal government and FEMA because you want to live in a place that isn't economically feasible for people to live in.

     So who made these guys God?  Can they accurately predict where the next tornado, hurricane or earthquake is going to strike?  Are they going to declare vast amounts of the American landscape "uninhabitable" because it has suffered a natural disaster?  And what will be the criteria?  Dollar amounts for cleanup .... number of occurrences in a ten-year, twenty-year period?
     These are people we are dealing with!  And these locations involve memories and family history and means of employment and yes, even the loss of loved ones.  And you're going to tell them they have to tear up roots and move somewhere else --- or pay extra to be allowed to rebuild and put their lives back together!  Can you guarantee that wherever you move them, they will not be struck with a similar disaster?  Or would you simply tell them, "Nope!  Sorry, you can't live here any longer.  We don't care where you go .... just not here."
     Once again, I'm seeing the unrealistic expectations of the Elite.  It is not a perfect world, folks!  This life is unpredictable, risky, and uncertain ... at best.  To even contemplate the thought that the citizens of Moore, Oklahoma should be penalized for choosing to live there is insensitive and implausible.
    As for the economic feasibility of living in Oklahoma, I don't think one tornado is going to hurt the healthy rank of the 14th most prosperous state in the Union.  Are you really worried about the monetary ramifications of this disaster?  Or is that, from your high and mighty glass towers, you just can't relate to simple, God-fearing folks?  Do you have the slightest idea of why anyone would think that the heartland of America is worth reclaiming and redeeming?

Psalm 37:29      "The righteous shall inherit the land and dwell upon it forever." 

Recommendation: Honor Flight: A Movie About The Greatest and The Humblest

 

     In the aftermath of the Memorial Day weekend, I am left with emotions that are so near the surface that tears are a constant threat.  Last Monday evening, I just happened to catch a fleeting comment on one of the talk shows about a film/documentary called Honor Flight.  (Click on the highlighted link to see the trailer... but you better have kleenex handy!) The host mentioned that the film was available on Amazon and I thought perhaps this would be the perfect way to end the day and to pay tribute to those who have served so valiantly on behalf of the American people.
     The commentary on the movie said it documented an organization in Wisconsin who took on a project called "Operation Resolve", which consisted of escorting a group of WWII veterans to see their memorial in Washington D.C.  The cost to rent the movie on Amazon was only $3.99 and I thought it might be a sentimental and nostalgic trip down memory lane.
     I certainly got more than I bargained for.  The movie is told by a man, who like so many of us children of WWII vets, never knew his father's story.  As Joe Dean accurately tells it, these were ordinary men who were, in reality, plucked off America's farms at the age of 18 or 19 to save the world.  They saw the brutality of war like no other generation, and so many of them died on the beaches of Normandy, or on the island of Iwo Jima.  They saw the unspeakable inhumanity of man as they liberated the concentration camps.  They saved Europe from the tyranny of Hitler and stopped the savagery of Japan in the Pacific theater.  Then they came home without fanfare, hugged their mom and dad, and went to work rebuilding this nation.  The photos and mementoes got buried in basements, and the memories and nightmares were tucked away, never to be spoken.

     Joe's own father, he would discover, was a young untested doctor, who soon was elbow deep in the horrors of war in the Philippines.  As he contemplated his father's legacy, he heard of a man in Florida who was renting a plane to take these unsung heroes to see the new WWII Memorial in Washington, D.C.... at no charge to the vets.  They had never asked to be recognized, but they deserved to see the monument that celebrates their bravery and heroism.  Joe wanted to do something like that for the veterans of Wisconsin.  When he heard the astounding statistic that we are losing more than 900 of our WWII vets every day, he knew he had no time to lose.
     The film goes on to show his journey of raising money to fund this enormous project .... and Joe dreamed big!  He wanted to be able to fill a 747 with veterans and at no cost to them.  They came home, never asking or expecting anything in return.  And now it was time that we, who inherited a free world from them, give something back in return.
     Besides needing to raise nearly a quarter of a million dollars to fly all the veterans, (who began signing up in such numbers that Joe needed three 747s!), his organization would also need "Guardians" to accompany the veterans, many of whom are wheelchair-bound.  These volunteers are required to pay their own way, but what an honor to accompany a veteran and hear their story and see their reaction to their Memorial!
     Needless to say, the film introduces us to some memorable men; many are quiet and introspective; others are colorful and animated --- all of them will touch your heart.  Whether it is the veteran who spent years in a Nazi prison camp, and weighed only 75 pounds when he was liberated; or the vet who is in the beginning stages of Alzheimers, but wanted to share his heart-breaking memories of Iwo Jima; or the veteran who was fighting cancer, but put off his chemo treatments for what he knew would be his only chance to see the Memorial --- they all were so grateful and moved to see that the nation had not forgotten their sacrifices.  For many of them, this was the first time since WWII that they had been in a plane!

     Then the film shows us the reaction of these veterans as they see the WWII Memorial for the first time, and you can still see the humble character of each man, as they cry for those who are not here to see it with them.  "The ones that didn't come home are the heroes."  You can see it in their eyes; these men have kept silent about their experiences for so long, and it is all coming back in memories of comrades who died in the hell of war; young men that didn't get the chance to live the full lives they've enjoyed.  It's as if they are experiencing this for all those lost on foreign shores.
     But perhaps the most touching aspect of all was the outpouring of love and respect given to them by family members, many who had never heard the stories long buried.  After an exhausting and demanding 20 hours of flight time and touring of the Memorial, the veterans are treated to "mail call" on their return flight home.  Each veteran received an envelope filled with letters and cards made by children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, thanking them for their service and telling them they were heroes.  There wasn't a dry eye on that plane... or in my living room.  But that wasn't the end of the story.
     As their plane touches down, the worn-out veterans deplaned to a raucous hometown celebration.  As they shuffled or wheeled through the airport, they ran a love-filled gauntlet of family members, school children and townspeople waving American flags and home-made signs, thanking them for their service and recognizing their contribution to this great nation and the world!
     This is a film that will touch your heart and call you to action.  My own father, who served as a tailgunner in the Pacific, passed away before he was able to see the Memorial in D.C.  But I am sending in my application to be a Guardian and accompany another veteran, before he, too, misses his chance.  These veterans are now well into their 80s and 90s and we don't have too many more opportunities to commemorate their sacrifice and service.  It is a way for me to honor my father and to show these men that I know what they accomplished for the free world.  They truly are THE GREATEST GENERATION!

For information on how you can donate, volunteer, or find your local "hub" for Honor Flights, please visit this link for information.

Galatians 5:13     "For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another."

The Message of Memorial Day

     Since the Civil War, our country has honored our fallen heroes; the men and women who have died in war in order to preserve the liberty and freedoms that we all share.  We have time-honored observances such as the placing of flags on the 260,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery and the 150,000 graves at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis; plus the placing of candles on the 15,300 Civil War grave sites at the Fredericksburg and Spotsylania National Military Park.
     These are a few of the official ceremonies that often go unnoticed by the majority of American citizens.  Granted, there are those of us who are moved by these nearly sacred rites, but for most people, Memorial Day has become reduced to a three-day Federal holiday, with little individual recognition of its true meaning.

     I can remember, as a child, when communities would gather for parades, replete with American flags, marching bands, and floats --- all with the express purpose of honoring the veterans within our midst.  These men would be saluted and hailed for their bravery and duty to our country;  THEY were the reason for the holiday.  And I instinctively knew that these were special men.  This was their day and we were there to honor them.  All the fun and festivities were a by-product of our country celebrating what they had done for us.
     Yet today, many of our kids just know Memorial Day as the end of the school year; an extra day off from school before graduation; or a time their parents get together for beer and Bar-B-Q.  Even with the  thousands of casualties from ten years of war in Iraq and Afghanistan, and the images of soldiers with missing limbs that are a daily reminder of the sacrifices made on our behalf, I am afraid that Memorial Day is still treated with a degree of irreverence.  It is up to us to change that.
     I urge each of us to do our part in restoring the appreciation and high regard with which we used to celebrate this national holiday.  We can begin by making sure the children within our sphere of influence know the history of why we mark this day.
      Don't just hang a flag outside your door.  Tell them why you are making that statement.  And then make sure they know the cost of their freedoms.  The numbers don't lie.  Historians think that nearly 25,000 Americans died establishing our freedom from Great Britain.  Over 600,000 soldiers died in the Civil War; over half a million in WWI and WWII, with 140,000 buried throughout military cemeteries in Europe.  We lost nearly 68,000 brave Americans in the rice fields and jungles of Viet Nam, and, so far, approximately 4500 in the War on Terror.  

     Make sure they realize that American men and women have sacrificed the most precious thing they own -- their lives -- on behalf of foreign citizens.  Yes, they need to know the truth about the "not so honorable reasons" that wars are fought, but that is a discussion for another day.  This holiday is to commemorate the memories of those who fought for the right reasons.  This is about one person laying down his life for another.  This holiday is about what America stands for.  Let's recapture what America symbolizes.
     As the sun rises on this sobering holiday, I am reminded of a saying by William Gladstone, the leading British statesman of the Victorian era, who served as Britain's Prime Minister four times:

"Show me the manner in which a nation or a community cares for its dead and I will measure with mathematical exactness the tender sympathies of its people, their respect for the laws of the land, and their loyalty to high ideals."

     These are all principles we are in danger of losing.  These are the same principles that motivated our citizens to pick up a gun and fight for freedom, both here and abroad.  And finally, Memorial Day represents those who died protecting these important principles.  The memories of our Fallen Heroes deserve to be recognized.  Today is not about hotdogs, hamburgers and family gatherings.  It's about restoring respect for the sacrifice made for you and me.  Let each of us do our part in restoring the meaning of Memorial Day.  Dedicate one moment out of the day to give thanks to a veteran who did his part for this great country of ours.  We owe them that .... and so much more.

Galations 5:1       Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.

This Life Is So Precious

     I am still trying to wrap my mind around the devastation I am witnessing in Oklahoma.  The absolute savagery and violence of God's creation is hard to observe.  The randomness of who suffers and who survives is incomprehensible.  Such is the state of human existence on this planet God created.

     We pray for those who are injured and we implore God to give us miracles.  We hold our breath and ask Him to protect all the children in that elementary school, and then shed private tears at the unspeakable loss that their parents are experiencing.  We thank our Heavenly Father for the wisdom and courage it took for teachers to throw themselves on top of their young charges; to sacrifice their own safety for the sake of the innocent.  We ask God to grant peace to those people who are literally walking on top of a pile of debris that used to be their home.  How does the human spirit endure?
     Those who don't know Jesus cannot possibly understand how a human being could get through something that so utterly devastates their life.  Human suffering is hard to bear, because you never know when it might happen to you, and no one knows their capacity to endure.  And if you don't have faith to fall back on, it can destroy you.  Even when you believe, it is not easy.  Thoughts of comfort and peace are slow in coming, but when you are taken to a place where drawing your next breath seems impossible, you must seek His face.  For Jesus knows that place, too.
     It is heart-breaking to watch the folks of Oklahoma as they celebrate a recovered photo, or pull drenched clothing out of the rubble; all that is left of a home that was once a refuge from the storms of life.  Now "The Storm" will forever haunt their remaining days.  But we have witnessed this before; what these good citizens of the heartland can do when faced with adversity.   We saw their courage two years ago in Joplin, and fourteen years ago in this same town of Moore.  And the one thing that all these people have in common is their faith in the Almighty God of the Universe.
     You won't seem them sitting on their doorsteps like you did after Hurricane Sandy; waiting for the federal government to come to their aid.  They won't whine or complain about the lack of resources or help.  Instead, they will help themselves, and each other; calling upon the best resource they have, their God.

     Sadly, that's something that the godless cannot understand.  When you know Jesus, you follow His commands and the most important ones involve the dispensing of love.  The residents of Moore, Oklahoma have been beaten down, and at the moment they are hurting like hell and thinking the pain is intolerable.  But, one by one, they will raise their heads and see a neighbor in need, and forgetting their own suffering, they will reach out a hand in love.  And soon, they will feel the love of their fellow Americans, as we all extend our own display of love.
     In this time of economic struggle, Americans will open their wallets and give until it hurts, because someone else is hurting.  And it will be those who know Jesus who give the most.  Then there will be those, like my friend, Betty, who will travel to this latest disaster area; they will come with showers-on-wheels and trucks outfitted with washing machines.  She has told me countless stories of how a clean body and clean clothes can turn a disaster victim's whole perspective around.  But more than that, she and the thousands like her from faith-based organizations will make the journey to Oklahoma, and they will bring with them a message of hope from the loving Father who sent them.  
     The full impact of today's tornados is yet to be seen; and more bad weather is predicted.  There will be the sad funerals for those lost, and the poignant good-byes to the children lost in that school.  Eventually, the Media's cameras will no longer shine their lights upon the distress and destruction in Oklahoma.  But God's light will continue to shine in the perseverance and the steadfastness of His children.   The people of the heartland will show the world that they serve a mighty and merciful God.  May He bless all those in Moore, Oklahoma in the days, weeks and months to come.  May they know His bountiful mercy, peace and comfort. Amen.

1 Corinthians 13:7    "Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things."

Time To Take An Assessment

     If you're like me, you have been aware of an underlying tension in our world and our daily existence for some time now.  If you were able to discern the changes early, then you most likely adopted a few new practices over the last few years, such as stocking up on essentials and food, and learning how to defend yourself.  You may have expanded your knowledge of sustainable living and returned to the forgotten skills of our ancestors, who knew how to live without the conveniences and luxuries of our modern culture.  You might even have determined it was time to renew (or begin) your relationship with God, and quit relying on the vagaries and shortcomings of man's false promises.
     But you may also be like me, in that I have to struggle against a blasé attitude about this new reality. I know and sense that things are going to change, but when week after week, and now year after year, have gone by and no major upheaval, the tension has now become my new reality.  And so, I find that I am guilty of not "keeping my edge", and not maintaining my storehouse and my training.
     These past couple of weeks I have felt a renewed awareness of world events ramping up to a boiling point.  And God knows, between terrorist attacks, assaults on our First, Second and Fourth Amendment rights, and the multitude of scandals in our own government, we have enough reason to suffer some major anxiety.  So PLW and I came to the realization that we needed to do a crucial re-assessment of our preparedness plan.
   

     I discovered that I have been dipping into my larder and not replacing canned goods, paper products, toothpaste, laundry detergent and OTC medicines as I should.  It has just been easier to grab something from our stash and then be indifferent about replacing it.
     The ammo situation has made it difficult to sustain any kind of self-defense training, so my mental sharpness has probably suffered as a result.  But I know that I need to practice my Op Sec more, and not be so complacent about my surroundings or the situations in which I find myself.
     I need to practice the skills that I have acquired.  My garden is flourishing, so I will soon be canning and preserving food, but I have let bread-baking, soap-making and cooking outdoors recede into the shadows.   I need to review the medical care that I have been taught; how to treat different kinds of wounds and how to correctly clean and stitch such wounds.  I need to think about how I will adapt to no water, no electricity and no computers, should we be faced with a TEOTWAWKI event.  I need to ask myself, "Am I mentally prepared?"
     But more importantly, I need to make sure that I am spiritually prepared.  Have I determined that I will stand for God and against the world system, if we are faced with that juncture?  How far am I committed to go in defending my faith?  Is my relationship with my Lord and Savior where I want it to be?  These questions are perhaps the most important; and this component of my preparedness is where I  need to be the most confident and secure.  Being proficient in all the other areas means nothing if my spiritual realm is not first and foremost on my list.  It is my most vital resource!
     So I ask you to assess your own situation and make an honest evaluation as to your state of readiness.  Do you need to sharpen your focus or add to your inventory?  Do you need to dedicate some time to polishing rusty skills?  And finally, are you where you need to be with the Lord? Make that your starting point and proceed from there.  We need to be observant, stay alert, and ever ready for what is coming.

1 Thessalonians 5:6      "So then let us not sleep, as others do, but let us keep awake and be sober."

Out of Control

     It is nearly mind-boggling when I contemplate all the miscarriage of power that we are seeing coming from Washington D.C.  From the treachery that characterizes the Benghazi affair, to the outright usurpation of authority in the IRS targetings, to the blatantly un-Constitutional seizure of phone records from journalists ---- it all reeks of an Administration that is legally out of bounds, and morally out of control.
     But will the American people demand that those who are responsible be held accountable?  No matter how high up the chain of command it goes?  Or will we allow ourselves to be mislead by outrageous and ridiculous talking points such as "we were unaware" or "this was undertaken by one or two rogue employees who have already been dealt with"?  Regardless of the same old lame excuses that are trotted out, one thing is clear:  the unconvincing explanations are designed to make us believe these issues are unimportant, inconsequential, overstated, and in the past.     

     And why not employ these devices?  They've worked so many times before!  Countless Executive Orders have been passed with nary a peep out of the American people.  Covert operations are never questioned and associations with Enemies of the State proceed unhindered.  Why worry about these itty bitty scandals?
     But this time, the rapid exposure of so many offenses at once, along with the legal and moral implications may be too much to push over on the sheeple.  It's almost as if they got careless about covering their tracks; or perhaps they've used the Olinsky playbook too many times and their modus operandi is too recognizable.  Whatever the reasons, we've got a peek behind the curtain and the Wizard's true identity has finally been revealed.
     So now we are faced with a very important decision.  Do we let the Wizard slip back behind that curtain of power and obfuscating rhetoric? Or do we expose all the dirty laundry and let the chips fall where they may?  I truly feel this is the defining moment of our age.  Whether we continue as the "Home of the Brave and the Land of the Free" might just hinge on how these immoral indiscretions are handled by the Media, our Elected Representatives, and yes, even our Churches.
     You know, it used to be that our Churches held those in Authority accountable.  After all, nearly every Christian knows the Romans 13:1-2 passage that declares all authority is appointed by God and we are to subject ourselves to their governing.  But we must also take into account Acts 4:19 in which we are to ask, "Whether it is right in the sight of God to listen to you more than to God, you judge."  Furthermore, the only circumstance that disobedience to authority is justifiable by Scripture, is if it conflicts with the laws of God. Authority should be cooperated with except in those situations where laws depart from the basic moral and righteous principles of God's Word.  So what do you think?  Do these scandals meet that criteria?
     As God's obedient servants, shouldn't Pastors and flock alike, be mindful of such un-Godly misdeeds and act accordingly, submitting all concerns to the One who created such authority?  Yet our Church leaders remain silent, so our authorities give no credence to their moral obligations.  We must never forget that God can use our prayers for those in authority, to either change their heart or remove them from power entirely. God reserves the right of administering discipline and reproof to those who represent His authority.  Have we forgotten that we can go to God with our grievances in prayer?  There is one thing that I know for sure:  I trust Him to handle all this mess more than any Congressional Committee or Special Investigative Panel.  It's time to get on our knees!

Jeremiah 8:8     How can you say, ‘We are wise, and the law of the Lord is with us’? But behold, the lying pen of the scribes has made it into a lie.

The Gosnell Verdict: Abortion on Trial

     I can honestly say that I find no joy in the "Guilty" verdict of Kermit Gosnell.  Whatever his punishment, whether the death penalty or life imprisonment, it will not atone for his diabolical methods in ending the lives of innocent babies.  May God forgive me, but I want this man to feel the pain and the terror that he inflicted on those blameless newborns.  I cannot find it in my heart to have compassion for anyone who could so easily snuff out the existence of live babies, and in such gruesome ways.
     If this is not a wake-up call for this Nation to decry the inhuman act of abortion, then I'm not sure there is any hope for us.  And if one finds the killing of 20-week-old fetuses disturbing, how can there be any justification for the elimination of any fetus, no matter the age?  We must not diminish the act of abortion no matter the stage of the fetus.  And we must keep in mind this fact: the result is the same for the baby whether it meets its end in or out of the womb; in a shabby clinic like Gosnell's or a brand new Planned Parenthood facility.

If we have any soul left in this country, we would realize that the picture presented in Gosnell's clinic was not an isolated incident.  The methods might be more horrendous, but the results are the same ... do you really think these were the only aborted babies in this country that were capable of surviving or living successfully?  Abortion has become such an accepted part of our culture that we too easily dismiss the fact that Death is the desired end result.  What does that say about us as a country?
     To me, it says that we have lost our way.  We have deliberately disregarded God's Word and His commands, thereby losing our moral certainty of what is right and wrong.  We have become easily persuaded to commit evil practices and have denied the importance of the sacredness of life.  The consequences of such unprincipled decisions can be seen in the quality of our culture.
     Before abortion was made legal-on-demand (pre-1973), this nation enjoyed liberty, prosperity and God's blessings.  Since that fateful day that Roe v. Wade became the law of the land, we have seen a steady slide into moral decay, with teen pregnancies on the rise; sexual decadence openly on display; the dismantling of the family; and corruption and vice abounding in every segment of our society and government.  We replaced God's Word as our guide, substituting our own counsel or that of a government entity.  When we no longer declare God's commands to be Absolute and Inviolable; never to be broken, we have set ourselves up for a gradual and continuous loss of both freedoms and life.  And the slide is not over!  Babies are not the only ones being proclaimed expendable --- soon the Affordable Health Care Act will assert that the lives of the elderly, the infirm and the non-producers are disposable.
     Hopefully, this guilty verdict will bring to light the evilness of this practice.  Perhaps the nation will begin to question the image they've been sold; that abortion is not the sterile, painless and inconsequential procedure it has been touted.  And while I applaud pro-life groups that condemned Gosnell's practices, they still won't condemn the actual act of abortion; instead they call for more regulation and the exposure of more abortion clinics that are violating laws.  That's just putting a bandaid on America's sin!
     The Vice-President for Communications of Planned Parenthood released this statement:  This case has made clear that we must have, and enforce laws, that protect access to safe and legal abortion, and we must reject misguided laws that would limit women's options and force them to seek treatment from criminals like Kermit Gosnell.  Notice that it is all about the options for women.  Where are the choices for the unborn babies?
     Man's justice may have been served in this case, but until the unsacred ritual of Abortion is ended in this country, we will continue to do injustice to God's commands .... and America we will continue down this road towards ruin and defeat.

 Ephesians 5:11-12      Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them. For it is shameful even to speak of the things that they do in secret.
   

Championing Seal Team 6

     Last week the families of Seal Team 6 gave an unprecedented press conference, in which they didn't pull any punches .... Larry Klayman, legal counsel for the families, released this statement:  [The press conference] will take on special significance given that our government has, over the last twelve years since September 11, committed brave American servicemen to wars in Iraq and Afghanistan which, in large part as a result of politics, were poorly conceived of and implemented, resulting in the deaths of thousands and the maiming of tens of thousands of our brave heroes. To make matters even worse, America has effectively lost these wars.   

These charges stem from the August 6, 2011 Chinook crash, which is considered the worst loss of U.S. military life in Afghanistan.  The disaster killed all 38 people on board --- twenty-five Navy SEALs, five U.S. Army National Guard and Army Reserve crewmen, seven Afghan commandos, one Afghan interpreter, and a U.S. military dog.  The families have tried to get answers as to what happened in this incident, but have been stone-walled by a lack of investigation by either the Administration or Congress.  So they decided to take their concerns to the American people.  Not only do they deserve answers, but we do, too.
     The families feel that there are too many unanswered questions about the event, and they are alleging that the government has some accountability in the tragedy.  Here are just a few of the questions that they feel they are justified in asking, and which, to date, they have received no reponse:
1)  Why did the Administration feel it was necessary to, in essence, "finger" the Navy SEALS as the personnel who carried out the attack on Osama Bin Laden's compound?  Why give that information to the enemy and put the SEALs and their families in jeopardy?  The families strongly feel that this "boasting" made it easy for the Taliban to target their sons.
2)   Why was there a sudden replacement of seven Afghan commandos on board the helicopter just before take-off?  And why were the seven Afghan commandos killed in the helicopter crash not the seven listed in the flight manifest?  To this day, none of the families know who those dead Afghans were.  Were the original seven properly vetted?  Did they possibly disclose classified information about the flight to the Taliban?
3)   Why were the SEALs transported by a Vietnam-era Chinook helicopter rather than their customary state-of-the-art special forces choppers?  And why were they reminded before landing not to clear the area of potential enemies with suppressing fire because there might be civilians in the area?  From my understanding, these are highly peculiar deviations from standard operating procedure.
4)  Why has the helicopter’s black box never been recovered?
     These and many other unanswered questions have left the families feeling that the attack was carefully planned and not just a result of a random “lucky shot”, which has been the U.S. military's official line.   

     But for me, the most disturbing question concerns the burial ceremony.  Why was a Muslim cleric invited to the funeral service of these heroes and allowed to pray over the bodies of our fallen soldiers in Arabic?  According to the familys' attorney, "The funeral was held in Kabul where you couldn’t even mention the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and yet a Muslim cleric gets up and damns these fallen heroes to Hell as infidels....Is this part of the Administration's Muslim outreach?"  And in case you think I am exaggerating, here is the English interpretation of the prayer:


Amen. I shelter in allah from the devil who has been cast with stones.
In the name of allah the merciful forgiver.
The companions of “THE FIRE”
(The sinners and infidels who are fodder for the hell fire)
ARE NOT EQUAL WITH the companions of heaven.
The companions of heaven (Muslims) are the WINNERS.
Had he sent this Koran to the mountain, you would have seen the mountain prostrated in fear of allah.
(Mocking the GOD of Moses)
Such examples are what we present to the people, so that they would think.
(repent and convert to Islam)
Blessings are to your God (allah) the God of glory and what they describe.
And peace be upon the messengers (prophets) and thanks be to allah the lord of both universes (mankind and Jinn).”

     I cannot imagine what pain this brings to the families of our slain to know that this was allowed.  But I pray that they receive comfort from knowing that our God is the sovereign ruler of the Universe and the One True God; the words of an imposter have no effect upon their souls and they are resting in the saving arms of Jesus Christ, their Lord.  And one day soon, He will judge those who would dishonor the memories of these brave men.  In addition, I hope the families know that the American people honor the lives of their loved ones, and we, too, want accountability in this matter.  We stand with them in their search for answers.  I hope they pursue this until they uncover ALL the lies and deceit!

Proverbs 6:16-19      There are six things that the Lord hates, seven that are an abomination to him: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked plans, feet that make haste to run to evil, a false witness who breathes out lies, and one who sows discord among brothers.

How Do They Sleep At Night

   

     I tried to feel sorry for White House Press Spokesman, Jay Carney, yesterday; I really did.  But the weak attempt to cover up the lies of this Administration just made me yell at the television.  Although the MSM has now decided they can no longer deny the deception in the Benghazi scandal, I still felt as though they didn't pursue the truth hard enough.
     You know what?  I'm tired of the lies, and I'm tired of the politicization of issues that effect our freedoms and the transformation of America.  How stupid do they think we are?  And "they" includes everyone in the political arena.  For the moment, it looks as if the Republicans are interested in getting some long-awaited answers as to who made the decisions to abandon Americans during an Islamic extremist attack.  Will they persevere until the entire truth is revealed?  Time will tell.
     But the fact is that ABC News is now saying they received twelve different editions of the White House talking points, with the final version eradicating all references to jihad, Islamic extremists, terrorism, and Al Queda.  (For a hard-hitting exposé, read this article.)  Ultimately, the White House spokesman stuck to his lie that "only one stylistic change" was made; the word consulate changed to mission.  Take a look at the following comparison of talking points issued by the White House, and make up your own mind.

     As if this is not enough, Carney again threw the CIA under the bus, stating that they were responsible for the talking points.  He kept trying to stress that it was "an interagency process to develop the information about what we knew."  I think the most ridiculous excuse Carney came up with was that the Administration "could not know the relevancy of the warnings" coming from the American embassy in Tripoli.  I have a very simple question, Mr. Carney .... why didn't the Administration rely on the intel on the ground?  Gregory Hicks, the Acting Deputy Chief of Mission, told Secretary of State Clinton directly that they were under attack that very night!  There is no way around it--they knew that night that our mission in Benghazi was under attack and they chose not to rescue those men.  The American people want to know WHO made the changes and WHY.   Perhaps even more importantly, the families of those who were sacrificed deserve the truth.
     Stop blaming the Republicans, a misguided ad by Mitt Romney, and, yes, even George W. Bush's administration (they're still playing that card!)  Fess up and take responsibility for your poor judgment!  Stop trying to blame others and be accountable!  Repeating the same lies over and over again, doesn't make them true.  And just because you offer a half-truth today, doesn't erase the fact that you lied to us nearly eight months ago.  And just because you decided to hold your press conference on a Friday afternoon, to try to limit the damage, we will not let this scandal be so easily dismissed.  Your actions are incompatible with the character of our nation, and we have been betrayed.

Proverbs 19:5    A false witness will not go unpunished, And he who speaks lies will not escape.