More Troubling News On Ebola

     The news about Ebola is not good.  News sources are now reporting that the disease is doubling every three weeks, and the number of dead is rising exponentially.  In an article on Right Side News, the head of the Center for Disease Control says that the spread of Ebola is "spiraling out of control" and that it is "going to get worse in the very near future."  So much for "there's nothing to worry about", right?
     But what is even more alarming is the report in this same article that the World Health Organization says "that we could see the total number of Ebola cases reach 20,000 nine months from now.  But computer models created for the National Institutes of Health and the Department of Defense are projecting that Ebola could soon be growing at a rate of 20,000 cases per month...".
    And in case those statistics are not depressing enough, a scientific model "created jointly by a researcher at the University of Tokyo and a researcher at Arizona State University has produced a "worst-case scenario" of 277,124 Ebola cases by the end of this year..."!
    Yet those are not even the worst numbers.  Right Side News provides these additional statistics:  "An 'econometric simulation model' created by Francis Smart at Michigan State University is predicting that a whopping 1.2 million people will die from Ebola in the next six months, based on the conclusions of Canadian researchers who proved the strain of Ebola in the current West African epidemic could go airborne."
     Need more proof that Ebola could affect the world?  Jonas Schmidt-Chanasit, a prominent German virologist reported that "hope is all but lost for the inhabitants of Sierra Leone and Liberia.  The virus will only 'burn itself out' when it has infected the entire population and killed five million people." But what's to stop it from being transmitted to other countries?  There have already been cases of foreign aid workers who become infected while treating the sick, and then returning to their home countries.
    And the American people are just now digesting the news that 3,000 American military and medical personnel will be going to Africa to try to fight the spread of the disease.  Will they be adequately protected?  Given the rapid escalation of the virus, what are the chances that many of them will come home symptom-free, only to discover within a week or so, that they are infected?  And, in the meantime, how many others will become exposed through contact with them?  The six-page "checklist", distributed by the CDC to hospitals to identify possible Ebola victims, seems to indicate that domestic cases are expected.
     The experience in Africa has shown that once the disease begins spreading, it is hard to control it; and an epidemic (widespread occurrence in a community or area) quickly becomes a pandemic (spreading to a whole country or the world).  My fear is that we are not prepared for what that looks like.

     But an article in The Guardian gives a first-hand account from an aid worker in Liberia:  I wake up each morning – if I have managed to sleep – wondering if this is really happening, or if it is a horror movie. In decades of humanitarian work I have never witnessed such relentless suffering of fellow human beings or felt so completely paralysed and utterly overwhelmed at our inability to provide anything but the most basic, and sometimes less than adequate, care.... In one afternoon last week I watched five seemingly fit, healthy, young men die. I gave the first a bottle of oral rehydration solution and came back with another for the second. In the half a minute or so in which I had been away the first man died, his bottle of water spilled across the floor. The four others followed in quick succession... It is extremely sad to see the indifference of the international community with regards to this epidemic. It is great to see an added interest and investment in research for vaccines, but we urgently need experts who are physically present and more structures on the ground here in west Africa, where the situation continues to be catastrophic.
      In this seemingly civilized and advanced world, it is unconscionable that there was not a quicker reaction to this hideous disease.  You cannot tell me that the minute that Scientists and Virologists from the Western world heard the word "Ebola", they did not discern the dangers and the consequences from inaction.  Now the negligence and apathy of governments and medical experts threatens not only the continent of Africa, but potentially the entire world.  The threat of Ebola can no longer be minimized or ignored.  Please consider what you will do if, and when, this nightmare begins in America.  The time to pray and prepare is now!

Revelation 3:10    "Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth."

Announcing My New Book!

     When I began this blog nearly three years ago, I wasn't sure if anyone would find me, or be interested in my words.  All I knew was that I was receiving a strong prompting to reach out to others who might be feeling the deep and growing concern I had about my faith, my culture, my country, and the world.  Now, with over 1,000 posts logged, and nearly half a million views of this site, I have decided that maybe I had something worthwhile to say after all.  (Actually, it is the Lord who has something to say through me.  I guess you could say He decided He was able to use me).  So I am announcing the publication of my first book, titled Salvation and Survival: Defending My Faith, Freedom & Family.  
     In short, this book is 230 pages that reflect my personal opinion on the social, political and spiritual path America has taken in recent history.  It is a compilation of my essays, presented in chronological order to give you a picture of where we've been, and where we're going.
     You will see my thoughts and views on everything from the Economy, to the wars in the Middle East, to our culture and societal woes; to our Spiritual foreboding -- and everything in between.  Primarily, it is the perspective of an average American woman as we enter the second decade of the 21st Century.  In case you are wondering why anyone would care what I had to say ... It is my sincere hope that future generations might get an idea of what we were thinking; and the people, events and ideas that influenced this unsettling time.
     Since I am a lover of history, you will find discourses on the principles of the founding of this nation, as well as how we've changed; whether for the better or worse.  You will read of how world affairs are threatening the peace and laws of our country, and what I think our future looks like from this particular vantage point in time.  And you will hear my worries about preparing for an uncertain future and how to make sure that the truth of our children's heritage is protected.  In no way, do I expect people to agree with me on every subject; in fact, it is my hope that this book will encourage discussion between people of different ideologies, faiths, and social backgrounds.  After all, this is my opinion -- what is yours?
     If you have been a faithful reader of this blog, then this book will be a collection of the highlights of our common experience; a reminder of how far we've come.  If you are new to my ruminations, then I think you will find this book a refreshing departure from "talking points" prognostications; an "of-the-people" review of our times, so to speak.
     Needless to say, these essays of mine will not affect history, but they are a de facto record of history-in-the-making.  History may actually prove me wrong on any number of my opinions, but the passion for my faith, my freedom, and my family can never be called into question.
     So, I hope you will join me on this journey through our recent history and follow our path, as we tread these troubling times.  Share my thoughts of fear and anxiety, my shouts of triumph, and my ever-present hope in the mercy of God.  We're all in this together!

Romans 15:4   "For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope."

Our "Rome Connection"

     How many times in the last decade or more have you heard the state of our nation compared to the  rise and fall of Rome?  Or compared to the demise of all ancient empires, for that matter?  I think it is the arrogant attitude of Americans to think we are invincible, and somehow immune from the defective character flaws and blunders that brought down the great Roman Empire.
     But I would like to show you some parallels that I discovered in an enlightening article by Bruce A. Ritter, on The Real Truth website.  The article was titled "Seven Signs Of A Falling Nation", and I think you will recognize the soundness of his premise.
     Ritter cited an interview with former U.S. Comptroller General David Walker, in the Financial Times, in which Walker stated that the United States government “is on a ‘burning platform’ of unsustainable policies and practices with fiscal deficits, chronic healthcare underfunding, immigration, and overseas military commitments threatening a crisis if action is not taken soon…”
     In full disclosure, Walker served as United States Comptroller General from 1998 to 2008, and is Founder and CEO of the Comeback America Initiative.  He has been a vocal critic of profligate spending at the federal level, and it has been his desire to "sound an alarm and issue a wake-up call."
     Walker wants Americans to know that there are "striking similarities" to our current condition as a nation and Empire, and those factors which succeeded in bringing down the mighty Roman Empire.  Although Rome was able to maintain its power for just over 500 years, we are declining at a rapid rate -- and in only half the time!  If we choose to recognize it, the warning signs are there ... the factors that we share with ancient Rome, and which point to a declining civilization are as follows:

     The Destruction of the Family Unit -- As happened in ancient Rome, our society has seen a decline in the stability of the family unit.  The role of Fathers in instructing, training and educating their sons is diminished, as mothers oftentimes assume both parental roles.  Romans taught their children the importance of obedience, deference to civic authority and respect for the laws of the land.  But then Roman society became enamored with the temptations of adultery and the fabric of a strong marriage broke down; the family unit was weakened and fragmented.  The result was unmanaged, spoiled kids who grew to hate the ways of their elders.  It is the same today, as our kids have a sense of entitlement, and show a lack of respect for authority and their parents' ways.
     The Failure of the Education System -- The Roman educational system sought to develop the whole person; to impress upon the young a strong moral sense, patriotism for country, a principled character, and social values that would benefit everyone.  But then they adopted a philosophy of "relativism" ... no moral absolutes; and right and wrong was "relevant" to each person's situation.  That has become the byword of our modern educational system.  Today, we see that God's character and commandments have been removed from our schools, which opened the door to a dismissal of civic duty or love of country.  In fact, personal achievement has been sacrificed to accommodate the lowest common denominator, and our children and our society suffer "for lack of knowledge".
     The Rejection of Religion -- One might think that we in modern America might have stood above the Romans, with their worship of pagan gods.  Besides the panorama of false gods and their lewd religious rituals, the Romans were known for Temple prostitution, drunkenness and other vices, such as deceiving, stealing, getting drunk and committing fornication, adultery, even rape!  Surely, we here in America haven't stooped that low, right?  But do we truly worship and show reverence for the God of the Bible?  If so, why do we see adultery, child molestation, acceptance of homosexuality, worship of false idols including money, power and self in the Church -- all forbidden by the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob?  Mr. Ritter's article correctly states, "The religions of Rome, which encouraged and empowered the people to live a life of excess, contributed to the empire’s death. The religions of the West, especially in the U.S., are no better."
     Blatant Narcissism -- Ritter's article referred to this warning sign as "Pleasure-Seeking", but I contend that narcissism -- the excessive interest in one's self -- is at the root of our national demise.  We've all heard of the Romans' delight in watching the Gladiators fight to the death, or Christians being eaten by lions; and they were famous for their sensual bathhouses and drunken orgies to honor Bacchus, the false god of wine and sensual pleasures.  But how are we any different with our insane obsession with "reality TV" and our worship of Hollywood stars and overpaid athletes?  Our media and advertisements sell materialism and covetousness; while our kids imitate the poor character traits and sexual promiscuity of godless entertainers.  It's hard to tell the difference between ancient Rome and the Present!
      Economy, the Government and the Military -- Ancient Rome soon found itself drowning in over-taxation and a massive consumer population that focused on services rather than production and growth—sound familiar?  And just like today, Roman government and bureaucracy became expensive to maintain, and as Ritter explains, "To compensate for inflation, Roman emperors in the second and third centuries produced more coins, but these were no longer made of silver and gold alloys, which had become scarce. Roman currency dwindled in value."  I couldn't have expressed our current economic situation any better!  Just like in Rome, a belief system of independence and self-determination was replaced with a sense of entitlement, as citizens drowned in debt.  That warped sense of fiscal responsibility has also transformed our military, as like Rome, we are stretched too thin and over-extended in foreign lands.  Ritter points out, " Roman soldiers, once known for their precision in battle and rigid obedience to authority, eventually became demoralized."  Can we say any less of our modern-day soldiers?
     A Sense of Indestructibility -- Like ancient Rome, we in America, tend to think the "party will never end."  We are blinded by our own failure to face the truth and see that we have made some mistakes, and these errors may just become the impetus for our destruction.  The failure to recognize the other six warning signs will be a significant factor in the demise of our short-lived Empire.
     While it saddens me to see the once bright future of this great nation dim and dwindle, I truly believe it is a sign that we can celebrate.  I believe it means that there is a kingdom and government on the horizon that will be all the things both we and Rome could not achieve ... it will be incorruptible; it will teach true family values and educational principles that will "train up a child in the way he should go"; we will see a religion that glorifies God instead of self; there will be no need for war, and we will enjoy an economy in which the righteous flourish and prosperity abounds... in short, the Kingdom of God will reside on earth and all thoughts of "worldly empires" will be forgotten.  So, while Rome lasted a little over 500 years, and this Empire is only 238 years old, this future "government" will last forever!  I can't wait to claim my citizenship!

2 Timothy 4:18    "The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and will bring me safely to his heavenly kingdom. To Him be glory for ever and ever. Amen."

This Is No Time To Disagree

   

     It appears that the politicians and officials, whose job it is to protect the American people from harm, cannot agree upon whether the most dangerous jihadist group in the world is a danger to our homeland.
     Francis X. Taylor, the undersecretary for intelligence and analysis, said the Department of Homeland Security is "unaware of any specific credible threat to the U.S. homeland” from the Islamic State (IS).  Secretary of Homeland Security Jeh Jonson said,  “We know of no credible information that ISIL is planning to attack the homeland at present.”  Then you have Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel being very vague at the Naval War College on exactly what he meant by saying "ISIS is an imminent threat to every interest we have."  They can't even agree on what to call this threat ... is it IS, ISIL or ISIS?
     Secretary of State John Kerry says we are not "at war" with ISIS, referring to call it "a counterterrorism operation of a significant order."  Yet Pentagon press secretary Rear Admiral John Kirby said, "This is not the Iraq War of 2002, but make no mistake, we know we are at war with ISIL."  To add to the confusion, in late August, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Martin Dempsey said he does believe that ISIS is currently plotting or planning attacks against the U.S. or Europe.
    Now, the latest coming from a CNN report, says that the CIA believes that ISIS "can muster between 20,000 and 31,500 fighters across Iraq and Syria", and they estimate that 2,000 of those fighters come from Western sympathizers.
     So, what exactly are we, the American people -- the homeland -- supposed to think?  Are we being  kept in a state of confusion or denial on purpose?  Does it keep us mindless, or indifferent, when it comes to protecting ourselves?  Will it make it that much easier for a terrorist attack to take place on our home soil, and perpetuate this endless military-industrial complex that has drained us for the last thirteen years?  All these are thoughts that I don't want to entertain, but it certainly makes me feel like the wolf is on our doorstep, and the three little pigs can't even agree on whether they heard a knock at the door.
     But, I'm here to tell you that we better start paying attention to the evidence that is before our eyes.  If you have not yet heard this story I'm about to tell you, I predict that it will soon be at the forefront of our national awareness.  In June of this year, 19-year-old Brendan Tevlin, of New Jersey, was killed in what appeared to be a random act of violence.   In fact, the Essex Country Prosecutor's Office initially characterized Brendan as "a target" of a random robbery attempt, in which he was shot 8 times by suspect Ali Muhammad Brown.  Just another unfortunate teen in the wrong place, at the wrong time, right?  Suspicions were hinted at ... could it have been a drug hit?  What might Brendan had been involved in that resulted in his death?

Brendan Tevlin

     Never mind that Brendan was, by all accounts, a remarkable kid who was a National Honor Society student, with no record of trouble; or that this was a black-on-white crime, which didn't receive the national attention that the Ferguson, Missouri shooting has garnered.  The real tragedy in this story is that the media and law enforcement both ignored, and attempted to misrepresent, the truth behind this murder.  And here it is:  Brown, who has since confessed to Brendan Tevlin's murder, along with three other murders in Washington state, says they were carried out as retribution for innocent lives lost in Iraq, Syria and other parts of the Islamic world.   “All these lives are taken every single day by America, by this government. So a life for a life,” Brown told detectives, according to the documents.   So, you see, folks; the terrorists are already here!
     According to NJ.com, Prosecutors say Brown is a devout Muslim who had become angered by U.S. military intervention in the Islamic world, which he referred to as “evil.” He also referred to drug use as inherently evil.  “During the interview Brown also stated that, as part of his beliefs, if a ‘man sees evil then he must take action against that evil’,” according to court papers.
     But here's the question we must ask ourselves:  How many others like Brown are being recruited for jihad?  Websites such as Breitbart.com and newspapers like The Houston Chronicle have written that U.S. Intelligence reports indicate that over 100 Americans have enlisted as Islamic State fighters, and it is readily accepted that ISIS has successfully recruited 2,000 Westerners via its sophisticated online recruitment methods.  The Daily Mail, out of London, reported last week that at least three Minnesota women have traveled to Syria to assist ISIS fighters. Two American ISIS members have already been killed, both from Minnesota.  And now we have Brendan Tevlin gunned down by an ISIS-sympathizer, on the streets of West Orange, New Jersey -- simply for being an American.
     And what did the Authorities do?  Instead of telling the truth, they attempted to give the public a false sense of security, by intimating that Brendan, an innocent and good kid, was "targeted".  That lie not only besmirched Brendan's reputation, but also served to encourage the public to let down their guard ... this couldn't possibly affect us; there must have been a connection between the killer and the victim.
     But here's the truth that should have been shouted from every media outlet across the country ... We are all potential terrorist victims in our own country!  Whether it is those crossing our unsecured southern border who wish us harm; or those who are seduced and recruited by slick social media productions; or those who simply hate us for our governments' policies ... the Enemy is here in the Homeland!  Why isn't this story at the forefront of the national media?  Why isn't it being talked about?  It needs to be a part of our national dialogue --- not in an effort to spread panic and/or bigotry; but to help make us aware of this very real threat, and in the hopes that Brendan's death would count for something.  How many more Brendan's will it take before our leaders not only agree upon the threat, but tell us the truth about the enemy?  It's time that we quit trying to downplay the seriousness of this evil --- it is not "workplace violence", and it is not "random targeting". A jihad has been declared against this country and the enemy is determined to execute their "holy war".  We must be just as determined in our resolve to be open and honest about what that threat looks like.  May God not turn His back on us, in this, our hour of need.

Job 5:12    "He frustrates the plotting of the shrewd, So that their hands cannot attain success. "
      
   

Joshua 4:24

That all the peoples of the earth may know 

that the hand of the Lord is mighty 

and that you may reverence and fear the Lord your God forever.

     The Old Testament is rich in historical lessons that teach us today, and Joshua is one of my favorite go-to Books.  The Scripture today is the last verse in Chapter 4, and is the culmination of the great testimony of the Lord's mighty hand as the Israelites crossed over the River Jordan into the Promised Land.  

     You might imagine that after wandering in the desert for 40 years, and after the deaths of the first generation and their Spiritual and National leader, Moses, that this new generation of Israelites might have had a few qualms about trusting the Lord to deliver them into this "land of giants."  But the Lord had chosen wisely in designating Joshua as the man to accomplish His purpose for this time.

     In my Bible, the preceding chapter is titled "The Miraculous Crossing of the River Jordan", and reveals that the Jordan was flooding at this time of year.  The fact that the Lord did not have the Israelites cross into the Promised Land at a different time of the year, or at a different place was to provide proof of His Power, and to magnify it.  

     Just like at the Red Sea, God's mighty hand separated the waters for them to safely cross; showing them that "God has the same power to finish the salvation of his people that he had to begin it, for he is the Alpha and the Omega." [Quote from the commentary of Matthew Henry.]  In other words, just as God's power parted the Red Sea at the beginning of their journey, so would His power part the River Jordan at the completion of their journey into the Promised Land.  

     Chapters 3 and 4 of Joshua are a great testimony of not only the power of God to protect His people, but of the success of our journey when we rely on, and are obedient to, God's commands.  The priests did as God commanded them through Joshua, and the ark of the covenant went before the people, carried by the priests.  They did not come out of the Jordan River until Joshua commanded them, and Joshua did not command them until God directed him.  What a great example for us!  Too many times, we think the victory is ours, when in reality, it always belongs to the Lord!  And we are most successful in this life, when we listen to Him and follow His directives, instead of leading our lives as we desire.

     And God commanded a man from each tribe to pick up a stone, and build a memorial to Him so that all generations would not forget what He had done for them.  For God knew of the tendency of His people (and it certainly applies to us!) to forget the wondrous works He has done for us.  He directed this memorial 1) so they would not forget, and 2) as proof for future generations of what He did on this day.  

     I especially want to make mention of this fact:  the safe crossing of the River Jordan occurred just 5 days short of the 40 years since they came out of Egypt, and of the 40 years of wandering that God had pronounced as their punishment for disobedience and not entering the Promised Land the first time.  It is a reminder of our Savior's Word in Matthew 24:22:  "For the elect's sake, the days are shortened."  

     But there is another reason that they were granted access into the Promised Land 5 days short of their 40-year sentence:  it gave them time to prepare for the Feast of Passover, which had been celebrated as they began their odyssey from Egypt.  God ordered this to happen on this very day so that they could enter Canaan four days before the annual solemnity of the Passover, and on the very day when the preparation for it was to begin.  His Sovereignty is so evident here!  

     And this brings us back to the memorial of stones, and the reasons for it, as proclaimed in our Scripture today:  That all the peoples of the earth may know the mighty hand of God and revere Him in awe and wonder for all generations .... forever!  Even in these times of turmoil and uncertainty, we would do well to remember the times God has delivered us safely to the other side of our journey and disobedience.  As He has done in the past when we obey Him, so will He do forever.  We have confidence in His promises and His might.  What a comfort that should be!

Ted Tells It Like It Is!

     Let's see, there's a new non-profit in D.C., and their name is In Defense of Christians (IDC) and their website claims they are a " non-partisan organization whose mission is to heighten awareness among policymakers and the general public of the existence of ancient and often persecuted minority communities in the Middle East, particularly Christians. IDC will also conduct policy advocacy for vulnerable Christians and other religious minorities."  They go on to say, "Through greater awareness and advocacy, IDC hopes to influence the U.S. and foreign governments to adopt policies that will safeguard and empower minority religious communities in the Middle East, especially those vulnerable to violence, marginalization, and persecution." [My emphasis].
     Furthermore, the inception of this organization was inspired by a letter that Armin Wegner wrote to Adolf Hitler in 1933.  Wegner was a WWI German soldier, medic, and human rights activist who witnessed the Armenian genocide in Turkey, and later became an outspoken critic of Hitler's persecution against the Jews.
     Yet this organization who champions basic human rights and freedom of religion showed their true colors during a speech by Senator Ted Cruz.  Speaking to a group of (supposedly) Middle Eastern Christians who deplore the murderous rampage of ISIS in Iraq and Syria, Senator Cruz was booed off the stage after stating, "Christians have no greater ally than Israel."

     Cruz began his speech by appealing to Christian values in the face of Evil:  "We are all united in defense of Christians. Tonight, we are all united in defense of Jews. Tonight, we are all united in defense of people of good faith, who are standing together against those who would persecute and murder those who dare disagree with their religious teachings."  He continued by declaring that "Hate is hate; and Murder is Murder" ... no matter who instigates it.  Any group -- be it ISIS, Hamas, Hezbollah, Boko Haram, or States such as Iran -- who advocates hate and murder of another group based on religious faith, are all manifestations of the same evil.
     Supposedly, the IDC conference was being held to discuss how to deal with the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East of religious minorities who suffer from violence, marginalization and persecution.  But at the mention of Israel, the crowd grew ugly.  Cruz tried to remind them that the same groups that hate Israel, hate America.  "Those who hate Jews hate Christians. If those in this room will not recognize that, then my heart weeps. If you hate the Jewish people you are not reflecting the teachings of Christ. And the very same people who persecute and murder Christians right now, who crucify Christians, who behead children, are the very same people who target Jews for their faith, for the same reason."
     It was obvious that the Palestinian Christians in the room were having none of it.  I understand that the current war between Palestine and Israel has seen many Christians in that area suffering.  And it is obvious to me that the world cannot separate Zionism and the State of Israel, from the Jewish people and their status with our Christian God.  Depending on which side of that conflict you side with, you either see Israel's presence in the Middle East as a fulfillment of prophecy in which she is defending herself from Hamas and those who would like to see her wiped off the face of the map; or you see her as an unwelcome and illegitimate power in the region, who has displaced millions of people.  It is an argument that will never be won to the satisfaction of everyone.
     In the end, Senator Cruz left the stage by declaring, "If you will not stand with Israel and the Jews, then I will not stand with you!"  For those who will choose to see this circumstance through the lens of Zionism, you cannot understand where Cruz is coming from.  For those misguided Christians who believe in Replacement Theology; you, too, will only see this situation from worldly eyes.  But for those who believe in the Word of God, and that He will one day remove the blindness from the Jews; and who understand that we will join faiths as a united Body of Christ eager for our Savior's imminent return ... then you know exactly where Senator Cruz's heart was in that statement.
     We will continue to be misunderstood by those who hate for reasons that belie the Truth and Prophecy of the Bible.  But we must stand in solidarity and pray that God's hand in world affairs will soon be revealed.  In the meantime, I applaud Senator Cruz for putting his faith before politics, and speaking his truth.  He showed great courage in standing for God; that is a decidedly rare event in Washington D.C.

Ezekiel 39:27-28   "When I have brought them back from the nations and have gathered them from the countries of their enemies, I will show Myself holy through them in the sight of many nations.  Then they will know that I am the LORD their God, for though I sent them into exile among the nations, I will gather them to their own land, not leaving any behind." 

One Muslim's View of Christianity

   

     A rather minor story blipped across the media radar screen last week, but it caught my attention.  I have not been able to ignore its implications; it has caused me to do some serious thinking.  So I thought I would share my thoughts with you .... The Environment and Urbanism Minister of Turkey, Mr. Erdogan Bayraktar made the following statement:  "Christianity is no longer a religion. It’s a culture now."
     He made the statement in the context of a warning to his fellow countrymen.  He cautioned them that Islam must not follow the path of decline that has seen Christianity watered down to philosophical clichés and ineffectiveness, and countries like ours turn away from faith and towards secularism.  Presumably, he is championing a more robust form of Islam; one that would not restrict the "key aspects of Islam" (like Sharia law and Jihad?).
    But my focus today is not on Turkey and their struggle, but on ours.  Is he correct?  The Turkish Minister backed up his opinion with this statement:  "There are 2.5 billion Christians in the world ... The biggest three countries in the world are not Muslim countries. China, India – only the U.S. believes in a single God. Spirituality and religious feelings are weakening."  He went on to say that a Religion "teaches", and implied that Christianity no longer does that... it has simply become part of our culture; it no longer trains, illuminates or enlightens our existence.
     That bothered me a lot because it was a pretty strong indictment.  And I wanted to resolve the accusation in my own mind.  First of all, what do I consider a Religion to be?  The dictionary defines "Religion" as:  the belief in and worship of a superhuman controlling power, esp. a personal God or gods; a particular system of faith and worship; or a pursuit or interest to which someone ascribes supreme importance.  "Culture" is defined as: the attitudes and behavior characteristic of a particular social group; the arts and other manifestations of human intellectual achievement regarded collectively [of a particular nation, people, or other social group].
     I have never believed that God commanded us to form a Religion; in fact so much damage has been done in the world (and the Church) because of Religion.  The problem with Religion is that it does become "a system"; and oftentimes is at the whim of men.  That being said, Christianity is so much more than a Religion or a belief system ... to me it is the foundational hope that I have through my relationship with the Son of God and all that He has done for me.  It is the way I live my life; it is a hunger that I have to know more of Him; it is how I treat other people.  His teachings guide my speech, my thoughts, my actions.  He is who I want to share with everyone.  Do I live my Christianity perfectly? No. I will admit I am a work-in-progress.
     So, in the West, or in this country in particular, has Christianity become just part of the culture; another aspect of our secular society?  Is it just an "attitude" or viewpoint of a particular subset of our social fabric?  Is it just an "intellectual act" that we flaunt in public, especially on Sundays?  If Mr. Bayraktar is right, and a Religion should teach something, what is our Christianity teaching about us?  Mind you, none of us would like to see our faith mimic the harsher and more authoritarian versions of Islam.  But I must ask myself if I "teach" or "demonstrate" the true message of Christianity when I declare my faith.  Do others see Jesus Christ, my Savior, in me?
     In the end, I do not disagree with this Muslim that Christianity is undergoing a change in its perception of itself.  It is what the Bible calls "the falling away" or apostasy.  But there will always be a true remnant of the faithful who hear the Lord's voice and set themselves apart from the temptations of this life.  They remain constant and unwavering in their loyalty.  Their faith is genuine, heartfelt and a light unto the lost of the world.  Let His light shine in and through you!

1 Peter 2:9    "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
   
   

This September 11th ... What's Different?

   

     For some reason, this anniversary of 9-11 finds me being more cautious and alert.  Is it that overt threats against our homeland have been made by an Islamic terrorist army that makes Osama bin Laden look like Mr. Rogers?  Is it the missing Libyan jetliners?  Is it that there are credible reports that terrorists from the Middle East and Africa have easily entered the country through the porous southern border?  Or is it that I'm just more "edgy" because the enemy is no longer keeping its plans to attack us under wraps, but boldly proclaiming it from every online social networking service available?
     How about "all of the above"?  Plus, there is the book by the security contractors in Benghazi, who write they were told to "stand down" from rescuing their teammates.  How does that appear to those who wish to destroy us?  All these scenarios point to the likelihood that we are seen as a viable target.  These are the "facts on the ground", so to speak; what I can point to in support of my clear, sound reasoning.
     But then there is what my spirit senses.  There's no physical proof, no material witness, no concrete evidence.  I am simply unsettled in my soul, and aware that danger is in the air.  I also know that this particular day has become a symbol of victory over us, and the September 11th, 2012 attacks on the compound of the American consulate in Benghazi have emboldened our enemies.  And that enemy has coalesced into a murderous, barbarous horde that my spirit recognizes as pure Evil.  It is more than a religious ideology gone bad; it is dark, fiendish and diabolical.
     What's more, we are not the same country we were on September 11, 2001.  I'm sorry to say, but I think we are weaker, less secure, and less determined to defend our might as we were on that fall morning, thirteen years ago today.  Our military is exhausted and stretched too thin as they fight multiple battles on foreign fronts.   Add that to the lack of defense on our borders, and the growing division among the American people on issues such as immigration, racism, and social/moral values, and we are a country disunited and vulnerable.  In short, we are weary of our struggles, and perhaps have even become anesthetized; worn down to a state of desensitization.
     Also, our Western culture is practically incapable of sustaining a long-term state of readiness.  We are ingrained with a desire and demand for instant gratification ... we pay attention to the news for a period of time; gather our buckets of rice and beans; take a few self-defense classes; buy some ammo and extra food and supplies .... and go back to sleep.   "There, I've taken care of my emergency essentials; I'm prepared," we tell ourselves.  "Now, I want to go back to my fun, and my sports, and planning my next vacation."
     But our enemy doesn't think that way.  They've succeeded in attacking us on September 11th -- not once, but twice in the last thirteen years.  And each time they're thinking "bigger and better."  Not only that, but they have the patience to wait until the time is right and they can execute their plan, just the way they want it.  They don't get weary and they don't go back to sleep.
     But, this is the important factor that Americans don't understand --- September 11th is more than just the day planes flew into the World Trade Towers, or the day that America was attacked on foreign soil.  Radical Muslims look upon the attacks in 2001 as it pertains to their history over the last 330 years or so.  September 11th is a significant date to them because it represents the beginning of the defeat of the Turkish Ottoman Empire, (the last great Caliphate), at the battle of Vienna on September 11, 1683.  It represents the beginning of the decline of their Islamic culture and the rise of the Western culture.  Therefore, to the radical jihadists, September 11th has become symbolic of reversing that trend and re-establishing the superiority of Islam.  It only makes sense that with the rise of ISIS, and a new Caliphate, that they want to be able to create a new September 11th to celebrate victory, rather than the bitter taste of a centuries-old defeat.  They are on a roll right now, and this is why I am praying that with God's help, this day will be uneventful.
     And if He decides to bless us and protect us, my prayer is also that we would awaken to the growing peril that we face.  We cannot win this battle alone; we must ask God to go before us and protect our individual lives, our nation, and our way of life.  Keep on your knees, people!  And may there be a hedge of protection around you and your family today.

Deuteronomy 31:8      "The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."
   

The Southern Border: What You're Not Hearing

     This post comes to you courtesy of an organization called Oath Keepers.  I cannot imagine that you are unaware of them, but if so, here is their mission statement:  Oath Keepers is a non-partisan association of current and formerly serving military, police, and first responders  who pledge to fulfill the oath all military and police take to “defend the Constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic.”  Furthermore, Oath Keepers reaches out to both current and veteran military personnel, to remind them of their oaths, to teach them more about the Constitution they swore to defend, and to inspire them to defend it.  Their motto is "Not on our watch!"
     They go even further on their website in describing their loyalty to Article VI of the Constitution, rather than to politicians, but I will let you do your own research on what that may entail.  Today, I want to make you aware of what they are doing to help defend our Southern border.
     Under an article, titled Texas Ranchers Fear For Their Lives And Families -- Ask Veterans For Help, we get an up-close and personal view of just how bad it is on the Texas border.  Never mind what you hear the talking heads or the White House Press Corps say ... listen to the first-hand account of someone who is living the reality:  Rusty is a lifelong rancher along the border of Texas and Mexico.  He describes how the Mexican drug cartels are using death threats, assault, and attempted murder to drive ranchers and their families off of their land. He tells how some of his neighbors are fleeing their ranches, while others are standing firm with the help of volunteer patriot security patrols.

     In an audio interview on the Oath Keepers website, Rusty describes the Border Patrol intercepting Muslim men from Somalia, Iran, Iraq, Syria, and says “when they [Border Patrol] take them in, they’ll disappear – they’ll take them somewhere – and even the records will disappear. And I asked one of them ‘what’s the deal on the records’ and he said ‘that’s an order from way up the line, up in DC – they don’t want anybody to know how many are coming through’…they [the local Border Patrol agents] keep records but the records disappear, out of the mainframe – out of the computer – and the paper records too.”
     Rob, an out-of-state Oath Keepers member who has been serving as a volunteer guard on Rusty’s ranch corroborates Rusty's narrative, and adds his own opinion:  "The only thing we [the American public] hear about is women and kids… and when they make huge drug busts, that’s what we hear about.  We don’t hear about the gang-bangers coming across, we don’t hear about the terrorists coming across.  We don’t hear about the violence going down on the border.  I had a rancher call me last week, and begging for help on 15,000 acres.  He had been moved off his ranch because he doesn’t feel safe with his family there.  He’s been shot at and threatened.  We don’t hear that [on the news]."
     Perhaps the most frightening information coming from this interview was Rusty's account of the child abductions, sex-slave, and prostitution threats:  "They steal kids. Literally, they steal kids. Depending on how good looking they are, they’re gonna start at $35,00.00 to $45,000.00 dollars per kid. Blond haired, blue eyed little boy, little girl, is anywhere from $50,000 to $75,000.00 dollars, depending on how old they are. The older they are, particularly for girls, the more the price goes up. There’s been some girls that have been missing here, for five years from Brownsville, they were stolen when they were thirteen. One of them was found in a whorehouse in Mexico City. Her parents bought her out [from the cartels]– they bought her out for a million-five."
     Apparently Governor Rick Perry's call-up of the Texas National Guard is having little effect.  According to Rusty, "The Texas State Guard are in the flimsy, cheap, probably Chinese-made watch-towers.  They’re not bullet proof, they’ve got glass on four sides and they posted them from McAllen, which is the North end of the Valley, to Laredo, which is about 200 miles.  They’re not down here south."  And Rob is saying that the BLM land, owned by the Government, is a very large, wide open “free pass” zone for the cartels, terrorists, and gangs coming across the border.  "Border Patrol is not even allowed to chase people on it... There’s a joke in the community here that the only people allowed on Fish and Wildlife land are the illegal immigrants."
     And now these brave Texas ranchers (and Americans!) are left to their last resort ... asking Texas veterans to live up to their Constitutional oaths and come help defend the border.  That is a poor reflection upon this nation's sovereignty ... oh, but I forgot ... we are no longer sovereign or independent. There is an agenda here and it's not a pretty one.  Rusty's story makes it very clear that Americans and their lives, liberty, property, and pursuit of happiness are sacrifices worthy to achieve an ill-gotten goal.  May God protect these families and those who come to their aid!

Nehemiah 4:14     And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.”

You Need To Ask Yourself: Am I Prepared?

     We are living in a time many of us are not ready for.  After all, every generation is supposed to surpass the quality of life of the previous one, right?  Weren't we supposed to be the generation that prospered above and beyond what anyone expected?  We're Americans, and nothing can stop our progress; at least that's been our arrogant mindset up until now.
      I am blessed that I have lived during the greatest explosion of American ingenuity, inventiveness, and entrepreneurship.  None have equaled us.  I have enjoyed more creature comforts than my parents or grandparents.  I have known the heights of working for a great company, and the even more valuable benefits of working with my husband in our own business.  Yes, life in America has been all that anyone in the free world could hope for.  But there are storm clouds threatening to rain on our parade, and some of us will be caught without an umbrella.

     Lately, my focus has been on spiritual preparation, and I still believe that should be our priority.  But I also believe that those of us who are spiritually equipped should also be physically ready, so that we can assist others who are not prepared spiritually OR physically.  I believe we will still need to fulfill our commission of serving God and others, even during societal collapse, and therefore it is incumbent upon us to be prepared to survive the aftermath of whatever is coming.
     The latest whispers of impending upheaval and disorder center on the vulnerability of our national grid system; or a possible terrorist attack upsetting the normal balance of everyday life.  Last week, SHTFPlan had a great article asking the question, "What If You Had A Week To Prepare For the End of the World?"   I highly recommend that you read this article -- it asks some pretty serious questions that I think you need to answer for yourself, if you have not done so already. Whether massive mayhem and pandemonium are the result of an extended power outage, or something more devastating and destructive, I want you to ask yourself these basic questions:
     How would I get food if the grocery stores are closed?  First of all, a grid-down scenario means food in the stores will start spoiling, cash registers won't work, and every shelf will be emptied within hours.  You don't know how long you'll be without power.   Are you prepared for days or weeks, or even months, without a source for buying food?  The food in your own refrigerator will only last so long, and how much do you have on your own shelves?  Right now, I have a freezer full of meat, but I'm prepared if we lose power for any length of time.  My American Canner will get a good work-out canning all that thawed-out beef, and I'll have quarts of savory meat to last for months.  If you don't know how to can food, or bake bread from ground wheat (which I hope you've considered storing), then I suggest you learn those skills soon.
     How will you cook food, even if you've got it?  Do you know how to start a cook fire?  Do you have the necessary tools and cast iron cookware you will need?  What about a solar oven or a rocket stove?  You will get real tired of eating cold beans out of a can; I promise you that.
     Are you prepared for extreme heat and cold if there is no power for months?  I know that our grandparents and great-grandparents managed to survive without central air and heat, but this generation of Americans will suffer without their conveniences.  You will need to adjust your activities and have a plan for coping with the debilitating effects of extreme temperatures.
     Can you cope with no lights?  Your scented candles won't last long and won't provide much light when there is no electricity.  How is your provision of flashlights and batteries; matches, kerosene for lanterns, etc.?  You will be surprised how important a little light can be in the darkness of calamity.
     No transportation?  How fit are you?  If there is no power due to an EMP, your car's computers will be destroyed and the gas pumps won't be working.  Do you have a good pair of shoes (think several pairs)?  How far can you walk?  Our sedentary population will suffer greatly if they are not prepared for physical activity.
     What will you do for water?  If you live in the city, municipal water facilities will no longer be able to provide you water.  And if you live in the country, your water well is run by electricity, so you'll be out of luck.  Water, food and shelter are necessary for life, so without water you are in serious trouble.  The old-fashioned hand pump is the way to go in the country, and city dwellers will have to find a way to store water, both for cooking and sanitation.
    Speaking of sanitation ... Human waste will become a huge problem and a recipe for disease.  In the country, an old-fashioned outhouse would be an option; or a product like the Luggable Loo, a portable 5-gallon toilet.  Either way, sanitation will be an important issue that must be addressed.
     There is so much more that you should have a plan for ... medical needs, self-defense, and how you plan on serving others, yet not putting the health and safety of your own family in jeopardy.   I think we all have a sense that something is coming ... and sooner, rather than later.  If you have been avoiding taking the necessary steps that will give your family a chance to survive a variety of crises, then I would ask you to first pray ... ask God to give you a sense of peace and calm as He directs you on how to prepare.  Ask Him for spiritual strength and knowledge to teach you what you need to do in this physical world.  I don't want to unduly scare you, but I urge you to make haste ... I sincerely believe that time is short.  You can do this, and you can accomplish it in the shelter of His protective presence.

Psalm 91:1-2     He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress; My God, in Him I will trust.”