Matthew 24:45-51

     

Who then is the faithful, thoughtful, and wise servant, whom his master has put in charge of his household to give to the others the food and supplies at the proper time? 

     Blessed (happy, fortunate, and to be envied) is that servant whom, when his master comes, he will find so doing. I solemnly declare to you, he will set him over all his possessions.  

     But if that servant is wicked and says to himself, My master is delayed and is going to be gone a long time, and begins to beat his fellow servants and to eat and drink with the drunken, the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour of which he is not aware, 

     And will punish him [cut him up by scourging] and put him with the pretenders (hypocrites); there will be weeping and grinding of teeth.

     This is a rather long passage to present today, but it was what came to mind as I witnessed the contrast within our American experience this past week.  Among my fellow human beings, I have observed both lawlessness and grace; as well as compassion and cruelty.  And I would be willing to submit to you that most all of these people would identify themselves as believers in Jesus Christ.  They would most likely check the box next to "Christian", if asked about their religious convictions.

     Yet were some of these same people involved with the burning and destruction of property in Ferguson?  Did they harbor hate and cast aspersions on a brother of Christ because of the color of his skin?  Were they among the greedy and disgraceful shoppers that mobbed the nation's stores on Black Friday?  Sadly, I think we all know the answers.

    If Jesus had decided to return this past week, can you see how this Scripture would have played out?  We are the servants who have been left in charge until His return, and the question becomes, "How are we fulfilling our duties"?  As you can see from the parable, the Master desires that we serve each other; to provide the sustenance (both physical and spiritual) that the "household", or Body of Christ, needs until "the proper time" -- which is the hour of His return.  

     So are we lifting up our brethren, encouraging them, helping them when they need assistance?  Are we acting as those who follow His commandments to first love Him, and then to love our fellow man?  

     I was greatly encouraged after seeing the outpouring of charity to those business owners who suffered such devastating losses in the wake of the rioting and looting in Ferguson.  Through an online donation website, business owners received the genuine outpouring of Christian love from the Blessed Servants that our Scripture speaks about.  Nearly $300,000 has been raised in 3 days, by strangers, to help those who need to rebuild their businesses.  

     Our Scripture says that those servants were faithful, thoughtful, and wise.  I know that we cannot assume that everyone who donated looks upon Jesus Christ as their Savior; but I think it is safe to say that the Holy Spirit is working in someone who responds to the needs of another with selfless charity. We can pray that each of those individuals will continue in their journey to receive the full blessings of the Kingdom of God.

     And what Blessings they will be!  The Word tells us that these servants will not only be happy and fortunate, but envied; for they will be "set over all his (the Master, Jesus) possessions."  In other words, those of us who fulfill our duties as servants of Christ on this earth, will "rule and reign" with Him, as His trusted servants in the Millennial Kingdom at His return.  We will hear, "Well done, you good and faithful servant! You have been faithful and trustworthy over a little; I will put you in charge of much. Enter into and share the joy which your master enjoys." (Matthew 25:23)

     But what of those "wicked" servants?  Those who give no mind to the hour or the day, nor how their every deed will be scrutinized upon the Master's return?  True, they also wear the title "Christian", are in church every Sunday, and act the part among their peers.  But how are they out in public; did they react in anger or impatience over the Thanksgiving holiday?  Did they push and shove at the Midnight Sale at Macy's?  Are they more interested in the material, temporal, and sensual aspects of the Christmas season than any true reflection on the amazing fact that God came to dwell with us on earth?  Ultimately, are they neglecting to attend to our first responsibility, which is to nurture, and care for, and grow followers of Jesus Christ?

     We must not dismiss this awesome duty with which we've been tasked.  Today's Scripture is very graphic about the consequences of that dereliction of duty.  We will stand judged and the ramifications will not be pleasant!  He will accuse us as hypocrites; we will be punished; and we will not share in the benefits of those who remained faithful and productive.  

     I know this does not jive with the message of a Merciful God, or the Age of Grace in which we now live.  But we must realize that God will not be, and is not, whatever we want to imagine He is.  This Scripture reflects the fulness of the Character of God and His Son.  He is who He says He is in the Bible.  He will do what He says He will do.  He will recognize you for who you are.  

     We may all be His servants, but it is abundantly clear that what kind of servant you are will matter.  Wise ... or wicked ... your reward depends on it.   

     

The U.S. Economy & The Price of Oil: Could The Fix Be In?

     Today, I'm going to give a disclaimer, right off the bat.  I am no authority on economics, world politics, or how commodities are manipulated.  But I have pretty strong instincts; and something "just ain't right", as they say, about falling gas prices and the price of a barrel of crude oil.

     What I'm writing will come nowhere close to explaining all the manipulation going on among the world players.  I know I'm just scratching the surface, but perhaps you have been asking the same questions I have.  What's really going on, and what is the endgame in all this mad maneuvering?

     First of all, are you as quizzical as I am about how and why the price of a gallon of regular gasoline has dropped by 23 cents in the last month, and nearly one dollar (90 cents) since this time last year (according to GasBuddy.com)?  And why have the voices that just a few years ago were shouting, "Drill, Baby, Drill", are now quietly looking at slowing down production.   

     From what I can understand, part of the reason is pure economics.  With the success of the Bakken  reserves in North Dakota, and the Permian Basin and Eagle Ford shale fields in Texas, there is an oversupply of natural gas.  It's the old axiom we learned in Economics 101:  Prices are determined by supply and demand; and right now, our supply is growing faster than the demand for gasoline.  U.S. car manufacturers are building more fuel-efficient cars, which creates less demand for gas, which directly effects the bottom line of oil companies. 

     Although foreign markets, like China and India, are developing a market for increased supplies of gas and oil, there is not a huge desire for exporting our oil.  If you will remember, just a few short years ago, we were all screaming about the $4/gallon prices and calling for more domestic production; we all wanted energy independence.  So the American people are happy with the low gas prices, but the American oil companies are starting to fidget.  In fact, here in Texas, just two-three months ago, expectations were that the exploration activity would continue for another 15-20 years.  Just this last week, there are local rumors that production could start shutting down, as the companies drastically cut their risks.  They just can't afford to spend the huge outlays for speculative drilling, if the supply for their product is diminishing.  In other words, their businesses are becoming less profitable.  It's really this simple -- when you see your profit start to decline, you cut back on your expenditures.  

     I won't even begin to try to describe how this could potentially affect the banking industry who has provided extravagant loans to these oil companies.  What do you think happens to a bank's balance sheet when oil company executives decide that the costs of further exploration outweigh the risk or profits, and bankruptcy is the most prudent solution?  Even selling the loan for pennies on the dollar means huge losses to major financial institutions.  Think that might be the tipping point for our economy?

     But what else is causing what seems to be a drastic and sudden drop in oil prices?  This gets a little more complicated and hard for me to understand, but it's important for us to consider.  The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) met this past week, and decided to keep the price of a barrel of oil at just over $70/barrel.  In case, you're like me, I didn't have a clear understanding of exactly what OPEC was or how they operated.

     Here is the "official" explanation:  The purpose of OPEC for members is to "coordinate and unify the petroleum policies of its Member Countries and ensure the stabilization of oil markets in order to secure an efficient, economic and regular supply of petroleum to consumers, a steady income to producers and a fair return on capital for those investing in the petroleum industry."  Furthermore, OPEC member countries monitor the market and decide collectively to raise or lower oil production in order to maintain stable prices and supply.

     OK, now the picture is getting clearer ... wouldn't it be important to know who the major players are?  Because it sure seems to me that certain members could collude with other members to influence the market and economies of competing members.  And there is always the question of who is lurking in the background, influencing the decision-making.  Currently, OPEC members are primarily from the oil-rich Middle East, with Iran, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia being among the founding members.  

     From a purely political perspective, what better way for countries. who are antagonistic against the U.S., to harm our economy than to start effecting the most successful industry in this country, and start driving down profits?  Because make no mistake, even though the American people may not recognize it, foreign governments and economists are well aware that the U.S. domestic oil industry is propping up our economy.  Just let us experience another oil bust like we did in the 1980's, and the mask will come off.

     All the media propaganda, false GDP growth reports, bailouts, and failed banking schemes will no longer be able to hide the truth -- the American economy is nosediving, and we may not have the oil industry to continue the masquerade.  

     And who would love to see that scenario take place more than Russia?  Through our sanctions, we have attempted to compromise their economy.  So, through their alliance with oil-rich Iran, this would be an opportunity to reciprocate.  What better way to ensure their leadership in the world's oil supply, while striking a blow to our own status, and more importantly, our economy?

     I waived my rights at the beginning of this post, that I am no expert on the petroleum industry.  And I know these are all fractured thoughts and ideas, but when my spider senses are tingling like they are now, I have to give voice to what my instincts are telling me.  Things are not as they seem, and something tells me that the puppet masters are  working their strings and the game is rigged.  Is our house of cards about to come tumbling down?  

     If you have a more educated insight, I would welcome your comments.  It's a good time to engage with all of us who just want to know the truth.  After all, we're in this together.  So, my question is this:  Is what I'm sensing and seeing, really happening?  What's your opinion?

Psalm 2:1    "Why do the nations assemble with commotion [uproar and confusion of voices], and why do the people imagine (meditate upon and devise) an empty scheme?"

     

      

     

A Message For Us All

     Like so many Americans of all races, I am saddened at the state of our country this day.  Ferguson, Missouri has become the epicenter of the racial divide in our nation, and trying to make sense of where we go from here may seem impossible. 
     We have the White House offering to help protestors "organize" their mutinous demonstrations.  We have ISIS offering to send fighters over to help the protestors -- as long as they agree to convert to Islam, of course.  And we have the parents of slain Michael Brown expressing their "disappointment that the killer ... will not face the consequences of his actions."
     But there is enough blame to go around when it comes to "consequences of actions."  Where were the National Guard and police when the peaceful businesses in Ferguson were burning to the ground?  What will be the consequences for those who partook in this destruction?  Is it possible that one of the Grand Jury witnesses was actually killed for his testimony?  The questions go on and on, adding to our conflicting thoughts.
      We have a mixture of emotions, and there looks to be no clear path to solving the increasing divide in the country.  (It doesn't help that I feel much of this is orchestrated to get the results we are experiencing.)  At times the problems seem so massive, that I fear our fate is a total breakdown of our society.  Where are the clear heads; those men who can be honest and truthful about the faults that need to be recognized by all parties involved?  But if you are on the verge of despair, I'm here to offer you a vision of hope; some words that are among the wisest I have heard yet.
     Benjamin Watson plays the position of Tight End for the New Orleans Saints football team.  As a proud black man, he would naturally be affected by what the nation has witnessed this past week.  Mr. Watson has taken a conventional method of expressing his thoughts (a Facebook post), and introduced an exceptional and rational discourse into the arena of social dialogue.  I would like to share his honest, genuine, and candid remarks with those who have not read it.  And if you've already been blessed by his reflections, share them with someone who needs to hear his expression of hope.

     At some point while I was playing or preparing to play Monday Night Football, the news broke about the Ferguson Decision. After trying to figure out how I felt, I decided to write it down. Here are my thoughts:
I'M ANGRY because the stories of injustice that have been passed down for generations seem to be continuing before our very eyes.
I'M FRUSTRATED, because pop culture, music and movies glorify these types of police citizen altercations and promote an invincible attitude that continues to get young men killed in real life, away from safety movie sets and music studios.
I'M FEARFUL because in the back of my mind I know that although I'm a law abiding citizen I could still be looked upon as a "threat" to those who don't know me. So I will continue to have to go the extra mile to earn the benefit of the doubt.
I'M EMBARRASSED because the looting, violent protests, and law breaking only confirm, and in the minds of many, validate, the stereotypes and thus the inferior treatment.

I'M SAD, because another young life was lost from his family, the racial divide has widened, a community is in shambles, accusations, insensitivity, hurt and hatred are boiling over, and we may never know the truth about what happened that day.
I'M SYMPATHETIC, because I wasn't there so I don't know exactly what happened. Maybe Darren Wilson acted within his rights and duty as an officer of the law and killed Michael Brown in self defense like any of us would in the circumstance. Now he has to fear the backlash against himself and his loved ones when he was only doing his job. What a horrible thing to endure. OR maybe he provoked Michael and ignited the series of events that led to him eventually murdering the young man to prove a point.
I'M OFFENDED, because of the insulting comments I've seen that are not only insensitive but dismissive to the painful experiences of others.
I'M CONFUSED, because I don't know why it's so hard to obey a policeman. You will not win!!! And I don't know why some policeman abuse their power. Power is a responsibility, not a weapon to brandish and lord over the populace.
I'M INTROSPECTIVE, because sometimes I want to take "our" side without looking at the facts in situations like these. Sometimes I feel like it's us against them. Sometimes I'm just as prejudiced as people I point fingers at. And that's not right. How can I look at white skin and make assumptions but not want assumptions made about me? That's not right.
I'M HOPELESS, because I've lived long enough to expect things like this to continue to happen. I'm not surprised and at some point my little children are going to inherit the weight of being a minority and all that it entails.
I'M HOPEFUL, because I know that while we still have race issues in America, we enjoy a much different normal than those of our parents and grandparents. I see it in my personal relationships with teammates, friends and mentors. And it's a beautiful thing.
I'M ENCOURAGED, because ultimately the problem is not a SKIN problem, it is a SIN problem. SIN is the reason we rebel against authority. SIN is the reason we abuse our authority. SIN is the reason we are racist, prejudiced and lie to cover for our own. SIN is the reason we riot, loot and burn. BUT I'M ENCOURAGED because God has provided a solution for sin through the his son Jesus and with it, a transformed heart and mind. One that's capable of looking past the outward and seeing what's truly important in every human being. The cure for the Michael Brown, Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice and Eric Garner tragedies is not education or exposure. It's the Gospel. So, finally, I'M ENCOURAGED because the Gospel gives mankind hope.

     Here is a man who offers Hope to the American people ... whether you are black, white, brown, pink or purple polka dotted.  He has been able to respectfully express his reasonable anger; take an honest look at the faults of all concerned (including himself); ask constructive questions; and uphold a moral and righteous code of living.  But most of all, he has offered the only solution that will really resolve the underlying sins of the entire nation.  He boldly proclaims the Gospel of Jesus Christ as the answer; the only answer.  For that, I am deeply grateful for his courage and his faithfulness.  God Bless you, Benjamin Watson.  May your light pervade this darkness!

Ephesians 4:31-32     "Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you."

   

The Spirit of Thanksgiving

    You may view this post as too sentimental and emotional.  But, as our nation, and the world, seems to be embroiled in chaos, violence, and instability, I think it is important that we observe this Thanksgiving Day with true and humble hearts.  I really want to ignore everything that takes my eye off the good, desirable, and treasured things in my life. I don't know about you, but I really need a day to concentrate on all that I'm grateful for.  Won't you join me?

     Let's just sit back, and breathe in all that composes our lives -- both the ordinary, and the exceptional.  First, take a good look at each member of your family that is gathered around your Thanksgiving table.  Concentrate on what makes them unique; what do they offer you that no one else can?  Is it their smile?  The way they always listen closely to what you have to say?  Is it that you can always count on them to help you in any situation?  Do they make you laugh?  Do they forgive you when you're not at your best?  Do they give the best hugs ever?  How much would you miss them if they weren't a part of your life?  How do they make you a better person?
     Next, consider your health.  If you're like me, you have more aches and pains this Thanksgiving than you did the last one.  But, I receive each new twinge or pain with an appreciation for what I can still physically do.  I may not be able to exercise as energetically as I did 10 years ago, but I'm still in there swinging, and that muscle soreness means that I haven't ceased to challenge myself.  The soreness is a welcome friend; and proof that I'm still a competitor.
     If you are suffering from a serious health issue, it may be more difficult to express gratitude.  I do not profess to know what it is like to walk in your shoes.  But I would be willing to bet that you have people praying for you.  And picture those prayers before the throne of your Father in Heaven, and Him tenderly clutching them to His breast.
     Each of us are living in a deteriorating body; some more diseased than others.  But each day we are left in this world, is a day to feel God's sun, wind or rain on these host bodies; to experience the loving touch of someone dear; to share a part of yourself with another human being, enriching both your lives.  And as trite as it may sound, failing health is an opportunity for you to get closer to the One who created you.  That is a blessing that far outweighs the affliction.
     On another subject, I have to admit that there are many things that I am displeased with when it comes to our country.  But on this day, I am still thankful that I was born in America -- the benefits have far surpassed the problems.  As a woman, I have more opportunities and freedoms than anywhere else in the world.  My husband and I have had the opportunity to pursue a business and enjoy the fruits of our labor.  There has been no ceiling on what we can accomplish, if it is our desire.  We have food for nourishment, shelter over our heads, and live in relative safety; many in the world are not so fortunate.
     I am thankful that I live in a free country, and I am grateful for the men and women who preserve my liberties.  I am thankful that the Founders of this nation took such great efforts to leave us with a Constitution and a Bill of Rights.  I feel the foundation cracking and swaying, but so far, Thank God, it is still holding.
     All these things I have described are probably common blessings for each of you.  And we share a common awareness of our blessings with the first celebrants of this American holiday.  If you Google the "true history" of Thanksgiving, you will get a wide array of fantastical stories; everything from our childhood narrative of Squanto, to a tragic massacre of native Indians by a land-hungry bunch of European invaders.

     But the truth of what this holiday means can be found in the simple story of Pilgrims fighting to survive through rough and arduous conditions; of struggling to survive illnesses, starvation and an uncertain future.  By sheer determination, they beat the odds and persist, and are able to celebrate the bounty of their harvest.  Being a devout and faithful people, they attribute their success to the guidance and inspiration of their God.  And perhaps, most importantly, they are grateful for the hope that He provides in sustaining and prospering them.
     Shouldn't that be our story today?  I am sincerely grateful for all that God has provided; for His protection, His provision, and the hope He offers that more blessings will follow.  I am thankful that He has given me this platform to speak of His Sovereignty and to allow us to converse together.  And it is my prayer that this day finds you equally blessed.  I wish you and your families a very Happy Thanksgiving!

Psalm 100:4      "Enter His gates with thanksgiving, and His courts with praise! Give thanks to Him; bless His name!"


   
   

Ferguson: The Aftermath

     It is difficult to write about Ferguson, Missouri today.  Whether I agree with the decision of the Grand Jury to not indict Officer Darren Wilson in the death of Michael Brown; it is not what I want to focus on.  Uppermost on my mind is how easy it seems for everyone in the media to "understand" why the rioting and the looting and the burning has taken place the last two nights.
     Not only that, but no one seems to want to consider the difficult position in which both the members of the Grand Jury and the witnesses found themselves.  They were all citizens who lived in that community, and they should be applauded for their courage in rendering a decision that everyone knew would be unpopular.  Long after the outside agitators and out-of-town demonstrators have returned home, they still have to live there.  They could have made the easy decision, and avoided the destruction of their neighborhood; but they did the right thing and upheld the Rule of Law.

     If you listen to everyone from the President, to Al Sharpton, to Rosie O'Donnell on The View, to news anchors who are supposed to be impartial, to the protestor on the street ... the only "fair" decision would have been to indict Officer Wilson.  The overriding impression that was broadcast was "the system is broken."  But is it?  Is it only broken if you don't agree with the decision?
     It seems to me they are all consumed with the paradigm of "white officer shoots and kills unarmed black youth."  As a society, we need to ask ourselves, is there a pattern here; and is there a legitimate cause for concern?  The answer to both questions would be "yes".  But no one seems to be interested in the reasons why the answer is yes.  What are the underlying reasons and causes that more black youths end up in these situations than young men of other races?  Does anyone consider how many times this situation occurs between black youths and black officers?  Is there a problem with authority among the youth in the black community?  And if so, how are we to ever meet in the middle as long as mutual respect is denied?  Or is it that the racial component of a white officer easily serves the agendas of all involved?  And although there is much talk by all parties about wanting peace, there is no evidence that it is being actively pursued.  (And I'm sorry, Rosie, but I do not see "righteous indignation"; only stealing, vandalism and breaking the law).
     When the President of the United States, who is supposed to be the President of all the people, says during a national press conference, "People will be disappointed about this decision, even angry; and that's an understandable reaction...", why are we surprised when protestors take that as permission to act on their anger?  And when he states yesterday, that the feelings and reactions are "rooted in the reality" of what is happening in some black communities, how does that contribute to healing the nation, or resolving the issues that underlie what happened in Ferguson?  He stated that he is concerned that law enforcement be "fair", implying that there is no accountability or responsibility on the part of those who engage with law enforcement.  I agree with you, Mr. President, that Trust is important to bringing about real change -- but Trust is a two-way street, to be entered in by both parties, and both races.
     When Al Sharpton says that Monday night's decision by the Grand Jury was a blow to their cause, and that they are ready for "the next round", who is surprised that the protestors view themselves as fighters?  Who is really surprised that violent escalation will be the result?
     Everyone keeps talking about "Justice"; all they wanted was "justice for Michael Brown."  But has everyone forgotten that Justice is about Due Process?  It is about fair treatment through the normal judicial system, especially as a citizen's entitlement -- every citizen, including both Officer Wilson and Michael Brown.  And that is the duty of the Grand Jury; to observe the legal order of our Judicial System as prescribed by the Constitution and the Rule of Law.  Can anyone explain to me how the Grand Jury in Ferguson, Missouri did not do exactly that?  It seems to me that what the protestors in Ferguson, national leaders, and biased commentators really wanted was a guaranteed result.
     Instead of allowing Due Process to proceed, they seem to have pre-judged this case and the only justice they wanted was that which suited their opinion.  And now that the Grand Jury has determined that Officer Wilson did nothing illegal to warrant an indictment, public opinion wants to declare that justice has not been served; so much so, that the Attorney General of the United States seems poised to file federal criminal charges based on the deprivation of Michael Brown's civil rights... Plan B has been set in motion.

     But we need to take a real hard look at what is "feeding the beast".  It is an ugly picture of inflammatory rhetoric, political strategy, and self-serving motivations.  It is about anarchy and mobocracy.  It is about race-baiting, and furthering the racial divide, rather than mending it.  It is about facing the truth of our inner cities and the mentality of aggression and hatred that breeds so insidiously in poverty.  It is asking ourselves if the racial animosity is being distorted and manipulated to tear our country apart.  Protests in over 20 major cities across the land seems to support this premise.
      Make no mistake -- the small community of Ferguson became the focal point of outside agitators and subversives who hijacked a local tragedy, and used it for their own purposes.  But when these opportunists have tired of Ferguson and moved on to their next target, the good folks of Ferguson will be left in shambles.  Right now, the senior citizens are afraid to leave their homes; local businesses have been destroyed; and young children are scared to go outside to play.
     The only ray of hope I have seen are the Ferguson pastors who took to the microphone to declare that the rioting and looting needs to stop; that we are all children of God; and that any hope of change lies in following His path ... and not in acting in accordance to the misguided, opportunistic tactics of those who would serve to divide us.  Those are the schemes of the devil.

Proverbs 28:4-5    "Those who forsake the law praise the wicked, but those who keep the law strive against them. Evil men do not understand justice, but those who seek the Lord understand it completely."
 
   

The Sick Culture of Hollywood

     The media is all abuzz over the alleged sexual abuse by one of Hollywood's most beloved actor/comedians, Bill Cosby.  Is he guilty or not?  He refuses to talk, while powerful lawyers attempt to discredit the growing number of women who are coming forth with remarkably similar stories of seduction and rape.  This scandal is not going away quietly, and sadly, I believe it is a symptom of the perversion in Hollywood, our idolization of powerful entertainment moguls, and their willingness to take advantage of the helpless.
     It is not my intention to pass judgment on Bill Cosby; the truth will eventually be uncovered.  But I must ask ... are we really surprised at this latest disgrace?  Just take a look at the entertainment industry, in all its facets, and tell me it does not target the young, the naive, and the impressionable.

     There has been a long history of sexual abuse in Hollywood, and the most notorious behavior has always centered around children.  From silent screen star "Fatty" Arbuckle's alleged involvement in the rape and murder of a young starlet in 1921, right down through the scandals that have included Paula Poundstone, Woody Allen, Roman Polanski and Michael Jackson; the innuendo has been there ... it was open season on young, vulnerable children in Tinseltown.
     But the sexual abuse of children is not new to our modern age.  Pedophilia has existed ever since the world's cultures have been in existence.  Ancient peoples such as the Tracians, the Celts, the Persians, the Greeks and the Romans have all accepted pedophilia; sometimes it was considered the perfect expression of a sexual relationship between an adult male and an adolescent, and at other times throughout history, it has been considered a crime.  But nearly all cultures accepted it in some form or fashion, oftentimes as part of religious rituals.  Only Christianity and Judaism have frowned upon the practice.
     But our children and young adults are not only falling prey to the sexual perversions of the entertainment industry.  They are being seduced into a dangerous state of mind through video games such as Minecraft.  A reader of this blog recently revealed her consternation and horror at finding out her grandchildren were allowed to play this game, which encourages kids to kill animals (supposedly for food), and to progress to a stage of the game where they can enter a world called "Nether" and encounter zombies and underworld masters known as "Ender Dragon".
     This sinister game is supposedly approved for children aged four years and up, and is even considered as part of some school curriculums to teach problem solving and math skills!  Have we become so jaded and receptive to ANY form of deviance and immorality towards our children?
     There will be those who say we are a more "enlightened" generation, and see no problem with exposing our children to greater understandings of the adult world.  But there are too many instances of abuse to warrant this as rational thinking.  When we are willing to sacrifice our children to the gods of fame and celebrity; or to introduce them to fantasies of the underworld and the abode of the dead, then how long can that culture or civilization survive?
     Since Biblical times, child sacrifice has been a characteristic and methodology of Evil to capture a wayward nation.  Those who participated were doomed.  Today, whether children are being sacrificed sexually or psychologically, it is still despicable, dark, and demonic.  Hollywood and the gaming industry have been highly successful in perpetuating this evil, and introducing the New Paganism.  And the saddest part if all is just how easy it has been to look the other way.

Matthew 18:6    "But if anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to sin, it would be better for him to have a large millstone hung around his neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea."

   
   

What's Happened To The Rule Of Law?

     It is just my opinion, but I am willing to speculate that one of the primary reasons this country has been a beacon for immigrants in the nearly two-and-a-half centuries of our existence is that we have represented a fairly consistent pattern of restricting the arbitrary exercise of power by subordinating it to well-defined and established laws.
     There ... I just gave you the definition of "the Rule of Law".  History shows that this land was a magnet for people who dreamed of escaping tyranny -- from the Pilgrims, who were escaping political and religious persecution, (as well as imprisonment), for charges of treason against the Crown; to South Africans who longed to break free of the apartheid injustice of a ruling party who, with extreme intent, demolished anything that got in the way of its legal and political agenda.
     It is also my opinion that, from the beginning of time, societies and civilizations have succeeded because people recognized the need for a moral and legal set of rules by which to live.  They have succeeded economically, socially and politically when they have respected the authority and influence of law; law which is described as "a system of rules which are enforced through social institutions to govern behavior." (Wikipedia).
     But that success and harmony only continues to exist when laws, (or constraints on behavior), are equally observed by the populace and the governing officials.  Why do you think that we have had tens of thousands, perhaps even hundreds of thousands, of illegal immigrants flock to our southern border in the last year or so?  They are escaping the tyrannical rule of corrupt politicians and dictators, the uncontrolled dominance of drug cartels, and the unrelenting violence of civil wars within their own countries --- all the result of a lack of the Rule of Law.

     In other words, when the government of a nation decides that the instituted laws of that nation no longer apply to them, then there is not only the threat of injustice to the citizens, but a complete breakdown of their individual security, economic stability, and personal freedoms.
     When any government body, or individual, decides that they can arbitrarily ignore the established laws, and exercise power at their will, then the Rule of Law no longer exists.  In effect, laws are a check (or curb) on that autocratic power.  When they are breached, the freedom we have known under the law, becomes insubstantial.  There is a profound deterioration of individual rights, in the wake of a growing power of the State.  That makes liberty-lovers a little nervous.
     Here in the United States, it has been accepted that all government officers, including the President, the Justices of the Supreme Court, state judges and legislators, and all members of Congress, pledge first and foremost to uphold the Constitution. It has also been understood that these oaths affirm that the Rule of Law is superior to the rule of any human leader.  But when law-makers determine that they are no longer subjects of the law, then chaos ensues.
     We have seen that with the Fast and Furious debacle, the imminent "amnesty" issue, and I fear that we will see it set forth from the Ferguson, Missouri incident, as well.  To be sure, we have a problem with the Rule of Law being appropriately honored and administered in this nation.
     But let me drop a little bug in your ear ... our Rule of Law is not only being diminished from within our own country's framework, and by our own governing leaders, but could all this "lawlessness" soon come under the jurisdiction of the United Nations?  Let me explain ...
     Did you know that International Leaders from around the world convened about a year ago for what was called "the Bangkok Dialogue on the Rule of Law"?  Apparently, the UN has Millennium Development Goals, and the Rule of Law is a hot topic towards achieving those goals.  In fact, at the heart of the United Nations’ agenda is its role as the guardian of international legal frameworks.  That means that they, ideally, want to determine what our Rule of Law should be.
     Keeping that in mind, here is the UN's definition of the Rule of Law:  the rule of law refers to a principle of governance in which “all persons, institutions and entities, public and private, including the State itself, are accountable to laws that are publicly broadcasted, equally enforced and independently adjudicated, and which are consistent with international human rights, norms and standards”.
     Since when has America ever considered herself as following "standards or norms", as dictated by other entities?  Isn't that exactly why immigrants are streaming to our shores?  Never mind that our nation's Rule of Law was founded on Christian-Judeo principles of a "Higher Law" than man's laws; that our individual rights and liberties were established by our Creator, and are not subject to the whims of a  human ruler.  When that principle is forgotten, we are left with this reality:  "Behind every legal order there is always a god, be it God Himself or those who have control over the state machinery." (RJ Rushdoony, American philosopher, historian and theologian).
     Ultimately, we are in danger of losing our unique Rule of Law in this country.  We have abandoned the Source of our Liberties, and forgotten that God's Higher Laws are above the laws of any man.  It's simple, really ... we, as the people of our nation, along with those we have chosen to protect our Rule of Law, must decide what kind of authority we want as the source of power over us.  Do we want the authority of God-instituted laws; the control of an "international body", such as the UN, to mold us to an acceptable standard; or do we want the authority of a mere human ruler, who seeks his own power, instead of glorifying God's laws?
     I think we've taken our unique Rule of Law for granted too long, and assumed it would always exist.  But when men put their laws above God's; and seek their will, instead of His, then the legality of laws don't really matter -- only the end results that uphold a man's power and authority.  That's when we are in danger of replacing laws with illegality, and we cease to exist as the land of the free.  How much longer before our Rule of Law vanishes altogether?

Jeremiah 10:23    "I know, O Lord, that the way of man is not in himself, that it is not in man who walks to direct his steps."

Ezekiel 34:17

And as for you, O My flock, thus says the Lord God: Behold, I judge between sheep and sheep, between the rams and the great he-goats [the malicious and the tyrants of the pasture].

     As always with Scripture, we must be careful to approach it within the larger context of a passage or Chapter.  Today, we consider Ezekiel, Chapter 34.  Ezekiel, as God's prophet, has been told to prophecy against the shepherds of Israel -- even to the Spiritual shepherds.  These "shepherds" are the kings, judges and rabbis of the nation of Israel.  And through Ezekiel, the Lord God asks the important question, "Should not the shepherds feed the sheep?"

     In other words, these leaders of the nation of Israel have been given a great responsibility by the Lord to watch over His people.  But God brings a severe condemnation against them.  These leaders, rather than guard and protect the people, and leading them to prosperity, have, instead, fattened themselves.  God comes against them with several accusations:  those who were weak or sick were not helped; those that were handicapped by life's struggles were not encouraged; and the civil leaders of the nation did nothing to lift them up.

     These allegations extended to the religious leaders as well:  those that strayed from the faith, or whom have not been taught the faith at all, have not been sought and corrected.  In fact, all leaders fall under a blanket charge of negligence and dereliction of duty.  Indeed, they have not tended to "their flock" with the care and encouragement that God desired.  Instead, they have seen to their own selfish needs, and dealt with the people by force and hardened hearts.

     So, God says He will take care of His flock Himself.  He will gather them and feed them, Himself, causing them to "lie down".  This is a very important piece of information, regarding God's "flock".  It is significant to understand four things about sheep:  1)  they refuse to lie down unless they are free of all fear; 2)  they will not lie down unless they are free of friction with others of their kind;  3)  they will only lie down when they can relax and be free of pests;  4)  they will not lie down as long as they are hungry and in need of food.  So God says HE will meet all these needs of His flock, and will feed the leaders both judgment and punishment. 

     But He is not through!  God also has a word for the sheep, themselves!  In our chosen Scripture, He clearly states that He is addressing the sheep, as well as the leaders (Rams and He-Goats).  There are those within the flock, itself, that have not done their duty.  He is talking to those that belong to Him who have prospered and are comfortable in their favored position.  He wants them to understand that this does not alleviate their compassion or acts of charity towards other members who are less fortunate.  "Belonging to the flock", does not mean you that you're home free, with no responsibility towards others.

     Just a few verses later, God declares, "I Myself, will judge between fat sheep and impoverished sheep, or fat goats and lean goats ... Therefore will I rescue My flock, and they shall no more be a prey; and I will judge between sheep and sheep."  God means to rescue the nation of Israel, not only from the world, but from themselves.

     How does this apply to us?  Will not we, as the Gentile nations, also be judged?  Won't our judges and kings and presidents be held accountable as to how they treated God's people?  Furthermore, what does this Chapter and passage say to us Christians?  We are also part of God's "flock".  And when He says He will "judge between sheep and sheep", what do you think that means for us?

     Might it mean that just being called "Christian" isn't enough to escape judgment? Our Christian lives -- how we served God, and how we encouraged (and aided) others of the faith -- will be scrutinized.  We must never think of ourselves as above reproach or reprimand.  And notice that He is talking to the "sheep"; not the shepherds here.  

     God knows that our Pastors have enough to answer to Him for not feeding His sheep.  But what have we sheep done for the flock?  Have we endeavored to encourage those new to the faith, so that they will have no fear when it comes to declaring their faith? Have we made sure that we are not causing friction within the Body of Christ?  Have we been diligent about keeping "pests" out of the Church; those who seek to introduce destructive doctrines to the flock?  And lastly, have we truly "fed" fellow members of the flock; or have we simply slapped the label of "Christian" on them and left them starving for the Word?  

     God wants his sheep to feel safe and secure enough to "lie down".  It is our duty -- and should be our privilege -- to provide these services, not only in obedience and praise to our God; but in loving support of the flock.  It is incumbent upon each of us to ask how He will judge our ministry to His flock.   

     

The Danger of the Pendulum Swing

     I will probably be castigated for my opinion on this subject, but I cannot sit idly by and watch the Church, which belongs to Jesus Christ, become deceived by a "new paradigm" of how His Body is to conduct itself.
     Like me, many of the faithful have come to know God as much bigger and more Sovereign than He has been represented in the Modern Church.  We have turned to the Bible for our knowledge of Him and His precepts and commandments, rather than rely on denominational rituals and creeds.  We long to know Him and His Son more deeply and more truthfully.  We have immersed ourselves in His Word and seek to fulfill our purpose for His Kingdom.
     In that vein, we have left "lukewarm" Churches and have either formed our own home churches, (in the manner of the early believers in the Faith); or have sought Churches that encourage a more spiritual and personal relationship with God.  And that's why I am warning you to be aware.

      Be careful, because all may not be what it seems.  I know many who were not being fed Biblical knowledge, and in their pursuit of a closer walk with God, they left dried-up, denominational Churches for what appear to be more vibrant, "alive" Churches that purport to be seeking a greater knowledge of God.  The pendulum may be swinging towards an enthusiastic, contemporary Church body, but that doesn't mean it is authentic.
     Case in point:  Rick Warren, Pastor of Saddleback Church in California, has long been a proponent of "Change" in the Church.  He transitioned his successful book The Purpose Driven Life into a program he calls The Purpose Driven Church.  Along with associates who are eager adherents to the Emerging Church Movement, he has made a name for himself through his advice for churches who have "hit a plateau".  In case, you are unfamiliar with exactly what the Emerging Church is, here's a simple description:  Emerging Churches seek to reach the lost (or dissatisfied) by focusing on relationships and developing a "story," a "journey of life," that is expressed through the "narrative" of learning.  Sadly, the focus is usually on learning about oneself, than about gaining knowledge of our Creator.  Simply put, the Emerging Church teaches a doctrine that Religion Saves, not Christ.
     You can see how this more "personal" agenda might appeal to those who have never heard of Jesus's Saving Grace, or to those who are hungry for a warmer, more dynamic approach to worship.  But that is where the Devil is hidden in the details!  Escaping a lukewarm Church for one that is empty of the true Majesty of God is just a swing of the pendulum, and brings you no closer to a greater understanding of Jehovah.  Just take a look at Warren's Saddleback Church website -- you will be overwhelmed with all the ministry opportunities and programs in which to immerse yourself.  But where is a Mission Statement about the Core Beliefs of this Church?  It doesn't seem to be about God at all!
     So, in case you're wondering if you might have traded one false Church for another, here are some warning signs to be cognizant of; a change in format could be leading to a change in the Truth that's being preached:
•  Change in music to a contemporary rock style.
•  Removal of hymn books; eliminating the choir.
•  Replacement of organ and piano with heavy metal instruments.
•  Repetitive singing of praise lyrics.
•  Dressing down to casual and informal attire.
•  Eliminating of business meetings, church committees, council of elders, board of deacons, etc.
•  The pastor, or a new leader with a few assistants, usually four, takes charge of all church business.
•  A repetitive 40-day Purpose Driven Church study program stressing psychological relationships with each other, the community, or the world, begins.
•  Funded budgeted programs are abandoned, or ignored, with ambiguous financial reports made.
•  Sunday morning, evening, and/or Wednesday prayer meetings are changed to other times; some may even be eliminated.
•  Sunday School teachers are moved to different classes, or replaced by new teachers more sympathetic with the changes being implemented.
•  The name “Sunday School” is dropped and classes are given new names.
•  Crosses and other traditional Christian symbols may be removed from both the inside and outside of the church buildings. The pulpit may also be removed.
•  In accordance with Dr. Warren’s instructions, new version Bibles are used; or only verses flashed on a screen are referenced during regular services.
•  Purpose Driven Church films, purchased from Saddleback, precede or are used during regular services.
•  The decor, including the carpets, may be changed to eliminate any resemblance to the former church.
•  The word “church” is often taken from the name of the church, and the church may be called a “campus”. Denominational names may also be removed.
•  An emphasis on more fun and party sessions for the youth.
•  Elimination of altar calls or salvation invitations at the close of the services.
•  The elimination of such words as “unsaved”, “lost”, “sin”, “Hell”, “Heaven” and other Gospel verities from the pastor’s messages.
•  The reclassification of the saved and lost to the “churched” and the “unchurched”.
•  The marginalizing, or ostracizing, of all who are not avid promoters of the new Purpose Driven Program.
•  Closed meetings between the pastor or chosen staff members without any reports made to the general membership.
•  Open hostility to members who do not openly embrace the new program, or who may have left for another church.

     I simply want to ask you a few questions... Have the old, "Biblical" hymns been replaced by songs using the cultural vernacular?  And do the lyrics tell you anything of God's Character, or are they all about you?  Do you have a Coffee Bar or Lounge to attract younger church members?  Is God spoken of in these casual settings, or is it all about getting acquainted with each other?  As a Church Body, do you invite members or visitors to "give their life to Christ", or do you tell them to live the best life they can?  Does your Pastor believe there is a Hell or Judgment due mankind; or do you only hear about the Love and Grace of God?  How many of these bulleted points describe the format of your Church?  Do any of these contribute to a more holy and reverent understanding of God?  And finally, how many Lost has your Church brought into the Kingdom of God?  I'm not talking about how much your membership roll has grown -- I want to know if you have been instructed and encouraged to speak to the Lost and tell them of Christ's sacrifice for them.  Could it be that you are simply beguiling those who are comfortable in their faith?

     These are really important times for Christ's Church.  We have a job to do, and I sense that our time is running out to accomplish our purpose.  Instead of looking for the finish line and running as hard as we can towards Victory, we seem to be either stuck in slow motion, looking backwards; or looking at ourselves in the mirror and congratulating ourselves on OUR relevancy.  Neither description fulfills our commission as the Body of Christ.  We must escape the routine and mechanical operation of the apathetic Church, while guarding against the dangers of the "new spirituality" found in the false Emerging Church.  Right now, we are not resembling the Bride of Christ.  We cannot be too vigilant! 

2 Timothy 3:1-5    "But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves ... haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away!"

     

Is Chrislam The One World Religion?

     Whether you believe in the Bible and its End Times prophecies or not, you must admit that Christianity and Islam make for strange bedfellows.  Yet, that is exactly what three different events that I am about to reveal seem to project.  Chrislam is the blending of the Christian/Judeo faith with the tenets of Islam, and you might want to investigate what the Good Book has to say about this false religion, and how it will affect the world.  It's all there in the Book of Revelation; Chapter 17 to be exact.
     Specifically, it is described as a "harlot", which scholars often use to describe a false religion.  But more specifically, this false religion is depicted as dominating all the “peoples and multitudes and nations and tongues” of the earth; as well as having great influence among the world’s rulers and influential people, who become "drunk" on her false promises.  Furthermore, these leaders are accused of committing adultery with the harlot, showing that she lures them away from their faith in the true God.
     So, what does all this have to do with Chrislam?  Keep in mind the descriptions I've just given you, and let me relate the following events.  First, Pope Francis is hosting a global ecumenical conference at the Vatican this week.  (Remember, the meaning of "ecumenical" is universal; all-embracing; and all-inclusive).  In attendance will be representatives of all the major religions of the world; including the Christian, Jewish, Islamic, Buddhist, Hindu, Jaina Shasana, Taoist and Sikh religions.  Now, of course, this all appears to be "on the up and up", as the conference is centered on marriage between a man and woman, and the revitalization of the family for the good of society.
     But when the conference is sponsored and promoted by the Pope and the Pontifical Council for Inter-Religious Dialogue, and features speakers such as Rick Warren, who has been quoted as stating that "Muslims and Christians believe that God is one", it casts serious doubt as to the real purpose of this event.
     Secondly, this past summer Pope Francis worked with a German art historian to share Islamic works of art from the Vatican's Ethnological Museum with a museum in Sharjah, one of the emirates of the United Arab Emirates.  The artworks on display stem from the 12th to the 19th century, but also include valuable objects from everyday life in the Arab world, all owned by the Vatican.  Most of the objects had arrived in the Vatican in 1925 when Pope Pius XI hosted a kind of international cultural exhibition comprised of gifts presented to him from private donors and missionaries stationed all around the world.  After the exhibition, the collection needed a permanent home, and the Vatican established its Ethnological Museum.
     The sharing of the Vatican's artwork is being hailed as "an act of diplomacy" by Pope Francis, who prefers to be more open and accepting of other religions, unlike his predecessor Pope Benedict XVI, who had distanced himself from other faiths.  This Pope sees himself as a "unifier" and advocates for the role of culture in religious, social and moral matters.  In fact, the exhibit is being promoted as  "the first collaboration of the Vatican with an Arab country", and furthering the "dialogue between Christians and Muslims."  Fittingly, the title of the exhibition is "So that you may know each other", which is actually a verse from the Koran in response to the question of why people are so different.  You can decide for yourself if this is just good PR, or if this is foretelling a deeper motive.
     Finally, did you know that Berlin will be the home of a temple where Muslims, Jews and Christians will worship together?  It will be called the House of One, and each faith will meet in separate "compartments" (a synagogue, a church, and a mosque), and then converge to worship together as they find "common ground".  Can it be anymore clear that a hybrid religion is in the works?  And I find myself asking why leaders of the Jewish faith would agree to be involved in such a project in the very city from which Hitler's design for their distinction was born?  Are they just "drunk" on the false promises of a One World Religion?  And could this be viewed as another sign, or signal, to the Islamic world that they are dominating the world's religions?  I don't know what is motivating these religious leaders, but a Temple of Chrislam is not the answer.
     I realize that not everyone sees these events through the same Biblical lens that I do.  But it is my solemn wish that people would consider what the Bible reveals about this End Times religion.  I cannot say for sure that Chrislam fits the bill, but it sure is headed in that direction.  The Bible prophecys that this One World religious system will be used by the AntiChrist, at least at first, to entice and attract the world to her uniting promises.  It will be an instrument of his deception to gain the world's adoration.  But when she becomes drunk on her own power, and has fulfilled her purpose of forcing everyone to bow down at her counterfeit altar, the AntiChrist will turn on this false religion and usurp her power for himself; establishing himself as God.  The deception by both the Harlot (a tempting One World Religion) and the Anti-Christ will be so great, that even Christians should fear falling for it.
     So, I mention these events and show their connectivity to encourage you to be aware and to stand strong in your faith.  Deception is rampant in our world today.  Nothing is as it seems.  But we must guard ourselves against the deceit and lies that will fool the world.  The time is short until Evil reveals its true self, and we must all declare our trust in Jesus and the Father.  Our eternal lives depend on it!

Revelation 17:4   "And the woman was arrayed in purple and scarlet colour, and decked with gold and precious stones and pearls, having a golden cup in her hand full of abominations and filthiness of her fornication..."