It's safe to say that hurricane Katrina devastated parts of Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. News photos tell only parts of the destruction to lives and property.
It's times, like these, we as Christians are called into action: prayer and service. My wife and I nearly wept as we watched the news videos of people who lost everything. Everything.
A man lost his wife to the flood waters.
A family lost their home and belongings.
Families are without food and clean water with no where to go.
These people are OUR people. They need our help. Some simple things to do in addition to prayer:
1. Clean out your closets and donate that clothing to your nearest Red Cross, Salvation Army, or Goodwill centers.
2. Donate canned goods and water.
3. Financially support the aforementioned organizations along with church organizations, i.e. the Southern Baptist Convention- Disaster Relief or the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship.
Most of all, please keep all of these families in your prayers as God provides for them in all their needs.
Wednesday, August 31, 2005
Thursday, August 25, 2005
Anti-War Protests in D.C.
From CNS News...Anti-War Protests Target Wounded at Army Hospital
As much as I don't care for the anti-war protests, they do have a right to protest. They only have the right to protest due to a war that was won by people yearning to be free.
This story regarding anti-war protesters, outside Walter Reed Army Medical Center, takes the cake. Soldiers stay here to recover from their war wounds. These soldiers need to be surrounded in love and positive attitudes. Even though many may never walk the same way again, they will always be soldiers. They are honorable and brave.
If the anti-war demonstrators had any decency, they would leave and take their protests elsewhere. Or, do something even better: Volunteer to brighten the day of a soldier who needs compassion.
As much as I don't care for the anti-war protests, they do have a right to protest. They only have the right to protest due to a war that was won by people yearning to be free.
This story regarding anti-war protesters, outside Walter Reed Army Medical Center, takes the cake. Soldiers stay here to recover from their war wounds. These soldiers need to be surrounded in love and positive attitudes. Even though many may never walk the same way again, they will always be soldiers. They are honorable and brave.
If the anti-war demonstrators had any decency, they would leave and take their protests elsewhere. Or, do something even better: Volunteer to brighten the day of a soldier who needs compassion.
Rick Warren and the SBC
From The Baptist Press...Rick Warren dispels rumors, says church committed to SBC
Part 1
Even though Pastor Rick Warren supports the SBC, he doesn't agree with everything they do:
Warren, though, doesn't agree with everything Southern Baptists do. He told BP the SBC's 2004 vote to withdraw from the Baptist World Alliance was a "major mistake." He spoke at the BWA's Centenary Congress this summer in Birmingham, England.
I point this little blurb out to remind SBC folks that it's OK to disagree with the SBC and still support them. This is not about theology; it's about relationships and evangelism. The problem with the SBC (and CBF for that matter) is the typical mold they put themselves in: Pressed suit, tie, and shiny shoes. Can you reach the homeless, the hurting, the sinner in this attire and presence?
My guess is no.
Pastor Warren is not afraid to tell the SBC what he thinks and what he does for the sake of Christ. The SBC would do well to listen and take notes.
Part 2
I love what Pastor Warren has to say about church growth, since I am often asked this question when interviewing with churches. He hits the nail on the head:
"The problem with many churches is that they begin with the wrong question. They ask, 'What will make our church grow?' This is a mistake. Instead they should be asking, 'What is keeping our church from growing?' All living things grow. You don’t have to make them grow. If they are healthy, they grow automatically. Since the church is a living organism, it is natural for it to grow. It is unnatural for it not to grow."
Wow! This puts the accountability on who? Yup, the church. Imagine that...
Oftentimes church members get so set in their ways that they don't want to reach out. The church begins to fester and no one understands why. Soon, what was once a living organism, is now dying.
Pastor Warren is right: When we start looking in the mirror, taking responsibility, and reach out to those in need, then the church will begin to grow.
Part 1
Even though Pastor Rick Warren supports the SBC, he doesn't agree with everything they do:
Warren, though, doesn't agree with everything Southern Baptists do. He told BP the SBC's 2004 vote to withdraw from the Baptist World Alliance was a "major mistake." He spoke at the BWA's Centenary Congress this summer in Birmingham, England.
I point this little blurb out to remind SBC folks that it's OK to disagree with the SBC and still support them. This is not about theology; it's about relationships and evangelism. The problem with the SBC (and CBF for that matter) is the typical mold they put themselves in: Pressed suit, tie, and shiny shoes. Can you reach the homeless, the hurting, the sinner in this attire and presence?
My guess is no.
Pastor Warren is not afraid to tell the SBC what he thinks and what he does for the sake of Christ. The SBC would do well to listen and take notes.
Part 2
I love what Pastor Warren has to say about church growth, since I am often asked this question when interviewing with churches. He hits the nail on the head:
"The problem with many churches is that they begin with the wrong question. They ask, 'What will make our church grow?' This is a mistake. Instead they should be asking, 'What is keeping our church from growing?' All living things grow. You don’t have to make them grow. If they are healthy, they grow automatically. Since the church is a living organism, it is natural for it to grow. It is unnatural for it not to grow."
Wow! This puts the accountability on who? Yup, the church. Imagine that...
Oftentimes church members get so set in their ways that they don't want to reach out. The church begins to fester and no one understands why. Soon, what was once a living organism, is now dying.
Pastor Warren is right: When we start looking in the mirror, taking responsibility, and reach out to those in need, then the church will begin to grow.
Wednesday, August 24, 2005
Choices
Foxnews... Bush: Iraq Pullout Would Hurt Democracy
I feel bad for our fallen soldiers. I feel bad for their families.
We live in a great soceity. We have the privilege of choice.
And yet, I wonder what people think of when they choose to join the military. Is it much like joining the police or fire department with the intention of never seeing action?
And so I wonder about comments such as this one from the article:
"Nothing is going to justify my husband's death," said Melanie House, 27, of Simi Valley, Calif., whose husband, Navy medic John House, was killed in a January helicopter crash.
"Why are we there? What is President Bush trying to get out of this? Why must my son be fatherless?" she told the crowd, referring to her 8-month-old son.
Ms. House, I'm sorry for your pain. But, your husband chose the military. He chose to do something honorable. Why can't you see that? Will you now raise your son to be honorable and defend this great country or raise him to be a hate-filled radical?
It all boils down to choice.
I feel bad for our fallen soldiers. I feel bad for their families.
We live in a great soceity. We have the privilege of choice.
And yet, I wonder what people think of when they choose to join the military. Is it much like joining the police or fire department with the intention of never seeing action?
And so I wonder about comments such as this one from the article:
"Nothing is going to justify my husband's death," said Melanie House, 27, of Simi Valley, Calif., whose husband, Navy medic John House, was killed in a January helicopter crash.
"Why are we there? What is President Bush trying to get out of this? Why must my son be fatherless?" she told the crowd, referring to her 8-month-old son.
Ms. House, I'm sorry for your pain. But, your husband chose the military. He chose to do something honorable. Why can't you see that? Will you now raise your son to be honorable and defend this great country or raise him to be a hate-filled radical?
It all boils down to choice.
Monday, August 22, 2005
John Piper & Living Christianity
From Crosswalk.com...Making Room for Atheism: Thoughts on the Supremacy of God
By John Piper
Desiring God
If you ever get the chance to listen to John Piper, please do so. He is a wonderful, passionate speaker. His comments on Christianity in everyday life are very interesting:
The fact that God establishes his kingdom through the supernatural miracle of faith, not firearms, means that Christians in this age will not endorse coercive governments—Christian or secular.
This is why we resist the coercive secularization implied in some laws that repress Christian activity in public places. It is not that we want to establish Christianity as the law of the land. That is intrinsically impossible, because of the spiritual nature of the kingdom. It is rather because repression of free exercise of religion and persuasion is as wrong against Christians as it is against secularists.
We believe this tolerance is rooted in the very nature of the gospel of Christ. In one sense, tolerance is pragmatic: freedom and democracy seem to be the best political order humans have conceived.
Please don't take what is being said here incorrectly. The root word of caution here is, "coersion", or the use of force. Dr. Piper has it right. We enjoy living in a free soceity. We are free to choose and express our beliefs.
In my free speech blogs, I mention the frequent mis-interpretation of the First Amendment. But what I don't say is for our government to force it's people to choose a particular religion. In the Great Falls case, the city council was not forcing citizens to pray in Christ's name. No one held up a gun and said, "Say the name of Jesus or else!"
This is the sticking point with today's liberal judges: They don't understand "coersion". Maybe if they visited Kosovo, China, or any Muslim led country, they would.
By John Piper
Desiring God
If you ever get the chance to listen to John Piper, please do so. He is a wonderful, passionate speaker. His comments on Christianity in everyday life are very interesting:
The fact that God establishes his kingdom through the supernatural miracle of faith, not firearms, means that Christians in this age will not endorse coercive governments—Christian or secular.
This is why we resist the coercive secularization implied in some laws that repress Christian activity in public places. It is not that we want to establish Christianity as the law of the land. That is intrinsically impossible, because of the spiritual nature of the kingdom. It is rather because repression of free exercise of religion and persuasion is as wrong against Christians as it is against secularists.
We believe this tolerance is rooted in the very nature of the gospel of Christ. In one sense, tolerance is pragmatic: freedom and democracy seem to be the best political order humans have conceived.
Please don't take what is being said here incorrectly. The root word of caution here is, "coersion", or the use of force. Dr. Piper has it right. We enjoy living in a free soceity. We are free to choose and express our beliefs.
In my free speech blogs, I mention the frequent mis-interpretation of the First Amendment. But what I don't say is for our government to force it's people to choose a particular religion. In the Great Falls case, the city council was not forcing citizens to pray in Christ's name. No one held up a gun and said, "Say the name of Jesus or else!"
This is the sticking point with today's liberal judges: They don't understand "coersion". Maybe if they visited Kosovo, China, or any Muslim led country, they would.
Senator Hagel's Remarks
From CNN...Hagel: Iraq war has destabilized Mideast, resembles Vietnam
Not to take away from Senator Hagel's Vietnam experience, but his comments are way off.
1. How is Iraq destabilizing the Middle East? Does any educated person really believe the Middle East power players (Saudi Arabia et al) even care about Iraq? My guess is, "NO".
2. Even if our soldiers are there four more years, as long as they can control the fanatics from blowing everyone up, we should be fine. How long have we been in Korea now? Okinawa?
3. The casualty numbers don't even compare with Vietnam.
4. The Vietnam conflict, with a heavy United States presence, began in 1965. It lasted nine years. We went to Iraq a second time in 2003. It's only been two years!
In a day of fast food, fast banking, and fast internet, have we come to a point where our battles should only last a year? What a joke!
The real issue is Iraq's Constitution. If the Sunnis and Shiites get their way, only men will have freedom. Women and children could be in danger as witnessed in other countries that follow Sharia law. I don't believe they were better under Saddam. Clearly these religious fanatics must give freedom to ALL.
Not to take away from Senator Hagel's Vietnam experience, but his comments are way off.
1. How is Iraq destabilizing the Middle East? Does any educated person really believe the Middle East power players (Saudi Arabia et al) even care about Iraq? My guess is, "NO".
2. Even if our soldiers are there four more years, as long as they can control the fanatics from blowing everyone up, we should be fine. How long have we been in Korea now? Okinawa?
3. The casualty numbers don't even compare with Vietnam.
4. The Vietnam conflict, with a heavy United States presence, began in 1965. It lasted nine years. We went to Iraq a second time in 2003. It's only been two years!
In a day of fast food, fast banking, and fast internet, have we come to a point where our battles should only last a year? What a joke!
The real issue is Iraq's Constitution. If the Sunnis and Shiites get their way, only men will have freedom. Women and children could be in danger as witnessed in other countries that follow Sharia law. I don't believe they were better under Saddam. Clearly these religious fanatics must give freedom to ALL.
Sunday, August 21, 2005
Freedom of Speech in Great Falls
From AJC.com...
(you will need a login at: http://www.bugmenot.com) Thanks, Tim!
The article focuses on the city council, of Great Fall, SC, saying prayers in the name of Jesus Christ. Darla Wynne, a wiccan, sued the city council due to the promotion of religion. She won and her legal bills must be paid by the council. According to the article:
A three-judge panel (4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals) ruled unanimously that the Town Council had "exploited" an opportunity to advance one religion.
The Great Falls Town Council may engage in nonsectarian prayers as a source of strength to believers and a time of quiet reflection for all, Judge Diana Gribbon Motz wrote. "This opportunity does not, however, provide the town council, or any legislative body, license to advance its own religious beliefs in preference to all others, as the town council did here. The First Amendment bars such official preference for one religion, and corresponding official discrimination against all others."
This case comes in light as the ACLU begins its attack on the Cobb County, Georgia City Council. However, there is a difference between the city council in Great Falls and Cobb County. Great Falls did not allow other religions to express their prayers as Cobb County does.
Yet, does this really mean Great Falls did wrong?
No, not by the original writers of the Constitution. If one were to really do their history homework properly, they would find that the writers, who were mostly Christian, did not intend for Goverment to push a particular Christian denomination. As Christianity was, and is, the dominant religion of the day, the founding fathers really never worried about groups such as the ACLU.
Liberal groups such as the ACLU bask in their pious deeds. They wholeheartedly believe that what they are doing is best for everyone. It's not.
I just wish our legal system would study their American history.
(you will need a login at: http://www.bugmenot.com) Thanks, Tim!
The article focuses on the city council, of Great Fall, SC, saying prayers in the name of Jesus Christ. Darla Wynne, a wiccan, sued the city council due to the promotion of religion. She won and her legal bills must be paid by the council. According to the article:
A three-judge panel (4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals) ruled unanimously that the Town Council had "exploited" an opportunity to advance one religion.
The Great Falls Town Council may engage in nonsectarian prayers as a source of strength to believers and a time of quiet reflection for all, Judge Diana Gribbon Motz wrote. "This opportunity does not, however, provide the town council, or any legislative body, license to advance its own religious beliefs in preference to all others, as the town council did here. The First Amendment bars such official preference for one religion, and corresponding official discrimination against all others."
This case comes in light as the ACLU begins its attack on the Cobb County, Georgia City Council. However, there is a difference between the city council in Great Falls and Cobb County. Great Falls did not allow other religions to express their prayers as Cobb County does.
Yet, does this really mean Great Falls did wrong?
No, not by the original writers of the Constitution. If one were to really do their history homework properly, they would find that the writers, who were mostly Christian, did not intend for Goverment to push a particular Christian denomination. As Christianity was, and is, the dominant religion of the day, the founding fathers really never worried about groups such as the ACLU.
Liberal groups such as the ACLU bask in their pious deeds. They wholeheartedly believe that what they are doing is best for everyone. It's not.
I just wish our legal system would study their American history.
Friday, August 19, 2005
Conservative Comic Book
From CNS News...
Mike Mackey has created a comic book pitting conservative heroes: Sean Hannity, G. Gordon Liddy, and Col. Oliver North against their liberal foes.
I have to give Mackey credit here for his use of the 2004 Presidential election to create this futuristic thriller. Lastly, I love his quote on the comic's potential sales:
"It was funny but had a powerful message to it," Mackey said. If he's successful in duplicating that experience, "comic shops nationwide will be rushed harder than a Ted Kennedy assault on a Liquor Barn grand opening!"
Mike Mackey has created a comic book pitting conservative heroes: Sean Hannity, G. Gordon Liddy, and Col. Oliver North against their liberal foes.
I have to give Mackey credit here for his use of the 2004 Presidential election to create this futuristic thriller. Lastly, I love his quote on the comic's potential sales:
"It was funny but had a powerful message to it," Mackey said. If he's successful in duplicating that experience, "comic shops nationwide will be rushed harder than a Ted Kennedy assault on a Liquor Barn grand opening!"
A Breakthrough in Stem Cell Research
From CNS News...
CNS News reports that American and British researchers have discovered a new stem cell in cord blood called, CBE's:
The cord-blood-derived-embryonic-like stem cells (CBEs) share many of the same characteristics of embryonic cells and one day might be used to treat injuries or diseases.
The researchers already have successfully turned the cells into human liver tissue.
"CBEs are a viable human alternative from embryonic stem cells for stem cell research, without ethical constraint and with potential for clinical applications," study leader Dr Colin McGuckin said in the medical journal Cell Proliferation.
The article further mentions the limitations of embryonic stem cells.
Could this be the hope we've been waiting for?
CNS News reports that American and British researchers have discovered a new stem cell in cord blood called, CBE's:
The cord-blood-derived-embryonic-like stem cells (CBEs) share many of the same characteristics of embryonic cells and one day might be used to treat injuries or diseases.
The researchers already have successfully turned the cells into human liver tissue.
"CBEs are a viable human alternative from embryonic stem cells for stem cell research, without ethical constraint and with potential for clinical applications," study leader Dr Colin McGuckin said in the medical journal Cell Proliferation.
The article further mentions the limitations of embryonic stem cells.
Could this be the hope we've been waiting for?
Wednesday, August 17, 2005
The Choking Game
Another teen dies from this senseless act...
AJC.com
(You'll need a login.)
LAWRENCE, Kan. — A teenager found hanging from a dresser drawer with a coated bicycle chain lock around her neck apparently died while playing the "pass-out game," the girl's parents said.
Kimberly Wilson, a 15-year-old student at Veritas Christian School in Lawrence, died last week.
I don't understand. Someone with common sense tell me what is going on here. These kids are dying...DYING! Why? Peer pressure? 'Cause "it's fun"? Is life all about getting "high"?
Parents, you would do well to teach your kids about death. Yes, I said death. Because apparently they don't understand the value of life.
AJC.com
(You'll need a login.)
LAWRENCE, Kan. — A teenager found hanging from a dresser drawer with a coated bicycle chain lock around her neck apparently died while playing the "pass-out game," the girl's parents said.
Kimberly Wilson, a 15-year-old student at Veritas Christian School in Lawrence, died last week.
I don't understand. Someone with common sense tell me what is going on here. These kids are dying...DYING! Why? Peer pressure? 'Cause "it's fun"? Is life all about getting "high"?
Parents, you would do well to teach your kids about death. Yes, I said death. Because apparently they don't understand the value of life.
Move America Forward
Dueling Protests: 'You don't speak for me, Cindy'
CNS News
We're always gonna have protestors no matter what the United States does regarding the war on terrorism. Could President Bush meet with Cindy Sheehan? Yes, but not on her terms. She wants cameras rolling, while holding Michael Moore's hand, with President Bush begging for forgiveness.
Cindy, this just isn't going to happen your way.
Do we need a group like, Move America Forward, to tell the public that Americans should support our troops and the war on terror? Don't Americans have enough common sense to support our troops? Does anyone remember the fallout from Vietnam?
The year was 1974. The United States is pullling out of Vietnam. There's been a huge public outcry against the conflict. What happens next is appalling. Soldiers, slowly arriving in U. S. airports, are booed and shunned by Americans. The public has judged these tireless soldiers as "baby killers". To add insult to injury, the "draft dodgers" are seen as the real heroes for their stance against the conflict.
Why do we need, Move America Forward, and similar groups? Yes, to keep a vigilant support for our troops and the war against radical terrorists. These soldiers need our appreciation and positive affirmation. And when these soldiers do come home, they need all the love and support from us that we can give. As a proud supporter of the United States and our military, I refuse to let what happened in 1974 & '75 happen again.
CNS News
We're always gonna have protestors no matter what the United States does regarding the war on terrorism. Could President Bush meet with Cindy Sheehan? Yes, but not on her terms. She wants cameras rolling, while holding Michael Moore's hand, with President Bush begging for forgiveness.
Cindy, this just isn't going to happen your way.
Do we need a group like, Move America Forward, to tell the public that Americans should support our troops and the war on terror? Don't Americans have enough common sense to support our troops? Does anyone remember the fallout from Vietnam?
The year was 1974. The United States is pullling out of Vietnam. There's been a huge public outcry against the conflict. What happens next is appalling. Soldiers, slowly arriving in U. S. airports, are booed and shunned by Americans. The public has judged these tireless soldiers as "baby killers". To add insult to injury, the "draft dodgers" are seen as the real heroes for their stance against the conflict.
Why do we need, Move America Forward, and similar groups? Yes, to keep a vigilant support for our troops and the war against radical terrorists. These soldiers need our appreciation and positive affirmation. And when these soldiers do come home, they need all the love and support from us that we can give. As a proud supporter of the United States and our military, I refuse to let what happened in 1974 & '75 happen again.
Tuesday, August 16, 2005
Gaza Strip Pullout
From CNS News...
From the little reading I've done on this issue, it seems to me that Israeli PM Ariel Sharon is making a big mistake. I clearly understand the neeed for peace between the Israelis and Palestinians, but there's got to be a better way.
What I fear the most is that the land (the West Bank) will be used as a terrorist breeding ground. There's no way the Palestinians could peacefully operate a democracy. Not with the presence of Hamas and Hezbollah radicals. A Muslim democracy? Only God knows.
Let's pray for the safety of Israel, her people, the Israeli and Palestinian Christians.
From the little reading I've done on this issue, it seems to me that Israeli PM Ariel Sharon is making a big mistake. I clearly understand the neeed for peace between the Israelis and Palestinians, but there's got to be a better way.
What I fear the most is that the land (the West Bank) will be used as a terrorist breeding ground. There's no way the Palestinians could peacefully operate a democracy. Not with the presence of Hamas and Hezbollah radicals. A Muslim democracy? Only God knows.
Let's pray for the safety of Israel, her people, the Israeli and Palestinian Christians.
Hate and Persecution in Kosovo
From CNS News...
Radical Muslims in Kosovo are burning Christian churches and seminaries while building mosques on top of them. Christians are also the target of snipers.
Christians live in peace and give the people of Kosovo hope. Yet the radical Muslims don't see it that way. They want us (Christians) dead, pure and simple. Even when we want to work things out, they still want us dead. This is evident by the church burnings and cross stompings.
Ladies and gentlemen, this is hate and it must be stopped. If is isn't, radical Muslims will continue their reign of terror.
Peterson and Djurovski both said many of the new mosques funded by Saudi and Iranian funds are currently empty, but reflect plans to indoctrinate residents with the radical Wahhabist form of Islam. The new mosques carry plaques acknowledging funding from Saudi Arabia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates, said Grieboski.
"This is a very grave threat," said Peterson. "With final status changing from Serbian Orthodox hegemony into at very best a gray line, the dividing line between the Christian and Islamic world moves closer to the European Union, and we're at great risk of tolerating what should not be tolerated in order to buy some peace in our time."
In the war against an expanding radical Islam, Peterson said, "We have three choices: convert, submit or die. But there's a fourth choice and that's to fight. "What is going on in Kosovo today is the future of Europe tomorrow," he added.
I could go into a long dissertation as to why we should use force against these radical fanatics, but I won't. Instead, please keep the people of Kosovo in your prayers. I don't foresee this situation getting any better.
Radical Muslims in Kosovo are burning Christian churches and seminaries while building mosques on top of them. Christians are also the target of snipers.
Christians live in peace and give the people of Kosovo hope. Yet the radical Muslims don't see it that way. They want us (Christians) dead, pure and simple. Even when we want to work things out, they still want us dead. This is evident by the church burnings and cross stompings.
Ladies and gentlemen, this is hate and it must be stopped. If is isn't, radical Muslims will continue their reign of terror.
Peterson and Djurovski both said many of the new mosques funded by Saudi and Iranian funds are currently empty, but reflect plans to indoctrinate residents with the radical Wahhabist form of Islam. The new mosques carry plaques acknowledging funding from Saudi Arabia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates, said Grieboski.
"This is a very grave threat," said Peterson. "With final status changing from Serbian Orthodox hegemony into at very best a gray line, the dividing line between the Christian and Islamic world moves closer to the European Union, and we're at great risk of tolerating what should not be tolerated in order to buy some peace in our time."
In the war against an expanding radical Islam, Peterson said, "We have three choices: convert, submit or die. But there's a fourth choice and that's to fight. "What is going on in Kosovo today is the future of Europe tomorrow," he added.
I could go into a long dissertation as to why we should use force against these radical fanatics, but I won't. Instead, please keep the people of Kosovo in your prayers. I don't foresee this situation getting any better.
Monday, August 15, 2005
Church and Men
From Crosswalk.com...
David Murrow paints a vivid picture of why men don't attend church:
"Few churches model men's values-risk, reward, accomplishment, heroic sacrifice, action and adventure. Men find church boring because their values are not modeled and no one reflects their masculine heart. They have no desire to fall in love with a wonderful man, even one named Jesus."
Murrow also challenges commonly accepted church terminology as "man-repellent." "In addition to stripping masculine pronouns out of hymns and even Scripture, terms like 'saved' are objectionable to men. Men hate to be lost. If you tell a man he is lost, he will instinctively resist you. Although Jesus used the term saved, He called many to follow Him. Hear the difference? Follow gives a man something to do. It suggests activity instead of passivity. But being saved is something that happens to damsels in distress."
Worse yet, Murrow says he has been exhorted to have a love affair with Jesus. "Conservative churches oppose homosexuality, but their imagery sends an entirely different message. The more we describe Christianity in bedroom vocabulary, the more nervous men become."
I happen to agree with Murrow's logic. Spirituality in the church has become, "sugared down". Is the church in trouble of losing it's men? Murrow believes so.
"I'm not calling men back to church," says Murrow. "I'm calling the church back to men.
"It's nor about male dominance: it's about male resurgence. If we don't turn things around, we're going to lose a generation of boys. This is going to be a disaster for society and eventually result in the death of the church," Murrow says.
"There are churches targeted at every conceivable minority - seekers, young couples, older people - yet men are the largest unreached people group. They are the largest minority in Christendom today, yet we do absolutely nothing to make church attractive to them. I'm simply trying to do what the church has always done and reach out to unchurched people."
Men, in the pews, have become more like kittens than lions. They don't seem to have the boldness or courage as years ago. Even as the deacons are male dominated, they too don't seem very active in church or present in the community.
What can the church do to reach men before we lose them?
David Murrow paints a vivid picture of why men don't attend church:
"Few churches model men's values-risk, reward, accomplishment, heroic sacrifice, action and adventure. Men find church boring because their values are not modeled and no one reflects their masculine heart. They have no desire to fall in love with a wonderful man, even one named Jesus."
Murrow also challenges commonly accepted church terminology as "man-repellent." "In addition to stripping masculine pronouns out of hymns and even Scripture, terms like 'saved' are objectionable to men. Men hate to be lost. If you tell a man he is lost, he will instinctively resist you. Although Jesus used the term saved, He called many to follow Him. Hear the difference? Follow gives a man something to do. It suggests activity instead of passivity. But being saved is something that happens to damsels in distress."
Worse yet, Murrow says he has been exhorted to have a love affair with Jesus. "Conservative churches oppose homosexuality, but their imagery sends an entirely different message. The more we describe Christianity in bedroom vocabulary, the more nervous men become."
I happen to agree with Murrow's logic. Spirituality in the church has become, "sugared down". Is the church in trouble of losing it's men? Murrow believes so.
"I'm not calling men back to church," says Murrow. "I'm calling the church back to men.
"It's nor about male dominance: it's about male resurgence. If we don't turn things around, we're going to lose a generation of boys. This is going to be a disaster for society and eventually result in the death of the church," Murrow says.
"There are churches targeted at every conceivable minority - seekers, young couples, older people - yet men are the largest unreached people group. They are the largest minority in Christendom today, yet we do absolutely nothing to make church attractive to them. I'm simply trying to do what the church has always done and reach out to unchurched people."
Men, in the pews, have become more like kittens than lions. They don't seem to have the boldness or courage as years ago. Even as the deacons are male dominated, they too don't seem very active in church or present in the community.
What can the church do to reach men before we lose them?
Friday, August 12, 2005
A Lesson in Forgiveness
From CNN...
Jonesboro School Shooter Set Free
I remember this attack very clearly. What was to be a regular day at school, turned out to be a gruesome attack on unsuspecting middle school students. The aftermath: Five dead and nine wounded. Shocking enough, the attack was conducted by two fellow students with rifles.
The shooter set free is 13 year-old, Mitchell Johnson. His record is wiped clean due to an insufficient Arkansas law, which has been rectified. His ambitions are to become a minister and move away from Jonesboro.
As sad as the original story was, I am even more saddened by the public's reaction to his freedom:
"I'm glad he's not coming back to Jonesboro. Too many people in this area would put a hole in him," resident Greg Slayton said.
Whitney Irving, a student at the middle school when the shootings occurred, said she and others still struggle to cope with what happened seven years ago.
"I want to ask him personally: Have you changed? Do you feel sorry for what you did? Have you suffered like we have?" she said. "Of course, there's no way he's suffered as much as we have."
She added, "In my eyes, he's always going to be a killer. I mean I don't see how you can go from being a killer to being a minister, especially just in seven years."
Sure, I can understand the victims' pain. I can rightfully understand Mitchell's need to move away. However, I don't understand the lack of grace and forgiveness. In this particular case, is revenge right? Didn't the Apostle Paul, as Saul, give permission to a group of Jewish thugs to kill Stephen? See the Book of Acts if you don't recall.
Maybe Mitchell has a lesson that he wishes to teach troubled youths. Not a message of getting psycho-therapy or seeing school counselors, but a message of Christ's love, grace, and redemption.
Let's pray that this is Mitchell's goal.
Jonesboro School Shooter Set Free
I remember this attack very clearly. What was to be a regular day at school, turned out to be a gruesome attack on unsuspecting middle school students. The aftermath: Five dead and nine wounded. Shocking enough, the attack was conducted by two fellow students with rifles.
The shooter set free is 13 year-old, Mitchell Johnson. His record is wiped clean due to an insufficient Arkansas law, which has been rectified. His ambitions are to become a minister and move away from Jonesboro.
As sad as the original story was, I am even more saddened by the public's reaction to his freedom:
"I'm glad he's not coming back to Jonesboro. Too many people in this area would put a hole in him," resident Greg Slayton said.
Whitney Irving, a student at the middle school when the shootings occurred, said she and others still struggle to cope with what happened seven years ago.
"I want to ask him personally: Have you changed? Do you feel sorry for what you did? Have you suffered like we have?" she said. "Of course, there's no way he's suffered as much as we have."
She added, "In my eyes, he's always going to be a killer. I mean I don't see how you can go from being a killer to being a minister, especially just in seven years."
Sure, I can understand the victims' pain. I can rightfully understand Mitchell's need to move away. However, I don't understand the lack of grace and forgiveness. In this particular case, is revenge right? Didn't the Apostle Paul, as Saul, give permission to a group of Jewish thugs to kill Stephen? See the Book of Acts if you don't recall.
Maybe Mitchell has a lesson that he wishes to teach troubled youths. Not a message of getting psycho-therapy or seeing school counselors, but a message of Christ's love, grace, and redemption.
Let's pray that this is Mitchell's goal.
Voting Rights Act March - Part 4
Why yes folks, this debacle continues...
Harry Belafonte can't seem to watch his words:
In the Jerusalem Post interview, Belafonte stuck by his comparison of the Bush administration to Nazi Germany, calling the analogy "not inappropriate" because of the U.S. policy of "detaining suspects without charges [and] creating an atmosphere of fear."These actions, Belafonte said, are "very much similar to the things that were done when Hitler was on the rise."
Belafonte then went on to explain why he believes Jewish groups would defend President Bush. "I can understand why Jewish leaders would be prone to protect the image of George Bush and his administration," Belafonte told the Post, noting that the president supports Israel "even when there are questions of the humanitarian, the moral and the political [motivation] of things that are done to Palestinians."
Mr. Belafonte, what do you call Palestinians, who strap bombs to their bodies, and detonate them in busy shopping areas that kill men, women, and children? I call them terrorists. I call them cowards. I call them murderers! But I guess you believe they (terrorists) are doing the right thing. I can't recall the last time I heard of an Israeli Jew commit such a heinous act.
Mr. Belafonte, if you want to defend a group, defend the Palestinian and Israeli Christians who are caught in the middle. They pray every day for an end to the terrorism and retaliation. Many Palestinian Christians are in hiding from the terrorist groups (Hamas and Hezbollah), simply because they're Christian. This, my friend, is true fear. This is persecution.
"Let's not be dishonest about all of us. The more we know the truth, the better we'll be [at] improving humanity," he said.
Mr. Belafonte, let's try this...the more we live our lives through Jesus Christ, the better we'll be at improving humanity.
Harry Belafonte can't seem to watch his words:
In the Jerusalem Post interview, Belafonte stuck by his comparison of the Bush administration to Nazi Germany, calling the analogy "not inappropriate" because of the U.S. policy of "detaining suspects without charges [and] creating an atmosphere of fear."These actions, Belafonte said, are "very much similar to the things that were done when Hitler was on the rise."
Belafonte then went on to explain why he believes Jewish groups would defend President Bush. "I can understand why Jewish leaders would be prone to protect the image of George Bush and his administration," Belafonte told the Post, noting that the president supports Israel "even when there are questions of the humanitarian, the moral and the political [motivation] of things that are done to Palestinians."
Mr. Belafonte, what do you call Palestinians, who strap bombs to their bodies, and detonate them in busy shopping areas that kill men, women, and children? I call them terrorists. I call them cowards. I call them murderers! But I guess you believe they (terrorists) are doing the right thing. I can't recall the last time I heard of an Israeli Jew commit such a heinous act.
Mr. Belafonte, if you want to defend a group, defend the Palestinian and Israeli Christians who are caught in the middle. They pray every day for an end to the terrorism and retaliation. Many Palestinian Christians are in hiding from the terrorist groups (Hamas and Hezbollah), simply because they're Christian. This, my friend, is true fear. This is persecution.
"Let's not be dishonest about all of us. The more we know the truth, the better we'll be [at] improving humanity," he said.
Mr. Belafonte, let's try this...the more we live our lives through Jesus Christ, the better we'll be at improving humanity.
The Great Raid - Movie Review
From Focus On The Family...
Marcus Yoars writes an insightful review of this World War II film. I love historical pieces, so I may have to go see it.
I agree with Yoars' comments on Hollywood's poor choice of films lately, i.e. The Dukes of Hazzard, Wedding Crashers, and Skeleton Key. Why is the box office suffering? Because of the lack of high quality films that have a moral value.
Let's just hope when, "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe", arrives, the producers and directors stayed true with C. S. Lewis' Christian story.
Marcus Yoars writes an insightful review of this World War II film. I love historical pieces, so I may have to go see it.
I agree with Yoars' comments on Hollywood's poor choice of films lately, i.e. The Dukes of Hazzard, Wedding Crashers, and Skeleton Key. Why is the box office suffering? Because of the lack of high quality films that have a moral value.
Let's just hope when, "The Lion, The Witch, and The Wardrobe", arrives, the producers and directors stayed true with C. S. Lewis' Christian story.
Wednesday, August 10, 2005
Voting Rights Act March - Part 3
Part 3 to the recent comments made by Harry Belafonte and Dick Gregory...
The Reverend Jessie Lee Peterson and Mychal Massie, both black conservatives, make excellent remarks regarding the VR March. Instead of celebrating freedom, the people who took place in this march did it for liberal political purposes and to be seen.
On a side note, I believe if Martin Luther King, Jr. were alive today, he probably wouldn't be spending much time here in the United States. Why? There's atrocities in Africa where blacks have NO rights whatsoever. You see, Martin Luther King, Jr. had a genuine heart for all people through his love in Jesus Christ. The Sudanese, the Rwandans, the people of Africa need to see Christ's love in action. And Martin Luther King, Jr. was a man of words and action.
The Reverend Jessie Lee Peterson and Mychal Massie, both black conservatives, make excellent remarks regarding the VR March. Instead of celebrating freedom, the people who took place in this march did it for liberal political purposes and to be seen.
On a side note, I believe if Martin Luther King, Jr. were alive today, he probably wouldn't be spending much time here in the United States. Why? There's atrocities in Africa where blacks have NO rights whatsoever. You see, Martin Luther King, Jr. had a genuine heart for all people through his love in Jesus Christ. The Sudanese, the Rwandans, the people of Africa need to see Christ's love in action. And Martin Luther King, Jr. was a man of words and action.
Ethos Water
From Fortune Magazine...
First and foremost, I do enjoy a good cup of Starbucks: The bitter the better. That said, Ethos Water founders, Peter Thum and Jonathan Greenblatt, have taken a simple product, water, and turned it into a mission to help children in Africa receive clean water. Money and politics aside, they want to do the right thing by helping these children.
Kudos to these guys and let's hope Starbucks keeps up the humanitarian efforts.
First and foremost, I do enjoy a good cup of Starbucks: The bitter the better. That said, Ethos Water founders, Peter Thum and Jonathan Greenblatt, have taken a simple product, water, and turned it into a mission to help children in Africa receive clean water. Money and politics aside, they want to do the right thing by helping these children.
Kudos to these guys and let's hope Starbucks keeps up the humanitarian efforts.
Jerry Falwell
From The News and Advance...
Reverend Falwell is no alien to the public spotlight for shooting off his mouth. As much as I love his zeal for Jesus, he has a habit of being too blunt.
However, this time the Anti-Defamation League is in the wrong.
"Rev. Falwell's recent statements are directly at odds with the American ideal and should be rejected," said ADL National Director Abraham H. Foxman. "Understanding the danger of combining religion and politics, our founding fathers wisely cre-ated a political system based on individual merit and religious inclusiveness."
The group called on Falwell to retract his statement, which it termed "divisive and un-American."
Mr. Foxman is historically incorrect in his statement regarding our founding fathers and religious inclusiveness. Specifically, our nation was built on Christian principals and values. The founding fathers though, didn't want to force citizens to partake in any particular Christian denomination.
Rev. Falwell is right as he wants Christians to vote for those candidates with Christian values, ie pro-life and pro-family. These are the real American values. Outside of the history lesson, Mr. Foxman would have been wise to seek clarity from Rev. Falwell before speaking to the press.
Reverend Falwell is no alien to the public spotlight for shooting off his mouth. As much as I love his zeal for Jesus, he has a habit of being too blunt.
However, this time the Anti-Defamation League is in the wrong.
"Rev. Falwell's recent statements are directly at odds with the American ideal and should be rejected," said ADL National Director Abraham H. Foxman. "Understanding the danger of combining religion and politics, our founding fathers wisely cre-ated a political system based on individual merit and religious inclusiveness."
The group called on Falwell to retract his statement, which it termed "divisive and un-American."
Mr. Foxman is historically incorrect in his statement regarding our founding fathers and religious inclusiveness. Specifically, our nation was built on Christian principals and values. The founding fathers though, didn't want to force citizens to partake in any particular Christian denomination.
Rev. Falwell is right as he wants Christians to vote for those candidates with Christian values, ie pro-life and pro-family. These are the real American values. Outside of the history lesson, Mr. Foxman would have been wise to seek clarity from Rev. Falwell before speaking to the press.
Tuesday, August 09, 2005
Voting Rights Act March - Part 2
From Cybercast News Service...
The David S. Wyman Institute for Holocaust Studies is urging Harry Belafonte, Dick Gregory, and Woody Allen to apologize for their recent comments comparing Bush to Hitler:
"Hitler had a lot of Jews high up in the hierarchy of the Third Reich. Color does not necessarily denote quality, content or value," Belafonte said in an exclusive interview with Cybercast News Service.That's incorrect, said Dr. Rafael Medoff, director of the David S. Wyman Institute for Holocaust Studies, which describes itself as a research and education institute focusing on America's response to the Holocaust."Some entertainers simply don't know much about history," said Medoff. "The fact is that there were no Jews in Hitler's hierarchy; the policies of America and Israel are not similar to those of Hitler; and African-American conservatives are not comparable to Nazis."
Ah, history...
Here's a good lesson I learned early on in childhood...
If you don't clearly know the facts or history behind your statement, then don't say it. But I guess that won't stop some of you from putting your foot in your mouths now will it.
The David S. Wyman Institute for Holocaust Studies is urging Harry Belafonte, Dick Gregory, and Woody Allen to apologize for their recent comments comparing Bush to Hitler:
"Hitler had a lot of Jews high up in the hierarchy of the Third Reich. Color does not necessarily denote quality, content or value," Belafonte said in an exclusive interview with Cybercast News Service.That's incorrect, said Dr. Rafael Medoff, director of the David S. Wyman Institute for Holocaust Studies, which describes itself as a research and education institute focusing on America's response to the Holocaust."Some entertainers simply don't know much about history," said Medoff. "The fact is that there were no Jews in Hitler's hierarchy; the policies of America and Israel are not similar to those of Hitler; and African-American conservatives are not comparable to Nazis."
Ah, history...
Here's a good lesson I learned early on in childhood...
If you don't clearly know the facts or history behind your statement, then don't say it. But I guess that won't stop some of you from putting your foot in your mouths now will it.
Thankfulness
There have been several 'reasons' lately that I have been extremely thankful to God. Allow me to list them:
1. The birth of Susan Ann Catherine Torres. In my opinion, this was and is a miracle. Please keep this beautiful gift of life in your prayers.
2. Steven Vincent. Even though he was murdered by ruthless thugs, his stories brought the Iraqis fight for freedom alive. For his bravery and heart, I am thankful. I highly recommend his book, "In the Red Zone".
3. The United States Armed Services. For their part in keeping this wonderful country safe and freeing others from harm. We are very blessed for these men and women.
4. Our Founding Fathers. If you do your history, you'll find these men passionately loved this country and what it could become through hope and faith.
5. Our Pastors and Sunday School Teachers. To me, these people are the frontline in building our faith and opening our eyes to God's Word.
6. The Crew of the Space Shuttle Discovery. I am extremely thankful that these folks are alive and well. On this recent mission, they persevered through difficult and potentially dangerous challenges. A job well done.
7. First and foremost, I am thankful for my wonderful family who have encouraged me to pursue my dream of becoming a minister. I love you all very, very much!
Our almighty God is great! Let's give Him thanks and praise...
1. The birth of Susan Ann Catherine Torres. In my opinion, this was and is a miracle. Please keep this beautiful gift of life in your prayers.
2. Steven Vincent. Even though he was murdered by ruthless thugs, his stories brought the Iraqis fight for freedom alive. For his bravery and heart, I am thankful. I highly recommend his book, "In the Red Zone".
3. The United States Armed Services. For their part in keeping this wonderful country safe and freeing others from harm. We are very blessed for these men and women.
4. Our Founding Fathers. If you do your history, you'll find these men passionately loved this country and what it could become through hope and faith.
5. Our Pastors and Sunday School Teachers. To me, these people are the frontline in building our faith and opening our eyes to God's Word.
6. The Crew of the Space Shuttle Discovery. I am extremely thankful that these folks are alive and well. On this recent mission, they persevered through difficult and potentially dangerous challenges. A job well done.
7. First and foremost, I am thankful for my wonderful family who have encouraged me to pursue my dream of becoming a minister. I love you all very, very much!
Our almighty God is great! Let's give Him thanks and praise...
Monday, August 08, 2005
Voting Rights Act March
From the Cybercast News Service:
http://www.cnsnews.com/ViewSpecialReports.asp?Page=\SpecialReports\archive\200508\SPE20050808a.html
Wow! This must be something new! George Bush must be sending people to the gas chamber! Oh no! We've got to band together and make this stop right now! What are we waiting for? Bush must be murdering millions of people by now! This has got to stop!
There's lions and tigers and bears, oh my!
I find this very sad and disturbing. Harry Belafonte, a gifted entertainer, calls Black conservatives, "tyrants" and equates George Bush to Hitler. Worse, Dick Gregory comments:
"They (black conservatives) have a right to exist, but why would I want to walk around with a swastika on my shirt after the way Hitler done messed it (the swastika symbol) up?"
You know...the Bush-Hitler comparison is getting really old. The ugly face of Nazism is showing itself again today by liberals who scream for abortion and embryo-stem cell research.
http://www.cnsnews.com/ViewSpecialReports.asp?Page=\SpecialReports\archive\200508\SPE20050808a.html
Wow! This must be something new! George Bush must be sending people to the gas chamber! Oh no! We've got to band together and make this stop right now! What are we waiting for? Bush must be murdering millions of people by now! This has got to stop!
There's lions and tigers and bears, oh my!
I find this very sad and disturbing. Harry Belafonte, a gifted entertainer, calls Black conservatives, "tyrants" and equates George Bush to Hitler. Worse, Dick Gregory comments:
"They (black conservatives) have a right to exist, but why would I want to walk around with a swastika on my shirt after the way Hitler done messed it (the swastika symbol) up?"
You know...the Bush-Hitler comparison is getting really old. The ugly face of Nazism is showing itself again today by liberals who scream for abortion and embryo-stem cell research.
The Importance of a Justified War
http://www.cnn.com/2005/POLITICS/08/07/mom.protest/index.html
A mother holds a vigil, for her son's death in Iraq, outside the President's Texas ranch.
Every time I see a news story of a parent protesting the war in Iraq, due to the death of their child, I cringe. This stems from the protester's lack of understanding of the word, "peace". You see, everything in the world should be peaceful. But, it isn't. Why?
Ask the militant-fundamentalist groups who make a living killing innocent people.
Remember Lebanon?
Remember Libya?
Remember Kuwait?
Remember Somalia?
Remember Rwanda?
How about Serbia?
Vietnam? (And no, it wasn't about Communism. It was about control.)
Israel?
Do any of these ring a bell?
Freedom is earned; it isn't given. We fight for justice. We fight to protect those being oppressed. Those who do nothing are just as bad. We turned a blind eye on Rwanda and look what happened....millions dead. And you so-called protestors can't understand why we must protect the Iraqis who long to have their freedom. Have you not seen the pictures of the U.S. soldiers and the Iraqi chilren? They're free!
Lastly, some words to throw at Senator Barbara Boxer.
Senator, do you remember Oct. 3, 1993? It was the day your President, Bill Clinton, approved an Army mission to arrest Somali warlord, Mohamed Farrah Aidid. Is this ringing a bell? Well, it went horribly wrong. Our men fought with bravery and were brutally dragged through the streets of Mogadishu. Now, here's the interesting part...Bill Clinton didn't know a single name of the many men who died that day. NOT ONE! And yet he approved a botched mission before it even took place. Senator, before you go sticking your foot in your mouth again, I suggest you give thanks to God for our soldiers who choose to fight for freedom and are making a positive impact on the people of Iraq.
A mother holds a vigil, for her son's death in Iraq, outside the President's Texas ranch.
Every time I see a news story of a parent protesting the war in Iraq, due to the death of their child, I cringe. This stems from the protester's lack of understanding of the word, "peace". You see, everything in the world should be peaceful. But, it isn't. Why?
Ask the militant-fundamentalist groups who make a living killing innocent people.
Remember Lebanon?
Remember Libya?
Remember Kuwait?
Remember Somalia?
Remember Rwanda?
How about Serbia?
Vietnam? (And no, it wasn't about Communism. It was about control.)
Israel?
Do any of these ring a bell?
Freedom is earned; it isn't given. We fight for justice. We fight to protect those being oppressed. Those who do nothing are just as bad. We turned a blind eye on Rwanda and look what happened....millions dead. And you so-called protestors can't understand why we must protect the Iraqis who long to have their freedom. Have you not seen the pictures of the U.S. soldiers and the Iraqi chilren? They're free!
Lastly, some words to throw at Senator Barbara Boxer.
Senator, do you remember Oct. 3, 1993? It was the day your President, Bill Clinton, approved an Army mission to arrest Somali warlord, Mohamed Farrah Aidid. Is this ringing a bell? Well, it went horribly wrong. Our men fought with bravery and were brutally dragged through the streets of Mogadishu. Now, here's the interesting part...Bill Clinton didn't know a single name of the many men who died that day. NOT ONE! And yet he approved a botched mission before it even took place. Senator, before you go sticking your foot in your mouth again, I suggest you give thanks to God for our soldiers who choose to fight for freedom and are making a positive impact on the people of Iraq.
Friday, August 05, 2005
Steven Vincent
http://www.coxandforkum.com
Steven Vincent knew the people of Iraq needed someone to tell their plight from tyranny. He was brave and gave dignity to the Iraqis who wanted freedom from Saddam Hussein.
May Mr. Vincent be remembered for the life he gave through his stories that touched our hearts.
God is with you now and forever...
Steven Vincent knew the people of Iraq needed someone to tell their plight from tyranny. He was brave and gave dignity to the Iraqis who wanted freedom from Saddam Hussein.
May Mr. Vincent be remembered for the life he gave through his stories that touched our hearts.
God is with you now and forever...
Nazi Remark from Dr. James Dobson
http://www.oneplace.com/Ministries/Focus_on_the_Family/Default.asp
http://www.family.org
“In response to our recent program, “A Closer Look at Stem Cell Research,” Dr. Dobson has received a backlash of harsh criticism regarding comments he made comparing embryonic stem cell research to the Nazis’ human experimentation during the Holocaust. Critics have labeled Dr. Dobson’s remarks “ignorant and insulting” and demanded an apology. Today, Dr. Dobson and bioethics analyst Carrie Gordon Earll set the record straight, demonstrating how Dr. Dobson’s words have been unfairly twisted in order to undermine his public credibility and promote the advance of embryonic stem cell research.”
I listened to the comments by Dr. Dobson, on FOF’s Wednesday broadcast, where he made the Nazi remark. His stance is strongly pro-life and severely against what is happening with the embryonic stem cell research. Here is another case of liberals making serious false accusations. They didn't listen to the broadcast! Some liberal heard the word, "Nazi", and went nuts.
Hey liberals! Tell me honestly: What's going to happen when the embryos run out? If you get your way, in time frozen embryos will be depleted. Will you force healthy women to give your researchers embryos? Are you then going to forcefully extract stem cells from healthy children? One leads to the other whether you realize it or not. That's what the Nazi's did: The ends justified the means. It is morally and ethically wrong!
http://www.family.org
“In response to our recent program, “A Closer Look at Stem Cell Research,” Dr. Dobson has received a backlash of harsh criticism regarding comments he made comparing embryonic stem cell research to the Nazis’ human experimentation during the Holocaust. Critics have labeled Dr. Dobson’s remarks “ignorant and insulting” and demanded an apology. Today, Dr. Dobson and bioethics analyst Carrie Gordon Earll set the record straight, demonstrating how Dr. Dobson’s words have been unfairly twisted in order to undermine his public credibility and promote the advance of embryonic stem cell research.”
I listened to the comments by Dr. Dobson, on FOF’s Wednesday broadcast, where he made the Nazi remark. His stance is strongly pro-life and severely against what is happening with the embryonic stem cell research. Here is another case of liberals making serious false accusations. They didn't listen to the broadcast! Some liberal heard the word, "Nazi", and went nuts.
Hey liberals! Tell me honestly: What's going to happen when the embryos run out? If you get your way, in time frozen embryos will be depleted. Will you force healthy women to give your researchers embryos? Are you then going to forcefully extract stem cells from healthy children? One leads to the other whether you realize it or not. That's what the Nazi's did: The ends justified the means. It is morally and ethically wrong!
The Fools of Sandy Springs
As reported by the Atlanta Journal Constitution yesterday, August 4th, the residents of a neighboring Ronald McDonald House were adamantly against the House's proposed expansion plans. The House wanted to expand from 11 beds to 50, but ended up with only 20 more. Last year, the House turned away 281 families due to their small size.
http://www.ajc.com/search/content/metro/northfulton/0805/04ronald.html
But here's the kicker...
"What kind of person would stand here opposing the Ronald McDonald House?" said expansion opponent Trisha Thompson as she addressed Fulton commissioners Wednesday. "I think a person who cares more about these [neighborhood] families and their problems than the Ronald McDonald Foundation does."
Ms. Thompson, you definitely need a lesson in humility. Here is the real issue: You, and the other ignorant fools in your crusade, don't give a darn about the lives of these critically ill children. And don't tell me you do. These are families who desperately need help and all you can think about is your home value? You treat them as if they are vagrants - pure and simple. Here's the proof:
Harriet Mills, a 37-year neighbor, led that first fight. She said she's fought so many zoning battles over the years to protect her neighborhood that she no longer feels guilty about opposing such a worthy cause. "I've been told that I'm a hater of children with cancer," Mills said. "It's not about that. This is an invasion into a very stable single-family neighborhood. Where does it stop?"
"...to protect her neighborhood...". You put property value over the lives of these children. Say, are these families throwing wild parties at night or leaving their broken-down boats in the yard? Are they selling drugs or other illicit services?
They're not and you know it. So much for your care of life, Ms. Thompson. If I'm wrong, prove it to me. I welcome the challenge.
http://www.ajc.com/search/content/metro/northfulton/0805/04ronald.html
But here's the kicker...
"What kind of person would stand here opposing the Ronald McDonald House?" said expansion opponent Trisha Thompson as she addressed Fulton commissioners Wednesday. "I think a person who cares more about these [neighborhood] families and their problems than the Ronald McDonald Foundation does."
Ms. Thompson, you definitely need a lesson in humility. Here is the real issue: You, and the other ignorant fools in your crusade, don't give a darn about the lives of these critically ill children. And don't tell me you do. These are families who desperately need help and all you can think about is your home value? You treat them as if they are vagrants - pure and simple. Here's the proof:
Harriet Mills, a 37-year neighbor, led that first fight. She said she's fought so many zoning battles over the years to protect her neighborhood that she no longer feels guilty about opposing such a worthy cause. "I've been told that I'm a hater of children with cancer," Mills said. "It's not about that. This is an invasion into a very stable single-family neighborhood. Where does it stop?"
"...to protect her neighborhood...". You put property value over the lives of these children. Say, are these families throwing wild parties at night or leaving their broken-down boats in the yard? Are they selling drugs or other illicit services?
They're not and you know it. So much for your care of life, Ms. Thompson. If I'm wrong, prove it to me. I welcome the challenge.
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Watchdog Group Attacks School Bible Study
From the AJC:
http://www.ajc.com/hp/content/shared-gen/ap/National/Bible_Study.html
AUSTIN, Texas — A religious watchdog group complained Monday that a Bible study course taught in hundreds of public schools in Texas and across the country promotes a fundamentalist Christian view and violates religious freedom.
The Texas Freedom Network, which includes clergy of several faiths, also said the course offered by the Greensboro, N.C.-based National Council on Bible Curriculum in Public Schools is full of errors and dubious research.
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller said her group looked at the course after the Odessa school board voted in April to offer the class. It asked Southern Methodist University biblical scholar Mark A. Chancey to review the curriculum.
Chancey's review found that the course characterizes the Bible as inspired by God, that discussions of science are based on the biblical account of creation, that Jesus is referred to as fulfilling Old Testament prophecy, and that archaeological findings are erroneously used to support claims of the Bible's historical accuracy. He said the course also suggests the Bible, instead of the Constitution, be considered the nation's founding document.
"No public school student should have to have a particular religious belief forced upon them," the Rev. Ragan Courtney, pastor of The Sanctuary, a Baptist congregation in Austin, said at a news conference held by Texas Freedom Network.
__________________________________________________________
Okay, here are the real issues. First, this course is an elective, not mandatory. Second, from my viewpoint, the class isn't promoting a fundamentalist viewpoint, but teaching fundamentals of the Bible. The word, 'fundamentalist' and 'fundamental' have two different meanings. Third, from the Rev. Courtney's quote, this isn't forced on a student, so get over it. And fourth, and most important, is the findings from Mark Chancey.
Mr. Chancey, do you or do you not believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God? If not, do you truly believe man alone wrote it? If so, you need to go back to seminary.
Mr. Chancey, God created science. God created man. You seem to have a problem with this fact. I tell you what...if you can factually prove to me that mankind arrived here via a single-cell protozoa from a swamp, then more power to you.
Mr. Chancey, Jesus did fulfill Old Testament prophecy. Check it out yourself. Ever heard of Isaiah? More importantly, Jesus was the Son of God and God in the flesh. But I guess that went over your head too.
Mr. Chancey, as proven time and time again, archaeological findings have proven both the flood account and the burning of Sodom and Gemorrah. Maybe your glasses need adjusting.
Lastly, I attend a moderate seminary so don't accuse me of being a fundamentalist. Even a moderate seminary teaches the facts of God's Word. But, I guess you elected to miss those classes in school.
http://www.ajc.com/hp/content/shared-gen/ap/National/Bible_Study.html
AUSTIN, Texas — A religious watchdog group complained Monday that a Bible study course taught in hundreds of public schools in Texas and across the country promotes a fundamentalist Christian view and violates religious freedom.
The Texas Freedom Network, which includes clergy of several faiths, also said the course offered by the Greensboro, N.C.-based National Council on Bible Curriculum in Public Schools is full of errors and dubious research.
Texas Freedom Network President Kathy Miller said her group looked at the course after the Odessa school board voted in April to offer the class. It asked Southern Methodist University biblical scholar Mark A. Chancey to review the curriculum.
Chancey's review found that the course characterizes the Bible as inspired by God, that discussions of science are based on the biblical account of creation, that Jesus is referred to as fulfilling Old Testament prophecy, and that archaeological findings are erroneously used to support claims of the Bible's historical accuracy. He said the course also suggests the Bible, instead of the Constitution, be considered the nation's founding document.
"No public school student should have to have a particular religious belief forced upon them," the Rev. Ragan Courtney, pastor of The Sanctuary, a Baptist congregation in Austin, said at a news conference held by Texas Freedom Network.
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Okay, here are the real issues. First, this course is an elective, not mandatory. Second, from my viewpoint, the class isn't promoting a fundamentalist viewpoint, but teaching fundamentals of the Bible. The word, 'fundamentalist' and 'fundamental' have two different meanings. Third, from the Rev. Courtney's quote, this isn't forced on a student, so get over it. And fourth, and most important, is the findings from Mark Chancey.
Mr. Chancey, do you or do you not believe the Bible is the inspired Word of God? If not, do you truly believe man alone wrote it? If so, you need to go back to seminary.
Mr. Chancey, God created science. God created man. You seem to have a problem with this fact. I tell you what...if you can factually prove to me that mankind arrived here via a single-cell protozoa from a swamp, then more power to you.
Mr. Chancey, Jesus did fulfill Old Testament prophecy. Check it out yourself. Ever heard of Isaiah? More importantly, Jesus was the Son of God and God in the flesh. But I guess that went over your head too.
Mr. Chancey, as proven time and time again, archaeological findings have proven both the flood account and the burning of Sodom and Gemorrah. Maybe your glasses need adjusting.
Lastly, I attend a moderate seminary so don't accuse me of being a fundamentalist. Even a moderate seminary teaches the facts of God's Word. But, I guess you elected to miss those classes in school.
Monday, August 01, 2005
Atlanta Braves
The Atlanta Braves are on a run with 6 straight wins! Their recent wins over the Nationals and Pirates give Atlanta a 5 game lead in the NL East. And now they've added closer, Kyle Farnsworth, from Detroit. AWESOME!
As I see it, the Braves just need to stay healthy to clinch the East and take on their toughest opponents, the St. Louis Cardinals, in the NLCS.
As I see it, the Braves just need to stay healthy to clinch the East and take on their toughest opponents, the St. Louis Cardinals, in the NLCS.
Carjackers Update
The two suspects in the north metro Atlanta carjackings have been arrested. It turned out to be a 20 and 27-year old who may have been high on drugs. The 20-year old was arrested without incident. Not so for the 27-year old. He had to be tasered twice and wrestled with, by a police dog, before going down.
A big kudos to the Roswell City Police Department for keeping the community informed of their progress. Even though they didn't get the arrest, they did the right thing by notifying the public of their progress. Great job, Roswell!
Now let's hope the legal system keeps these idiots in jail for a long, long time.
A big kudos to the Roswell City Police Department for keeping the community informed of their progress. Even though they didn't get the arrest, they did the right thing by notifying the public of their progress. Great job, Roswell!
Now let's hope the legal system keeps these idiots in jail for a long, long time.
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