January 10, 2007: "The goal is marriage equality. It's an important statement that our eyes are on the prize, and the prize is marriage." Senator Ed Murray to Seattle Times.
May 17, 2007: "Domestic Partnership [SB 5688] was an incremental approach--a strategic plan" to homosexual "marriage". Senator Ed Murray to Seattle Times.
January 28, 2009: " [SB 5688] is "A bridge until they can marry." Representative Jamie Pedersen to the Seattle Times.
The homosexual community has now joined hands and is preparing to walk across that bridge and re-define marriage.
In July, Josh Friedes, Executive Director of Equal Rights Washington, the states largest homosexual advocacy/activist group stepped down from his role and accepted a new role focused exclusively on homosexual "marriage" in Washington State.
They claim support in Washington to re-define marriage is growing.
ERW board chairman, Dr. Shilpen Patel says, "It is clear...that now is the time for ERW to further intensify our efforts to secure marriage in Washington State as early as 2012."
All the denials of intentions are behind them, their eye is on the prize, in their mind the goal is in sight and they are now staging to begin the pride parade across the bridge.
___________
This will be a battle that will touch every part of the state--every politician, every community, every church and every family.
It is not a political or even a cultural battle---it is a spiritual one. It will be waged in prayer, in the legislature, in the communities, in the churches and ultimately on the ballot. People who oppose will be hurt, maligned and slandered.
We have begun the work of building a coalition of like minded organizations and individuals.
It is very important that we have your financial and prayerful support now as we move forward.
Please take a moment and prayerfully consider what you can and should do to help.
You may click here to make an online donation or you may send a check to Box 399, Bellevue, WA. 98009.
____________
ERW and their allies are already planning as to how they will eliminate DOMA and change the minds of certain Legislators to accomplish their "walk across the bridge." And how they will persuade people who are undecided on marriage.
There is not space here for their full strategy as Josh Friedes explains it, but I have included it in this blog.
The following is taken from "The Seattle Lesbian" web site:
FRIEDES: We have learned from the negative experiences of Maine and California as well as many positive experiences, the most recent one being New York. There really are seven key factors to success. One, starting early -which is why we are making changes at ERW now. Two, engaging marriage equality advocates in peer-to-peer conversations with their social networks about why marriage matters. We have been doing this work for years but we are going to increase our emphasis on this strategy. Three, engaging diverse communities in our work - and when I say diverse I mean diverse. I’m talking about Unions, large and small business, faith communities, People of Color, and LGBT and allied individuals all across the state. Four, raising large amounts of money as early as possible so that we can do the education and organizing work to build a marriage equality majority in both the electorate and the legislature. Five, the marriage equality movement needs to be unified. An important part of my new role will be working to make sure that stakeholders are consulted and engaged in a unified strategy. This also means making sure that other issues are being addressed during the struggle so that nobody is left behind. Six, increasing the quality of grassroots contacts with legislators so that our elected leaders have a great deal of opportunity to meet with LGBT individuals, their parents, siblings, friends, co-workers, neighbors and clergy. Seven, we need to be more engaged in campaigns and elections. Who is in office matters and elected leaders need to know we have their backs.
One of the things that makes it so great to work on marriage in Washington is that there really is no viable way for there to be a state constitutional DOMA this is because, in Washington, the way you amend our state’s constitution is you have to pass a measure through both houses with a 2/3 vote before the amendment goes to the ballot for approval. Neither chamber would do that. What we have to be able to guard against is an effort to repeal a marriage statute when passed by the legislature. In the alternative we need to be able to pass a marriage equality ballot measure if we choose to go that route. Either way we need a marriage equality majority in the electorate.
We have a statutory DOMA that has been passed, and we can simply and effectively repeal that by passing a marriage equality statute. When we are not dealing with the constitution, we are able to do what we did this year when we rolled back parts of the State DOMA by passing the out of state marriage recognition bill.
________________
May God help us to stand together prayerfully, financially and with unity on this culturally and spiritually defining issue.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Prayerful. Be Active.
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Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Seattle Times: "It is Time to Legalize Gay Marriage"
The Seattle Times and homosexual activists are moving forward in lock step suggesting now is the time for Washington State to redefine marriage and in doing so re-engineer the family.
All under the guise of fairness and equality.
The Times editorial board said this weekend, "Washington should move into the modern era of equality and fairness for gay and lesbian couples in committed relationships."
"It is time to legalize gay marriage," the board wrote.
They said, "In fact, polls now show a majority of Americans support gay marriage."
This is very misleading because, while some polls have indicated majority support, many more polls show that a majority of Americans do not support gay marriage.
This is an all out group effort with the editorial board calling for homosexual marriage, Times journalist Andrew Garber supporting the notion from the "un-biased" news side of the enterprise and homosexual activist legislators pondering out loud if they should go for the gold in the January legislative session.
KOMO's Ken Schram also jumped on the wagon last night saying, "Next year we elect the full State Senate and half the State House. We will choose a new governor, in addition to filling every major elective office in the state. What better way to gauge the character of candidates than to have them stand in favor or opposition to making gay marriage legal here in Washington...Make it an election year issue."
I agree. Let's test their character. But that's where I part with Schram. He says let's go for gay marriage..."It's time."
Garber quotes Senator Ed Murray, saying the recent New York decision doesn't factor into his decision other than, "Every time a state passes marriage and the world doesn't fall apart...it helps."
Senator, the world is falling apart and many believe it is primarily a moral, not fiscal or political issue.
While homosexual "marriage" involves many cultural and fiscal issues, it is primarily a moral one.
Murray says the state is now ready for homosexual "marriage". He says he, Representative Jamie Pedersen and other homosexual activists in the legislature will decide whether or not to go for it in this session,within the next few weeks.
Senator Dan Swecker says Murray should expect strong opposition to gay marriage in his caucus. Swecker is a strong supporter of marriage,and does not support redefining it.
Murray says, "The Senate has always been a problem," although Democrats control the House 56 to 42 and the Senate 27 to 22.
Murray and Pedersen are urging homosexuals to directly lobby "Democrats and Republicans who might be persuaded to vote for marriage fairness."
"Marriage fairness" is of course code for redefining marriage and opening the door for polygamy and a number of other deviant definitions of "marriage."
This issue is extremely divisive.
The R-71 effort divided churches, communities and caused at least one pastor to publicly criticize Larry Stickney, myself and others who led in the effort---all facilitated by a pro-homosexual press. The press always exploits any disagreement within the faith community, particularly if it relates to marriage or abortion.
However, the effort also identified a large number of people across the state who believe natural marriage is worth fighting for and defending.
Will you stand and defend marriage?
We are talking with elected leaders in an effort to stop the run for homosexual marriage in this session.
If they should try, and I tend to believe they will because of pressure from within the homosexual community, and should it pass, we are prepared to immediately take the necessary steps to refer it to the voters. This is an issue that should be decided by the voters anyway.
We have authorized a poll asking Washington citizens if they approve of legalizing homosexual marriage in the state.
We have been called a leaderless army and an army-less leader. We have been mocked publicly.
But I believe there are many who will heed the call to defend biblical and historically accepted marriage as between one man and one woman.
The question is, "Will you be one of them?"
We need your financial help today. We have our modest regular monthly expenses plus additional costs we are committing to for the statewide poll and activities related to defending natural marriage.
One of the criticisms leveled at us in the R-71 campaign was that we were under funded, but as the wife of an attorney wrote in our defense, "Do we base our stand for righteous principles on whether or not the money is in the bank?"
I see the pending storm with all its consequences. I do not relish it. But I cannot walk away from it. I'm praying you can't either.
This donation will be used for educational purposes. It is tax deductible. Thank you for standing with us.
If you have ever had an inclination to stand in defense of marriage, this is the time.
Click here to donate online or mail a check to Box 399, Bellevue, WA. 98009. Whatever you can do at this time will be very, very helpful.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
All under the guise of fairness and equality.
The Times editorial board said this weekend, "Washington should move into the modern era of equality and fairness for gay and lesbian couples in committed relationships."
"It is time to legalize gay marriage," the board wrote.
They said, "In fact, polls now show a majority of Americans support gay marriage."
This is very misleading because, while some polls have indicated majority support, many more polls show that a majority of Americans do not support gay marriage.
This is an all out group effort with the editorial board calling for homosexual marriage, Times journalist Andrew Garber supporting the notion from the "un-biased" news side of the enterprise and homosexual activist legislators pondering out loud if they should go for the gold in the January legislative session.
KOMO's Ken Schram also jumped on the wagon last night saying, "Next year we elect the full State Senate and half the State House. We will choose a new governor, in addition to filling every major elective office in the state. What better way to gauge the character of candidates than to have them stand in favor or opposition to making gay marriage legal here in Washington...Make it an election year issue."
I agree. Let's test their character. But that's where I part with Schram. He says let's go for gay marriage..."It's time."
Garber quotes Senator Ed Murray, saying the recent New York decision doesn't factor into his decision other than, "Every time a state passes marriage and the world doesn't fall apart...it helps."
Senator, the world is falling apart and many believe it is primarily a moral, not fiscal or political issue.
While homosexual "marriage" involves many cultural and fiscal issues, it is primarily a moral one.
Murray says the state is now ready for homosexual "marriage". He says he, Representative Jamie Pedersen and other homosexual activists in the legislature will decide whether or not to go for it in this session,within the next few weeks.
Senator Dan Swecker says Murray should expect strong opposition to gay marriage in his caucus. Swecker is a strong supporter of marriage,and does not support redefining it.
Murray says, "The Senate has always been a problem," although Democrats control the House 56 to 42 and the Senate 27 to 22.
Murray and Pedersen are urging homosexuals to directly lobby "Democrats and Republicans who might be persuaded to vote for marriage fairness."
"Marriage fairness" is of course code for redefining marriage and opening the door for polygamy and a number of other deviant definitions of "marriage."
This issue is extremely divisive.
The R-71 effort divided churches, communities and caused at least one pastor to publicly criticize Larry Stickney, myself and others who led in the effort---all facilitated by a pro-homosexual press. The press always exploits any disagreement within the faith community, particularly if it relates to marriage or abortion.
However, the effort also identified a large number of people across the state who believe natural marriage is worth fighting for and defending.
Will you stand and defend marriage?
We are talking with elected leaders in an effort to stop the run for homosexual marriage in this session.
If they should try, and I tend to believe they will because of pressure from within the homosexual community, and should it pass, we are prepared to immediately take the necessary steps to refer it to the voters. This is an issue that should be decided by the voters anyway.
We have authorized a poll asking Washington citizens if they approve of legalizing homosexual marriage in the state.
We have been called a leaderless army and an army-less leader. We have been mocked publicly.
But I believe there are many who will heed the call to defend biblical and historically accepted marriage as between one man and one woman.
The question is, "Will you be one of them?"
We need your financial help today. We have our modest regular monthly expenses plus additional costs we are committing to for the statewide poll and activities related to defending natural marriage.
One of the criticisms leveled at us in the R-71 campaign was that we were under funded, but as the wife of an attorney wrote in our defense, "Do we base our stand for righteous principles on whether or not the money is in the bank?"
I see the pending storm with all its consequences. I do not relish it. But I cannot walk away from it. I'm praying you can't either.
This donation will be used for educational purposes. It is tax deductible. Thank you for standing with us.
If you have ever had an inclination to stand in defense of marriage, this is the time.
Click here to donate online or mail a check to Box 399, Bellevue, WA. 98009. Whatever you can do at this time will be very, very helpful.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Joe Biden: A Profile In Relativism
rel·a·tiv·ism/ˈrelətəˌvizəm/
Noun: The doctrine that knowledge, truth, and morality exist in relation to culture, society, or historical context, and are not absolute.
The outpouring of rage over Vice President Joe Biden's failure to speak clearly to the issue of China's one-child, forced abortion policy, continues to rage.
It has not blown over like a tropical storm, but is lingering.
Although the US has consistently and publicly condemned the policy since the Reagan Administration, Mr. Biden told Chinese students and the world, "Your policy has been one I fully understand---I'm not second-guessing---of one child policy."
Odd comment.
Steven Mosher, president of the Population Research Institute told LIFE News, "I know that Joe Biden, 'fully understands' how women are arrested for the 'crime' of being pregnant, how they are incarcerated and brow beaten for this 'crime' and how they are forced to undergo abortions and sterilizations. I know because I told him so."
Mosher has lived in China and observed the policy in action.
He says, "The Vice President was clearly pandering to his Chinese hosts. This wasn't ignorance and it wasn't a gaffe. Biden wanted China's communist leaders to know that he and the President he serves are more than willing to turn a blind eye to the atrocities."
Although the Vice President has tried to walk back his comments---or lack of them since leaving China, his actions betray his words.
Relativism. Some call it deceit. Or lying. Mr. Biden has a pattern of this behavior going back to 1973 and Roe v. Wade.
As soon as Biden was on his plane out of China, he told Los Angeles Times reporters that the criticism of what he said and didn't bother to say was just a "political attack."
He said he was just being diplomatic.
By the time he got home to Wilmington Delaware, he realized he had a slightly bigger problem than a dismissive "political attack."
His spokesman started walking back his statements, explaining and editing them, while Biden started calling the one child policy in China "repugnant."
Really?
"Repugnant?"
He seems to condone it in China, and condemn it here at home.
While he is condemning it here at home, his actions as a Senator tell a very different story.
Back in 2000, Biden was 1 of the 24 Democrats and 53 Senators voting to defeat an amendment by then Senator Jessie Helms, for a non-binding resolution from the Senate condemning the one-child policy of China. He said at the time he didn't want to hurt trade relations with China.
While both Obama and Biden beat their chests and strongly oppose this policy to we little people across the land, they are responding very differently in their policies.
If they decry this awful forced abortion one child policy, why did they reinstate funding that is directly linked to the one child forced abortion policy?
President George W. Bush had cut off funding for the United Nations Family Planning agency (UNFPA) because the agency is complicit with the one child policy.
Obama/Biden restored it.
And it isn't only the fiscal policies that don't add up.
When Mr. Biden came to Washington in 1973, he was a pro-life Catholic.
He tells how a fellow Senator asked how he would vote on abortion.
His response? "My position is that I am personally opposed to abortion, but I don't think I have a right to impose my view on the rest of society."
What does he think his vote and his actions do.
While he told "Meet the Press" (April 29, 2007) that he believes the right to abortion is not secured by the Constitution, his actions reflect a very different "truth". He also told Meet The Press that day, he believed life begins at conception.
NARAL gives him a 100%.
When Obama chose Biden as his running mate, the choice was hailed by some because they said Mr. Biden had extra ordinary expertise in the nomination and confirmation process for the Supreme Court.
Joe Biden wrote in his book, "Promises To Keep: On Life and Politics," that a judge must "discern the framers values' and if a judge abandons intentions as his guide, there is no law available to him, and he begins to legislate a social agenda for the American people."
Biden helped the President chose and confirm Sonia Soto Mayor. An activist professor and an activist judge.
In 1986, Joe Biden became chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee that oversees the processing of Court nominees.
Antonin Scalia was approved by the Senate with a vote of 98-0.
Then there was nominee Robert Bork---and a presidential election. And Mr. Biden decided to run against President Reagan.
Biden had said he would support Bork. He told the Philadelphia Inquirer (November 1986), " He [Bork] looks a lot like Scalia"---I'd have to vote for him".
By the time of the actual nomination, Biden had decided to run against Reagan. You know how that election came out. Biden didn't even win the Democratic primary.
Although Warren Berger said he thought Judge Bork was one of the most qualified nominees he had seen in 50 years and even the liberal American Bar Association rated Bork "exceptionally well-qualified," Biden and Ted Kennedy launched a smear campaign against Judge Bork that is a case study in textbooks.
Biden chose to serve his own interests over those of his country.
Many feel the judicial nomination process was forever changed by Biden's actions.
In fact, the Wall Street Journal published an article on May 22, 2009, titled, "How Joe Biden Wrecked The Judicial Nomination Process."
The article concludes, "The effect of this game," that Biden began against Reagan, "has been toxic not only for nominees, but for the courts."
I recommend you read it.
In it Collin Levy, the journalist, recalls that Justice Clarence Thomas wrote in his book, "My Grandfather's Son," that before the Anita Hill inquisition began, Mr. Biden called him and said, "Judge, I know you don't believe me, but if allegations come up I will be your biggest defender."
Justice Thomas writes, "He was right about one thing, I didn't believe him."
Biden has a history of deceit, all masked under the guise of political expediency.
He is the profile of relativism and the idea that there is no absolute truth.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Active. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Noun: The doctrine that knowledge, truth, and morality exist in relation to culture, society, or historical context, and are not absolute.
The outpouring of rage over Vice President Joe Biden's failure to speak clearly to the issue of China's one-child, forced abortion policy, continues to rage.
It has not blown over like a tropical storm, but is lingering.
Although the US has consistently and publicly condemned the policy since the Reagan Administration, Mr. Biden told Chinese students and the world, "Your policy has been one I fully understand---I'm not second-guessing---of one child policy."
Odd comment.
Steven Mosher, president of the Population Research Institute told LIFE News, "I know that Joe Biden, 'fully understands' how women are arrested for the 'crime' of being pregnant, how they are incarcerated and brow beaten for this 'crime' and how they are forced to undergo abortions and sterilizations. I know because I told him so."
Mosher has lived in China and observed the policy in action.
He says, "The Vice President was clearly pandering to his Chinese hosts. This wasn't ignorance and it wasn't a gaffe. Biden wanted China's communist leaders to know that he and the President he serves are more than willing to turn a blind eye to the atrocities."
Although the Vice President has tried to walk back his comments---or lack of them since leaving China, his actions betray his words.
Relativism. Some call it deceit. Or lying. Mr. Biden has a pattern of this behavior going back to 1973 and Roe v. Wade.
As soon as Biden was on his plane out of China, he told Los Angeles Times reporters that the criticism of what he said and didn't bother to say was just a "political attack."
He said he was just being diplomatic.
By the time he got home to Wilmington Delaware, he realized he had a slightly bigger problem than a dismissive "political attack."
His spokesman started walking back his statements, explaining and editing them, while Biden started calling the one child policy in China "repugnant."
Really?
"Repugnant?"
He seems to condone it in China, and condemn it here at home.
While he is condemning it here at home, his actions as a Senator tell a very different story.
Back in 2000, Biden was 1 of the 24 Democrats and 53 Senators voting to defeat an amendment by then Senator Jessie Helms, for a non-binding resolution from the Senate condemning the one-child policy of China. He said at the time he didn't want to hurt trade relations with China.
While both Obama and Biden beat their chests and strongly oppose this policy to we little people across the land, they are responding very differently in their policies.
If they decry this awful forced abortion one child policy, why did they reinstate funding that is directly linked to the one child forced abortion policy?
President George W. Bush had cut off funding for the United Nations Family Planning agency (UNFPA) because the agency is complicit with the one child policy.
Obama/Biden restored it.
And it isn't only the fiscal policies that don't add up.
When Mr. Biden came to Washington in 1973, he was a pro-life Catholic.
He tells how a fellow Senator asked how he would vote on abortion.
His response? "My position is that I am personally opposed to abortion, but I don't think I have a right to impose my view on the rest of society."
What does he think his vote and his actions do.
While he told "Meet the Press" (April 29, 2007) that he believes the right to abortion is not secured by the Constitution, his actions reflect a very different "truth". He also told Meet The Press that day, he believed life begins at conception.
NARAL gives him a 100%.
When Obama chose Biden as his running mate, the choice was hailed by some because they said Mr. Biden had extra ordinary expertise in the nomination and confirmation process for the Supreme Court.
Joe Biden wrote in his book, "Promises To Keep: On Life and Politics," that a judge must "discern the framers values' and if a judge abandons intentions as his guide, there is no law available to him, and he begins to legislate a social agenda for the American people."
Biden helped the President chose and confirm Sonia Soto Mayor. An activist professor and an activist judge.
In 1986, Joe Biden became chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee that oversees the processing of Court nominees.
Antonin Scalia was approved by the Senate with a vote of 98-0.
Then there was nominee Robert Bork---and a presidential election. And Mr. Biden decided to run against President Reagan.
Biden had said he would support Bork. He told the Philadelphia Inquirer (November 1986), " He [Bork] looks a lot like Scalia"---I'd have to vote for him".
By the time of the actual nomination, Biden had decided to run against Reagan. You know how that election came out. Biden didn't even win the Democratic primary.
Although Warren Berger said he thought Judge Bork was one of the most qualified nominees he had seen in 50 years and even the liberal American Bar Association rated Bork "exceptionally well-qualified," Biden and Ted Kennedy launched a smear campaign against Judge Bork that is a case study in textbooks.
Biden chose to serve his own interests over those of his country.
Many feel the judicial nomination process was forever changed by Biden's actions.
In fact, the Wall Street Journal published an article on May 22, 2009, titled, "How Joe Biden Wrecked The Judicial Nomination Process."
The article concludes, "The effect of this game," that Biden began against Reagan, "has been toxic not only for nominees, but for the courts."
I recommend you read it.
In it Collin Levy, the journalist, recalls that Justice Clarence Thomas wrote in his book, "My Grandfather's Son," that before the Anita Hill inquisition began, Mr. Biden called him and said, "Judge, I know you don't believe me, but if allegations come up I will be your biggest defender."
Justice Thomas writes, "He was right about one thing, I didn't believe him."
Biden has a history of deceit, all masked under the guise of political expediency.
He is the profile of relativism and the idea that there is no absolute truth.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Active. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Friday, August 26, 2011
No Clergy For 9-11 Memorial Service
New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg says no clergy will participate in the ceremony commemorating the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center.
Rudy Washington, former deputy mayor under Rudy Giuliana, still recovering from health issues related to his time at Ground Zero said, "I feel like America has lost its way."
He said, "This is America, and to have a memorial service where there's no prayer, this appears to be insanity to me."
"This is crazy." He told the press.
Indeed it is. He is not the only one who believes America has lost its way.
A poll taken by Reuters/ipsos between August 4 and August 8 found 73% of Americans feel the country is on the wrong track.
People, of course, came to that belief for a variety of reasons. But one thing is certain, if we are on the wrong track it is certain we will end up somewhere other then where we wanted to go.
Bob Herbert, in his last op-ed column for the New York Times on MARCH 25, 2011, lamented that while America sends boatloads of cash to Libya, we are simultaneously demolishing our way of life at home by our economic policies.
He wrote that America "has lost it's way entirely."
We have not only lost our way fiscally, but spiritually as well.
I am certain Bloomberg doesn't want to offend anyone, doesn't know how to include everyone from all faiths, so he goes with the popular mantra of the secular progressive elites and decides to have no clergy. No religion.
How do you do secular prayer? Or whatever?
Multiculturalism has miserably failed in Europe and will do so here as well. Renouncing our identity will neither save us nor those who have found refuge and opportunity here, no matter how politically correct it appears.
A look back may help us find our way forward.
Patrick Henry thundered to his colleagues as America was defining her identity, "It is when people forget God that tyrants forge their chains."
But what about the Muslims, and Buddhists and Hindu and all the other religions represented in America and New York City?
Henry continued, "It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ. For this very reason peoples of other faiths have been afforded asylum, prosperity and freedom of worship here."
Years later, President John Quincy Adams wrote, "The highest glory of the American Revolution was this: it connected in one indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity."
But, you say, America has changed. That was then, this is now.
To the 73%: The way to discover the "right" track is to discover what made America great in the first place.
Rather than to "remake" the greatest country in the history of the world, let us, with God's help, restore her to her greatness by returning to the founding principles.
If we cannot or will not, "tyrants will forge our chains."
God help us and God help the Mayor to do the right thing.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Rudy Washington, former deputy mayor under Rudy Giuliana, still recovering from health issues related to his time at Ground Zero said, "I feel like America has lost its way."
He said, "This is America, and to have a memorial service where there's no prayer, this appears to be insanity to me."
"This is crazy." He told the press.
Indeed it is. He is not the only one who believes America has lost its way.
A poll taken by Reuters/ipsos between August 4 and August 8 found 73% of Americans feel the country is on the wrong track.
People, of course, came to that belief for a variety of reasons. But one thing is certain, if we are on the wrong track it is certain we will end up somewhere other then where we wanted to go.
Bob Herbert, in his last op-ed column for the New York Times on MARCH 25, 2011, lamented that while America sends boatloads of cash to Libya, we are simultaneously demolishing our way of life at home by our economic policies.
He wrote that America "has lost it's way entirely."
We have not only lost our way fiscally, but spiritually as well.
I am certain Bloomberg doesn't want to offend anyone, doesn't know how to include everyone from all faiths, so he goes with the popular mantra of the secular progressive elites and decides to have no clergy. No religion.
How do you do secular prayer? Or whatever?
Multiculturalism has miserably failed in Europe and will do so here as well. Renouncing our identity will neither save us nor those who have found refuge and opportunity here, no matter how politically correct it appears.
A look back may help us find our way forward.
Patrick Henry thundered to his colleagues as America was defining her identity, "It is when people forget God that tyrants forge their chains."
But what about the Muslims, and Buddhists and Hindu and all the other religions represented in America and New York City?
Henry continued, "It cannot be emphasized too strongly or too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the gospel of Jesus Christ. For this very reason peoples of other faiths have been afforded asylum, prosperity and freedom of worship here."
Years later, President John Quincy Adams wrote, "The highest glory of the American Revolution was this: it connected in one indissoluble bond the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity."
But, you say, America has changed. That was then, this is now.
To the 73%: The way to discover the "right" track is to discover what made America great in the first place.
Rather than to "remake" the greatest country in the history of the world, let us, with God's help, restore her to her greatness by returning to the founding principles.
If we cannot or will not, "tyrants will forge our chains."
God help us and God help the Mayor to do the right thing.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Thursday, August 25, 2011
War Against Biblical Beliefs Escalates
UPDATE from yesterday's blog: Teacher Jerry Buell has been exonerated and reinstated into the classroom.
______________
Military to chaplain: "Chaplain, if you can't get in line with this policy, resign your commission."
But what was the question?
The policy, of course, was regarding the repeal of "Don't ask, Don't Tell".
The question asked by the chaplain in a recent military briefing session was: "Will those of us who hold biblical orthodox views concerning homosexuality be protected in this new environment to speak about those views?"
The response: "Chaplain, if you can't get in line with this policy, resign your commission."
"Get in line" would be the operative word.
Fortunately, there is now an organized effort by a number of faith based organizations, retired chaplains and the Alliance Defense Fund to see that chaplains who hold biblical beliefs are not harmed or become victims in this escalating war against people who hold those biblical beliefs.
This war has also been extended into the marketplace. The latest battle has to do with major corporations and retailers and their participation in "unacceptable" charity.
Netflix, Walgreens and Petco are among those that have been targeted by homosexual activists to withdraw their participation in "Charity Give Back Group" ---a charity group with a mission and partner network that includes 170,000 charities---consisting of religious, non-religious, educational and other various non-profits.
The online service helps users support their favorite charities by shopping on the web, with a portion on the profit going to the charity.
Faith and Freedom is not a part of this program.
Homosexual activists are now pressuring participating businesses to pull out. Why? Because some of the 170,000 charities hold unacceptable biblical beliefs.
Specifically, a belief in the biblical model of marriage---one man, one woman.
As a result of pressure, some businesses are caving and withdrawing, including those mentioned above.
"Retailer, if you can't get in line, ....." All, while those organizations who believe in natural, biblical marriage are discriminated against because of their Christian beliefs.
The moral foundations are crumbling. Will we heed the call? Or will we simply chalk it up to postmodernism and the inevitable?
I can tell you that for me and my house, we will continue to publicly stand for biblical teaching, regardless the cost.
Thanks for standing with us.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Strong. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
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______________
Military to chaplain: "Chaplain, if you can't get in line with this policy, resign your commission."
But what was the question?
The policy, of course, was regarding the repeal of "Don't ask, Don't Tell".
The question asked by the chaplain in a recent military briefing session was: "Will those of us who hold biblical orthodox views concerning homosexuality be protected in this new environment to speak about those views?"
The response: "Chaplain, if you can't get in line with this policy, resign your commission."
"Get in line" would be the operative word.
Fortunately, there is now an organized effort by a number of faith based organizations, retired chaplains and the Alliance Defense Fund to see that chaplains who hold biblical beliefs are not harmed or become victims in this escalating war against people who hold those biblical beliefs.
This war has also been extended into the marketplace. The latest battle has to do with major corporations and retailers and their participation in "unacceptable" charity.
Netflix, Walgreens and Petco are among those that have been targeted by homosexual activists to withdraw their participation in "Charity Give Back Group" ---a charity group with a mission and partner network that includes 170,000 charities---consisting of religious, non-religious, educational and other various non-profits.
The online service helps users support their favorite charities by shopping on the web, with a portion on the profit going to the charity.
Faith and Freedom is not a part of this program.
Homosexual activists are now pressuring participating businesses to pull out. Why? Because some of the 170,000 charities hold unacceptable biblical beliefs.
Specifically, a belief in the biblical model of marriage---one man, one woman.
As a result of pressure, some businesses are caving and withdrawing, including those mentioned above.
"Retailer, if you can't get in line, ....." All, while those organizations who believe in natural, biblical marriage are discriminated against because of their Christian beliefs.
The moral foundations are crumbling. Will we heed the call? Or will we simply chalk it up to postmodernism and the inevitable?
I can tell you that for me and my house, we will continue to publicly stand for biblical teaching, regardless the cost.
Thanks for standing with us.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Strong. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Teacher Suspending for Opposing Gay "Marriage"
8/25/2011: Teacher Jerry Buell has been exonerated and reinstated into the classroom.
Former "Teacher of the Year," Jerry Buell, has been suspended from teaching because he opposed homosexual "marriage" and expressed his personal beliefs on Facebook.
It didn't matter that he has taught in that school system for 22 years and never had a complaint---a spotless record.
Now his job is on the line because one kid complained. The school district has called his expressed biblical beliefs, anti-gay and homophobic.
So, you're fired.
At the same time a federal appeals court has absolved a case against a teacher who attacked, in the classroom, the idea of biblical Creation and those who believe it.
Here's what Buell said on Facebook, what the California teacher said in the classroom and the unbelievable prejudice against Christianity in the public school system. And my thoughts on the matter.
The school system reacted to teacher Jerry Buell's post on his own Facebook page, on his own time, on his own computer, by saying that, "Gay students at the school might be frightened or intimidated walking into his classroom."
Really?
What about Christian students who walk into public school classrooms every day and sit under teachers who advocate, both directly and indirectly: that homosexuality is normal and equivalent to ethnicity, redefining marriage is a right of equality, that abortion is a right---a "choice," it's not killing a baby, evolution is a fact, biblical creationism is a myth, conservative Christian morality is archaic, secular progressive beliefs are elite and acceptable. Traditional biblical beliefs are not. And they advocate freedom of speech---as long as you say the right thing. And freedom of belief, as long as you hold the proper views. And academic freedom, as long as you learn the appropriate "truth."
Here's what Buell actually wrote on his Facebook page:
“I’m watching the news, eating dinner when the story about New York okaying same-sex unions came on and I almost threw up,” he wrote. “And now they showed two guys kissing after their announcement. If they want to call it a union, go ahead. But don’t insult a man and woman’s marriage by throwing it in the same cesspool of whatever. God will not be mocked. When did this sin become acceptable?”
Three minutes later, Buell posted another comment: “By the way, if one doesn’t like the most recently posted opinion based on biblical principles and God’s laws, then go ahead and unfriend me. I’ll miss you like I miss my kidney stone from 1994. And I will never accept it because God will never accept it. Romans chapter one.”
Last week, California high school teacher, Dr. James Corbett, was absolved of charges that he violated a Christian student's rights by saying, in the classroom not on Facebook, that "Creationism is religious, superstitious nonsense."
Judge Raymond Fisher ruled, "The teacher is entitled to qualified immunity."
Why? Because the teacher has a spotless record and public schools encourage freedom of thought. The school district hailed the ruling as "a victory for free thought and 'academic freedom.'"
As we prepare to send our kids back to public school, I suggest to the many pastors and Christian leaders who read this blog, reconsider the doctrine of silence regarding cultural moral issues. It may not be considered cool or "emergent," but kids and the culture hang in the balance.
I was a pastor for many years. I am more than happy to come to your church and preach a biblical, legal, message on the church and the culture. I spoke as needed on cultural issues as a pastor and the growth of our church was well known and documented.
The "I don't think the church should be involved in politics" cover is sounding more and more hollow because it isn't "politics," it is biblical responsibility to a lost culture.
Our country has morally lost her way because of silence on the part of those who should be speaking out.
And to those Christians who are not pastors or even perhaps leaders. Don't be intimidated. Don't be silent. Get involved in your public school. Get involved in policy making in your community. Support political candidates who will stand for your biblical values. Don't believe the notion that if you speak to the culture, you forfeit the opportunity to reach people for Christ.
And thanks for supporting us, while we continue to advocate for what both you and I know is right.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Informed. Be Active. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Former "Teacher of the Year," Jerry Buell, has been suspended from teaching because he opposed homosexual "marriage" and expressed his personal beliefs on Facebook.
It didn't matter that he has taught in that school system for 22 years and never had a complaint---a spotless record.
Now his job is on the line because one kid complained. The school district has called his expressed biblical beliefs, anti-gay and homophobic.
So, you're fired.
At the same time a federal appeals court has absolved a case against a teacher who attacked, in the classroom, the idea of biblical Creation and those who believe it.
Here's what Buell said on Facebook, what the California teacher said in the classroom and the unbelievable prejudice against Christianity in the public school system. And my thoughts on the matter.
The school system reacted to teacher Jerry Buell's post on his own Facebook page, on his own time, on his own computer, by saying that, "Gay students at the school might be frightened or intimidated walking into his classroom."
Really?
What about Christian students who walk into public school classrooms every day and sit under teachers who advocate, both directly and indirectly: that homosexuality is normal and equivalent to ethnicity, redefining marriage is a right of equality, that abortion is a right---a "choice," it's not killing a baby, evolution is a fact, biblical creationism is a myth, conservative Christian morality is archaic, secular progressive beliefs are elite and acceptable. Traditional biblical beliefs are not. And they advocate freedom of speech---as long as you say the right thing. And freedom of belief, as long as you hold the proper views. And academic freedom, as long as you learn the appropriate "truth."
Here's what Buell actually wrote on his Facebook page:
“I’m watching the news, eating dinner when the story about New York okaying same-sex unions came on and I almost threw up,” he wrote. “And now they showed two guys kissing after their announcement. If they want to call it a union, go ahead. But don’t insult a man and woman’s marriage by throwing it in the same cesspool of whatever. God will not be mocked. When did this sin become acceptable?”
Three minutes later, Buell posted another comment: “By the way, if one doesn’t like the most recently posted opinion based on biblical principles and God’s laws, then go ahead and unfriend me. I’ll miss you like I miss my kidney stone from 1994. And I will never accept it because God will never accept it. Romans chapter one.”
Last week, California high school teacher, Dr. James Corbett, was absolved of charges that he violated a Christian student's rights by saying, in the classroom not on Facebook, that "Creationism is religious, superstitious nonsense."
Judge Raymond Fisher ruled, "The teacher is entitled to qualified immunity."
Why? Because the teacher has a spotless record and public schools encourage freedom of thought. The school district hailed the ruling as "a victory for free thought and 'academic freedom.'"
As we prepare to send our kids back to public school, I suggest to the many pastors and Christian leaders who read this blog, reconsider the doctrine of silence regarding cultural moral issues. It may not be considered cool or "emergent," but kids and the culture hang in the balance.
I was a pastor for many years. I am more than happy to come to your church and preach a biblical, legal, message on the church and the culture. I spoke as needed on cultural issues as a pastor and the growth of our church was well known and documented.
The "I don't think the church should be involved in politics" cover is sounding more and more hollow because it isn't "politics," it is biblical responsibility to a lost culture.
Our country has morally lost her way because of silence on the part of those who should be speaking out.
And to those Christians who are not pastors or even perhaps leaders. Don't be intimidated. Don't be silent. Get involved in your public school. Get involved in policy making in your community. Support political candidates who will stand for your biblical values. Don't believe the notion that if you speak to the culture, you forfeit the opportunity to reach people for Christ.
And thanks for supporting us, while we continue to advocate for what both you and I know is right.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Informed. Be Active. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Seattle Blows 20,000,000 Green Dollars
On the eve of Earth Day, Seattle's mayor Mike McGinn joined Vice President Joe Biden to announce that the city was receiving $20,000,000 from the Obama administration to insulate crawl spaces and train workers for new careers.
It was a magical moment. Well covered by the press. On that special eve, there may have been a sleigh on a roof somewhere---pulled by 8 tiny unicorns.
It was said---no, promised, the Earth Day gift would produce 2000 living wage jobs and fix 2000 homes in poor neighborhoods.
And shrink the carbon footprint.
More than a year later, 3 homes have been "greened up". That's right. 3.
And 14 new jobs have emerged from the program.
Happy Earth Day.
But where's the money?
KOMO News reported last week that Michael Woo, director of Seattle's "Got Green," a community organizing group focusing on the environment and social justice says, "It's been a very slow and tedious process, the jobs haven't surfaced yet---and there has been no real investment for the broader public."
Okay.
But, who's got the money?
KOMO News asked the same question.
Well, the Washington Athletic Club and a few hospitals got a little, but it is said what they got will not reduce the fund amount.
But what about the poor? Has the carbon footprint been reduced? If so, by how much?
Howard Greenwich, policy director for Puget Sound Sage, an economic-justice group said, "It doesn't square with what the aspiration was."
It rarely does in the land of "Green". That's why Al Gore has been so angry of late.
Greenwich said, "I think what it boils down to is who's got the money?"
Those 14 who were trained for a living wage job in weatherization are frustrated.
Long Duong, 32, is one who was trained from the $20,000,000 Earth Day gift. However, he soon found that other men had more qualifications than him and he has now taken part time jobs---"installing light bulbs and canvassing doors."
Joshua Curtis, Seattle's manager for Community Power Works says, "We're not where we want to be, but we have a path forward."
Every taxpaying American should be concerned about that "path forward."
Washington Policy Center's Todd Myers has written a new book titled, "Eco-Fads: How The Rise of Trendy Environmentalism is Harming The Environment."
Meyers says:
In the meantime, the path forward for this administration seems to be repeating the same thing over and over, each time expecting different results.
The President will give us his new plan for millions of new jobs when he completes his vacation at Martha's Vineyard.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Informed. Be Diligent. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
It was a magical moment. Well covered by the press. On that special eve, there may have been a sleigh on a roof somewhere---pulled by 8 tiny unicorns.
It was said---no, promised, the Earth Day gift would produce 2000 living wage jobs and fix 2000 homes in poor neighborhoods.
And shrink the carbon footprint.
More than a year later, 3 homes have been "greened up". That's right. 3.
And 14 new jobs have emerged from the program.
Happy Earth Day.
But where's the money?
KOMO News reported last week that Michael Woo, director of Seattle's "Got Green," a community organizing group focusing on the environment and social justice says, "It's been a very slow and tedious process, the jobs haven't surfaced yet---and there has been no real investment for the broader public."
Okay.
But, who's got the money?
KOMO News asked the same question.
Well, the Washington Athletic Club and a few hospitals got a little, but it is said what they got will not reduce the fund amount.
But what about the poor? Has the carbon footprint been reduced? If so, by how much?
Howard Greenwich, policy director for Puget Sound Sage, an economic-justice group said, "It doesn't square with what the aspiration was."
It rarely does in the land of "Green". That's why Al Gore has been so angry of late.
Greenwich said, "I think what it boils down to is who's got the money?"
Those 14 who were trained for a living wage job in weatherization are frustrated.
Long Duong, 32, is one who was trained from the $20,000,000 Earth Day gift. However, he soon found that other men had more qualifications than him and he has now taken part time jobs---"installing light bulbs and canvassing doors."
Joshua Curtis, Seattle's manager for Community Power Works says, "We're not where we want to be, but we have a path forward."
Every taxpaying American should be concerned about that "path forward."
Washington Policy Center's Todd Myers has written a new book titled, "Eco-Fads: How The Rise of Trendy Environmentalism is Harming The Environment."
Meyers says:
Wherever we turn, politicians, businesses and activists are promoting the latest fashionable "green" policy or product. Green buildings, biofuels, electric cars, compact fluorescent lightbulbs and a variety of other technologies are touted as the next key step in protecting the environment and promoting a sustainable future. Increasingly, however, scientific and economic information regarding environmental problems takes a back seat to the social and personal value of being seen and perceived as "green."
As environmental consciousness has become socially popular, eco-fads supplant objective data. Politicians pick the latest environmental agenda in the same way we choose the fall fashions – looking for what will yield the largest benefit with our public and social circles.
Eco-Fads exposes the pressures that cause politicians, businesses, the media and even scientists to fall for trendy environmental fads. It examines why we fall for such fads, even when we should know better. The desire to "be green" can cloud our judgment, causing us to place things that make us appear green ahead of actions that may be socially invisible yet environmentally responsible.
By recognizing the range of forces that have taken us in the wrong direction, Eco-Fads shows how we can begin to get back on track, creating a prosperous and sustainable legacy for our planet’s future.
In the meantime, the path forward for this administration seems to be repeating the same thing over and over, each time expecting different results.
The President will give us his new plan for millions of new jobs when he completes his vacation at Martha's Vineyard.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Informed. Be Diligent. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Olympia Confused About Religion
The Department of General Administration say they are having a difficult time deciding which religious organizations can use public lands, parks, buildings, etc., and which cannot.
GA spokesman Jim Erskine says, "I have to say, I can see where it can be confusing."
Indeed it is. Two local churches denied, while other certain religious groups receive permission.
It is not only confusing. It is concerning. Here's what's happening. Here's my concern.
Mike Baker with Associated Press reports, "Washington administrators recently denied permits for two Olympia churches who asked to use state property for their religious exercises, even though officials previously approved other permits for spiritual activity."
Erskine told Baker, "It is something that I believe has to be looked at carefully---on a case by case basis."
Subjective.
The Washington State constitution says, "No public money or property shall be appropriated for or applied to any religious worship, exercise or instruction, or support of any religious establishment."
Baker did his homework and found that some of the denials for use by churches or religious organizations "closely mirror other permits that have been approved in recent months."
Erskine says of the decision making process, "It is murky." It is "nuanced."
It is also subjective and that is my greatest concern.
Maybe Jane Rushford, acting director of the GA, Jim Erskine and others involved in the process have no personal agenda. I hope not. I don't know.
But I have personally seen strong personal bias in state government, particularly in the Secretary of State's office---specifically in the Elections Division during the signature count on R-71 and in the Attorney General's office in regard to our ongoing effort to keep sealed the names of those who signed R-71. In both cases it was related to our efforts to defend natural marriage. And I was not the only one who noticed it.
Put the phone down. Don't file the lawsuit. I am NOT accusing anyone of any wrong doing. I am saying I have seen bias. And so have others who believe in and defend natural marriage.
In the matter of which religious groups can and which cannot use parks, public buildings, etc., bias can play into the decision making.
Erskine says the decision making process is "murky" and the decisions are "nuanced."
Baker lists a number of examples in his article.
Here are 2 examples:
First. The Washington Christian Leaders Coalition got a permit for a public event at the Legislative Building this past March. The state provided a theater style set up and podium for speeches in the Legislative Building.
Washington Christian Leaders Coalition tends to associate and work with both the religious and political left in their religious activity and advocacy. This past year they have worked with the ACLU, Amnesty International, Center for Social Justice, the Church Council of Greater Seattle and the SEIU among others.
Yet, a local Olympia church was denied use of Heritage Park, not a legislative building with seating and podium---a park, last weekend for a barbecue and baptism ceremony.
Second: A "ministry" group was granted a full day last weekend to use Sylvester Park, where the organizers scheduled bands, "dream interpretations" and " words of encouragement."
A local church was denied their request to have a small tent and a speaker for an event next month (Sept.) because the state said their activity was "religious instruction."
Does that suggest you may employ Eastern mysticism for dream interpretation, but cannot use the Bible for personal guidance on public land?
Erskine says the GA is consulting with the Attorney General's office on these matters.
Therein is my concern. My A/G office deposition regarding the R-71 names was, as they say, a real eye opener.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Prayerful. Be Active. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
GA spokesman Jim Erskine says, "I have to say, I can see where it can be confusing."
Indeed it is. Two local churches denied, while other certain religious groups receive permission.
It is not only confusing. It is concerning. Here's what's happening. Here's my concern.
Mike Baker with Associated Press reports, "Washington administrators recently denied permits for two Olympia churches who asked to use state property for their religious exercises, even though officials previously approved other permits for spiritual activity."
Erskine told Baker, "It is something that I believe has to be looked at carefully---on a case by case basis."
Subjective.
The Washington State constitution says, "No public money or property shall be appropriated for or applied to any religious worship, exercise or instruction, or support of any religious establishment."
Baker did his homework and found that some of the denials for use by churches or religious organizations "closely mirror other permits that have been approved in recent months."
Erskine says of the decision making process, "It is murky." It is "nuanced."
It is also subjective and that is my greatest concern.
Maybe Jane Rushford, acting director of the GA, Jim Erskine and others involved in the process have no personal agenda. I hope not. I don't know.
But I have personally seen strong personal bias in state government, particularly in the Secretary of State's office---specifically in the Elections Division during the signature count on R-71 and in the Attorney General's office in regard to our ongoing effort to keep sealed the names of those who signed R-71. In both cases it was related to our efforts to defend natural marriage. And I was not the only one who noticed it.
Put the phone down. Don't file the lawsuit. I am NOT accusing anyone of any wrong doing. I am saying I have seen bias. And so have others who believe in and defend natural marriage.
In the matter of which religious groups can and which cannot use parks, public buildings, etc., bias can play into the decision making.
Erskine says the decision making process is "murky" and the decisions are "nuanced."
Baker lists a number of examples in his article.
Here are 2 examples:
First. The Washington Christian Leaders Coalition got a permit for a public event at the Legislative Building this past March. The state provided a theater style set up and podium for speeches in the Legislative Building.
Washington Christian Leaders Coalition tends to associate and work with both the religious and political left in their religious activity and advocacy. This past year they have worked with the ACLU, Amnesty International, Center for Social Justice, the Church Council of Greater Seattle and the SEIU among others.
Yet, a local Olympia church was denied use of Heritage Park, not a legislative building with seating and podium---a park, last weekend for a barbecue and baptism ceremony.
Second: A "ministry" group was granted a full day last weekend to use Sylvester Park, where the organizers scheduled bands, "dream interpretations" and " words of encouragement."
A local church was denied their request to have a small tent and a speaker for an event next month (Sept.) because the state said their activity was "religious instruction."
Does that suggest you may employ Eastern mysticism for dream interpretation, but cannot use the Bible for personal guidance on public land?
Erskine says the GA is consulting with the Attorney General's office on these matters.
Therein is my concern. My A/G office deposition regarding the R-71 names was, as they say, a real eye opener.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Prayerful. Be Active. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Collision Between Two Worlds
NBC's Nightly News anchor, Brian Williams, introduced Martin Fletcher the other night to give his report on the riots in London by proclaiming, "More on the anger and hopelessness that's fueling a kind of tale of two cities."
Fletcher then borrowed a line from Karl Marx as he gave his report and explained the cause of the London riots: "It's a collision between two worlds here, the haves and the have-nots."
All three American networks reported in lock step, proclaiming that cuts in welfare and entitlements was the cause of the arson, destruction, theft, beatings and murder as the inevitable reaction to cuts in the British welfare system.
Over the last couple of weeks, the American media has consistently presented what started as a police gun search operation that resulted in an alleged gang member being shot and killed, as a spontaneous emotional flare due to people not receiving enough from their government.
The riots and general deterioration of society is indeed a collision between two worlds, but Marx was wrong. It transcends materialism.
It is a spiritual matter. A collision between right and wrong---good and evil---virtue and vice. Secularism and a spiritual faith. A basis to determine the difference between right and wrong.
A collision resulting from the consequences of a secular, amoral, relative worldview.
Here's proof.
Cal Thomas, the most syndicated columnist in America, examined the rioters motivations and found these responses: "They say they are going to help us, but I don't see any of it. There has to be more opportunities and jobs. Help us at least and everyone will settle down."
Others caught looting stores, when asked why, simply said they viewed it "as a shopping spree."
Thomas writes that as people in Britain bemoan the lack of "values" and vow to get to the bottom of it, the media itself has taken on the mantle of teaching the nation.
He notes that British clergy has, over time, acquiesced "to the whims and failings of culture by justifying abortion, sanctioning same-sex 'marriage' and signing on to other earthly agendas like, environmentalism."
I have linked his column above. Please read it.
The riots in London were not spontaneous. Nor were those in Philadelphia, Kansas City and other American cities.
Secularists have been laying the ground work for some time.
The London Telegraph noted the other day, "It is the result of a major cultural shift that took place in the 1960s and 1970s and the long term decline in conservative values."
The Telegraph also noted, "This process was marked by a collapse in the belief in marriage, a retreat of police from the streets, a move away from tough penalties for property crime, the rise of moral relativism, rampant consumerism, the diminution of stigma as a restraint on bad behavior and the entrenchment of welfare dependency."
Cal Thomas writes, "During previous periods of cultural decline when most political, legal and economic prescriptions were tried and failed, it was left to the churches to remind the public of the consequences for individuals and nations that depart from their source of virtue. Today's British churches too often lack the power to do this. That's because they are competing to see who can bless the culture the quickest."
Well said.
I agree with Thomas. If the churches crave power and approval from below, they will forfeit the power that could be theirs from above.
When pastors and Christian leaders base their stand on moral issues on political advisability and timing, as some did on the "everything but marriage" law and the R-71 response in Washington state, something is very wrong.
When Christian leaders and pastors publicly support political candidates who do not support the most fundamental Christian virtues of the sanctity of marriage and life, suggesting it is expedient to support the lessor of two evils, something is very wrong.
Voting for the lessor of two evils, is still voting for evil.
Is it that important for some pastors to have a seat at the proverbial "political table" that they can set aside fundamental Christian beliefs? Apparently.
Is job security enough to merit silence from the pulpits?
Britain is burning because they have failed spiritually. They have, over time, stripped the Christian virtue from their public life and replaced it with secular relativism and social dependence on government. And too many clergy tipped their bottle and said this isn't something we should be involved with.
The nation has now come to generally believe in nothing. But they admit multiculturalism has failed.
They and other nations are experiencing a collision between two worlds, but not the two Karl Marx understood.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Active. Be Vocal. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Fletcher then borrowed a line from Karl Marx as he gave his report and explained the cause of the London riots: "It's a collision between two worlds here, the haves and the have-nots."
All three American networks reported in lock step, proclaiming that cuts in welfare and entitlements was the cause of the arson, destruction, theft, beatings and murder as the inevitable reaction to cuts in the British welfare system.
Over the last couple of weeks, the American media has consistently presented what started as a police gun search operation that resulted in an alleged gang member being shot and killed, as a spontaneous emotional flare due to people not receiving enough from their government.
The riots and general deterioration of society is indeed a collision between two worlds, but Marx was wrong. It transcends materialism.
It is a spiritual matter. A collision between right and wrong---good and evil---virtue and vice. Secularism and a spiritual faith. A basis to determine the difference between right and wrong.
A collision resulting from the consequences of a secular, amoral, relative worldview.
Here's proof.
Cal Thomas, the most syndicated columnist in America, examined the rioters motivations and found these responses: "They say they are going to help us, but I don't see any of it. There has to be more opportunities and jobs. Help us at least and everyone will settle down."
Others caught looting stores, when asked why, simply said they viewed it "as a shopping spree."
Thomas writes that as people in Britain bemoan the lack of "values" and vow to get to the bottom of it, the media itself has taken on the mantle of teaching the nation.
He notes that British clergy has, over time, acquiesced "to the whims and failings of culture by justifying abortion, sanctioning same-sex 'marriage' and signing on to other earthly agendas like, environmentalism."
I have linked his column above. Please read it.
The riots in London were not spontaneous. Nor were those in Philadelphia, Kansas City and other American cities.
Secularists have been laying the ground work for some time.
The London Telegraph noted the other day, "It is the result of a major cultural shift that took place in the 1960s and 1970s and the long term decline in conservative values."
The Telegraph also noted, "This process was marked by a collapse in the belief in marriage, a retreat of police from the streets, a move away from tough penalties for property crime, the rise of moral relativism, rampant consumerism, the diminution of stigma as a restraint on bad behavior and the entrenchment of welfare dependency."
Cal Thomas writes, "During previous periods of cultural decline when most political, legal and economic prescriptions were tried and failed, it was left to the churches to remind the public of the consequences for individuals and nations that depart from their source of virtue. Today's British churches too often lack the power to do this. That's because they are competing to see who can bless the culture the quickest."
Well said.
I agree with Thomas. If the churches crave power and approval from below, they will forfeit the power that could be theirs from above.
When pastors and Christian leaders base their stand on moral issues on political advisability and timing, as some did on the "everything but marriage" law and the R-71 response in Washington state, something is very wrong.
When Christian leaders and pastors publicly support political candidates who do not support the most fundamental Christian virtues of the sanctity of marriage and life, suggesting it is expedient to support the lessor of two evils, something is very wrong.
Voting for the lessor of two evils, is still voting for evil.
Is it that important for some pastors to have a seat at the proverbial "political table" that they can set aside fundamental Christian beliefs? Apparently.
Is job security enough to merit silence from the pulpits?
Britain is burning because they have failed spiritually. They have, over time, stripped the Christian virtue from their public life and replaced it with secular relativism and social dependence on government. And too many clergy tipped their bottle and said this isn't something we should be involved with.
The nation has now come to generally believe in nothing. But they admit multiculturalism has failed.
They and other nations are experiencing a collision between two worlds, but not the two Karl Marx understood.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Active. Be Vocal. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Should a Pastor Drink Alcohol?
The idea of a pastor bringing booze into the context of ministry is believed by some to better enable the pastor to reach more people for Christ.
Some, often referred to as the "Young, Restless and Reformed" clergy, argue that "most good theological discussion has historically been done in pubs and drinking places."
But is mixing booze with ministry necessary to reach people who are in need?
By drinking alcohol does a pastor become more relevant? Will he or she have a greater impact with those searching for answers in their life?
A recent survey found that 40% of evangelical leaders said they "socially drink alcohol".
Gary Benedict, president of the Christian Missionary Alliance denomination, weighs in on the subject, as does Jeff Farmer of the Open Bible denomination, Leith Anderson, president of the nearly 40 million member National Association of Evangelicals and mega church pastor John MacArthur.
Is the evangelical church stumbling in their rush to relevance?
While the Lifeway poll found that 40%, or 2 in 5 evangelical leaders drink alcohol, they also found that 90% of clergy believe a Christian drinking alcohol could cause other believers to stumble or to be confused.
At best it may be a matter of confusion. If 9 out of 10 Christian leaders believe it may cause a Christian brother or sister to stumble if leadership drinks alcohol, why do 2 in 5 do so?
Do they not care? Are they confused about their responsibility as clergy? Have they not read Paul's teaching in regard to causing someone to stumble?
Is it a spirit of rebellion? If so, against whom or what?
Much has been said and written about a new book by Rob Bell, pastor of Mars Hill Church in Grandville, Mich. in which Bell, a leader in the Emerging Church movement, says that ultimately God will not allow anyone to go to hell, because love will win out, thus revising accepted evangelical theology.
It seems the Emerging Church movement puts more importance on "relevance" than accuracy of biblical doctrine, responsibility and wisdom.
But what about beer and the Bible?
Gary Benedict of the Christian Missionary Alliance denomination says, "Even though there is no prohibition on the moderate drinking of alcohol consumption in Scripture, due to the many implications as an example to family and those I serve, I like Paul's words,'it is better not to' ."
Jeff Farmer, head of the Open Bible denomination says, "While we understand one cannot defend [abstinence from alcohol] biblically, we have chosen to raise the standard for leadership in our movement."
Leith Anderson, president of the National Association of Evangelicals said, "Alcohol and its effects have been a major challenge in American society. Just as society has dealt with it, as evidenced in the 18th and 21st amendments, so have evangelicals looked at how to appropriately instruct about alcohol."
He is typically saying nothing or "some of my friends are for it and some of my friends are against it and I'm with my friends."
The NAE was born out of, among other things, resistance to the abuse of alcohol.
However, mega church pastor and author John MacArthur is not ambivalent about the issue.
MacArthur recently wrote in his blog, "It is puerile and irresponsible for any pastor to encourage the recreational use of intoxicants---especially in church sponsored activities."
He says, "Beer-loving passion has become a prominent badge of identity" for many young pastors in the "Young, Restless and Reformed community."
MacArthur says, "Mixing booze with the ministry is often touted as a necessary means of penetrating western youth culture," while abstinence is "deemed 'sin' to be repented of."
He asks, "Does the church want to be known for these things?"
Putting it bluntly, MacArthur, who has ministered to hundreds of former alcohol addicts, called pub outreaches and the like "bad missional strategy" and a "bad testimony."
"It is wrong-headed, carnal and immature to imagine that bad-boy behavior makes a good missional strategy," he said.
MacArthur told pastors in regard to drinking alcohol, "It's not about stealing joy; it's about promoting pastoral wisdom and compassion for people. Church leaders must consider the consequences of what they approve and promote."
I agree.
What do you think?
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Some, often referred to as the "Young, Restless and Reformed" clergy, argue that "most good theological discussion has historically been done in pubs and drinking places."
But is mixing booze with ministry necessary to reach people who are in need?
By drinking alcohol does a pastor become more relevant? Will he or she have a greater impact with those searching for answers in their life?
A recent survey found that 40% of evangelical leaders said they "socially drink alcohol".
Gary Benedict, president of the Christian Missionary Alliance denomination, weighs in on the subject, as does Jeff Farmer of the Open Bible denomination, Leith Anderson, president of the nearly 40 million member National Association of Evangelicals and mega church pastor John MacArthur.
Is the evangelical church stumbling in their rush to relevance?
While the Lifeway poll found that 40%, or 2 in 5 evangelical leaders drink alcohol, they also found that 90% of clergy believe a Christian drinking alcohol could cause other believers to stumble or to be confused.
At best it may be a matter of confusion. If 9 out of 10 Christian leaders believe it may cause a Christian brother or sister to stumble if leadership drinks alcohol, why do 2 in 5 do so?
Do they not care? Are they confused about their responsibility as clergy? Have they not read Paul's teaching in regard to causing someone to stumble?
Is it a spirit of rebellion? If so, against whom or what?
Much has been said and written about a new book by Rob Bell, pastor of Mars Hill Church in Grandville, Mich. in which Bell, a leader in the Emerging Church movement, says that ultimately God will not allow anyone to go to hell, because love will win out, thus revising accepted evangelical theology.
It seems the Emerging Church movement puts more importance on "relevance" than accuracy of biblical doctrine, responsibility and wisdom.
But what about beer and the Bible?
Gary Benedict of the Christian Missionary Alliance denomination says, "Even though there is no prohibition on the moderate drinking of alcohol consumption in Scripture, due to the many implications as an example to family and those I serve, I like Paul's words,'it is better not to' ."
Jeff Farmer, head of the Open Bible denomination says, "While we understand one cannot defend [abstinence from alcohol] biblically, we have chosen to raise the standard for leadership in our movement."
Leith Anderson, president of the National Association of Evangelicals said, "Alcohol and its effects have been a major challenge in American society. Just as society has dealt with it, as evidenced in the 18th and 21st amendments, so have evangelicals looked at how to appropriately instruct about alcohol."
He is typically saying nothing or "some of my friends are for it and some of my friends are against it and I'm with my friends."
The NAE was born out of, among other things, resistance to the abuse of alcohol.
However, mega church pastor and author John MacArthur is not ambivalent about the issue.
MacArthur recently wrote in his blog, "It is puerile and irresponsible for any pastor to encourage the recreational use of intoxicants---especially in church sponsored activities."
He says, "Beer-loving passion has become a prominent badge of identity" for many young pastors in the "Young, Restless and Reformed community."
MacArthur says, "Mixing booze with the ministry is often touted as a necessary means of penetrating western youth culture," while abstinence is "deemed 'sin' to be repented of."
He asks, "Does the church want to be known for these things?"
Putting it bluntly, MacArthur, who has ministered to hundreds of former alcohol addicts, called pub outreaches and the like "bad missional strategy" and a "bad testimony."
"It is wrong-headed, carnal and immature to imagine that bad-boy behavior makes a good missional strategy," he said.
MacArthur told pastors in regard to drinking alcohol, "It's not about stealing joy; it's about promoting pastoral wisdom and compassion for people. Church leaders must consider the consequences of what they approve and promote."
I agree.
What do you think?
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
The Patty Murray Problem
Michelle Malkin, former reporter and editorial board member for the Seattle Times, now a syndicated columnist says, "Everything that's wrong with the so-called 'super committee' can be summed up in the person, partisan hackery and policy ignorance of Washington Democratic Senator Patty Murray."
Malkin says, "Charlie Brown had Peppermint Patty. America has US Mint Patty. This is a career politician who has never met a special interest that shouldn't be supported by taxpayers."
Malkin recalls, "While I served as the youngest member on the Seattle Times editorial board, I asked her about the disproportionate tax burden that FICA taxes imposed on Generation X and low income workers. I wanted to know if she supported creative alternatives to the Social Security system like the opt-out plan adopted by the cities of Bellevue, WA and Galveston, Texas."
Murray's response was shocking to Malkin at the time and should be to you now.
" 'FICA'? she repeated with a puzzled glance at her entourage of DC staffers," Malkin writes.
I highly recommend you read Malkin's latest column. She suggests that the mom in tennis shoes has evolved. She also suggests that America's financial troubles will not be solved by Patty Murray and the so-called "super committee."
Malkin says, "Charlie Brown had Peppermint Patty. America has US Mint Patty. This is a career politician who has never met a special interest that shouldn't be supported by taxpayers."
Malkin recalls, "While I served as the youngest member on the Seattle Times editorial board, I asked her about the disproportionate tax burden that FICA taxes imposed on Generation X and low income workers. I wanted to know if she supported creative alternatives to the Social Security system like the opt-out plan adopted by the cities of Bellevue, WA and Galveston, Texas."
Murray's response was shocking to Malkin at the time and should be to you now.
" 'FICA'? she repeated with a puzzled glance at her entourage of DC staffers," Malkin writes.
I highly recommend you read Malkin's latest column. She suggests that the mom in tennis shoes has evolved. She also suggests that America's financial troubles will not be solved by Patty Murray and the so-called "super committee."
Monday, August 15, 2011
Starbuck's CEO Cancels Megachurch Speech
Rachel Zoll, at Associated Press says, "Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz canceled an appearance at one of the most prominent megachurches in the country after an online petition condemned the congregation as anti-gay---a charge the church denies."
Change.org accused the church of being "anti-gay" and launched a national campaign, threatening Starbucks and accusing the church of "anti-gay persecution."
Why?
Because Willow Creek Church had a past relationship with Exodus International, a Christian ministry dedicated to ministering to and helping those who wish to leave the homosexual lifestyle.
A similar attack has been mounted against presidential candidate Michelle Bauchman and her husband, who is a psychologist, accusing him or his practice of helping homosexuals who desire to leave the lifestyle.
The pastor Bill Hybels said, "To suggest that we check sexual orientation or any other kind of issue at the doors is simply not true."
However, Hybels did say, "Willow Creek Church does expect its members to follow biblical ethics and reserve sex for marriage between a man and a woman," but everyone is welcome to attend.
That's what the church has done to merit a national campaign against it.
Hybels' response?
"Buy a cup of coffee in the next couple of days and show some good will." He also encouraged his church members to write to Schultz and tell him he is welcome any time in the future.
This is the most recent demonstration of duplicity and intolerance from those seeking to redefine more than 5000 years of marriage, re-engineer the family and the culture and punish all who disagree or hold a different belief.
I could not communicate their message better than they have.
"We don't care what you believe in your church, we'll punish anyone who associates with you because you view homosexuality differently than we do."
"We demand tolerance from you, but refuse to practice it ourselves, because it's all about me. And tolerance is defined as affirming our lifestyle regardless of what your Bible says, otherwise you are an anti-gay bigot."
"If you resist our rewriting local and federal laws to reflect and celebrate our lifestyle, you are hateful and bigoted."
"And we don't care that many gays wish to be delivered from the lifestyle, any ministry that helps them is practicing 'anti-gay persecution' ."
"Our way or no way."
Tolerance.
God help us.
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Change.org accused the church of being "anti-gay" and launched a national campaign, threatening Starbucks and accusing the church of "anti-gay persecution."
Why?
Because Willow Creek Church had a past relationship with Exodus International, a Christian ministry dedicated to ministering to and helping those who wish to leave the homosexual lifestyle.
A similar attack has been mounted against presidential candidate Michelle Bauchman and her husband, who is a psychologist, accusing him or his practice of helping homosexuals who desire to leave the lifestyle.
The pastor Bill Hybels said, "To suggest that we check sexual orientation or any other kind of issue at the doors is simply not true."
However, Hybels did say, "Willow Creek Church does expect its members to follow biblical ethics and reserve sex for marriage between a man and a woman," but everyone is welcome to attend.
That's what the church has done to merit a national campaign against it.
Hybels' response?
"Buy a cup of coffee in the next couple of days and show some good will." He also encouraged his church members to write to Schultz and tell him he is welcome any time in the future.
This is the most recent demonstration of duplicity and intolerance from those seeking to redefine more than 5000 years of marriage, re-engineer the family and the culture and punish all who disagree or hold a different belief.
I could not communicate their message better than they have.
"We don't care what you believe in your church, we'll punish anyone who associates with you because you view homosexuality differently than we do."
"We demand tolerance from you, but refuse to practice it ourselves, because it's all about me. And tolerance is defined as affirming our lifestyle regardless of what your Bible says, otherwise you are an anti-gay bigot."
"If you resist our rewriting local and federal laws to reflect and celebrate our lifestyle, you are hateful and bigoted."
"And we don't care that many gays wish to be delivered from the lifestyle, any ministry that helps them is practicing 'anti-gay persecution' ."
"Our way or no way."
Tolerance.
God help us.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Obama: "Muslims Contribute to U.S. Strength and Character"
President Obama, speaking at his 3rd annual White House Iftar dinner for Muslims said, "We're all children of a loving God," identifying Iftar as a "quintessentially American celebration."
The President noted that Ramadan is a time of "reflection and devotion."
He said, "It is an occasion to join with family and friends in celebration of a faith known for its diversity and a commitment to justice and the dignity of all human beings."
Justice and dignity to all human beings?
I can hardly believe he said that. Islam has a history of violence, with no justice for women and those infidels who do not embrace the teachings of Islam. That violence is deeply rooted in Koranic teaching.
The President also said, "Islam has always been a part of our American family and Muslim Americans have long contributed to the strength and character of our country."
You will recall that just last year President Obama directed the head of NASA to focus on high lighting Muslim contributions to science.
Not surprisingly, 80% of Muslim Americans approve of the way Barack Obama is handling his job, much higher than the 7% who approved of George W. Bush in 2008.
All this, while retired Pentagon adviser and senior army strategist, Bob Maginnis says it's, "Incredibly naive and dangerous" for the Obama administration to go out of its way to extract Islam when it describes the threat of terrorism."
The White House recently released its "Empowering Local Partners To Prevent Violent Extremism In The United States," a plan that calls for a community-based approach to dealing with "violent extremism."
Maginnis says on page 12 of the plan, the administration attempts to disassociate the Islamic faith from the terrorism perpetrated by Islamic groups like al-Qaeda, saying al-Qaeda "tried to spark a conflict between faiths and divide us as Americans. But they failed."
Maginnis feels the Obama administration goes out of its way to paint Islam in a positive light.
It certainly does. While all religions should have the right to worship freely in America, they should not have the right to perpetrate teachings that include killing those who are not of their faith and treating women as chattel.
Franklin Graham knows Islam. He has publicly called it "evil". And he was uninvited to participate in the National Day of Prayer event at the Pentagon last year.
God help us. We can't even discern the difference between tolerance and affirmation.
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The President noted that Ramadan is a time of "reflection and devotion."
He said, "It is an occasion to join with family and friends in celebration of a faith known for its diversity and a commitment to justice and the dignity of all human beings."
Justice and dignity to all human beings?
I can hardly believe he said that. Islam has a history of violence, with no justice for women and those infidels who do not embrace the teachings of Islam. That violence is deeply rooted in Koranic teaching.
The President also said, "Islam has always been a part of our American family and Muslim Americans have long contributed to the strength and character of our country."
You will recall that just last year President Obama directed the head of NASA to focus on high lighting Muslim contributions to science.
Not surprisingly, 80% of Muslim Americans approve of the way Barack Obama is handling his job, much higher than the 7% who approved of George W. Bush in 2008.
All this, while retired Pentagon adviser and senior army strategist, Bob Maginnis says it's, "Incredibly naive and dangerous" for the Obama administration to go out of its way to extract Islam when it describes the threat of terrorism."
The White House recently released its "Empowering Local Partners To Prevent Violent Extremism In The United States," a plan that calls for a community-based approach to dealing with "violent extremism."
Maginnis says on page 12 of the plan, the administration attempts to disassociate the Islamic faith from the terrorism perpetrated by Islamic groups like al-Qaeda, saying al-Qaeda "tried to spark a conflict between faiths and divide us as Americans. But they failed."
Maginnis feels the Obama administration goes out of its way to paint Islam in a positive light.
It certainly does. While all religions should have the right to worship freely in America, they should not have the right to perpetrate teachings that include killing those who are not of their faith and treating women as chattel.
Franklin Graham knows Islam. He has publicly called it "evil". And he was uninvited to participate in the National Day of Prayer event at the Pentagon last year.
God help us. We can't even discern the difference between tolerance and affirmation.
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Thursday, August 11, 2011
"God Can Work Miracles"
Sand, surf and the long, long beach at Long Beach is synonymous with summer for many Northwest families. I recall my family's trip from Yakima to Long Beach every summer.
Dale Ostrander and his family, along with friends from Bethel Baptist Church in Spanaway, were enjoying the beach this last weekend when 12 year old Dale was dragged under water by a rip tide.
He spent at least 25 minutes under water before rescuers located him and carried him out of the water.
He was not conscious. He was not breathing.
As a medical helicopter flew Dale to Oregon Health and Science University, his parents prepared for the worst, while their friends from Bethel Baptist Church knelt on the beach in prayer.
The medical staff confirmed that the Ostrander family should be prepared for the worst case.
Dale's dad Chad said, "They never expected him to live. If he lived, they expected him to be a vegetable---never walk, never talk, never say a word."
Sunday night doctors tried one more time to waken Dale by calling his name. He awakened.
KOMO News reports, "After the doctors took out his breathing tube on Monday, Dale did something even more surprising."
His mother Kristen says, "We were trying to get him to cough, to get the congestion [cleared]." She said, "You need to cough." He coughed once. She said, "You need to do it again."
That's when he said, "I don't need to."
His father Chad says, "That was when we knew, hey, maybe there is a miracle that's happening here. We understand hopelessness, but we also understand faith. God can work miracles."
Indeed He can. And does.
This story has become a national story over the past couple of days. I thought you might enjoy reading, not only KOMO and other major news sources, but a more local detailed account from the Chinook Observer.
Be Thankful. Be Grateful. Be Blessed.
Dale Ostrander and his family, along with friends from Bethel Baptist Church in Spanaway, were enjoying the beach this last weekend when 12 year old Dale was dragged under water by a rip tide.
He spent at least 25 minutes under water before rescuers located him and carried him out of the water.
He was not conscious. He was not breathing.
As a medical helicopter flew Dale to Oregon Health and Science University, his parents prepared for the worst, while their friends from Bethel Baptist Church knelt on the beach in prayer.
The medical staff confirmed that the Ostrander family should be prepared for the worst case.
Dale's dad Chad said, "They never expected him to live. If he lived, they expected him to be a vegetable---never walk, never talk, never say a word."
Sunday night doctors tried one more time to waken Dale by calling his name. He awakened.
KOMO News reports, "After the doctors took out his breathing tube on Monday, Dale did something even more surprising."
His mother Kristen says, "We were trying to get him to cough, to get the congestion [cleared]." She said, "You need to cough." He coughed once. She said, "You need to do it again."
That's when he said, "I don't need to."
His father Chad says, "That was when we knew, hey, maybe there is a miracle that's happening here. We understand hopelessness, but we also understand faith. God can work miracles."
Indeed He can. And does.
This story has become a national story over the past couple of days. I thought you might enjoy reading, not only KOMO and other major news sources, but a more local detailed account from the Chinook Observer.
Be Thankful. Be Grateful. Be Blessed.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Lutherans Take Next Step
After leaving the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) over doctrinal differences, the newly formed North American Lutheran Church is meeting in Ohio this week to elect leadership for the new denomination.
Last year more than 250 congregations left the ECLA, the largest Lutheran denomination in the country, after they decided to ordain homosexuals to the clergy.
The North American Lutheran Church say they "embody the theological center in Lutheranism in North America" and stand "firmly within the global Lutheran mainstream."
"In keeping with the Lutheran Confessions, we believe all doctrines should and must be judged by the teaching of Scripture."
They affirm the Bible as the inspired Word of God, thus rejecting the ECLA action to ordain homosexuals.
I have linked their website. If you are Lutheran, you may want to be aware of their progress and plans.
I encourage all believers to pray that God will bless and guide them in this bold step of faith and conviction.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Active. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
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Last year more than 250 congregations left the ECLA, the largest Lutheran denomination in the country, after they decided to ordain homosexuals to the clergy.
The North American Lutheran Church say they "embody the theological center in Lutheranism in North America" and stand "firmly within the global Lutheran mainstream."
"In keeping with the Lutheran Confessions, we believe all doctrines should and must be judged by the teaching of Scripture."
They affirm the Bible as the inspired Word of God, thus rejecting the ECLA action to ordain homosexuals.
I have linked their website. If you are Lutheran, you may want to be aware of their progress and plans.
I encourage all believers to pray that God will bless and guide them in this bold step of faith and conviction.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Active. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
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Tuesday, August 09, 2011
Navy Seal Aaron Vaugn "Willing to Die For His Country"
The broken but patriotic family of Aaron Vaugn, a Navy Seal killed in Afghanistan over the weekend, spoke with Matt Lauer on NBC's Today Show yesterday morning.
Given the liberal, to extreme liberal position of NBC, I'm certain the interview was uncomfortable for many at the network.
Aaron's father made several noteworthy comments, not only about his son's love of God, family and country, but about the beliefs and the patriotism of those who serve in the elite Navy Seal program. Very enlightening.
And he spoke about comments made by "higher up" people that could have been damaging. You will recall that it was these Navy Seals that captured and killed Osama bin Laden.
Aaron's father said he hopes this tragedy will not be politicized.
To see and hear this family is a profound affirmation of what is right with America. For those of us who pray that God will deliver us from evil and restore us to our rightful destiny, it is a blessing.
I have linked the short interview here.
Please take a couple of moments and watch it and be reminded what has made America great.
God bless you.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Prayerful. Be Active. Be Blessed.
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Given the liberal, to extreme liberal position of NBC, I'm certain the interview was uncomfortable for many at the network.
Aaron's father made several noteworthy comments, not only about his son's love of God, family and country, but about the beliefs and the patriotism of those who serve in the elite Navy Seal program. Very enlightening.
And he spoke about comments made by "higher up" people that could have been damaging. You will recall that it was these Navy Seals that captured and killed Osama bin Laden.
Aaron's father said he hopes this tragedy will not be politicized.
To see and hear this family is a profound affirmation of what is right with America. For those of us who pray that God will deliver us from evil and restore us to our rightful destiny, it is a blessing.
I have linked the short interview here.
Please take a couple of moments and watch it and be reminded what has made America great.
God bless you.
Be Vigilant. Be Discerning. Be Prayerful. Be Active. Be Blessed.
:: Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
Monday, August 08, 2011
Homosexual Couples "Surge" in WA State?
The Seattle Times reported this past week that the number of homosexual couples in Washington State has "surged" according to the recent 2010 census.
"Surged" may be a bit of an overstatement given the real numbers. They base their "surge" message on some relatively small numbers.
In 10 years, Ballard has "surged" from 45 homosexual couples to 57.
West Seattle, the part of Seattle that has "surged" the most, has increased from 62 homosexual couples in 2000 to 122 in 2010. They are now calling it "Capitol Hill West." And part of the "surge" is people moving from other areas to West Seattle.
"But," the Times says, the biggest "surge" is in Yakima, Tri-Cities and Walla Walla.
They are basing the "surge" message on a 55% increase on very small numbers.
Keep in mind that Washington State has a 2010 population of 6,724,540. An increase over 10 years of up to 30 homosexual couples living somewhere is hardly a "surge."
Also keep in mind the Obama Administration revised the Census Bureau reporting policy on homosexuals, allowing them to register as married (spouse, etc.) although they are not legally married and urged them to be counted. They were told to define their own relationships regardless of legal status.
I wrote a blog about this last year and its implication in the 2010 census. I said they would use the increased numbers to inflate the public perception of their presence in the culture.
Several national news papers, including USA Today, Wall Street Journal and others quoted my blog.
I was correctly quoted in USA Today as saying, "The census is leaving it to responders to characterize their own relationships, regardless of legal status."
USA Today wrote, "Will homosexual numbers be inflated by this, 'you decide what you are' policy? Probably, Randall wrote. "This policy shift is another attempt to confuse the discussion about marriage by creating a problem of sorts, then providing a solution that advances the homosexual agenda of redefining marriage."
At that time last year, Jamie Grant, director of National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, told USA Today the opportunity Obama and the Census Bureau had given them was "humongous".
"Our opponents are rightly concerned," Grant said, "because it does lend an air of legitimacy to our marriages. It's another way of weaving us into the fabric instead of continuing to see us as outsiders."
The homosexual activists are now seizing the "air of legitimacy" and the Seattle press, as usual, is enabling them in advancing the "air of legitimacy"...."weaving them into the fabric".
The Associated Press interviewed me Friday for their article yesterday titled, "As State's Gay Couples Expand, So Does Marriage Push."
Rachel Smith-Mosel, a lesbian middle school teacher in Tacoma, summed up the present euphoria in the homosexual community with New York legalizing homosexual "marriage" and homosexual couples "surging" in Washington State: "I'm impatient and I'm tired of waiting."
Senator Ed Murray is telling the press that the New York decision provides, "momentum for the rest of the nation, including Washington, to follow suit."
Murray says, "Though we have yet to realize full marriage equality...that goal seems more achievable than it was yesterday and closer to reality than ever before."
While Murray thinks homosexual "marriage" in the state may be a few years away, most homosexual activists are "tired of waiting," believing their own press releases, they are ready to make a move to re-define marriage in Washington State.
A challenge of biblical proportion is looming in regard to natural, biblical marriage.
Are you ready to stand in defense of the most basic, fundamental social unit in human history? A union between a man and a woman, ordained by God and affirmed by every successful civilization in human history and every major religion in the world.
The Bible teaches we are to "honor marriage". Honoring will likely involve defending it in the days ahead.
Will you stand with us?
Thank you.
Be Vigilant. Be discerning. Be Informed. Be Active. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
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"Surged" may be a bit of an overstatement given the real numbers. They base their "surge" message on some relatively small numbers.
In 10 years, Ballard has "surged" from 45 homosexual couples to 57.
West Seattle, the part of Seattle that has "surged" the most, has increased from 62 homosexual couples in 2000 to 122 in 2010. They are now calling it "Capitol Hill West." And part of the "surge" is people moving from other areas to West Seattle.
"But," the Times says, the biggest "surge" is in Yakima, Tri-Cities and Walla Walla.
They are basing the "surge" message on a 55% increase on very small numbers.
Keep in mind that Washington State has a 2010 population of 6,724,540. An increase over 10 years of up to 30 homosexual couples living somewhere is hardly a "surge."
Also keep in mind the Obama Administration revised the Census Bureau reporting policy on homosexuals, allowing them to register as married (spouse, etc.) although they are not legally married and urged them to be counted. They were told to define their own relationships regardless of legal status.
I wrote a blog about this last year and its implication in the 2010 census. I said they would use the increased numbers to inflate the public perception of their presence in the culture.
Several national news papers, including USA Today, Wall Street Journal and others quoted my blog.
I was correctly quoted in USA Today as saying, "The census is leaving it to responders to characterize their own relationships, regardless of legal status."
USA Today wrote, "Will homosexual numbers be inflated by this, 'you decide what you are' policy? Probably, Randall wrote. "This policy shift is another attempt to confuse the discussion about marriage by creating a problem of sorts, then providing a solution that advances the homosexual agenda of redefining marriage."
At that time last year, Jamie Grant, director of National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, told USA Today the opportunity Obama and the Census Bureau had given them was "humongous".
"Our opponents are rightly concerned," Grant said, "because it does lend an air of legitimacy to our marriages. It's another way of weaving us into the fabric instead of continuing to see us as outsiders."
The homosexual activists are now seizing the "air of legitimacy" and the Seattle press, as usual, is enabling them in advancing the "air of legitimacy"...."weaving them into the fabric".
The Associated Press interviewed me Friday for their article yesterday titled, "As State's Gay Couples Expand, So Does Marriage Push."
Rachel Smith-Mosel, a lesbian middle school teacher in Tacoma, summed up the present euphoria in the homosexual community with New York legalizing homosexual "marriage" and homosexual couples "surging" in Washington State: "I'm impatient and I'm tired of waiting."
Senator Ed Murray is telling the press that the New York decision provides, "momentum for the rest of the nation, including Washington, to follow suit."
Murray says, "Though we have yet to realize full marriage equality...that goal seems more achievable than it was yesterday and closer to reality than ever before."
While Murray thinks homosexual "marriage" in the state may be a few years away, most homosexual activists are "tired of waiting," believing their own press releases, they are ready to make a move to re-define marriage in Washington State.
A challenge of biblical proportion is looming in regard to natural, biblical marriage.
Are you ready to stand in defense of the most basic, fundamental social unit in human history? A union between a man and a woman, ordained by God and affirmed by every successful civilization in human history and every major religion in the world.
The Bible teaches we are to "honor marriage". Honoring will likely involve defending it in the days ahead.
Will you stand with us?
Thank you.
Be Vigilant. Be discerning. Be Informed. Be Active. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
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Friday, August 05, 2011
Saturday---A Time to Pray
Tomorrow thousands will be joining Texas Governor Rick Perry in Houston for a day of prayer.
We desperately need God's help and blessing. A quick glance at actual headlines this morning confirms what most of us already know.
And that's just today's news.
America is deeply in trouble. The headlines above, the relentless assault on morality, marriage, family and the sanctity of life are all symptoms of a moral and spiritual crises.
America is turning away from God. We need a great spiritual awakening.
There has been tremendous opposition against Gov. Perry in regard to tomorrow's prayer event at Reliant Stadium in Houston. Secularist and atheist groups have used intimidation and legal action in an attempt to stop the event.
Kelly Shackelford has written an excellent article about the opposition to the prayer event and prayer's historical significance in America titled, "Protesting Prayer." Please take a moment and read it.
There will be protesters at the prayer meeting tomorrow. The press will find them and give them coverage, elevating the efforts of the protesters while seeking to diminish the impact and importance of the prayer service, likely suggesting it is somehow politically motivated.
It isn't. Christians understand that the answer to our national crises is not a political one. We need a spiritual and moral solution.
I am not personally able to attend, although invited, but I plan to be there in spirit. Will you join with me and thousands, perhaps millions of others across our nation tomorrow as we pray for our country?
I sincerely believe this could be a turning point and historical marker in our nations history.
The biblical verses chosen to define the time of prayer is from the book of Joel:
"Even now, 'declares the Lord', return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning. Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and He relents from sending calamity. Who knows? He may turn and have pity and leave a blessing..." ( Joel 2: 12, 13, 14)
"And afterward, I will pour out my spirit on all people, Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions( v. 28)..."And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (v. 32).
The Word of the Lord.
May God help us.
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We desperately need God's help and blessing. A quick glance at actual headlines this morning confirms what most of us already know.
- "Dow Rallies Then Fades"
- "58% of Work-age Americans Have Jobs--Lowest Since July 1983"
- "Food Stamp Use Rises To Record 45.8 million"
- "Market Panic Spreads Across The Globe"
- NYT--"Time To Say It---'double dip'"
- "Average Income Drops $3,500 From 2008"
- "Rolling Toward Total Collapse"
And that's just today's news.
America is deeply in trouble. The headlines above, the relentless assault on morality, marriage, family and the sanctity of life are all symptoms of a moral and spiritual crises.
America is turning away from God. We need a great spiritual awakening.
There has been tremendous opposition against Gov. Perry in regard to tomorrow's prayer event at Reliant Stadium in Houston. Secularist and atheist groups have used intimidation and legal action in an attempt to stop the event.
Kelly Shackelford has written an excellent article about the opposition to the prayer event and prayer's historical significance in America titled, "Protesting Prayer." Please take a moment and read it.
There will be protesters at the prayer meeting tomorrow. The press will find them and give them coverage, elevating the efforts of the protesters while seeking to diminish the impact and importance of the prayer service, likely suggesting it is somehow politically motivated.
It isn't. Christians understand that the answer to our national crises is not a political one. We need a spiritual and moral solution.
I am not personally able to attend, although invited, but I plan to be there in spirit. Will you join with me and thousands, perhaps millions of others across our nation tomorrow as we pray for our country?
I sincerely believe this could be a turning point and historical marker in our nations history.
The biblical verses chosen to define the time of prayer is from the book of Joel:
"Even now, 'declares the Lord', return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning. Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and He relents from sending calamity. Who knows? He may turn and have pity and leave a blessing..." ( Joel 2: 12, 13, 14)
"And afterward, I will pour out my spirit on all people, Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions( v. 28)..."And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved" (v. 32).
The Word of the Lord.
May God help us.
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Tuesday, August 02, 2011
Does McKenna Support Legalizing Marijuana?
I honestly don't know.
However, there are some who are suggesting he has given Initiative 502- an initiative to legalize and regulate marijuana in the state of Washington, a real boost.
Dominic Holden with Seattle's homosexual newspaper, The Stranger, and an apparent supporter of the initiative, says the Attorney General's office did such a good job writing the title and summary of the initiative for the ballot that it actually pitches the initiative in a way "that a campaign would pay a million dollars for."
He says the A/G's work "could buy this thing [Initiative 502] a few points when it goes before voters in 2012."
I am quite certain Mr. McKenna is pro-choice. I am uncertain as to where he really stands on marriage.
Now this. I'm wondering where he stands on the issue. Surely he does not support the legalization of marijuana?
I recall Larry Stickney, Steven Pigeon, myself and others who led the Referendum 71 campaign did not get any million dollar endorsement titles or summaries and in fact, the Attorney General is still committed to releasing the names of those who signed the petitions to homosexual activists who are still demanding them.
Another court trial is scheduled for late September. All petition signer names continue to remain sealed.
Ironically, Dominic Holden harvested names of donors to Protect Marriage Washington from the PDC reports and called them, attempting to have "a conversation."
If you actually know the A/G's position on marijuana, please let me know.
Be Vigilant. Be Informed. Be Discerning. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
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However, there are some who are suggesting he has given Initiative 502- an initiative to legalize and regulate marijuana in the state of Washington, a real boost.
Dominic Holden with Seattle's homosexual newspaper, The Stranger, and an apparent supporter of the initiative, says the Attorney General's office did such a good job writing the title and summary of the initiative for the ballot that it actually pitches the initiative in a way "that a campaign would pay a million dollars for."
He says the A/G's work "could buy this thing [Initiative 502] a few points when it goes before voters in 2012."
I am quite certain Mr. McKenna is pro-choice. I am uncertain as to where he really stands on marriage.
Now this. I'm wondering where he stands on the issue. Surely he does not support the legalization of marijuana?
I recall Larry Stickney, Steven Pigeon, myself and others who led the Referendum 71 campaign did not get any million dollar endorsement titles or summaries and in fact, the Attorney General is still committed to releasing the names of those who signed the petitions to homosexual activists who are still demanding them.
Another court trial is scheduled for late September. All petition signer names continue to remain sealed.
Ironically, Dominic Holden harvested names of donors to Protect Marriage Washington from the PDC reports and called them, attempting to have "a conversation."
If you actually know the A/G's position on marijuana, please let me know.
Be Vigilant. Be Informed. Be Discerning. Be Prayerful. Be Blessed.
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Monday, August 01, 2011
The Road to Compromise
News alerts were sent out last night announcing that, "Parties have agreed to a debt ceiling deal pending votes in Congress."
President Obama said it took "far too long" but thanked Congressional leaders for "finding their way toward compromise."
On the road to "compromise" we learned a couple of things like: "Compromise without a solution is a waste of time,"--Senator Marco Rubio, R-Florida.
We also learned that "compromise " is one of the exalted virtues of government and only image and perception are more exalted by this president.
I've noticed two things over the last few days. How the President has twisted the words of Lincoln and the President's continuing search for his identity.
First. Twisting Lincoln.
Just a week ago at the University of Maryland, the President, who has compared himself to Lincoln, FDR and Reagan, among others, cited Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation as an example of the kind of compromise that he has to make on the debt crises.
His words: "The Great Emancipator was making a compromise in the Emancipation Proclamation because he thought it was necessary in terms of advancing the goals of preserving the Union and winning the war."
President Obama continued: "So you know what? If Abraham Lincoln could make some compromise as part of his governance, then surely we can make some compromises when it comes to handling our budget."
Obama has insisted that Lincoln's declaration was a compromise because it didn't address slavery in the border states allied with the North.
But he has it exactly backward. Lincoln wasn't calling for a "House Divided" to compromise and stay together. He was arguing against compromise saying America cannot continue as it is because it will become "all of one thing or all of the other."
It's newsworthy that Congress got together and compromised, but they have found no solutions. Only further delay of the inevitable.
I have not heard President Obama repeat this Lincoln quote: "You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today."
Obama wanted the debt limit to be extended beyond the next election. Boehner and the Republicans have given him that. Why?
Woodrow Wilson knew that leadership was more valuable than compromise. He said, "Leadership does not always wear the harness of compromise."
Another thing we learned on the road to compromise is that the President has an identity crises.
I once met CBS's Bob Schieffer at Channel 6 KOIN TV. I wasn't impressed then, nor am I now. Nor did I agree then or now with most of what he thinks and says. I'm certain he could care less what I think.
However, yesterday on FACE THE NATION, Schieffer gave a commentary on President Obama's difficulties in trying to pitch his image to the public that surprisingly, I must agree with.
Schieffer said, "The newspapers say there is an internal battle among the president's advisers over whether to picture him as a "central player" trying to forge a deal with Congress or a "cool, above the fray observer."
The newspapers Schieffer was referring to was the Washington Post.
"Here's a free tip to the President's aids," Schieffer said, "How people regard the president will depend on how this crises comes out...the best PR can't trump bad policy."
Canonizing "compromise" as the greatest virtue is a cover for lack of leadership, elevating it to the highest virtue is the equivalent of an Illinois Senator voting "present" to avoid taking responsibility.
Martin Luther King, Jr. said, "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where stands at times of challenge and controversy."
While that is true, how can we measure a man who is all things and nothing simultaneously? And, unfortunately, how can we measure a Congress that also seems to be all things and nothing simultaneously?
As this "deal" plays out to avoid the August 2 so-called financial meltdown and the "pending votes" are taken, we will likely learn more about the people we have elected to represent us.
Be Discerning. Be Vigilant. Be Prayerful. Be Active. Be Blessed.
::Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
President Obama said it took "far too long" but thanked Congressional leaders for "finding their way toward compromise."
On the road to "compromise" we learned a couple of things like: "Compromise without a solution is a waste of time,"--Senator Marco Rubio, R-Florida.
We also learned that "compromise " is one of the exalted virtues of government and only image and perception are more exalted by this president.
I've noticed two things over the last few days. How the President has twisted the words of Lincoln and the President's continuing search for his identity.
First. Twisting Lincoln.
Just a week ago at the University of Maryland, the President, who has compared himself to Lincoln, FDR and Reagan, among others, cited Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation as an example of the kind of compromise that he has to make on the debt crises.
His words: "The Great Emancipator was making a compromise in the Emancipation Proclamation because he thought it was necessary in terms of advancing the goals of preserving the Union and winning the war."
President Obama continued: "So you know what? If Abraham Lincoln could make some compromise as part of his governance, then surely we can make some compromises when it comes to handling our budget."
Obama has insisted that Lincoln's declaration was a compromise because it didn't address slavery in the border states allied with the North.
But he has it exactly backward. Lincoln wasn't calling for a "House Divided" to compromise and stay together. He was arguing against compromise saying America cannot continue as it is because it will become "all of one thing or all of the other."
It's newsworthy that Congress got together and compromised, but they have found no solutions. Only further delay of the inevitable.
I have not heard President Obama repeat this Lincoln quote: "You cannot escape the responsibility of tomorrow by evading it today."
Obama wanted the debt limit to be extended beyond the next election. Boehner and the Republicans have given him that. Why?
Woodrow Wilson knew that leadership was more valuable than compromise. He said, "Leadership does not always wear the harness of compromise."
Another thing we learned on the road to compromise is that the President has an identity crises.
I once met CBS's Bob Schieffer at Channel 6 KOIN TV. I wasn't impressed then, nor am I now. Nor did I agree then or now with most of what he thinks and says. I'm certain he could care less what I think.
However, yesterday on FACE THE NATION, Schieffer gave a commentary on President Obama's difficulties in trying to pitch his image to the public that surprisingly, I must agree with.
Schieffer said, "The newspapers say there is an internal battle among the president's advisers over whether to picture him as a "central player" trying to forge a deal with Congress or a "cool, above the fray observer."
The newspapers Schieffer was referring to was the Washington Post.
"Here's a free tip to the President's aids," Schieffer said, "How people regard the president will depend on how this crises comes out...the best PR can't trump bad policy."
Canonizing "compromise" as the greatest virtue is a cover for lack of leadership, elevating it to the highest virtue is the equivalent of an Illinois Senator voting "present" to avoid taking responsibility.
Martin Luther King, Jr. said, "The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort, but where stands at times of challenge and controversy."
While that is true, how can we measure a man who is all things and nothing simultaneously? And, unfortunately, how can we measure a Congress that also seems to be all things and nothing simultaneously?
As this "deal" plays out to avoid the August 2 so-called financial meltdown and the "pending votes" are taken, we will likely learn more about the people we have elected to represent us.
Be Discerning. Be Vigilant. Be Prayerful. Be Active. Be Blessed.
::Click here to add these blogs to your email inbox.
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