Fear Not ...

     Only those who choose to be blinded can ignore what is coming upon the earth.  It is hard to pretend that anything else is on my radar, or that I need to be writing about something else.  The threat of rampant disease is present in Ebola; mass persecution and death is evident in the march of ISIS's army; civil unrest is on our TV screens in Missouri; nations rise against nations; and the earth is robbed of peace and stability.  And that isn't even considering all the things happening to the earth: unprecedented and unusual weather events, floods, earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, etc.
     All of this combines to produce fear and confusion among all people.  Even those who profess faith find themselves wondering where this will all lead, and if we will be protected from the manifestations of wickedness among men.
     I am like you; I am an individual who fights my human emotion of foreboding, dread, and worry that is elicited every time I read a headline or hear a news report.  I want to be strong in my faith, and I want to rely on the protection that is given to me in Psalm 91:  that I will be delivered from the deadly pestilence, and the snare of the fowler (one who participates in deeds); that I need not be afraid of the arrows (the evil plots or slanders of the wicked), or the terrors that come by night.

     It is easy to read that although a thousand may fall at my side, or ten thousand at my right hand, it will not come near me.  I am told that I will be a spectator as I witness the wicked's reward.  I take great comfort in those words ... but it is not enough to read and hope that the words are true.  I (we) must know and trust that we can rely on their Truth.
     I honestly don't know how those who do not believe in God are able to traverse these days.  Perhaps they have enough material possessions that they think evil will not touch them.  They are not reading the Bible, and therefore do not see what is prophesied ... that "men will swoon away or expire with fear and dread and apprehension and expectation of the things that are coming on the world; for the [very] powers of the heavens will be shaken and [a]caused to totter."  (Luke 21:26, Amplified version).
     We Christians know that recent world events mean that what Jesus talked about in Matthew 23 and 24 are about to take place.  Our Christian brethren in Iraq certainly are experiencing it first-hand! But are we prepared to face it and take our stand for Christ?  Are you willing to raise your hand and say, "Yes, I will die for Him?"
     A friend recently asked, "Don't you think Christians in our Churches will willingly espouse their faith, when and if, we are called to defend it?"  Sadly, I had to answer, "No."  No one is preparing them to experience what Christians in Iraq or Africa are facing.  I think too many American Christians are too attached to their homes, their possessions, and their comfort.  If forced to convert to Islam or lose their "stuff" or their families, they will gladly yield, and sacrifice their alleged loyalty to the true Son of God.  Too many of us are "soft" Christians who can't comprehend the true meaning of the word "sacrifice".
     So, I am spending my days fortifying myself in the Word; reminding myself of God's promises and His faithfulness to those who love Him.  I know that the Enemy will increase his attacks against me, and I am determined to use my authority to call upon the power of Jesus, which is in me, to defeat Satan's every scheme.  You see, I know that Jesus, in me, is greater that Satan, who is in the world.
     And if you are not a Believer, and think this post offers you nothing, I want you to know that I am praying for you.  Because there will come a moment in the near future when you will be presented with a choice; and it will be a decision that will effect you for eternity.  You do not have to yield to the assault, and you can have victory in evil times.  Because I can promise you one thing:  Evil is increasing upon the earth, but I know that I can call on the Lord, trusting and relying on His deliverance.  I want you to have a personal knowledge of His love, His mercy, and His Salvation.

Isaiah 41:10     "Fear not [there is nothing to fear], for I am with you; do not look around you in terror and be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen and harden you to difficulties, yes, I will help you; yes, I will hold you up and retain you with My [victorious] right hand of rightness and justice."
   

What Is Our Christian Duty To Illegal Children?

     The State of Virginia's Department of Education (VDOE) has issued a memo to all 132 of its public school divisions, reminding them of the updated guidance from the federal government regarding the enrollment of illegal immigrant children in their school systems.  Breitbart.com has reported that over 2,850 unaccompanied illegal immigrant minors have been placed with sponsors in Virginia.
     And now both the State of Virginia and the Federal Government have declared that these children can now be considered "homeless", because according to Virginia law, they meet one of the definitions of a homeless child, namely ‘unaccompanied youths who are not in the physical custody of their parents, who... are sharing the housing of other persons due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or other causes.'

     What's more, they could be eligible for benefits under the McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act.  Under this federal law, school districts must appoint a local liaison to ensure, among other things, that (1) children and youth eligible under McKinney Vento are identified; (2) that they immediately enroll in, and have a full and equal opportunity to succeed in, the schools of the district; and (3) they receive educational services for which they are eligible, and referrals to health care services, dental services, mental health services, and other appropriate services.
     As if this isn't incredible enough, the VDOE memo reiterated the requirement that school divisions “must immediately enroll homeless students” and must do so regardless of whether or not they are able “to produce the records required for enrollment" .... which includes records of vaccinations!  In fact, the VDOE memo stresses that even if the children cannot provide the required health and immunization records, the schools “must immediately enroll" them.
     To begin with, I am shocked that American taxpayers are expected to provide health and dental care; and presumably, the cost of school books, etc.  But to subject our schoolchildren to the possibilities of disease and infections from unvaccinated children is not only unreasonable, it is dangerous -- especially since an American child is not allowed to register for school without the required vaccinations!
     OK, that's how my human, practical side looks at it... this is unsustainable, costly, and presents viable health risks.  Then, as a Christian, I ask myself, "But how many times does the Bible talk about taking care of the widows and the orphans?"  I checked and found no less than 25 references to "orphans" or the "fatherless".  I read Scripture and know that we are to provide and take care of the needs of those children who have no one to take care of them.  But how are we to regard an overwhelming and manufactured crisis of over 63,000 orphans imposed on unsuspecting communities?  As Dr. James R. Edwards, Jr., expresses in his excellent article "A Biblical Perspective On Immigration Policy", I must now come to a conclusion on how my faith will influence my political opinion on immigration, just as it has on the issues of freedom of religious expression in public life, abortion, and same-sex marriage.
     As Dr. Edwards points out, when a modern Christian goes to Scripture to determine his beliefs on a public policy issue in present-day America, he might find it difficult to reconcile his beliefs with the societal rules of Old Testament Israel.  Ultimately, it is a question of the biblical role of civil government, as well as the Biblical principles of justice and mercy.
     We are all familiar with the Romans 13 admonition to obey secular authorities, as they have been placed in their roles by God, Himself.  This argument is often used by both Christians and non-Christians to say that we are to obey all laws and ruling authorities --- "whether the individuals in charge are personally characterized by godliness or not."

     I believe Dr. Edwards is correct when he says, "The authority God delegates to civil government focuses on justice, not mercy", (with mercy usually coming from individuals).  But within the concept of justice, is the accompanying element of punishment; "or else justice is not just."  He further elaborates by saying, "Earthly rulers are to guard their own citizens against evil in the world and in the hearts of men. And God holds rulers accountable for their official conduct."  As citizens, we understand that this authority given to our rulers is a protection against those individuals or forces that would do our nation harm.
     Therefore, it makes sense that we would expect that the first priority of our immigration policies would be to benefit us, the citizens of this nation.  Secondly, we would expect that those foreigners who disobey our laws would be subject to punishment or expulsion; that there would be strict rules for their admission into our sovereign nation.
     In Old Testament Israel, "sojourner" or "alien" signified "a temporary stay".  Whether aliens chose to reside temporarily or own property without becoming legal citizens, they were afforded equal standing under the law; i.e., they enjoyed the benefits of the rule of law.  But there was the rule of law they had to obey!  In fact, Old Testament passages makes clear that foreign residents were to comply with Israelite laws, such as Sabbath observance.
     As a Christian, it goes without saying, that I feel compelled to help these children who have been manipulated and used to force an immigration policy down the throats of all Americans.  They deserve our compassion and our help, as we can provide it.  If they need clothes and food, we need to provide it.  If they need comforting and encouragement, we should supply it.  Their immediate physical needs should certainly be met.  But when policy steps outside our rule of law, as established by those rulers God has placed over us, then we must step back and assess how it affects our nation.
     There is something else that Dr. Edwards points out, and I find Scripturally true.  God regards borders as meaningful and important.  We see that in His detailed description of the borders of the Promised Land, and the borders established for each tribe of Israel.  Because boundaries are important to God, we see examples of the "invasion" of aliens across Israel's borders as a judgment or curse against them for rebellion.  (We certainly can't deny that we deserve the same!)
     Another of Dr. Edwards' points is well-made:  "In short, the Old Testament teaches fair treatment of resident foreigners, with certain requirements of the aliens related to religious and civil legal standards. It also instructs that aliens were to assimilate to the Hebrew culture."  That has long been a problem with those crossing our southern border.
     I think part of our problem in this battle to determine an appropriate immigration policy [that satisfies both the secular populace as well as Christian believers], is that those who have been given legitimate civil authority to command justice, are now attempting to legislate mercy.  Nowhere, in the Bible can I find where mercy is exhorted from society; only from the individual.  I do not see where Jesus advocated a public policy of "spreading the wealth" or forcing a society, as a whole, to give to the poor, the widow, or the orphan.  It is always to be done on the part of the individual, not the government.
     I urge you to read Dr. Edwards's thesis in its entirety; he covers the topics of Migration in the Bible, including Humanitarian Migration; as well as The Immigrant's Responsibility.  I believe, along with him, that it is imprudent to strictly base this country's complicated immigration policy on a handful of Scriptures that differ wildly with our present circumstances.  Yet, there are definitely applicable Biblical principles that should be observed.  It is up to wise men and women to establish our laws, applying both justice and mercy where each is best fulfilled.
     We are to all corporately obey our civil laws, and individually extend mercy to our fellow man.  It is when the civil government oversteps its jurisdiction and tries to enact laws forcing mercy, that the balance prescribed in the Bible begins to collapse.  It's simple:  More harm is done than good, and nobody prospers.  We must find a way to solve this difficult situation; by both obeying the law of the land and showing compassion and mercy to our fellow man.  God help us!

Psalm 146:9    "The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless, but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin."
   

"The Battle For The Free World Is In Iraq"

     I believe there is a very important article on the Christian Broadcasting Network that deserves your attention.  It has been difficult for us Americans to know the truth of our involvement -- or of our planned participation -- in fighting ISIS in Iraq.  We receive confusing messages of "airstrikes" but "no boots on the ground"; of fighting this terrorist movement, yet letting the Iraqi forces defend themselves.  But this article will give you new insight to just how important how part could be.   
     This week, the formidable fighting force of the Kurdish Peshmerga (which means "Those who face death") were successful in seizing control of the strategic Mosul Dam from ISIS.  The terrorist army had threatened to destroy the dam, releasing a 30-foot wall of water upon downstream cities, including the heart of Baghdad.
     CBN News was able to interview one of the district commanders of the Peshmerga, who supplied some valuable information for us, as Americans:  "When they (ISIS) controlled this area, they started to kill people, kidnap women, and slay people in the streets.  This is the way they control other areas. They persecuted Yazidis and Christians and threatened the Christians to either convert to Islam, pay the tax, or be killed."

     While stressing that they are willing to fight the jihadist terrorists, the Commander underscored two very important facts:  ISIS is better armed than the Peshmerga forces.  Therefore, they need the West and the U.S. to 1) provide them with much-needed weapons and 2) they need training on how to effectively use these weapons.
     But perhaps the most important aspect of the Kurdish involvement is that they see themselves as the point of the spear in the battle against ISIS.  "Right now Kurdistan is fighting the terror on behalf of the whole free world," the Kurdish commander said. "The terrorists of ISIS have gathered here from everywhere in the world, and they pose a threat to countries all over the world, from Australia to Europe and other countries."
     "The battle of the whole world moved here to Kurdistan," he continued. "Because we are the people of this region, we know how to fight against ISIS. We know the area and we know what we need to do, so this is why we need the support of the world in order to stand against ISIS."
     It is quite apparent that they know what is at stake.  Fox News reports on just how passionate the Peshmerga are about their part in this battle against Evil.... old soldiers are coming out of retirement (from around the world!) to rejoin the ranks of Kurdistan’s legendary Peshmerga fighters.  They are hardened combatants; they have years of experience in fighting Saddam Hussein's formidable army, as well as their ancestral enemies, the Turks.  In addition, tribal battles have made them among the most fearsome fighters on the planet.
     Plus, there is the added dimension of the courage and strength that the older soldiers offer the Peshmerga.  The new, younger officers say "they are buoyed by the knowledge that their heroes are alongside them and that they will happily follow them into battle."  This unique trend personifies a deeply ingrained Kurdish tradition -- that of deep familial and inter-generational respect. In each unit, one retired soldier is assigned to ten younger ones.
     Then, as reported by Fox, there is the especially poignant story of Sherdyl Rwandzi, 49, a taxi driver from Bournmouth, England.  He moved back to Kurdistan six months ago at the urging of his wife and stepmother, so he could join the “battle for humanity.” He recalled his wife telling him, “If you don’t fight for your country, then the foreigners will take it -- and what will your children have left?”
     In truth, what will any of the world's children have left, if ISIS is not stopped?  They have have made their goals well-known, even announcing their presence in Ferguson, Missouri!  They intend to conquer the world in the name of their evil fanaticism.  We, in the United States, had better wake up to the realization that we are the end goal, and if they succeed in Iraq, they will be emboldened to continue their advancement of persecution and death.  The Kurds recognize what is at stake.  Do we?

Genesis 9:6    "Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image."

Ferguson: Judgment vs Truth

     As I watch another night of chaos as the situation in Ferguson, Missouri continues to spiral out of control, I am overcome with a deep sadness for my country and for our spiritual disintegration.  I see so many people giving in to pre-conceived theories; speculation that is being fostered by individuals and elements under the authority of Satan's divisive followers.
     As I watch another night of looting and rioting, the images are disturbing ... people ransacking businesses like wild animals; throwing bricks and firing guns to release their pent-up frustrations and anger.  On the other side, I see police and law enforcement, in riot gear; rushing to surround protestors, weapons drawn.  Is this who we are as a nation?  As God's children?
     Now, we have a rush to convene a Grand Jury, so that ... what?  By providing an indictment, there are hopes that it will satisfy the lust for vengeance ... even before all the evidence can be gathered?  Is that true Justice?  Or is Justice simply a convenient term to disguise the desire to take advantage of an emotional situation, while applying political pressure to calm the violence?

     My fear is that it doesn't matter what the evidence will show; both sides already have made up their minds.  People have made the assumptions that all white cops are bad, and all blacks are rioting and looting.  There will be those who will tell me that I have never been victimized or profiled, so I cannot understand what it feels like to be unfairly judged because of my race.
     But I did experience just such an incident in my early twenties, when I sold my old Chevy Chevelle to a young black woman, whose father was a pastor.  He had answered an ad I placed in the paper, called me and said his daughter would like to purchase the car.  She arrived at my workplace, with money in hand.  After we concluded our transaction and I handed her the title to the car, she launched into a most vicious diatribe against me as a "White *!#".  I was speechless and felt as if I had been physically attacked!  Where did that come from, and what had I ever done to her?
     For days, I tried to mentally understand what had transpired; to figure out why I was singled out.  In the end, all I could devise was that haters hate, that's what they do; oftentimes with no reason or justification.  I had to simply decide that I would not harbor resentment and go on with my life.  I refused to view other black people from my personal experience, or let her hate influence my interaction with other people of her race.
     Yet this kind of hate is what we are seeing in Ferguson, Missouri.  Have each one of these rioters or looters experienced an unfair judgment against them because of their race, or are they choosing to listen to agitators outside this situation, and using it as an excuse to foment violence?  What good can come from the New Black Panthers imposing rallies where they shout, "Who do we want?", with the crowds responding, "Darren Wilson".  They then follow up with a chant of "How do we want him?", and the answer coming back is, "Dead!"
     Do these people want the truth, or do they want a sacrifice?  Do they want the Grand Jury to take a good hard look at ALL the evidence; or do they want a rush to judgment and an indictment based on their emotions?
     So the question becomes, Are we a nation of laws, or not?  If so, then it must be understood that the laws will be obeyed -- and enforced -- or there will be consequences.  When there is inconsistency in how that is accomplished, then the rule of law is eroded and becomes a sham.  We cannot use the Law as a political tool to manipulate the masses.  If we believe that Society needs Laws to protect the lawful and punish the lawless, then we must continue to do what we have established as "right", and in the process to keep serving our fellow man and God.  Because whether the population in Ferguson, Missouri recognizes it or not, God is the true Judge, and He is the One who can reveal the Truth.
    We should not rush to judgment based on emotion or past experiences.   Taking the time to gather all the evidence and interview all the witnesses will be the surest way to a fair trial and determining the truth.  If true Justice is to be met -- for both Michael Brown and Darren Wilson -- we should not rush the process.  A life has been taken, and that is always a tragedy; a waste.  But to magnify that loss by listening to the whispers of Satan (the Man of Lawlessness) as he encourages disorder and mayhem, is to diminish the lives of both men.  We must pray for the peace of Ferguson, Missouri!

2 Thessalonians 2:9-10    "The coming of the lawless one is according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders, and with all unrighteous deception among those who perish, because they did not receive the love of the truth, that they might be saved."
   

Dangerous Video Games Shape Our Culture

     I have to admit that my exposure to video games has been very limited; Angry Birds and online Scrabble competitions are about the only ones that have captured my imagination.  I'd rather read a book to pass the time and relax my mind.  But according to the facts presented by the Entertainment Software Association (ESA), I'm an anomaly.

     According to the ESA, 58% of Americans play video games.  There are an average of 2 "gamers" in each game-playing household.  The age of game-players is spread pretty evenly across the demographic:  32% are under 18; 32% are 18-35; and 36% are 36 years and up.  And this is where my concern starts to develop.  You see, 40% of video games fall in the "Action, Sports, Strategy, Role-Playing"  and "Persistent Multi-Player Universe" Genres.
     Even though I may be a novice about the whole gaming environment, I know enough to know that these Genres can be violent, sexual, and outside society's norm.  What's more, although they may be rated for "over 18", it is generally accepted that children under that age are often exposed to, and are playing these games.  And it doesn't lessen my concerns when the President and CEO of ESA has this to say:  “No other sector has experienced the same explosive growth as the computer and video game industry. Our creative publishers and talented workforce continue to accelerate advancement and pioneer new products that push boundaries and unlock entertainment experiences. These innovations in turn drive enhanced player connectivity, fuel demand for products, and encourage the progression of an expanding and diversified consumer base.”
     But does any of that sound like it would be good for our culture?  Has technology opened a portal, exposing our society and minds to the unimaginable in aberrant and deviant behavior?  There will be those who say sex and violence in video games has no adverse effects upon behavior.  But then there's  Elliott Rodger, who killed 6 people and injured 13 after leaving a scathing manifesto on his hatred of women.  Breitbart BBC writes, "Rodger didn't kill because the video games made him violent, but the games did help to shape his violent fantasies. They provided a framework through which his online bloodlust turned into real-world slaughter."  Too many video game enthusiasts can't tell the difference between fantasy and reality!
     So now, let me tell you about one particular game that pushes the boundaries into perversion.  Grand Theft Auto (known as GTA in the gaming world) is one of the most popular video games ever developed.  When it arrived on the scene in 1997, it rocked the video game world.  It took "gaming" to a whole new level, one in which "as the player, you could run around, partaking in all manner of criminality, with the intent of rising to the top of the gangster underworld by any grotesque means necessary." It was a game where you could be the bad guy; and you could take part in drugs, prostitution and random violence, all while being anonymous behind that computer screen.
     Advance forward 17 years and Grand Theft Auto V will allow characters in the game to have sex with a prostitute before beating her to death and stealing her money.  How's that for growth and social progress?  Apparently, supporters of this genre feel this is just a natural expansion of the creative development process; the game remains " gratuitously and unapologetically violent."
     But now there appears to be a new element to all this "fun".  Players will be allowed to make "in-game purchases."  They will be able to enhance the game by paying more money to modify the game to meet their own unique cravings; such as letting players ride a UFO, or playing the game while totally submersed under water.  But players will also be able to effect the "virtual reality"of other players... and in some utterly evil ways.

     It seems that players are complaining that these modifications (or mods, as they are known) are forcing their characters to do things they don't want to do.  Some mods such as doing push-ups might seem harmless and uncontroversial.  But remember that it is accepted that under-age kids have been able to access this game.  So imagine that your 12-year old is secretly playing this game over at his best friend's house and his character was attacked by one of these mods.  Let me share with you what one young gamer experienced:   How it initially began is my friend was being taken advantage of in a more remote part of the map, which I was unaware of. I went to his area to find out he was not alone. There was this other user, the user in question, in the area. I have never played with this modder, nor am I friends with him, nor were we in a party. This guy was a total random stranger who just dropped in the free mode session.  Quite literally, I and a couple friends of mine encountered a stranger and we were raped and forced to strip dance in GTA online. It was like a "traumatic life" simulator.
     What kind of sick culture do we live in?  To make matters worse, there are even a few YouTube channels full of videos "showcasing" GTA Online rape.  Sales are expected to go higher than 25,000,000 for this deviant game, whose developers pride themselves on being named by the Guinness Book of Records as the most controversial video game in history.  They are proud that their game is like "a black mirror" set up to reflect society.
     Now, the Entertainment Software Association would like you to think that video games are safe; that parents are involved in approving what games their children play, and are aware at all times what game their child is participating in.  But, Breitbart BBC makes it very clear that since "GTA is an online game that's being modded, players get to rape other real-life players. Some of those other players are very young: GTA is rated 18, but has hundreds of thousands of teen addicts."  And who is doing the modding?  The acts are disturbing, to say the least, but does anyone doubt that, with 36% of video game players over the age of 36, there aren't pedophiles "trolling" these online sites for unsuspecting victims?  As one young player shared, "You cannot kill him and there is nothing you can do about it."
     I am ashamed as to how far we have fallen.  God has been pushed out of nearly every sector of our lives, including socially and politically; and the result has been moral depravity.  Once again Satan has used the rapid advancements in technology to introduce us to new and more vile temptations.  And yet one of our culture's elite -- none other than the senior curator of the Museum of Modern Art's Department of Architecture and Design had this to say, “I consider video games a form of design that is amazingly important today and that is going to become even more important in the future, because it is a way we interact with machines and screens."    We would be much better off interacting with humans in reality, than connecting with machines through fantasy "screen relationships".  Again, I say ... technology is proving to be a means to the destruction of our unique character and spirit, which is "made in the image of God".  Heaven help us to protect our children!

1 Corinthians 15:34    "Become sober-minded as you ought, and stop sinning; for some have no knowledge of God. I speak this to your shame. "
     

"That Will Never Happen..."

     How many times have you heard this phrase uttered, as many of our fellow Americans still refuse to abandon their normalcy biases?  Don't you want to shake them out of their blindness and point out all the ways in which the world is changing?  The ways that they have repeatedly claimed would never transpire?
     For instance, there are the people who refuse to look at the possibility that the U.S. dollar could one day lose its status as the world's reserve currency.  "That will never happen," they say.  "The U.S. is the economic leader of the world.  The dollar is as strong as it's ever been."  Well, I would like to point out that at the beginning of this month, during its annual economic summit, Russia signed a joint cooperation pact with China to begin moving away from the U.S. dollar and promote their own currencies between themselves.

     Combine this news with the fact that Russia just signed a $400 billion, 30-year deal to supply gas to China.  Economic analysts explain how this effects America:  China buying Russian oil exports means the Chinese yuan will be exchanged directly into Russian rubles -- this, in effect, bypasses the U.S. dollar.  And as Russian deals with the U.S. economic sanctions, it is forced to use the ruble for its trade purposes.  This, in effect, changes the ruble from a convertible currency to a reserve currency.  No need for the dollar, there!
     If more major and developing countries begin to conduct their trade in their own currencies, and outside of the U.S. dollar, it doesn't trend well for the strength or value of the dollar.  While the dollar has been strong against foreign currencies in the past, it has also allowed us to borrow great sums of money from fellow nations.  But that has meant rising U.S. debt, and a growing lack of confidence in the solidarity of the dollar.
     While the dollar still remains as the world's reserve currency, there are cracks in the foundation of that position, and the signs of our economic collapse grow more prominent.  But that will never happen, right?

     Another issue to which Americans have been blind is the creation of a Global Caliphate.  "That will never happen," they said.  "You are over-reacting to Islam and its adherents.  It's just a small minority who are radicalized.  No one wants a Caliphate."  Can they still say that?  If the events of recent weeks and months does not wake them up, then they must truly be in a "normalcy coma".  I do not believe that any rational person can deny that a new Caliphate is a distinct possibility.  Radical jihadists from all over the globe are flocking to the call of a sophisticated, social media-savvy, blood-thirsty army of Muslim extremists.  They have made their goals known, and in case anyone is paying attention, they are doing a pretty good job of accomplishing their objectives.
     And in case anyone is unaware, we are directly in their sights.  I've also noticed that ISIS is making inroads in Lebanon, strengthening themselves in Syria, and threatening to launch a campaign in Jordan ... is all this with the ultimate goal of surrounding and attacking Israel?  They have declared themselves a Caliphate; an Islamic state ruled by strict Islamic laws.  From where I sit, they're well on their way to establishing exactly what they proclaim.  But that will never happen, right?
     Finally, Americans cannot foresee that another Holocaust could ever be perpetuated upon the Jews.  "That will never happen," they answer.  "The world would never let that happen.  It was such a horrendous crime against humanity; we have progressed beyond that."  Are they aware of what is going on in Europe and on the streets of our own cities?  Read my post from Friday.  Do they know that Muslim radicals in France, Great Britain, Denmark, Sweden; and yes, even Germany, have targeted Jewish citizens and businesses --- just as they did prior to WW II?  Do they know that Jewish schools and institutions are being burned, and people have been killed?  Are they aware that Orthodox Jews in our own country have been shot and killed while on the way to synagogue, or that swastikas are beginning to appear across the landscape of our cities?  Do they know that Jews are beginning to fear for their lives and property, just as they did only 75 short years ago?  The signs are there!  Are we being reckless if we keep insisting, "this will never happen again"?
     As you can see, the world is struggling ... it is struggling for stability; it is struggling to maintain its humanity; and perhaps most importantly, it is struggling against pure Evil. But do we put our futures at risk when we refuse to acknowledge what the world is showing us?  Are we just too darned preoccupied with our own selfish little world that we can't possibly imagine a pole shift?  Because I can tell you that the spiritual forces behind these events are hoping that we will remain preoccupied while they set their plans in motion.  If we will just stay self-absorbed a little longer, events will fall into place and the things we couldn't imagine happening will be impossible to avert.  I imagine if on September 10th, 2001, you had asked a sampling of Americans if planes could be flown into the World Trade Center towers and bring them down, the overwhelming answer would have been "That will never happen...". Have we learned nothing?

1 Peter 5:8    "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour."

   

Romans 11:25-27

Lest you be self-opinionated (wise in your own conceits), I do not want you to miss this hidden truth and mystery, brethren: a hardening (insensibility) has [temporarily] befallen a part of Israel [to last] until the full number of the ingathering of the Gentiles has come in ... The Deliverer will come from Zion, He will banish ungodliness from Jacob. And this will be My covenant (My agreement) with them when I shall take away their sins.

    I have noticed the presence of a decidedly negative response whenever I write a post about Israel.  I do not know if the readers are Christians or not, but I am convinced that they read what I write from a marked political perspective.  I assume that their animosity towards Israel stems from their view of the current Gaza war.  To fully understand my point of view, one must look at what I write through the lens of the Bible.

     When I speak of Israel's right to the Land, and their status as God's Chosen people, I do not claim that every decision made by the Israeli government is correct, or that every secular or orthodox Jew has it right.  I cling to the verses I have chosen today.

     Just prior to this passage, the Apostle Paul has been expressing his sorrow at Israel's rejection of their Messiah.  He has made it known that their "Jewishness" does not exempt them from God's discipline; only their acceptance and faith in Jesus Christ [as God's Son who was crucified, buried and rose in triumphant resurrection] can cleanse them of their sins and provide eternal life.

     Paul admits that a hardening and blindness has (temporarily) fallen upon the nation (resulting in their rejection of Jesus) so that we can receive the Gospel message and accept God's gift of salvation. That hardening is still evident today in the modern nation of Israel.  They are still outside the grace of God, but only until that very last Gentile accepts Christ as His Savior -- and God knows who that person is!  

     But those who would condemn Israel for their actions to defend themselves must look to the Bible to see what God has to say about that.  In Genesis 17, He promises the land to the descendants of Isaac (modern Jews/Hebrews), not the descendants of Ishmael (modern Arabs/Palestinians).  The Israelites have been a rebellious people throughout the centuries, and God has disciplined them through captivities and dispersed them throughout the earth.  But He never abandoned His covenant with them.  And Ezekiel 36-37 prophesies of the return of the Israelites and the restoration of the land.

     That is what we have seen, beginning in May, 1948.  And that event is a foretelling of what Paul is describing in these verses of Romans.  The Deliverer (the Messiah) will come from Zion (Israel).  The world is going to come against Israel, once she is returned to the land God gave her.  We are seeing that unfold now.  Israel is surrounded by enemies that want to see her destroyed.  But there will come a day, when a remnant in the nation of Israel will cry out, "Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord" -- when they recognize Jesus as their Messiah -- and Christ will return to defend the apple of God's eye, and "banish all ungodliness from Jacob (who is Israel)".  The remnant in Israel who embraces the Messiah will receive eternal life, just as we Gentiles will.

     So, to understand my position on what is going on in modern-day Israel, one must understand that my Christian faith is the basis for my opinions.  As a believing Gentile, I owe a debt to the Jewish people.  Because of their blindness, I had the opportunity to receive the saving Gospel.  I must stand and support Israel's right to its land. It is a Divine right given to them by God.  If you do not believe the Bible, and only see the Gaza war in terms of a secular world vision, we will never agree on this issue.  I believe that Israel's appointed time to see her Messiah is close at hand.  Until then, I will "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem."

     

Testing The Limits In The Heartland

     The alarming situation in Ferguson, Missouri has so many undertones, it has got us all scrambling for answers ... and the truth.  I must admit that I am very conflicted because I'm confused about what we're being shown by the media ... and why.  I believe that nothing is done by chance.
     There are images of out-of-control looting and rioting, which serves no purpose except for taking advantage of a volatile situation.  There is news coverage of police in full military gear arriving in armored vehicles, shooting rubber bullets and tossing tear gas canisters at citizens.  Photos appear online of cars and stores on fire, and thugs lighting molotov cocktails; clearly these citizens are breaking the law.  And then there are stories of journalists being arrested for attempting to report on all the chaos; the freedom of the press appears to be suppressed by a militarized police force.

     So what are we to think?  Is this going to be another racially-charged circus like the Trayvon Martin incident?  Was this the murder of an innocent victim by an overzealous cop, or was it a justified shooting of a combative robbery suspect?  How do we keep this explosive crisis from being used by different factions for their own purposes?  Like I said, I don't have the answers ... but I fear that the ramifications we could see coming out of Ferguson, Missouri are nothing any of us wants.
     I have to admit that I have nephews who are police officers, and who work in communities adjacent to Ferguson, although none of them are part of the police presence we've seen televised, thank God.  But I know of the dangers that they face each day, and of the lawlessness that is embraced in the surrounding areas.  Unemployment is incredibly high and incentives to escape the economic hopelessness are low.  That's not a good combination for producing law-abiding citizens, nor is it a reason to adopt victimhood.
     On the other hand, I am quite disturbed at the videos I've seen of police in camo and helmets, as if they are waging war against American citizens.  As Senator Rand Paul stated, "The images and scenes we continue to see in Ferguson resemble war more than traditional police action…. Washington has incentivized the militarization of local police precincts by using federal dollars to help municipal governments build what are essentially small armies—where police departments compete to acquire military gear that goes far beyond what most of Americans think of as law enforcement."

     I think we can all agree that police must be given the authority to keep the peace and enforce our laws.  But when the police take on the appearance and role of a military-like agency, then it is only natural that we citizens fear the loss of our constitutionally-guaranteed rights.  And because the news media is always looking for that "juicy" story to boost ratings, nothing gives them more opportunity to fill air time than a racial incident, and we all know that they can distort their coverage to show any narrative they want.  So what's the real story they want us to take away from the non-stop reporting?  (Keep in mind, there's always the possibility we're only seeing what they want us to see).
     But I have two very real concerns regarding this unfortunate situation.  And I think they both point to the heart of the matter.  Number One:  Will true justice be served?  Conflicting stories on the victim have surfaced, and are sure to muddy the legal waters.  Was he innocently walking down the street when he was harassed by a prejudiced police officer, as his companion states?  Or did he fit the description of a robbery suspect at a nearby convenience store, as new crime scene photos seem to suggest?  (That same companion is allegedly an accomplice in that robbery).
     And once again, as in the Trayvon case, the officer (who claims self-defense) supposedly has injuries sustained in the confrontation with the victim.  The police department of Ferguson has handled this affair poorly.  Information has been sporadic and conflicting; thereby, lending an air of suspicion to the whole proceedings.  They haven't helped us feel confident we're getting at the truth.  (Maybe we're not supposed to feel "confident"?  Sorry, my conspiratorial side is on the loose).
     Number Two:  My greatest fear is that this "crisis will not go to waste", and any number of players can use this calamity to their advantage.   The recklessness of the citizenry can be manipulated to give the government cause for instituting martial law.  There are groups such as the Black Panthers that will eagerly use the death of Michael Brown to further their agenda of alienation of the races.  There are politicians and social engineers who will use Ferguson to promote their position that economic disparity and discrimination in the judicial system are reasons to  justify the actions of looters and rioters ... that their "outrage leading to destruction" is a natural reaction, so to speak.
     With this many elements all jockeying to further their "agendas", there will be no winning side.  We all stand to lose.  And if each group is given a little piece of the pie in an effort to appease them, then one more brick crumbles at the foundation of American freedoms and our way of life.  We will all be a little less than we were a week ago.  But then again, (smirk, smirk) maybe that's the plan....

     Latest News:  Out of this chaotic situation steps the calming, professional influence of Missouri State Highway Patrol Capt. Ronald S. Johnson.  The governor of Missouri was smart enough to hand over the reins of security control to Johnson, and the result was a night of no arrests, no tear gas, and the opportunity for the citizens of Ferguson to exert their First Amendment rights to peaceably assemble.
     Captain Johnson did what should have been done from the outset; he listened.  Watching him at a news conference, I couldn't help but think, "This man knows how to communicate with the people.  He knows how the police presence should be represented.  And most of all, he knows how the police and the community need to respect each other."  He removed all the heavy military gear; including gas masks, military armored vehicles with sniper posts, and most specifically, the attitude.  He then walked the streets with the protesters, showing them they had nothing to fear from the police, and that  they needn't destroy their own communities in the effort to express their opinions.
     As I listened to him speak, it was obvious that this man is special.  I could sense that he wants the best for all parties involved and he will tolerate neither lawlessness nor injustice.  Could he be the answer to prayers for non-violence and godly leadership?  Then he quoted Scripture and my soul leaped in response!  Thank you, Lord for sending this compassionate man in the midst of all the Enemy's servants.  Perhaps Evil just got check-mated and Ferguson can begin to heal!

Ephesians 5:11    "Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them."
   
 
 

Never Again!

     This is the rallying cry of Jews throughout Europe as they see the writing on the wall, and vow to stop the hate crimes against their religion by radical Muslims and supporters of the Left.  And it looks as if they have good reason to be on the defensive.  Israel National News cites a study by the World Zionist Organization that reports "Anti-Semitic attacks have increased by 436% in Europe, 1200% in South America, 600% in South Africa, 800% in Oceania, 127% in the United States, and 100% in Canada."
     These attacks include the burning of Israeli flags worldwide.  Mezuzahs (a parchment inscribed with religious texts and attached in a case to the doorpost of a Jewish house as a sign of faith) are being ripped from homes.  Jewish shops around the world are torched.  And the delegitimization of Israel by pro-Arab sympathizers all serve to undermine the security of hundreds of thousands of Jews around the world.
     But European Jews are living by their pledge to "never again" allow a Holocaust like the one instigated by Nazi Germany.  Throughout Europe, Jewish groups are hiring former, elite Israeli soldiers as security guards for Jewish institutions and synagogues.
     Stephen Brown, writing for David Horowitz's Freedom Center and Front Page Mag, says "Well aware of history, German Jewish associations know the first major step in any planned liquidation of Europe’s Jewish communities, especially of their own, is the destruction of their synagogues. This is what occurred in Germany in November, 1938, and later came to be called ‘Kristallnacht’ (Crystal Night). In one night, Nazi thugs destroyed all the synagogues in Germany and Austria as well as many Jewish businesses, homes, cemeteries and social meeting places. The ‘Kristall’ refers to the debris of broken window glass lying on the ground afterwards from destroyed synagogues and Jewish stores."
     That night over 100 Jews were killed in the ensuing violence.  The Nazi regime held the Jewish community responsible for the physical damage and subsequently imposed a collective fine of $400 million (in 1938 rates); this according to the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum.
     History.com further relates that "more than 30,000 Jewish men were arrested and sent to the Dachau, Buchenwald and Sachsenhausen concentration camps in Germany–camps that were specifically constructed to hold Jews, political prisoners and other perceived enemies of the Nazi state."
     Today, European Jews recognize that Kristallnacht was the night that the harassment of Jews in Germany turned to violence, and that it directly led to the extermination of over 6,000,000 European Jews.  Kristallnacht was a turning point, and they are determined that such evil will happen "never again".

     In his article, Brown writes that, today, "radical, anti-Semitic Islamists have replaced the brown-shirted thugs. And they are becoming just as violent as their predecessors in expressing their anti-Jewish hatred."  France has been the scene of particularly violent hate crimes; with French jihadists attacking Jewish community centers and synagogues; and murdering children at Jewish schools, and killing attendees at Jewish museums.  The anti-Semitic attacks have gotten so bad in France, that Jews are leery of walking to synagogue;  physical and verbal assaults occur daily.
     You know it is getting bad in Europe when a visiting German-Jewish lawyer tells an Israeli parliamentary committee, "Things are happening (in Europe) that we have not seen since 1933."
     So the question is this ... Do the European governments have the courage to fight back against such hatred and evil?  Will they try to appease it or ignore it?  Surely, they remember their history and what such lack of action encouraged! "Harshly denouncing" the actions will not be enough!
     If nothing else, the current and growing anti-Semitism throughout Europe and the world should be a wake-up call to Jews and non-Jews alike.  I believe humanity must not allow such atrocities to happen again.  And I believe that God will not see His chosen people suffer such Evil a second time.  He has restored them to the land; and if the hatred and the violence continues to grow, it won't be long until they cry out, "Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord."
     Just this week, an orthodox Jewish rabbi from New York was shot and killed in Miami, Florida on his way to worship --- this, just days after a swastika was painted on a nearby synagogue.  It's here, people!  Evil is once again targeting Jews and we must all make a personal decision ... will you denounce such hatred?  I do not believe God will let it go unanswered this time.  Come, Lord Jesus!

Psalm 83:1-4    "O God, do not keep silence; do not hold your peace or be still, O God! For behold, your enemies make an uproar; those who hate you have raised their heads. They lay crafty plans against your people; they consult together against your treasured ones. They say, “Come, let us wipe them out as a nation; let the name of Israel be remembered no more!”
    

Recommended Book: Survive The Coming Storm - Ebola Crisis

     It still dominates the headlines ... EBOLA.  Breitbart.com reports that a Spanish missionary priest died of the disease in Madrid this last Tuesday.  They are also reporting that China has quarantined 8 medical workers who had direct contact with ebola patients in Sierra Leone while helping to treat victims of the deadly virus.
     Breitbart is also reporting that there is grave concern in China over the spread of the virus, as it is estimated that 20,000 Chinese citizens are living and working in the three African countries most directly affected by Ebola.  If any of these health workers return to China carrying the virus, the potential spread of the disease among the crowded urban communities of China could potentially result in the deaths of thousands, if not millions.
     Then you have the changing position of the Center for Disease Control, who initially claimed that you had to come in contact with an Ebola patient to contract the disease.  Now, they have amended their statement to "being within 3 feet" of an infected person or "being in the same room" with an infected person can allow for transmission of the disease! They also admit a person who is infected, but not yet showing symptoms, is contagious!
     And finally, Bloomberg News is telling us that "The Ebola drug given to two Americans and a Spanish priest has been sent to treat infected doctors in two West African countries, and the supply of the medicine is now gone, its manufacturer said."  Which raises the serious ethical question ... with a shortage of any kind of medicine to combat the disease, who will receive the few available doses of life-saving drugs?  Will the poor Africans, or will it be dispensed to those with the resources and the money to demand it?

     That brings me to my recommendation .... Ray Gano, the Publisher and Executive Director of the web ministry  Prophezine, which provides a wide variety of spiritual and physical preparedness articles, has published a new book that offers some valuable information and advice on how to protect your family during an Ebola pandemic.
     None of  us wants to think about this happening, but if you are paying close attention, the indications are it is a very real possibility.
     Ray's book, titled Survive The Coming Storm - EBOLA CRISIS (Preparing Now... Before It Is Too Late) is a book you want to have in your possession, if the worst case scenario materializes.
     As Ray points out, the Ebola virus appears to be spreading faster than the efforts to contain it.  Therefore, we would be wise to develop a quarantine plan now, and stock up on the supplies you will need to prevent and/or treat the virus.  And he gives you a concise strategy for accomplishing this for your family.
     He gives you the products and the methods for sterilizing your home, and how to set up a quarantined patient room, if necessary.  He offers advice on how to keep the virus from spreading in your home, and how to safely handle the sanitation issues when caring for an Ebola patient.
     His book also offers valuable advice on supplements and over-the-counter products to boost your immune system and prepare your body to fight off the virus.  He tells you how to prevent, identify and treat dehydration, the primary cause of death in Ebola victims.  And, because it is necessary, there is even a chapter on how to deal with the death of a loved one.
     This book is not designed to frighten you or to cause you to panic ... it is written to help you be prepared to deal with a worldwide pandemic before it happens.  There have already been over 1000 Ebola deaths in Africa, and nearly 2,000 suspected cases, in just over a few short months.  Until this year, the world had recorded 1,640 deaths TOTAL from Ebola since the virus was discovered in 1976... you can see the potential for this to turn into a global disaster.
     That's why the time to add Ray Gano's book to your preparedness collection is NOW!  Don't wait until the epidemic spreads like wildfire to try to gain this information or gather together your supplies.  It will be too late!  You can listen to scientists and doctors, who tell you it is too early; there's no need to panic.  Maybe they're right.  Or you can rest easy at night, knowing that you have given your family a chance, should the worst happen.  This is a valuable resource to have.  Click on the provided link and check it out ... I highly recommend it!

Revelation 11:6    "They have the power to shut the sky, that no rain may fall during the days of their prophesying, and they have power over the waters to turn them into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague, as often as they desire."