I've been thinking about peace as it relates to Christmas and life. Isaiah 9:6 lists names for Jesus Christ: Wonderful Counselor, Everlasting Father, Mighty God, and Prince of Peace. In Matthew 10:34, Jesus says, "Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. " But Luke 2:14 says, "Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests." The Greek word for peace in this verse is derived from a root word meaning "to bind together." Jesus came to earth as God in the form of a baby to bind us back together with the Father. Sin separates humanity from the one and only holy, living God, and Jesus came to bridge the gap between God and us. The Bible also says that He is our peace, which is one of the fruits of the Holy Spirit.

What else does the Word say? "I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world." [John 16:33] Does this mean that the only way we can have true peace this side of eternity is through Jesus Christ? Yes. We can try to make peace, fight for or work for peace but how much is really in our control? On my way to work today, I was listening to the Christmas music station in our area. An old church song that I've heard at a few funerals, 'Let there be Peace on Earth' came on and I listened closely to the lyrics in a way I had not done before. It's a beautiful song and the idea of peace on earth is commendable. I thought about a few things in the song regarding what is real, what is practical, and what is Biblical.

First, the song says, "Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me". It is my understanding that we will never have complete peace because we simply were not meant for this planet. In addition, with wars, terrorism, dictators and tyrants, culture battles, political divides, and even denominational disagreements, how does one attempt to establish peace? I understand the premise that we are to be a catalyst for peace in the way we live and treat others but I submit to you that it may just be a bit naïve. We live in a fallen world that the Bible says is under the influence of the evil one, the devil. In a few verses, he is even called the "ruler of this world". Satan is our mortal enemy and will always be at war with believers, and especially with Christians. Achieving peace in this world is impossible for this reason alone. John 14:27 says, 'Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.'

The song also says, "With God as our Father, brothers all are we. Let me walk with my brother in perfect harmony." Have you ever thought about these words? In our culture of political correctness and tolerance at all costs, they sound wonderful and hopeful at a glance. Yet if we consider what the Bible teaches, we will recognize that since not everyone on earth will be saved then not everyone can be a child of God. All people are created by God but all people are not children of God. We are called to love one another but we cannot be brothers in Christ with unbelievers. Through faith, those who accept Jesus have been 'grafted in' with God's chosen people. I do want to emphasize that it is His will for everyone to come to know Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and there's no better time than Christmas to seek, accept, and put your faith in Him. It is by grace that we are saved.

God wants all people to know the good news of Christ but the Bible also says that some will hate and distort the truth and if possible, lead others astray. God promises to keep you and I in perfect peace if we trust Him and if our minds are kept on Him. [Isaiah 26:3] This can be tough at times so let's strive to do it this Christmas season. It will help put everything else in perspective because true peace begins and ends with Jesus Christ. Revelation 1:8, "I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty."

Jesus told us to be "salt" and "light," and He didn't say be salt and light in everything but politics. Christians are to be salt and light in everything they do, be it in their church, in their business, in their school, or in their government… If you think "preaching the Gospel" is important like I do, then you ought to think that politics is important too. Why? Because politics and law affects your ability to preach the Gospel! – Frank Turek/Townhall

I'm concerned about our country and am thankful for the awakening of conservatives and values voters who believe in our founding principles and who helped cause the political tidal wave that capsized the USS Liberal Agenda. I prayed, I tried to inform friends, and encouraged them to vote. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the election results late Tuesday night which flowed in minute by minute making it obvious that Americans are fed up with the liberal policies of the Obama administration. It was one Republican victory after another. But has too much damage been done and did the American people really win? I think it depends on how we define winning. As a conservative Christian, when people put their trust in Jesus Christ, when lukewarm believers turn back to Him, when we impact the political process, and when Christians have greater influence in our culture for godliness, we all win. While the House and Senate results are grabbing headlines, one amazing change is in state legislatures where Republicans wiped the floor with Democrats and picked up 680 seats around the country. This is not a typo.

According to the American Family Association, one of the most stunning results from Tuesday's election was the unseating of no less than three Supreme Court justices in Iowa who imposed same-sex marriage there. [In 2009, Iowa's Supreme Court overrode state law and the will of the people by ordering Iowa to recognize homosexual marriage.] Americans sent a loud message to Obama and Congress on Tuesday that they were going in the wrong direction. So what's next? The Republican takeover of the U.S. House of Representatives was only surprising in the magnitude of the sweep. The GOP not only won the majority but will gain around 65 seats. Republicans also picked up at least 10 governorships from Democrat control: Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, New Mexico, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Wisconsin and Wyoming. This is historic and will help us hold both the government and the media accountable. More Americans are involved in the political process than ever before and we made our will known by voting. "Now that the GOP controls the House, the two-year era of the liberal, tax-and-spend policies by Obama and his cohorts in Congress—Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid—is kaput." – Emily Miller/Human Events

But even though there were conservatives and Republicans elected all over America, which is FAR better than liberal Democrats being in power, one big issue was missing from the campaign ads and speeches: Life. It's been said that Americans vote with their wallets. The economy, jobs, and taxes trump all other issues in an election. Think about this fact in light of a headline I was thrilled to see today from Americans United for Life; UNTOLD ELECTION STORY: GOVERNOR, STATE LEGISLATIVE TURNOVER TO CREATE RENEWED PRO-LIFE MOMENTUM IN STATE CAPITALS. Jeremiah 1:4-5 says, The word of the LORD came to me, saying, "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

Q90 FM radio General Manager Mike Le May wrote, "…abortion is the bell weather for judging our society's righteousness. What does it say of a people, regardless of their wealth, when we allow more than one million unborn babies to be murdered every year in the name of 'choice'?" Before he was elected, most people, (Christians are part of this group), knew that Obama was the most pro-abortion Senator in history, yet voting for him in 2008 meant the killing of countless innocent lives in the womb by providing our tax dollars to Planned Parenthood. This is one of our battles; fighting the funding of murder through our tax dollars. This week's elections won't effect that until new legislation is passed.

Leading up to the 2008 election, the war in Iraq and the media's unrelenting negative war coverage (including spin and lies) along with a weakening economy, led to more support for Democrats. Again, abortion was not a big deal to much of the voting public. I don't understand why the life of a baby isn't top priority to more Christians. The only time it was brought up in a debate with John Mc Cain, Obama never answered the question. So in 2010, according to the Washington Times, "Democrats had a popular, charismatic president in the White House and the largest congressional governing majority in a generation. They mistakenly presumed to have a mandate to unleash a tidal wave of far-left changes on an unsuspecting public. The result has been monstrous debt, relentless regulation, mounting taxation and the general sense that the party in power was seeking every means at its disposal to reduce American freedoms and destroy the American dream." Agreed, but shouldn't we also consider the casualties of abortion who never had a shot at the American dream?

Many have speculated that President Obama will now relent on his agenda, make an effort to work with Republicans and actually listen to the American people. I disagree because I'm not sure his world view will allow him to compromise. He will never be a pro-life president and he has made far too many promises to liberal Democrats who helped get him elected. I remember in a meeting on health care with Republicans, he said, "I won". That kind of 'let's push our agenda through regardless of what the people want' mentality helped cause one of the biggest voter backlashes since the 1930's. Enjoy the victory but keep the faith and keep working. The Obama/Reid machine will soon be gearing up for a run in 2012. Make sure you stay informed and aware of the liberal media spin on the news but most importantly, let's try to make a difference for Christ in our culture. On Wednesday, my friend Dave Harris said, "I think we need some real wisdom right about now. Things change in politics and we can expect they always will. But the Lord is never changing…We can win elections and celebrate but we need to win the lost. I agree with you that we need an awakening, and I think we need to remember to 'fight on our knees' as they say." Let's keep our focus on Jesus Christ and God's plan for the hearts of Americans and the souls of people.

I see it all around me, including in my own life at times. The lines between Christianity and the secular world are increasingly more blurred. There's apathy and complacency in me, in my friends, in the Church, and it seems like we've become followers – not of Christ, but of the world. Don't agree? Here are a few questions: Are Christians becoming more like the product that Hollywood and the media put out, or are Hollywood and the media being influenced by Christians? How about young people today? Take a good look at youth and the public schools. What are kids today doing, watching, and listening to? Many are texting and twittering, watching Youtube videos and R-rated movies, and listening to Lady Gaga & Lil' Wayne. And from my research, the sad truth is that there is not much of a difference between a Christian family and a family who doesn't attend a church or is not religious. Not surprisingly, the abortion rate among teen girls and the divorce rate among adults is not that different from the world when you compare people who attend church regularly and those who do not. Are we following the world or leading people to Christ?

We need to be set apart and stand out as examples of what is good and pure and holy, don't we? But many times, Christians end up blending in and going along with the crowd. (Let's not judge or ruffle any feathers) More Questions to ask ourselves: Am I being a true witness for Christ? Am I influencing people around me in a positive, moral way? Is God using me to be salt in my community and shine in the darkness of our secular progressive culture? Who am I and how do I act when nobody is watching? I confess that I'm not always proud of my responses to these and other analytical questions. In the Sermon on the Mount when Jesus said, "You are the salt of the earth . . . " His listeners would have immediately understood what He was saying: "You are a preserving factor in the culture today." I can't say I'm doing a good job when there are TV shows or movies I sometimes watch that I wouldn't view with my Pastor.

But I find a bigger problem in what American pop culture has become, and how much it influences both adults and youth today. Instead of speaking up against the perverted, profane influences, we silently accept them. The Bible warns against idolatry all over the place but what's one of the highest rated shows? American Idol. Our nation is supposed to be a standard in the world for marriage and integrity but what's a current, popular trashy show? Desperate Housewives. According to new research just last month, guess how many gay, lesbian, and bisexual characters are now on during prime time television? Fifty-eight. Yup, 58! If a foreigner came to America for the first time and watched a few of these current shows, (not to mention the show with "good" vampires), would he or she describe America as a Christian nation? Again, are we reflecting our culture or Christ?

Here's something else to think about; is so-called 'Reality TV' an accurate description of reality in America? Are you kidding me? I'll tell you what TRUE reality television would be like. In my opinion, reality TV would wake people up and the result of watching it would be that people would turn to Jesus Christ as their only true hope! How about bringing a camera into a few hospital rooms of Cancer patients when they're told they only have a short time to live. Watch their family and friends react. Put a camera in a Pastors office while he counsels a couple that are considering divorce. Grab some popcorn and watch a young girl who just found out she's pregnant, and see what she decides to do. Can she talk to anyone about it? Follow an amputee or a handicapped person when he or she applies for a job. Record conversations in a children's hospital and see if you can watch without a lump in your throat. Take a camera to a bar and follow a few drunk patrons as they leave, if you can stay behind their vehicle safely, and see what happens. Follow a police officer or a firefighter…oh, wait- they're already doing that. Set up a camera in a funeral home and see what real grief looks like. Many of us have seen it too many times already. Those are not actors on television or folks out to make money or get attention, because it IS real.

Romans 12:2 says, "Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is -- his good, pleasing, and perfect will." What are we doing to transform our minds? How much of the Bible are we reading or how much do we have memorized? Out of the abundance of our hearts, our mouths speak. Are we quiet closet Christians or soldiers of the cross of Christ who recognize the spiritual battle that we're smack in the middle of today? Let's pray for an awakening in the Church and be catalysts for a new hunger for God's word. If we weren't able to influence others and lead them to Christ, God would have told us to hide until Jesus returns, or to play it safe because these may be the last days. I'm praying that we have a wake-up call, and I hope it won't take a tragedy to get through to some of us. I admit that my walk with the Lord could be better and I don't want to take anything for granted. It's time again to look at our lives truthfully and ask ourselves if we are conforming to the world or being transformed and renewed by Christ so that we can impact the world for Him.

WARNING: The author of this article has determined that ignoring the following information may be hazardous to your spiritual health, and that choosing to do nothing with this knowledge may grieve the Holy Spirit and cause regret; but taking action may strengthen your faith. "Dear friends, although I was very eager to write to you about the salvation we share, I felt I had to write and urge you to contend for the faith that was once for all entrusted to the saints. For certain men whose condemnation was written about long ago have secretly slipped in among you. They are godless men, who change the grace of our God into a license for immorality and deny Jesus Christ our only Sovereign and Lord." (Jude 1:3-4)

The emerging church is a movement of the late 20th and early 21st century that crosses a number of theological boundaries: participants can be described as evangelical, post-evangelical, liberal or post-liberal, reformed, neo-charismatic, and post-charismatic. They seek to live their faith in what they believe to be a"Post modern" society. It is a rapidly growing network of individual believers and churches who would prefer to be understood as a conversation or a friendship rather than an organization. What those involved mostly agree on is their disdain and disillusionment with the organized and institutional church. The emergent church favors the use of simple story and narrative. Members of the movement often place a high value on good works or social activism. The hallmark of the emergent church is the new age aspect including the practice of contemplative monastic meditation and prayers. While some emphasize eternal salvation, many in the emerging church emphasize the here and now. Much of its doctrine rejects systematic Christian theology, the integrity of Scripture, and gospel exclusivity. They don't believe Christianity is the true religion and they promote homosexuality. They call for diversity, tolerance and camaraderie among all religions, and they modify and expand their teachings. It is a war against the truth.  

At an emergent church workshop in San Diego, Tony Jones said, "This is about our belief that theology changes. The message of the gospel changes. It's not just the method that changes." What? I submit to you that Jesus never changed his message to fit the times. Books, sermons and articles have been and will be written about the emergent church, and I've come to realize that too many believers are at times uninterested, uninformed, or just plain apathetic about the Bible and understanding the times we live in. There's plenty of information out there if you're interested in doing the research. You may know their names. They are best-selling authors in Christian stores, speakers at our Music festivals, and well-known leaders in Christian circles. Please read the following quotes from emergent church leaders with these verses in mind: 1Timothy 4:1, "The Spirit clearly says that in later times some will abandon the faith and follow deceiving spirits and things taught by demons." And Acts 20:30, "Even from your own number men will arise and distort the truth in order to draw away disciples after them."

Tony Campolo has stated the following: "Going to heaven is like going to Philadelphia... There are many ways...It doesn't make any difference how we go there. We all end up in the same place."1a "On the other hand, we are hard-pressed to find any biblical basis for condemning deep love commitments between homosexual Christians as long as those commitments are not expressed in sexual intercourse."1b  "But the overwhelming population of the gay community that love Jesus, that go to church, that are deeply committed in spiritual things, try to change and can't change..."1c   "...we want to see God at work converting society, converting the systems, so that there aren't the racist overtones, the economic injustices, the polluting of the atmosphere."1d "I learn about Jesus from other religions. They speak to me about Christ, as well."1e "I'm not convinced that Jesus only lives in Christians."1f

 -Brian McLaren: "I don't believe making disciples must equal making adherents to the Christian religion. It may be advisable in many (not all!) circumstances to help people become followers of Jesus and remain within their Buddhist, Hindu or Jewish contexts..."2a "Yes, I find a character named God who sends a flood that destroys all humanity except Noah's family, but that's almost trivial compared to a deity who tortures the greater part of humanity forever in infinite eternal conscious torment, three words that need to be read slowly and thoughtfully to feel their full import."2b "For many Christians, their faith is primarily about what happens to people after they die. That distracts them from seeking justice and living in a compassionate way while we're still alive in this life. We need to go back and take another look at Jesus' teachings about hell. For so many people, the conventional teaching about hell makes God seem vicious. That's not something we should let stand."2c "In this light, a god who mandates an intentional supernatural disaster leading to unparalleled genocide is hardly worthy of belief, much less worship. How can you ask your children...to honor a deity so uncreative, over reactive, and utterly capricious regarding life?"2d

-Jim Wallis: "I don't think that abortion is the moral equivalent issue to slavery...I think poverty is the new slavery. Poverty and global inequality are the fundamental moral issues of our time. That's my judgment."3a "Christianity will be impotent to lead a conversation on sexuality and gender if we do not bodily integrate our current understandings of humanity with our theology. This will require us to not only draw new conclusions about sexuality but will force us to consider new ways of being sexual."3b "As more Christians become influenced by liberation theology, finding themselves increasingly rejecting the values of institutions of capitalism, they will also be drawn to the Marxist analysis and praxis that is so central to the social justice movement."3c -Rob Bell: "What if tomorrow someone digs up definitive proof that Jesus had a real, earthly, biological father named Larry, and archeologists find Larry's tomb and do DNA samples and prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that the virgin birth was just a bit of mythologizing the Gospel writers threw in to appeal to the followers of the Mithra and Dionysian religious cults that were hugely popular at the time of Jesus, whose gods had virgin births? ...Could you still be a Christian? Is the way of Jesus still the best possible way to live?"4a *This writer is concerned that Rob had his bell rung one too many times.

-Tony Jones: "In any case, I now believe that GLBTQ [Gay Lesbian Bisexual Transgender Queer] can live lives in accord with Biblical Christianity (at least as much as any of us can!) and that their monogamy can and should be sanctioned and blessed by church and state."5a "Some people today may find it compelling that some Great Cosmic Transaction took place on that day 1,980 years ago, that God's wrath burned against his son instead of me. I find that version of atonement theory neither intellectually compelling, spiritually compelling, nor in keeping with the biblical narrative."5c -Shane Claiborne: Quotes from his book, Irresistible Revolution:  "There are extremists, both Muslim and Christian, who kill in the name of their gods."6a  "So for those of us who have nearly given up the church, may we take comfort in the words of St. Augustine: 'The Church is a whore, but she's my mother.' She is a mess and has many illegitimate children. But she is also our momma...."6c

How did we get to the point where some, if not all, of these teachings have blended in with truth and sound doctrine, and are accepted by many churches and ministries? Make no mistake. I'd need to write an entire book to completely answer that question. False teachers have been around since the early church days. The major issue with the emergent church is that it rejects the authority of the word of God. These teachings were not accepted by evangelical Christians overnight. This is 2010. We can trace some roots of the emergent church to the late 80's and 90's, when people began talking about how to modernize and re-create church to be more attractive to the unchurched. But going back to the hippy flower-power days of the 1960's, the new fad was all about peace, love, free sex, and rebelling against authority. Absolute truth and Biblical standards were questioned and labeled as too rigid, leading some to moral relativism. Moral Relativism is an ethical judgment. It is the claim that no ethical system is better than another, and rests on the belief that values are subjective.

Some churches responded to the 60's rebellion by trying to convert as many as possible and accepted them as they were. 'Come as you are' was the new slogan. Jesus does meet people right where they are but there's an important distinction; He loves people too much to leave them that way, and unlike the emergent church, His message never changes! He is the same yesterday, today, and forever. (Heb. 13:8) Many churches began watering down the true gospel in an effort to lure potential new members. Though their main goal was to get people saved, some Pastors and church leaders simply wanted to increase their market share, so to speak. In an effort not to offend, (Most sinners don't like to hear about sin) the seeker-friendly or seeker-sensitive movement began to grow and a skim milk diet replaced the meat of God's word. More young people began attending church but there was little follow-up or discipleship training, and lots of baby Christians went back out in the world with little conviction to change.

The 1970's brought us the development of the Christian music industry. Most of the industry pioneers were authentic, God-fearing, and ministry-minded but I wonder if they would approve of Christian music as a whole today. In some cases, bands are more into the entertainment aspect than building up the body of Christ. Biblical truth was becoming irrelevant to young Christians and grace was way over-emphasized. One might argue that we shouldn't judge others because it is divisive. In Luke 12:51, Jesus said that he did not come to bring peace but division. He never backed down when it came to facing hypocritical religious leaders. If you're a mature Christian, you too need to be careful. The Apostle Paul writes, "You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you. A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough." (Gal. 5:7-9) Many churches in America now have beautiful buildings, coffee shops, bookstores, great music and sound systems, state of the art lighting, and good drama or video presentations, but they seem to put more of an emphasis on entertaining the flock than on feeding them God's word. Well, at least the young people are happy.

The 80's rolled around and a few years after I gave my life to Christ, I heard Tony Campolo speak in California. I remember laughing a lot because he's a great entertainer. He knows how to reach both young and old. His presentation has never been a concern; his theology definitely is. To fully understand the background and motives of some of the emergent church guru's, you'd need to know more about Liberation theology, Marxism, Saul Alinsky, Sojourners Magazine, George Soros, Red Letter Christians, Collective salvation, and the Students for a Democratic Society. Most young people like to take action for a cause, and some of these works-based teachings call for organizing, social or environmental action. This is a clever way to lure those who are not as mature in the faith.

In 1995 Jim Wallis founded 'Call to Renewal' for the purposes of advocating for leftist economic agendas such as tax hikes and wealth redistribution to promote social justice. He himself stated, "That's what the gospel is all about." In 2005, Democratic Senators met with Wallis to devise clever ways to use religious language to pull evangelical voters away from Republicans. According to TraditionalValues.org, Wallis was hired to fool Americans into believing secular liberals had found "religion" in part by sprinkling references to God and faith into their speeches. Just this year, Wallis has criticized America's heritage, capitalism, conservative Christians, and jumped on the race card express saying, "would there even be a Tea Party if the president of the United States weren't the first black man to occupy that office?"

The social justice message is an apostasy. Apostasy means a departure from the faith or, one who denies the fundamental doctrines concerning the person and work of Jesus Christ. We can no longer deny the fact that humanism, liberalism and the secular-progressive movement are alive and well in the Church, just as it has been for years in government, education, media, and the entertainment industry. Last month, Jim Wallis brought his social justice message to a Christian festival in Wisconsin called Lifest. Because there were many great bands and speakers there, I've heard a few people try to make an argument in favor of Wallis, with the over-used analogy, "don't throw out the baby with the bath water". So, if only a few people hear a false gospel, that's ok? Let's just agree to disagree. Sorry, that method may be fine when dealing with petty arguments between friends or family. But when it comes to false doctrines or false teachings, we can't simply just look the other way. I heard the story of a woman who told her daughters that they no longer could attend because of Wallis. Weeks before Lifest, she and her husband wanted their young daughters to remember the dangers of false teachers, so they made brownies together. After all of the ingredients were added, she told them there was one more ingredient to add. The girls were shocked when their Mom added a small piece of dog poop to the batter! She told them not to worry and that they might not even taste it. Admittedly, this was a disgustingly effective lesson I bet they'll never forget! Jesus warned His disciples to avoid the teachings (yeast) of the Pharisees but He didn't have an oven handy for visual effects.

According to Time Magazine, (so take this with a grain of salt), Brian McLaren is one of the 25 most influential people in the evangelical church. This makes me believe our culture is confused about what 'evangelical' means. It is a serious issue because His teaching seems to reject the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and the work on the cross, and dilutes what the Bible says about Heaven and eternal life. McLaren is changing Biblical doctrine to fit his own 'We are the World' type of theology, which stomps out the reality of Hell and the fact that Jesus became our substitute on the cross in order to redeem us. He doubts the reliability of the Bible and I'm confused as to why he is not more of a red flag to Christians. Please read for yourself what the Apostle Paul wrote in Galatians 1:8 about those who preach another Gospel.

Many of today's youth have been raised in a culture (and sadly in some churches) where feelings and sensitivity matter but sound doctrine and the truth of God's word aren't a priority. This invites the justification of sinful behaviors and tolerance for sin. Our culture has redefined the word 'tolerance' to mean love, unconditional grace, warm fuzzies, and the acceptance of not only the sinner but the sin as well. When the Holy Spirit isn't invited, by the preaching of Scripture, to come in and work in our hearts there can be no conviction. Without conviction and revelation of sin there can be no repentance leading to forgiveness. We shouldn't be surprised that many young Christians have their spiritual foundations built on the sand. The Lord Jesus Christ said something very serious about those who cause little ones to stumble. He said in Luke 17:2 that it would be better that a millstone would be tied around the neck of the one who caused them to sin. These guys have no business teaching Christian theology and it's amazing that so many 'believing' consumers buy into their feel-good, motivational doctrine. Their gospel is one of a social worker putting their faith in man and government.

Dr. Walter Martin, founder of the Christian Research Institute sternly warned about liberal theology and the emergent church saying, "It is a cult because it follows every outlined structure of cultism; its own revelations; its own gurus, and its denial—systematically—of all sound systematic Christian theology. It is a cult because it passes its leadership on to the next group that takes over—either modifying, expanding or contracting—the same heresies; dressing them up in different language, and passing them on...it denies the authority of Scripture, it ruins its own theology. And it ends in immorality; because the only way you could have gotten to this homosexual, morally relativistic, garbage—which is today in our denominational structures—is if the leadership of those denominations denied the authority of the Scriptures and Jesus Christ as Lord...Test all things; make sure of what is true [see—1 Thessalonians 5:21]. I'm not being harsh; I'm not being judgmental. I am being thoroughly, consistently, Christian; in the light of historic theology, and the holy Bible."

So what should we do? Not enough Christians know the dangers and the extent of the emergent church movement and their radical teachings. We need to promote awareness of these deceptions and it starts by talking to others, including our Pastors. You have a choice to make and I encourage you to get out of your comfort zone and take a stand for Christ. See if you remember this exchange from the Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers; Theoden: "I will not risk open war." Aragon: "Open war is upon you whether you would risk it or not." The spiritual battle rages all around us and the enemy is on our doorstep. Satan has been at work at a church near you spreading his deceptions. The good news is that we are on to his schemes. Mature believers know that the emergent church teachings are contrary to the gospel of Christ. They have suited up in the full armor of God and have prayed for discernment. Rev. 3:11 says, "Behold, I am coming quickly! Hold fast what you have, that no one may take your crown." We must dig deeper in the Word of God than ever before and know it so well that if we hear a counterfeit message we'll recognize it immediately! Remember, light dispels the darkness so share the truth, stand your ground, and shine your light!

References: 1a- CarpeDiem: Seize the Day, 1994 page 85; 1b- "20 Hot Potatoes Christians Are Afraid To Touch" page 117; 1c- Beliefnet.com/faith/Christianity 08/2004; 1d, 1e- MSNBC 2008 interview; 1f- Charlie Rose show 1/24/97.  2a-A Generous Orthodoxy, page 260; 2b-A New Kind of Christianity, 98; 2c-site no longer available; 2d-A New Kind of Christianity,109; 3a,3b-ChristianityToday.com 5/9/2008; 3c-Worldview Weekend.com 8/3/2010 #1597; 4a- Velvet Elvis pp. 26-27; 5a-Beliefnet.com 11/19/08 blog; 5b-A New Theology for a New World, 2004 workshop; 5c- Beliefnet.com 'Why Jesus Died' 4/09

Ecclesiastes 7:1-2, A good name is better than fine perfume, and the day of death better than the day of birth. It is better to go to a house of mourning than to go to a house of feasting, for death is the destiny of every man; the living should take this to heart.

Today, in a hospital room in Green Bay there was family; there were friends, there was anticipation, there was anxiety, there were tears, and there was…worship. Wait a minute. There was worship going on in a hospital room? Yes, there was worship. It was time. A saved, sanctified child of God was awaiting the call to his eternal home. The Cancer recently returned and Steve had taken a turn for the worse last week. His family struggling at times to let him go yet knowing it was best for him, I was blessed to be able to share some Scriptures and my wife, Rosanna led worship. Steve’s family had asked Rosanna to bring her guitar in and sing. And sing we did. Rich Mullins once told a friend whose Christian Grandmother had just died, 'Good for her!". That's not the reaction you'd typically expect. There are way too many families, including my own, who can relate to grappling with mortality. Jesus, speaking in John 16:33 said, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

It was good to have family gathered around Steve’s bedside as he drifted in and out of sleep, his weakened body processing the medication the best it could. Years ago, I missed my chance to say good-bye to my own Dad when he suddenly went back into the hospital. After two commercial flights across the country and one private plane flight trying to get home, I missed him by about 90 minutes. It wasn’t meant to be. My heart is still heavy from this morning as I write this. I was told that when Steve woke up this morning, he said he was disappointed he was still here. Now there’s a man with eternity in his heart and a longing for home! ‘He has made everything beautiful in its time. He has also set eternity in the hearts of men; yet they cannot fathom what God has done from beginning to end.’ (Eccl. 3:11)

It’s always a perspective check when someone we know dies. It tests our faith and deepens our dependence on the Lord. Yes, we can be sad because we still have to remain here on earth, knowing that those who put their faith in Jesus Christ go on before us. This hope is an anchor to our soul, and we have the Holy Spirit in our hearts, a deposit that guarantees what is to come. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Cor. 15:57) I’ll most remember three of the songs we sang together in the hospital room; Rosanna’s song, ‘Dancing With My Savior’, the great hymn, ‘I’ll Fly Away’, and a Rich Mullins song, ‘That Where I Am. There You May Also Be’. Just before his own death in 1996, Rich wrote these lyrics based on John 14: 1-3. ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.’

It’s tough at times but for those of us still here on earth with work left to do, the Bible tells us not to grieve as those who have no hope. I wish I had heard Steve say to his wife, Gail, “You’re just jealous that I get to go on ahead of you.” Many of us have family or a friend who has gone on ahead of us, not to prepare anything but to wait for an awesome heavenly reunion that will blow away all reunions. Check out Revelation 19:5-7; 'Then a voice came from the throne, saying: "Praise our God, all you his servants, you who fear him, both small and great!" Then I heard what sounded like a great multitude, like the roar of rushing waters and like loud peals of thunder, shouting: “Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns. Let us rejoice and be glad and give him glory!' I’m looking forward to that day when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord. Every knee, the believer and the unbeliever will bow. Let’s make sure we’re ready for that day, doing our best to seek Him and obey His word. Let’s take as many souls with us to heaven as we can. And let’s set our hearts and minds on things above, even if that means worshipping at the bedside of someone who gets to go on ahead of us.

1Thessalonians 4:13-18; Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. 14We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord's own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words.

**UPDATE: Steve left this morning (July 28) and is now with the Lord

I really wanted this to go away but then the Appleton, Wisconsin Post Crescent decided to print my week-old comment today, and Sojourners Jim Wallis posted a blog attacking my employer, Q90 FM. Can I tell you an insider secret? My General Manager had no idea that there was a rift between Glenn Beck and Jim Wallis a few months ago, when Lifest invited the liberal theologian to be a keynote speaker. (This will make sense to you in a minute, I promise!) Christian friends and many listeners to the radio station I work at have been asking for more details on why we disagreed with Jim Wallis speaking at Lifest. (Q90 board of directors statement here; http://www.q90fm.com/lifest2010.asp) I have a fresh, vibrant respect for my superiors because of their decision and the way they handled the entire process, which you'd never know from reading Wallis's new blog. I can't tell you how many times people have thanked my GM and the board for using discernment, sensitivity, professionalism, and class - their words - in dealing with this sad situation from the beginning. So by today, I was thinking that we wouldn't be mentioning Jim Wallis as much anymore and we'd be focusing on the beliefs and doctrines of the social justice and emergent church movements. I was wrong. He just wrote a new 'God's Politics' blog called, "Controversy in Wisconsin", attacking my boss, the integrity and ministry of Q90 FM.

If you're hearing about this for the first time, after reading his blog about the Wisconsin trip, you might think that those so-called Christians who treated Jim Wallis and Bob Lenz the way they did were pretty insensitive, hateful, and tactless. But the fact is that I work for Q90 FM and I don't know who he's talking about! Wallis just bashed my boss and board of directors but I'm not telling you what to think. Decide for yourself after reading all the facts. I'm not saying he's a bad person, he's simply wrong. His blog falsely leads people to believe that it was Q90 who circulated attacks against him, "suggesting that I was a communist, a deceiver, and...an avowed Marxist..." Wallis writes, "Does that sound anything like the language of a certain Fox News talk show host who has recently come after "social justice" Christians and me in particular? Oh no, they insisted, this had nothing to do with Glenn Beck." (Told you this would make sense) Now, if you read the official statement from Q90, you'll realize that these things were never said. Insider secret #2 is that we never once mentioned Jim Wallis on the air! I'm probably the most outspoken of our entire staff, and in my personal blog you can read my response to the Lifest speech by Jim Wallis and comments from two readers of an Appleton, Wisconsin Post Crescent article, here; (http://www.facebook.com/notes/dave-fiorazo/jim-wallis-and-the-confusing-controversy/402689322729)

Wallis suggested that Q90 started 'the firestorm' but I personally believe that it was the decision to bring Wallis to Lifest that began the whole debate. He also said we threatened to protest and that we intimidated Bob Lenz. Insider secret #3; my boss and Lenz have been good friends for years. I want to point out that though it's true that a letter was sent to churches attempting to alert Pastors about Wallis coming to Lifest, Q90 had absolutely nothing to do with that letter. Zero, nada, zilch, goose egg. We did not make anything up, issue threats, or go after Bob Lenz personally as stated in the blog. Wallis added that we (or the churches) were spreading lies, stirring up trouble, and that when he generously reached out to my boss in a phone call, he refused dialogue with Wallis. To be clear, insider secret #4 is that they had two very long phone conversations. Wallis writes, "But he refused the dialogue unless the station's demands for my cancellation were met (sounds like Glenn Beck again)." Seriously? If we have to be compared to anyone, I'm glad it's Glenn Beck and not Keith Olberman or Joy Behar. It gets better! Wallis flat out lies about Q90 and twists the actual series of events. "This was getting quite silly. But when the wild and fabricated charges they began with all fell flat in face of the facts, they were left with not much of an argument. But they stuck with it and pulled out of the festival." I think I get it; the conservative Christian radio station taking a stubborn stand for the gospel of Jesus Christ and the integrity of God's word 'fabricated charges' and failed in the end. Check please!

You might think I'm making this all this up so here's the blog link on Sojourners; (http://blog.sojo.net/2010/07/15/controversy-in-wisconsin) Please compare the tone and attitude of Jim Wallis' blog to the Q90 FM board of directors statement. I'd love to know what you think. To the uninformed, we're just a bunch of foolish Christians who are overly concerned about false doctrines, teachers, and others who could potentially lead people away from Jesus Christ through deceptive philosophies, environmental, or social agendas. This an attractive and deceptive movement in the church that is dangerous. Wallis then speaks for the majority and triumphantly concludes, "Most seemed to feel that the controversy and protest looked pretty foolish and unnecessary after the event had taken place. Many thanked Bob for standing firm against some pretty nasty attacks and pressure. But if the attackers had succeeded with intimidation to cancel a speaker they didn't agree with, there is no doubt that the tactics of distortion and intimidation would have been repeated in other places." I'll be right back, I have to go to the garage and look for a few shovels. I guess there were a few "local pastors who were very sorry about all this and expressed hope that I would still come back to Wisconsin (I assured them that I loved their state and would love to come back)." I'm relieved, and I hope there will be a fair debate next time instead of a one-sided platform.

Let me emphasize that this is NOT about Q90 FM and Lifest. So what now? Do we just forget about it and pretend it was a glitch in our Summer, or do we research the facts and dig even deeper into Biblical truths? Let's all read Ephesians 6 again and get that spiritual armor on, grab a sword and take a stand! I used to have a T-shirt that said, "Life is short. Pray hard." It's time to get to work, friends. Some Christians may think we're on a comfortable Cruise ship, but one day they'll wake up and realize we're in a Battle ship.

A reader of yesterday’s Appleton, Wisconsin, Post Crescent article on Jim Wallis said, “I listened to Mr. Wallis at Lifest - the hype was unwarranted, his talk was a boring and unmotivating presentation and had a lack of depth, with only a small smattering of polite applause.” I don’t know what hype he is referring to but the subject matter deserves attention. He may have gone back to Washington D.C. but you'll be hearing more about Sojourner’s Jim Wallis in the days to come. He serves on the White House Advisory Council on Faith-based and Neighborhood partnerships, and is a commentator on ethics and public life. The decision was made several months ago, to have him as a keynote speaker at Lifest, a Christian music festival in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Some local churches found out about it and began raising concerns but the story went national when Christian radio station Q90 FM pulled their support for the first time in 12 years when a compromise couldn't be reached after weeks of discussions with Life Promotions. Is Christian controversy that interesting or is there more to the story? From Christianity Today and the Glenn Beck radio show to regional television stations, national blogs such as CNN, the Christian Post, USA Today, APB News, and dozens of others, the story was found to be newsworthy. But why? We can agree to disagree and move on, can’t we? Acts 15:39 tells of the Apostle Paul, one of the early church founders, having such a sharp disagreement with Barnabas that they had to part company.

Most of the press has been favorable to Wallis, like the article I read Saturday in the Post Crescent newspaper. It stated, ‘Jim Wallis shared his Bible-based message of serving the poor Friday night to a large, welcoming crowd at Lifest despite a small number of boos at his introduction. “This is my brother in Christ," Lifest founder Bob Lenz told the crowd. "He has a message for God's church. Part of who I am is because of this man."’ Before I get to more of the article and the controversy, Robert in Menasha, a reader of the paper commented; “For those whose noses are bent out of shape because the liberal theologian, Jim Wallis, spoke at Lifest, I would like to point out that I, an atheist, spoke at Lifest, two years in a row. I was debating a local clergyman, the Reverend John Hartenberger, on the historical reliability of the Bible... I don’t recall anyone raising hell because of my appearance. It would appear that a certain part of the evangelical community no longer will abide differing political opinions within their fellowship concerning the application of the teachings of their divine mentor to contemporary society.”

First off, Robert is not a national public figure representing one political party, and he completely missed the point that a healthy debate is fine but a huge difference is that Wallis’ agenda, opinions, and world view were unchallenged in this presentation. No opportunity was given for a second voice to be heard from someone representing conservative Christians who had opposing views. Second, when Robert mentions differing political opinions, I assume he doesn’t mean political parties but teachings on abortion, gay marriage, ‘hate speech’, redistributive wealth/taxes, and environmental extremism such as the theory of global warming. (Oops, I mean, ‘man-caused climate change’) I don’t know about you but I don’t want to hear these subjects promoted on a Sunday morning at my church or any other Christian church service. On Wallis’ Sojourners web site, it doesn’t clearly state his stance on abortion, for one. Yes we all want to decrease the number of abortions but that doesn’t mean everyone’s against the brutal procedure. He believes that part of the answer is using our tax dollars to help fund Planned Parenthood, the largest abortion operation in the country, even if we are pro-life.

The Post Crescent article goes on to quote Jim Wallis; “What unites us? The gospel of Jesus Christ and his kingdom. Sometimes conflicts and attacking of each other push us away from Jesus. ...This is not about social action or politics.” No? Then why does he later bring up Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh? They aren’t Pastors or theologians. I’ve been a born again believer in Jesus Christ since 1981, which was the first year I read the Bible cover to cover and realized how much I didn’t know. I was offended by the following closing quote by Jim Wallis: "In America, everyone listens to information outlets they agree with," he said. "Replace the gospel of Glenn, Rush, Sean and Bill with Matthew, Mark, Luke and John." This is insulting to me and seems to imply that, a) all those who disagree with Wallis are followers of media personalities instead of Jesus Christ, and b) if you listen to talk radio or watch Fox News Channel and you’re a Christian, your religion is no longer based on the Word of God. Nice to see that Wallis is loyal to President Obama’s war on free speech and Fox News, but notice that he didn’t mention the ‘gospel’ of liberals such as John Stewart, Chris Matthews, Katie Couric, Kieth Olberman, Brian Williams, Diane Sawyer, Anderson Cooper, Oprah Winfrey, Larry King, Barbara Walters, or George Stephanopolis. These journalists, in the extreme loose definition of the word, often slant the news in favor of the Obama administration and are guilty of omitting facts that show Christians and conservatives in a positive light. (see MediaResearchCenter.org for exhaustive studies and analysis)

Wallis also said he's trying to lead by example in a country that's polarized. So, does leading by example mean criticizing conservative Christians and those who disagree with him? If he were more discerning and understanding of the Lifest controversy, he could have chosen to unite believers by talking about solutions for the Church in America to help the poor; he could have promoted right to life issues or the sanctity of marriage between a man and a woman, but the man he advises in the White House vehemently opposes both. One question that needs to be asked is, why is there such a division among Christians over Jim Wallis? Wallis admitted after his speech that he is no stranger to controversy. I don’t doubt the man’s salvation but do question his message. 2 Timothy 4:3 says, “For the time will come when men will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear.” When I asked some Pastor friends of mine from different parts of the country if they’d allow Jim Wallis to speak at their church, the response was overwhelmingly “no”. Why is this? In part, Wallis is a Liberation Theologian, which is defined as someone who uses a Christian theology incorporating political, esp. Marxist theory and seeks to liberate people, such as those of the Third World, from economic or political oppression. It’s a school of theology that somehow finds in the Gospel a calling to free people from political, social, and material oppression. Jesus, the Son of God didn’t do all this and He was on earth for 33 years.

I personally believe this focus muddies up the great commission of Christ. He came to save the lost, to give His life as a ransom for many, so that the world would know that He is God, and to reveal the Father to us, thus destroying the penalty of sin through His sacrifice on the cross.
A few recent news articles stated that decision makers at Life Promotions, though they and Jim Wallis agreed on the essential gospel message, did not agree with Wallis on all of his political views and “non-essential Biblical doctrines”. Isn’t the entire word of God essential, and shouldn’t it be read and interpreted in context? Scripture says that God exalts His Word even above His Name, and that the Word is the final authority in all things. Most of us agree that the church needs to do a better job of taking care of the poor. But does it command us to eradicate poverty completely? Jesus said that there will always be poor people among us, and I don’t see anywhere in the Bible where it says that the government should take more control or have more resources (through our taxes), or responsibility to help the poor. The Church is the mechanism that Christ established on earth to care for the poor, the orphans, and widows but if we don’t preach the gospel and lead souls to Christ, it won’t matter if they’re well fed or not come Judgment Day. Another concern is that Wallis tends to skew the true meaning of select Scripture passages to fit his social justice message and agenda. We need to be Bereans and search the Scriptures daily because we’ve been warned about those who use flowery talk to persuade less mature believers. Ephesians 4:14a says, “Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching;” The words ‘social justice’ cannot be found anywhere in Scripture.

Almost a week ago, I predicted that Mr. Wallis wouldn’t say anything overtly offensive or obviously un-Biblical at Lifest. Because of this, some may conclude we were in the wrong not to support the entire event because of one speaker. What about those younger Christians who will now come away assuming that everything Wallis believes, writes, says in the future, and stands for must be right and Biblical because he was a keynote speaker at a reputable Christian event? I’m hoping people will now do their own research if they haven’t already, and ask their Pastors and other mature believers about these issues. Unlike many who didn’t evaluate the issues of political candidates in the 2008 elections, we absolutely must do the research on influential speakers, preachers, authors, filmmakers, teachers, and politicians so we know exactly where they stand Biblically. Finally, from the Post Crescent article, “His [Wallis’] main focus, however, is speaking to young people who are not stuck in old arguments and division among the church. "Change is coming," he said. "(Youth) want to change their own lives and the church to change." So, those of us who disagree are ‘stuck in old arguments’, and it's not the secular progressives that divide the Church, but those who stand on the uncompromising and unadulterated Word of God? Why does the Church need to change to keep up with contemporary culture? Jesus Christ is the same, yesterday, today, and forever. (Heb. 13:8) Just because many twelve year-old kids are going to have sex doesn’t mean we should be progressive and hand out condoms to the entire school.

In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction. (2Timothy 4:1-2) When politicians or spiritual advisors in government preach change, they usually want less dependence on God and more dependence on government. According to writings on Sojourners web site, Wallis seems to be pushing the social justice message which promotes a form of secular humanism, focusing more on the ability of man than on the power and sovereignty of God. It’s part of a value system in which human interests come first. Some people may take sides on this debate without doing the discerning, praying, and research necessary. Our battle is not against people but is a spiritual one in which the enemy wants us to drop our shields and swords and get our focus off of the things of God. I’ve seen many postings on Facebook that are loyal to one ministry/party or another. Make your own informed decision but don’t be a follower of Paul or Apollos, Rick Warren or Jim Wallis, Q90 FM or Lifest. Follow Jesus with all your heart!

"Providence has given to our people the choice of their rulers, and it is the duty, as well as the privilege and interest of our Christian nation, to select and prefer Christians for their rulers." -Founding Father John Jay

God is not a Republican, Democrat, or Libertarian, and I don't pretend to understand the entire Bible or all of His ways. That said, I do believe that God cares about life, our spiritual condition, the unborn, the defenseless, the orphan and the widow, the elderly, injustice, poverty, and sinners of every kind. Galatians 5:22 says, "The fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self control. Against such things there is no law." In a nation that was founded on Christianity, today in our country, what used to be good, (traditional family values, for example) seems evil and what used to be evil, (perversion, promiscuity, pornography) seems good. Hollywood is eroding the moral fiber of American culture through the movie, television, and print publication industries. We're witnessing the biggest divide ever over issues like abortion, marriage, national defense, free speech, capitalism and illegal immigration.

Right before our eyes those of us who are paying attention are seeing a slide toward socialism unlike anything we could have imagined. Needless to say, there's also a movement against the Christian faith and God in America that keeps the liberal media happy and the courts busy. Due in part to lack of education and the revision of history and our Founders, we now have a corrosion of freedoms, the innocent unprotected, lawbreakers and terrorists defended, a perversion of truth and massive corruption in the national media. One media tactic is omission of facts or a story that goes against the liberal or Democratic agenda. And they have no problem mocking God and calling it free speech. These and other things not only chap my hide but make my blood boil. Psalm 69:9 says, "Zeal for Your house consumes me, and the insults of those who insult You fall on me." If you're a believer, don't you feel angry when people insult Jesus? It's almost as if they're directly insulting you and I. God is big enough that he doesn't need us to defend Him, but He sure must be grieved at the godlessness and direction of America, the country that He once shed His grace upon.

One thing I've been hearing about recently is social justice, which the dictionary defines as the distribution of advantages and disadvantages within a society. I'm not sure where that is in the Bible but two things Jesus told us about poverty is that there will always be poor people among us, and to give to the poor. Rich Mullins once said that it's not the job of government to take care of the poor, it's the responsibility of the church. Is there less poverty in our country with all the government programs paid for with our taxes? Do you trust politicians to make honest decisions with your money? Most Christians give what they can to the poor, but the socialist says, "We tax you so WE can give it to the poor." One is voluntary giving, the other through taxation is money forcefully taken from us. The Bible encourages cheerful giving and the generosity of a willing heart. The act of giving to the poor benefits the giver and the recipient. The Biblical giver does it out of love and duty. The recipient gets something handed to him by a willing giver, and that attitude does wonders for both. But the government decides our tax rates, determines who to give our money to and how much. I support limited government in most every way, national disasters such as terror attacks and oil spills, excluded. I don't support forcing any religion on people. I do support conservative Christian leaders who walk the talk and live like the Bible teaches, setting a higher standard and strengthening the freedoms and values that are being threatened by the current administration.

Again, the Bible and common sense says that you will know people by their love and the fruit their lives produce. Wouldn't it be nice to see our leaders be positive role models? Yet this is what it's come to: Right after introducing President Obama to make his "I won" victory speech on health care, Joe Biden hugged him, smiled, and said, "This is a big f---ing deal!" And who can forget naked Rham "Intimidate 'em in the shower" Immanuel calling opponents, "F---ing retarded." Classy. Obama called rap star Kanye West a jackass, Vice President Joe Biden told a senator to "Gimme a f---ing break!", and Economic adviser Christina Romer declared that Americans had yet to have their "holy sh--" moment over the economy. In closing, I'm in total agreement with the President when in 2007 he said, "I know I haven’t spent a lot of time learning the ways of Washington. But I’ve been there long enough to know that [they] must change." Really? Exchanging D.C. ways for Chicago style politics is the wrong strategy, and that's more change we can't believe in. Dissent is growing and more Americans are now aware and involved in the political process than ever before. (Even the church might be waking up.) Don't tread on us! November is coming and it's due time to go green and recycle Congress. The Bible says that the earth will be destroyed by fire in the end, but I think Jesus would be a fan of recycling.

Citizens in many parts of Arizona are afraid, so who are we to tell them how to enforce their state laws? There have been murders, break-ins, drug smuggling, and kidnappings. I heard one representative talk about people who have reported missing cattle, property vandalized, dogs killed, and cars stolen. Why are liberal Democrats and activists such as Al Not so Sharpton making a big deal about enforcing a law that the should have been enforced all along? Doesn't the word, "illegal" mean that something took place that's against the law? So if you abide by the laws of the land, you'll avoid legal problems. My friend, Tony, came to America from Mexico years ago, worked hard, saved money, went through the legal process and became a citizen. Like many of us, he wonders why we have laws that the federal government doesn't want to enforce. On my way home from work tonight, I listened to a widow who called in to a radio show angry that she's unable to get even a menial job because illegal aliens get hired instead. Ted Nugent calls those who come to the U.S. to work, live, and stay here illegally, "criminal aliens". This is one of latest battles going on in our divided country, but who is the Obama administration more interested in protecting? We may find the answer by paying attention to current events.

Depending on where you get your news, it was reported that President Obama chose not to acknowledge the National Day of Prayer last year. Some of us weren't surprised. Now this year, political correctness kicked in with our Muslim-sensitive administration. Franklin Graham was denyed the opportunity to pray at the Pentagon on the National Day of Prayer next week because he once called Islam "an evil and wicked" religion. He also wants Muslims to know that Jesus Christ died for their sins. Pretty radical, hey? Apparently the inclusiveness of the military doesn't extend to those who speak the truth about Islam. This is just another case of free speech for everyone, unless you bring up Christ. Is Graham telling the truth? Look at some facts I took the liberty to condense, courtesy of the American Family Association.

According to the command of Allah through his prophet Muhammad, devout Muslims have a sacred responsibility to "slay the idolaters wherever you find them (Sura 9:5)." Over 100 verses in the Koran call for the death of infidel Christians and Jews. We have seen the tragic fruit of this ideology both on 9/11 and at Fort Hood. Islam is not, in fact, a religion of peace but of violence, death and war. Islam encourages the marriage of girls who are but children. Muhammad himself began having sex with his youngest wife Aisha when she was just nine years old (Bukhari, Vol. 8). Just last week, a 12-year-old girl in Saudi Arabia went to court to divorce her 80-year-old husband. In the West, these are acts of pedophilia and utterly at odds with the Christian principle that the sexual purity of young females is to be protected until they are mature enough to voluntarily and freely enter into marriage. Women under the iron fist of Islam are given "horrid" treatment. In many Islamic countries, women are not allowed to receive an education or even show their faces in public. Husbands are taught in the Koran that they may literally beat their wives into submission. Plus, the practice of honor killings is widespread in the Islamic world. According to the U.N., over 5,000 women a year are brutally murdered under the flag of Islam. Doesn't this make you wonder why our own administration would make such efforts to silence Christians, yet protect others?

In response to a recent blog I wrote, a Pastor friend of mine shared his heart with such honesty that I go back and read it often. Part his email reads, "My fear is that most Christians are bullied into makeshift tolerance. Tolerance has been redefined. It's now implied that I must accept, approve and embrace those things that I don't agree with. Webster would roll in his grave! Engaging the average Christian, you come to realize that most don't look at the world through the lens of the Word of God. Thus, it is no wonder that we're easily swayed. We've been taught in our schools that having a Christian Worldview is judgmental, unfair, unkind and intolerant and possibly on the verge of hate-crime status. So sad! Our founding fathers would be outraged."

Christian conservatives want to restore freedom and values in America, as opposed to the liberal left who hope to "fundamentally transform America", as VP Joe Biden said. There are many things we love about this country and want to stand for, but there are certain goals that liberal progressives call narrow minded or controversial. Among these are free speech for all religions - including Christianity, banning abortion, defending marriage between one man and one woman, allowing prayer back in public schools, (they allow everything else!), abstinence education instead of condom promotion, freedom to display symbols of our faith, and living in the country our Founders intended. Michael Medved said, "If it's true that the Founders actually intended to create a secular society rather than a Christian one, then it's obvious that they failed miserably." Our Founders believed in prayer, in God's provision, grace, and sovereignty. I believe in American exceptionalism and though I'm thankful to be a free citizen, I hope to be able to say in November of 2012 that, 'for the first time in four long years, I'm extremely proud of my country.'

I had another perspective check last week while suffering through the symptoms of a mild concussion, and though it wasn't severe enough to be life threatening, I can't say that I didn't wonder if my life was making an impression. I remember my Dad, after going through Cancer treatments, sorting through things out in the garage and in our basement. He lovingly cleaned and threw anything out that wasn't used or needed anymore, and in a matter of months he had gone on ahead of us to be with the Lord. His work here was done. You and I don't know the number of our days, but 1Timothy 2:4 says that God our Savior wants all men to be saved and to come to know the truth. That's where our impact comes in. What are we doing with the time we're given, and are our actions enough? I've written much about a believer's responsibility to be salt and light in our culture, influencing our communities and our government through godliness, and I'm convinced that sin is the root problem and Christ is the answer. The truth is that not everyone will accept Him and some will vehemently reject and rebel against anything to do with God. Are we prepared for this?

You can't force someone to believe, nor would I want to! It's the job of the Holy Spirit to convict, not ours to convince. I look at politics in a similar way. After encouraging and informing with common sense, facts, and the truth, if someone refuses to listen or would rather get into an argument or heated debate, our efforts may be more fruitful elsewhere. No one is hopeless but we must be discerning. One problem I have is that some Christians don't look at the world through the lens of the Bible. Unfortunately, Hollywood and the liberal media have long influenced America to turn away from God and accept things of the world but the Word tells us not to conform to the pattern of the world. A Pastor friend wrote, "Needless to say, the LEFT has done an excellent job in creating their own platform and utilizing popular celebrities to fulfill their agendas. It wasn't long before America was looking to Obama as the poster child for "Hope". Imagine that! I'm sad to say that there are some in our own church who are avid followers of Obama. I don't know how that happens since I see Obama and My Savior going in opposite directions. Nonetheless, these are certainly the signs of the times and we have a responsibility to stand up for righteousness and continue to be the ambassadors for Christ that we are called to be."

A favorite quote of mine used to be, "Preach the Gospel at all times; when necessary use words." Now, I’ve worked in radio and television since the early 90’s, where people broadcast a message using speech, so it amazes me I haven't noticed this years ago. What's wrong with only being an example, or letting our actions speak louder, and in some cases, in place of our words? Again, someone might not live long enough to ask you about your faith!!! How can people believe the message if the messenger doesn’t tell them? It's warm, fuzzy, and idealistic to think that if I live by my beliefs, convictions, morals, and values that others will be flocking to ask me why I'm different or want what I have. Now, we do need to be ready to give an answer to those who may ask about the hope that we have. But if you've been a believer for more than a few years, how many times has someone sought you out and asked you? I'm not saying it never happens, I'm saying we must be proactive with our faith and corresponding works. Faith comes by hearing the word. (Romans 10:14-17) Yes our good works can glorify God but people may attribute it to our own goodness instead of Christ working through us. The good news of salvation through Jesus is best communicated in the spoken or written word.

This brings me back to questions I asked myself last week. Does my life matter for eternity? What kind of legacy am I going to leave behind? Am I making a difference right now that would lead nonbelievers closer to God? How can I encourage more Christians to understand the times, wake up and speak up? I've said before that whether it's in our homes, immorality in culture, politics, or television programming, our silence is most often wrongly interpreted as acceptance or approval. This is not the message we should be sending to the world around us!!! A few days ago, I read an amazing story about a young woman who attacked a protestor outside an abortion clinic, and later came back to thank her, canceled her abortion and decided to give her baby LIFE! I'm personally not one to hold a sign and protest but you might be. You may be able to strike up a conversation with someone for the first time and talk about Jesus but that's not my strength. The bottom line is that thousands of people are dying every day so let's pray, live life on purpose, and try our best to make sure as many as possible end up with you and I on the good side of eternity. Our Founding Fathers wanted it that way, so did the early church. Romans 12:11 says, "Never be lacking in zeal or diligence, but be fervent in spirit, serving the Lord."

Do you believe we can make judgments on morality without judging a person’s eternal destination? Recently a blogger on a Christian site wrote, "It's not my place to judge Obama's faith. I can see the fruit he bears, and I don't like what I see. I need to pray for him more." Well said. "I am the vine and you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." (John 15:5) Do you remember when Barrack Obama told America he was looking for a new church after leaving the radical, controversial Chicago church almost two years ago? Here we are well into 2010 and Obama has not chosen a church in Washington, and has attended services just four times. No single figure has assumed the role of spiritual adviser or filled the vacancy created when Obama disavowed his former mentor and pastor, Jeremiah Wright. While I do pray for his heart to be softened and for him to be saved if he isn’t already, I also pray that every one of his efforts to implement policies contrary to God's Word will be confused, frustrated, and defeated.

In 1789, Noah Webster wrote, "In selecting men for office, let principle be your guide. Regard not the particular sect or denomination of the candidate - look to his character". We should learn from recent history, even if it hurts. The present attack on biblical morals should come as no surprise to anyone. The American voters were warned time and time again during the 2008 presidential campaign that Obama would push the most radical homosexual and abortion agenda in American history. But millions voted for charisma and eloquence rather than character and experience, and many paid little attention to the issues. In addition to pushing abortion, homosexuality, same-sex marriage, and immigration reform, another goal of this administration is to expand "gay adoption", which would create intentionally motherless and fatherless homes.

We have been blessed more than any other nation in history, and to those to whom much is given, much is expected (Luke 12:47-48). One moment the President pushes Congress to pass a trade bill with China while thousands of Christians are being persecuted there. The same day the same President angrily demanded sanctions against Japan for hunting whales. It seems to me that there are no principles, just momentary preferences. So are we engaging in the fight? Chuck Colson wrote, "The popular notion that ‘you can’t legislate morality’ is a myth. Morality is legislated every day from the vantage point of one value system being chosen over another. The question is not whether we will legislate morality, but whose morality gets legislated. Laws establish, from the view of the state, the rightness or wrongness of human behavior." Whether we realize it or not, we’re all affected by the desensitization of America through an extreme liberal, secular-progressive agenda that goes against everything our Founding Fathers believed in. And though I don’t have time here to get into the fruit Hollywood continually produces, isn’t it obvious that America has also forgotten how to blush?

We can only make judgments based on what we hear, and we are absolutely not getting the whole truth from the media. The mainstream media is the most powerful and possibly the most deceptive tool in the hands of this administration. Deceptive because some Americans still think they’re hearing news that is honest, unbiased, and untainted with liberal slant or opinion. Admit it or not, the media takes their marching orders from the White House, and Obama is the chosen face of the movement. Does that sound funny to you? Do you think it was his years of experience and working with integrity in Chicago politics that catapulted him into the presidential race and enabled him to overcome the Clinton machine? The Media Research Center reported today that two prominent journalists appeared on Friday's Good Morning America and casually admitted that Barack Obama has received glowing coverage from the press. Former Vanity Fair and New Yorker editor Tina Brown announced, "No, [Obama] got the best press known to man. Let's face it." Howard Kurtz, host of Reliable Sources on CNN and a Washington Post columnist, corrected, "In the history of civilization." The liberal Brown quickly agreed, "In the history of civilization, incredible."

On the other side, I just read an encouraging update about the Tea Party Convention going on this weekend in Nashville. Many of the people attending have never participated in politics before. The big government socialistic agenda that Obama, Pelosi, and Reid are pushing has awakened folks who once left activism and political rallies up to liberals. It also mentioned that most people reiterated the fact that they don’t think politicians in Washington are listening to them. One point of interest is that the same media that ignored the movement last year and put down the people are now starting to pay attention. But from most of the talking heads who called us narrow-minded, ignorant racists, I still wouldn’t expect honest reporting about those of us who have the audacity to criticize the policies of the Obama administration. Because we disagree, I guess you might call it the audacity of NOPE. "Dissent is one of the truest expressions of patriotism." - B. H. Obama, 2008

Be very careful, then, how you live-not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil." -Ephesians 5:15-16

I have to admit that I've been getting more and more angry. I hardly recognize my country anymore. I'm angry about our government, the president, the media, ignorant people, comfortable Christians, hypocrisy in Congress, greed, the loony liberal left and their takeover of America, my own apathy, the indifference in the church, people who would rather turn away and live in denial than pay attention and engage. I'm angry that our culture has taken a major shift downward in conservatism, morality, pride, and values. Hollywood has made more of an impact than people of faith. Our voice is ignored by those in the lamestream media and secular-progressive Democrats keep going full steam ahead on expensive policies regardless of what most of the American people want. I also hate what I see on television, where a good 80% of the shows and commercials seem to be pushing San Francisco values on the country. On top of all this, I'm angry at myself for being angry because it's Christmas season! God is sovereign and I choose to trust Him, so if I'm angry by any or all of these things, I have to admit that I'm mad at Him! That's the honest truth, and I'm sure He's big enough to take it. I have to surrender any desires and expectations all over again, cast my cares over on Him and hope that what we all see happening to our country will result in the biggest wake-up call and revival in our history. I also have to admit that if I'm not careful, my anxiety, which is rooted in fear - the opposite of faith, will cause me to grow bitter instead of better.

Isaiah 35:4 and 10; Say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, He will come with a vengeance; with divine retribution He will come to save you...But only the redeemed will walk there, and the ransomed of the Lord will return. They will enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness will overtake them." Notice that it doesn't say evil will overtake them. In Romans 12 it encourages us to not be overcome with evil but to overcome evil with good. Also notice that it doesn't tell us to ignore what's going on around us and not get involved but says to take action for what's good and right so we can overcome. Believers aren't guaranteed an easy life, especially if you want to make an impact for eternity. Jesus said if people hated Him they'll hate us as well. When we take a stand for Christ, some will ridicule us and that's ok. We're not supposed to blend in, that's what those who preach tolerance, peace, and unity would have you think. They'd rather have you know about the love of God but not His holiness and judgment. They'll gladly give and receive presents this season but ignore the reason for doing so. They'll acknowledge that years ago we celebrated because of the religious significance and hope this holiday brought, but that doesn't seem to apply anymore in our politically correct society...and we've let it happen. Some may not have a problem with a baby and the manger scene and some still say, "Merry Christmas", but don't you dare mention Jesus or connect the Easter story. That might make people think about the purpose for the life of Christ and the whole plan of salvation. Should we be careful not to offend? Should we not mention crucifixion and sacrifice as part of the very same Gift we celebrate at Christmas?

Yes, it's Christmas so let's focus on the hope and love and promise all wrapped up in the baby born to and for us. We will never be alone again. Immanuel means 'God with us'. But that baby grew up to be a man who lived a righteous life before God and men, and was tortured and killed by the very people He came to save. Yet He's with us in our loneliness, hope, anger, joy, sadness, love and grief. And since He promises to never leave us, I'm praying that He will have mercy on the church and this God-denying, God-removing, God-provoking country. We are a divided nation and always will be. Not convinced? Read the following and don't allow yourself to be neutral: Abortion, Life, Atheism, Christian, Muslim, American, Socialism, Capitalism, Obama, Bush, Spending, Tax Cuts, Homosexuality, Marriage, Censorship, Free Speech, Pornography, Child Protection, Pelosi, Palin, Gun Control, Right to bear Arms, Olberman, O' Reilly, Big government, Government by the people and for the people, God damn America, God bless America, Happy holidays, Merry Christmas! Proverbs 24:10-12 says, "If you falter in times of trouble, how small is your strength! Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. If you say, 'But we knew nothing about this,' does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done?" Pray and do what you can then leave the rest to the Lord. There are now less than three years until the next Presidential election, and about ten months until mid-term elections across the country. Are you satisfied with your country?

In disbelief and disgust, around the middle 2008, I started sharing my thoughts with my conservative Christian friends. (To my liberal Christian friends I am open to a healthy debate.) I could hardly believe what I was hearing in and on the news! Thank God for Fox News Channel, but I realized that lots of people don't get cable or DirecTV and only form their opinions based on network news, John Stewart, Oprah, Letterman, Katie Couric, SNL, and NPR or public television. This is why our country has taken such a sharp left turn! My goal continues to be to encourage, alert, and to inform. Most of my good friends who read this are already well informed, and know why I write what I do. Keep fighting the good fight and never stop believing! Christmas is a good time to be reminded how much God loves each of us, and no matter where we are or what we've done, He never changes and His offer of salvation is for anyone who simply trusts Jesus. As we charge into a new year, be encouraged by Isaiah 43:18; "Forget the former things, don't dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; don't you perceive it? I am making a way in the desert and streams in the wasteland." Look for God to refresh you during dry times. Have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Those who profess a true faith in Christ need to be reminded that, if you haven't read the back of the book recently, we end up winning in the end. Jesus returns with power, we'll be caught up with other believers in the clouds on a one way trip to heaven, and this present earth will be destroyed with intense heat. So much for saving the planet. It might be a better use of our time to invest in souls and sharing the gospel of Christ. God knows people need to hear more good news these days. There are even two radio stations here in Wisconsin that started playing Christmas music all day long before November 1. They get it. Our country is on a fast track in the wrong direction, there's lots of anger toward government, and people are desperate for good news! Psalm 112:7-8 says, "He will have no fear of bad news; his heart is steadfast, trusting in the LORD. His heart is secure, he will have no fear; in the end he will look in triumph on his foes." We not only have the promise of God's presence here on earth, but in addition, we will dwell in the house of the Lord forever. The Bible says to comfort others with these words. But in order to do this we must breakthrough our apathy, denial, permissiveness, and our silence.

We sure need good news. Unemployment is now over 10% and there's no solid proof that the massive stimulus that Obama and Congress pushed through has even made a dent. Our current administration continues to ignore the voice of we the people and ram through Obamacare, when the majority of Americans do not want government to control health care. In our intensifying culture war, gay marriage was shot down again, this time in liberal Maine, the 31st state in a row to vote to uphold traditional marriage. That's good news! Marriage was not established by man or the government, but by God in the Bible from the beginning of time. It was established by God as a covenant between men and women alone. But there's bad news around the corner involving free speech. The recent "hate crimes" bill is clearly a backdoor attempt to silence Christians from calling homosexuality (and all sexual immorality) what the Bible calls it - a sin. My friend James wrote his state representative, "We will tolerate all people, including homosexuals, and afford them the same courtesy and respect due all people, but we will not be forced to contradict the Bible and accept this sinful behavior as a normal alternative. This bill can be used to criminalize free speech, and already Christians have been falsely accused and called "hateful" for holding the biblical convictions of their faith."

Jesus said that the gates of hell will NOT prevail against us. Gates don't attack, we attack THEM. We're supposed to be on offense, not defense! Why does it seem that we're constantly battling radical groups, politicians, and liberal judges who want to secularize America and move further away from our foundation of faith in God? Now there's a debate going on, not about abortion, but about notifying a parent when their daughter has an abortion procedure. This is not a debate about consent; it's simply notification in case of an emergency. Makes me sick. Chicago was in the news again recently when at one High School, out of 800 girls, 115 of them were either pregnant or have already had a baby. (That’s 1 in 7!) I know that God and Jesus aren't allowed in public schools but I thought condoms and sex education were. Hmmm. Years of our silence has wrongfully been interpreted as acceptance and approval, when in reality, Christians have been appalled. I'd say it's time to get those darts out of your behind and get in the battle. Put on your armor, because with the shield of faith we will extinguish ALL the flaming arrows of the enemy. Too many Christians are being influenced by the media and Hollywood and materialism and peer pressure when we should be infiltrating the world with the love of God and the good news of Christ! The Bible says that the Word of God is alive and active, sharper than any two-edged sword. The sword is our offensive weapon so let's start swinging.

These are dark days in America and in the world, and I'm thinking we need to evaluate our priorities. It looks to me like some believers are in danger of being duped. Romans 12:2 says "Do not conform to this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind." It starts with you and I. Are we being transformed by the Word, by Christ, and the Holy Spirit? Or are we allowing ourselves to be desensitized by this world and secular progressives? One of the reasons Jesus said He came here was to destroy the work of the devil. And in Luke 12:49 and 51, "I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! Do you think I have come to bring peace on earth? No, I have come to bring strife and division." Our president makes no bones about his radical, liberal view and agenda. The Washington times said, "The irrational exuberance of the 2008 race has since crashed down to cold, hard reality. Mr. Obama ran on a vaguely defined 'hope and change' platform, and Americans have discovered that the devil is in the details." Christian, our struggle is not against people, but against pure evil from the pit of Hell, and it's time we wake up and recognize the battle we're in. God didn't tell us to blend in; He said to be light that exposes the darkness. There's little chance of winning the fight if we don't know we're in one. Take it a day at a time and an issue at a time and fight for what is important to you. If we really love others, we'll tell them the truth about Jesus with sensitivity and without apology. We were chosen by Him and appointed to go save souls and bear fruit. We're alive for such a time as this and we're promised daily bread, guidance, and grace and strength for the journey.

Quoting my Pastor from a sermon last weekend: "It's not the duration of your life, it's the direction that matters. It's not how long you live but how you live."

I was tempted to complain yesterday about my 26 mile/24 minute commute on the way home from work in Green Bay. Then I snapped out of it and looked at the sunshine bouncing off a small lake at a favorite spot at the half-way point of my traffic-free drive down the highway, wind blowing and music cranking. It also helped to remember the brief period in my life in 2002 when I'd drive 50 miles to work through Los Angeles, population 4 million, to the O.C. The commute home to Encino averaged about 90 minutes, but a few times it actually took me TWO hours and forty-five minutes ONE WAY to get home! (I have a good friend in Kingsford, MI - population around 10,000, who complains about having to drive four miles "all the way across town" to a nice restaurant) My stress level was through the roof at that 18 year mark in Southern Cal and I was eventually saved by a back injury and then the elimination of my department at that job. It was God's providence and to this day He still provides in amazing ways like a faithful Father.

The race is on! While writing this, I just heard the miserable failure of a past president Jimmy Carter say that lots of people in America don't think a black president can be qualified to run the country. Listen up, peanut head! It's all the liberal, radical, and socialist policies that most of us don't think are good for the country. Skin color has nothing to do with it so lay off. Put that page back in the Saul Alinsky Democratic Handbook, "Call them Racists" section. Charles Gibson says people are refusing to accept a black president. These guys are polarizing and idiotic. Why is one labeled a racist for disagreeing with America’ elected, I mean, selected leader and for refusing to follow the bleating of the hope and change sheep? Wait, the pied piper played and rats followed…not to imply that all Democrats are rodents but I am quite sure that most far-left liberals are. Most seem to have a severe disorder and insane aversion to God, Jesus, religion, rules, regulations, responsibility, prayer, protecting America by using force on radical terrorists, and anything to do with morality, conservative values, & Founding Fathers.

I’ve heard that the early bird gets the worm but it's the second mouse that gets the cheese, and we’re in cheese country, baby! Hum along with the jingle…Football, love dogs, pumpkin pie, and Toyota - I wish I were more American! I’m not at all a baseball fan, golf either. Hot dogs scare me, I might have apple pie every few years but only if it’s homemade & ala mode, and as far as cars go, the whole American auto industry concerns me. Having Toyotas since 1984, I’ve never had a major issue, and after hearing how corrupt and political American Auto Unions are, I’ll stay clear, thank you very much. An email from my cousin in Green Bay: "Dave, our offensive line was offensive, at the very least. lol but every time we beat the bears, life gets a little bit better." I concur.

We’re going on 17 or 18 sunny days in a row here in Northeast Wisconsin! Now I’m one of those strange folks who loves the snow, but this makes me remember my laughable transition from west coast time to central time after 18 years. Getting up at 6 am here was like getting up at 4 am to my body. Just couldn't’ psyche myself out on that one! Then there’s dinner – people eat at 7 or 8 pm in Southern CA, go to bed later and sleep later. Here I eat breakfast an hour before a coworker eats his lunch. We’re not in the big city anymore, Toto. All I want to do when I get up in the morning is eat some food…for breakfast, for breakfast. It’s the most important meal of the day. Really. And there’s a 91% chance that today’s forecast in Los Angeles is major traffic so leave two hours early, then it’ll be sunny behind the thick brownish-gray smog layer and partly cloudy skies, and a high of 78 degrees. 93 if you live in the Valley, which is just past Sunset Blvd. and the 405 freeway over the hill less than 7 miles away. I do miss a few good friends there.

You may NOT believe this one. Will the Spirit of Christmas ever return to America? Told you this was random. I see a comic on my wall in my office with a young kid sitting outside the principal’s office for saying "Merry Christmas". Two kids sitting next to him, one brought a gun to school and the other cussed out a teacher. It’s not just a comic strip anymore. A friend of mine has a sister in grade school who got in trouble for telling her friends that Christmas carols were supposed to be about Jesus. They were singing ‘carols’ about the teacher being dead because they cut off her head, etc. True story! Guess who got in trouble? I know, pathetic.

A friend of mine said, "If we don't care enough to be involved (culturally) and stay engaged, then we have already abdicated our freedom and our future. If we are too busy and care only about own selfish agendas, then we are unworthy of the mandate we have been given. Truth is not relative but absolute. Life is too short to live it selfishly." I concur.

My dreaded Dental adventure, Spring 2009. I still can't chew on both sides of my mouth over four thousand dollars and two root canals later! The worst part was that I had tooth pain on my birthday and could barely chew. Oh well, at least I milked it for a little sympathy from Rosanna, men can be such panty waists. I'm very close to becoming an anti-dentite now.

Is a half-truth a lie? Headline today: Obama’s denials of abortion coverage ‘laughable’. Many political and spiritual leaders say President Obama is not telling the whole truth when he promises taxpayers they will not be forced to fund abortions under his healthcare plan. No film at eleven. Oh, and much more bad stuff liberal Democrats get caught doing, again no film at nine, ten, or eleven! All these years I thought that it was illegal to not pay taxes, but recently have learned that's only if you're NOT a rich Democrat. And can we the taxpaying people please stop funding partisan organizations ACORN and Planned Parenthood, to name a few?

I'll never forget my past visits to orphanages in Mexico and the friendships that I made. Kids who have literally nothing but the clothes on their backs sure can teach you a lesson about contentment. It was an eye-opening experience for me that softened my heart at the time and I'm glad to have pictures to remind me. Some days I feel like the Lord needs to chip away at my hard heart all over again as I've become angry at many injustices in life; users & abusers, God-haters, unprecedented corruption and media bias, the removal of conservative and Christian rights, free speech being threatened, you know the kind of stuff. But the song 'Jesus Draw Me Close' will forever be etched in my memory as our Pastor played the acoustic guitar in the back of his pick-up truck and we sang out while overlooking a dusty valley from the hill of the orphanage on my very first Mexico trip. We got to leave but that was home to many kids. We knew that the next day we'd get to wake up in our clean, warm beds, turn a water faucet on and wash or take a drink, go into our closet and actually pick from a huge selection what to wear, eat our choice of hot or cold breakfast, and carry on with our everyday lives. As we sang I was holding back the tears, and that reminded me of another song that prays for God to break our hearts with what breaks His. That was one of those special moments where you sensed the Holy Spirit and felt the compassion of Jesus. I long for that again.

"As we seek Your face may we know Your heart, feel Your presence, acceptance, as we seek Your face...Jesus draw me close, closer Lord, to You. Let the world around me fade away. Jesus draw me close, closer Lord to You, for I desire to worship and obey."

At least you can be thankful you don’t live inside my overly active brain. You’ll see what I mean after reading this, and I apologize in advance for emptying my clutter out on you. You still have the choice to turn back now before you get sucked in! I'm shooting in many directions here but if just one or more of these arrows hits a target you can relate to, please let me know.

First things first, I woke up this morning, period. My sister died at 24, my Dad at 62, a dear friend from Virginia in her 30’s and a good friend from California in his 40’s, so I’m just thankful to open my eyes, get out of bed and walk out to a bright kitchen and living room with skylights every morning. As four happy and excited dogs scurry around me, I head toward the back door I remind myself to shake it off and wake up! Ahh - quiet times outside in our tree-filled, beautiful back yard. (No I’m not out here to play right now so drop the ball, ok? Go eat your breakfast. It's quiet time) The good Lord must not be done with me yet because I’m alive another day. If you’re reading this then He still has plans for you, too. Awesome God, wonderful wife, great coffee, beautiful weather, great morning! Side note: Rosanna signed me up for facebook last year. Since then I’ve requested about 40 people I personally know as friends, 50 tops…so how the heck do I now have 480 friends?! Oh, oh, it’s too early to get into the pros and cons of technology and the debate about whether it’s made our lives easier and more productive or whether it adds more clutter and consumes more of our time. I’ll save you valuable brain activity and answer for you: yes to both!

My family on my Moms side used to debate over taking vitamins vs. a shot of Brandy (or alcohol of choice) a day. See, my grandpa was as artist, actually brilliant with oil paintings, and his doctor told him to have a shot of Brandy every day. I forget now what the heck it was for, maybe his heart. Grandpa lived a ripe, healthy life and died in his sleep at eighty-something. I enjoy a good beer after cutting the grass in the Summer, oh, and during a Packers Monday Night Football game. I recently tried a Summer Wheat beer made by Blue Moon, which I hadn't heard of before this year. I figured if it was good enough for a patriotic police officer to drink at the Whitehouse, it's good enough for me to try! ;~)

What is one thing that dogs have in common with God? They both give us unconditional love and teach us many life lessons. I don’t deserve love and barely deserve occupying a space in heaven, but I’m so glad to be in the watch and care of a loving God and surrounded by man’s best friends every day of my life. I’ll take it. Now I love watching football but do I love God more than I love the Green Bay Packers? Of course, right? Do I love the Creator and Sustainer of life more than my wife, my career, my desires and my dogs? If the answer is ‘yes’ then shouldn’t it follow that I naturally get more excited and passionate about Jesus Christ who died for me and paved the way to heaven by route of the cross, than about the Packers scoring a touchdown and winning the game? Too much cheese for thought maybe. I still long to be an undignified worshipper, not remotely caring about what other people think.

I think there may have been a glitch in accounting at NBC. I worked on and off as an actor in Hollywood in the 90's and had some fun roles on General Hospital and a later in a wonderful Independent film I was fortunate to have had the lead role in. But it's the few times I worked on the Golden Girls that still bless me. (One time my Mom came out and saw a live show taping and got to meet Betty White) About every quarter I receive a small check for anywhere from four dollars to twenty some dollars because of all the reruns. Not much, I know, but it's good for either DQ or dinner for Rosanna and I, and every little bit helps. I can't imagine how much money in residuals that major actors make from commercials, movies, or TV series. Wait, I just closed my eyes and yes, I CAN imagine. I hope they're thanking God every day.

My Mom could write a book about how she doesn’t recognize this country anymore but this is for another entire blog. You probably understand. This just in! Americans are opposed to Obama/Pelosi health care "reforms" that raise taxes to fund abortions, ration care for the elderly and the ill, expand government power, and destroy the free market. What in the world does Michael Moore and folks like him have against Capitalism and American history? I struggle between praying for his salvation or hoping that he’ll get his and…wait, just being honest. On with the countdown.

I’m also thinking that I should like Christian music more than I do but if given a choice I find myself picking talk radio or classic top 40 rock or jazz. Is it the state of my heart? I probably heard my first Christian song in 1981, and have worked in radio off and on for about 20 years. I like originality much more than some of the cookie-cutter music that the Christian business in Nashville puts out. That’s why I actually got excited on my drive to work today with the roof open and windows down, “Katmandu” by Bob Seger came on the radio – it’s been a decade or two since I heard that one. I miss the simplicity and innocence of most of those great 70’s tunes, and often wonder how today’s secular song lyrics got so perverted, profane, and pungent? The rug has been gradually pulled out from under us, we’ve been ripped off and desensitized as a nation that once claimed to be under God and indivisible. Right.

Don’t even get me going on movie ratings. They added PG-13 in 1984 back when people stopped blushing in public. What if a foreign exchange student came to live with you and had no idea what America was about? The visiting student thinks America is the greatest country in the world. Imagine them asking you to explain basic cultural observations like half naked billboard ads on the way home from the airport. Then while watching TV you know to avoid most every reality show, but an erectile dysfunction commercial comes on, then back to the program featuring rude people, abusive language, profanity and gay characters or adult content during prime time. Movies, television shows and news programs put down America and push the limits of decency. Maybe you decide to try the theatre. Movies rated PG-13 today would have been rated “R” just a decade ago. Oops, you forgot how much profanity, violence, blood, and nudity they try to ‘sneak’ into most movies, regardless of the plot! And you forgot to skip the trailers.

Patrick Swayze and Jonathan Khan. Heard the sad news about the death of Patrick Swayze after a long battle with Cancer. May God bless and comfort his family. In the film Ghost, he headed toward the light at the end. My good friend Jonathan is an actor and writer working in Hollywood shining as a light for Christ. He has witnessed to people like Sylvester Stallone, Michael Douglas, Harrison Ford, Jerry Springer, Jackie Chan and also Robert Downey Jr. My friend isn’t famous but Jesus Christ promises to acknowledge him on that day. I wish I were more bold with my faith and then I ask, “well, what’s stopping me?” He said he simply likes to "stuff his face and share his faith". Jonathan has told me many times how to make God laugh...just tell Him your plans!

Is there any king who compares to the King of Kings and Lord of Lords? Do you know this King, the Author and Creator of life and the maker of all things? He's the Beginning and the End, the returning Lord and Savior or all who simply believe and put their trust in Him. Perspective check: What matters most in life? What we live for, who has our allegiance, and what is our faith in? In terms of eternity, isn't our first purpose in this life to share the message of hope in Jesus Christ? Isn't our mission at home, at work, in school, at a party, at the bank, the beach, the gas station, grocery store or a restaurant, to lead others to God? St. Francis of Assisi once said, "Preach always, and if necessary use words." The Apostle Paul wrote, "I give you this charge, preach the word. In season and out of season..." If you and I are living for Christ the best we can as imperfect people, sometimes our actions and the example of our lives may lead someone closer to God. More often, however, we're required to speak up and share our testimony. If we care about people, they deserve to hear the truth, don't they?

I've been observing the media and many people's reactions to the tragic and unfortunate death of Michael Jackson, the king of pop. Respectfully, we need to be careful and not make him (or any other celebrity), a god. Yes, he left a tremendous musical legacy and was one of the world's most talented entertainers. Yes, he helped bridge the gap of race relations in our country. We can be thankful for his life and talents, which I believe God gave him, yet keep the perspective that each of us is human. His fame was larger than life, yet his private struggles seemed so sad. I hope to meet him in heaven. It's appointed for every man a time to die and after that, to face judgment. How sobering. I've enjoyed some of Michael Jackson's music and played a few of his songs in old top 40 bands. But really, if you listen to much of the press, is one life more valuable than another? Is any celebrity more important than the blue collar worker trying to provide for his family, or the single Mother, the orphan, school teacher, or Iranian protestor? I believe it's the heart of God that every single life matters. (let's not even bring up life in the womb...oops, too late!) We need to be careful not to make a celebrity or anything else an idol, and instead look to the One who gives us all life.

The Author of all people and things "created the heavens and the earth by His great power and outstretched arm. Nothing is too hard for Him." (Jeremiah 32:17) So unless you don't believe in heaven or hell, the most important question you can ask is, 'where will you spend eternity?' Only God the Father knows the number of our days. My sister was killed when she was 24. Some parents have grieved the loss of young children. Peter wrote about the present earth being destroyed and suggested we live godly lives in reverence because our time is short. Funny - or is it - that another verse I read this morning is in Ecclesiastes chapter seven. "It's better to go to a house of mourning than a house of feasting, (what? a funeral is better than a party?) "For death is the destiny of every man and the living should take this to heart." We sure need reminders as we sometimes glide through life casually and oblivious, that life can be short. No wonder the Bible calls life a vapor, or a flower in the field that is here today and gone tomorrow. Please live on purpose, know that God values you and I, and that every life matters to Him. This King invites us to come before His throne and receive mercy. He loves us no matter who we are or what we've done. That's the essence of grace.

Today, when I hear the word 'values', I now understand that it's necessary to consider who's talking and what exactly they value. I value life, my faith, marriage, freedom of speech, America's history, religion, and so on. But I've learned that others value extreme liberalism, government control, abortion, (they call it women's privacy and reproductive freedom), gay marriage, open borders, cutting national defense, spending more on global warming research, and this is a partial list. One thing I think people tend to value and put too much emphasis on is money. Whether you're a Christian or atheist, conservative or liberal, traditional or progressive, since last November, lots of folks have been making decisions based on money. I know we all need to survive and try to make a living or provide for our family but when I see people of faith make decisions solely based on the economy; it tells me that our values are a little skewed. When things in our country were rough last year, most of us had no idea how much the government was going to borrow and spend, nor how deep the hole of debt the new administration was going to dig. And it’s being done astonishingly enough, without apology.

Can we please get grounded again? As a Christian, when it's a friend's birthday I often give them a Bible verse I believe sums up the value of every life and the specific purpose each of us has while we're on earth. If you're still alive, God isn't finished with you yet! All the days God planned for us were written in His book before we were even born. (Psalm 139:16) Understand that before you were created and formed in your Mother's womb, God had you in mind and designed you with a purpose. Doesn't this truth radically shake your perspective? Now think about the brutal procedure of abortion. I call it a baby, a precious human life that God had a plan for. In terms of eternity and God's desire for our lives, doesn't money seem pretty insignificant all of a sudden? But without speaking up about this and other issues, we've allowed the media to be cheerleaders for liberalism and promote a radical agenda, a government take-over one policy at a time. Speaking of the media, the murder of abortionist George Tiller was front page and all over TV news for days, yet many of you did not hear about the murder of Army private William Long, killed by a Muslim convert outside a recruiting office in Little Rock. Both of these are tragic stories but why the staggering lopsided media coverage that favored Tiller? What do they value?

Some people have been duped by leaders who convinced us that they cared for the middle and lower class. The peaceful tea party protests showed otherwise when they just laughed and put down anyone who disagreed with what the administration is doing. I have to hand it to the teleprompter and President Obama for following through with promises and policies geared to radically change America. If you voted for him and are in a state of shock today, you didn't do your research. He's always had a disdain for the way our country was founded, for capitalism, and our religious heritage. Change is good if you're talking about the oil in your car, but I'm thinking that more and more people who voted for Obama may be scratching their heads. Way too much is happening with alarming speed so let's not lose our perspective. God still has a plan for believers who base their future on the sacrifice of Jesus and His resurrection.

Ephesians 2:10 says that you and I are God's work of art, created in Christ to do good works, which God prepared for us in advance. Did you catch that? God reminds us that He has a purpose for us on earth, but we need to live by faith and walk in those good works regardless of what is going on around us. Part of our job is to manage what God has given us and be good stewards of His resources while we're here. Charles Stanley said the belief that wealth equals success is wrong, and that whenever financial concerns have top priority in our lives, it shows our lack of trust in God. I know it's easy to get overwhelmed with the instant news and information age we live in, plus all that can bombard us at times, so choose your battles wisely. Pray for godly change in America, for our leader’s hearts to be convicted, and protection of our Military. Don't be silent, friend because no matter what you might think, it’s a big country and you’re not alone.

A few questions have been brewing in my mind recently. Has the Culture Battle intensified so much that conflict and controversy are being played out right before our eyes? It seems to me that the great divide in our country showed itself during the Miss USA pageant, at Notre Dame graduation, and even on American Idol. Bear with me, here's another question; What has happened to the Church in America, that we've become so accepting and tolerant of just about any habit, injustice, and sin imaginable? Many believers are afraid to speak the truth about God or live out the great commission because we don't want to appear judgmental or narrow-minded. Finally, are we still a 'Christian nation' and, does it even matter if we're not living like authentic Christ-followers? The answer may depend on how we define "Christian nation".

First, American Idol voting may have reflected the faith culture today and even the heartbeat of average citizens. Whether you watched the show or not, we can all learn something from the results, and how the mainstream media mishandled the story lines. I personally didn't hear much about where the final three contestants stood regarding their religion or upbringing until the last week of the show. After all, it's really a singing competition. But it came down to three talented singers, and the judges along with most of the media appeared to be cheerleaders for Adam Lambert, from San Diego. He was a nice, humble person, and also very theatrical and flamboyant, and as it's now been revealed, gay. Even more humble and likable however, were Danny Gokey from Milwaukee and Kris Allen from Arkansas, both strong Christians and worship leaders at their churches. America voted Adam and Kris in the top two. I thought that Kris barely had a chance as most people, including the judges, said it would come down to Danny and Adam. People voted for the underdog, so when Kris won it all, it was an even bigger upset and Simon Cowell was visibly disappointed. What's interesting to me is that a few days after the final show, I saw a video on youtube with Kris Allen singing about God in front of tens of thousands of people the week before the final Idol show, and for some reason the media kept this quiet. It's the Christian vs. gay theme all over again, just weeks after Carrie Prejean was viscously attacked for standing up for heterosexual marriage.

I'm convinced that we need revival of some kind in our churches. If it doesn't start with us, there's less hope that we might influence our communities and government to go back to conservative, traditional values and morals that once made our country strong and unified. It's going to take more than a profession of faith and head knowledge, we'll have to live it and not be silent anymore. I think we've strayed away from the commission to share the good news of Christ, calling sin 'sin', and this has been reflected in how people have voted in elections in our country. Tell me how so many people claiming a faith in God and Jesus, elected the most anti-conservative, pro-abortion President in our history. Giving them the benefit of the doubt, I don't think enough people did their research on the candidates; otherwise we'd have to conclude that some don't think abortion is a big deal. If someone is a religious person, doesn't the Bible set the standard on who you vote for, that is, if you believe it is the inspired word of the living God? How has the Church allowed this travesty to continue year after year? Is it because we don't talk about abortion much at church? On top of this, we allow liberals to get away with calling it "reproductive health", "women's privacy" and "choice." God have mercy on our apathy!

What a double-standard that our President, Nancy Pelosi, and Congress today justify the murder of millions of babies, while at the same time demanding rights for terrorists whose goal is to kill Americans! They say there's no more war on terror, it's termed, "overseas contingency operation." Does this mean the threat of an attack in the states is over? Not even close. I'm surprised that with all the fear, economic uncertainty, and political corruption right now that more people aren't flocking to God for help. Immediately after 9-11-2001, more people became believers because the need seemed urgent. Christ is the only true hope in a world filled with false hopes. Some think we have turned a corner from when we were once a strong, traditional Christian nation depending on how you define it, and we're gradually becoming a non-Christian nation. (I think it's more "anti-Christian") But thankfully, the Bible says that the eyes of the Lord are roaming the earth, seeking to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him. (2 Chron. 16:9) I was encouraged to see that video of Kris Allen unashamedly singing to God, and we can all learn a lesson on obedience from the 23-year old Idol. In the present permissive temperature in our secularized country, I'm thankful for people who are not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, who believe that God changes people and then people change things, and who are undaunted in their faith in the goodness and greatness of America. I want to be one of them.

Eight years ago most Americans rallied together and said, "We will never forget", after thousands of citizens were killed by terrorists on September 11. Then uh, I think we forgot. Double standards took over the media, journalism officially died, we became desensitized about cultural issues, and conservatives kept quiet. 9-11-2001 may have been the last time this country was even somewhat united, and I hope and pray it doesn't take another terrorist attack to bring us to our knees again. It's been said that those who don't remember history are doomed to repeat it, and in light of President Obama's first European trip some called the "Apology" tour, it demonstrated that our president either misunderstands our heritage and history, or has contempt for it. Neither is excusable, and a pre 9-11 mentality is dangerous for America. My wake-up call came unexpectedly as I was minding my own business and gathering information about candidates, and based on my conservative Christian beliefs, I made an easy decision. It was just last year. When I found out about then Senator Obama, his associations, his policies, what he stood for and how he wanted to change our country, there was no way I thought enough people would ever vote him into the greatest office in the world. But the economy was in the toilet and Bush and Republicans falsely got all the blame. And since most Americans profess a faith in God and lean toward traditional values, I was a bit confused by the election results.

Take a look at this Scripture written in Rome around 67 A.D. 2Timothy 3:1-5 says, "But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud...ungrateful, slanderous, without self-control, not lovers of good, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God - having a form of godliness but denying its power." 2008 turned out to be the year media objectivity and fair reporting came to an end. Part of the coup was that talk show hosts, newspapers, advertisers, late night shows, and even television comedy series were trashing one of the candidates. Wait, make that two. The political coverage in newspapers, TV, and the Internet was so obviously lopsided that those reporting and writing were not even trying to be discreet anymore, many of them proudly blurted out their support for Obama. It was a disservice to American journalism and it was simply wrong. The press was created by our Founders to keep government in check but the watch dog was replaced with a lap dog right before our eyes. After the disgusting, unbalanced coverage of the Presidential campaigns and the unrelenting personal attacks on Sarah Palin and her family, I told myself that I'd never forget and I'd help others get more informed. The Bible says that Gods people perish for a lack of knowledge. After doing my research before the election, I tried to spread the facts on the candidates and a few friends told me I was being "pretty radical". They thought I was being narrow-minded to vote based on my conservative values on abortion, gay marriage, national defense, free speech, the appointment of judges, gun control, and limited government spending.

Now recently, Janet Napolitano released a report that said many average Americans with Christian world views are dangerous and potential terrorists. If you're against abortion or immigration, for example, you're labeled a 'right-wing extremist'. Even U.S. war veterans made her list! It would be laughable if it weren't so dangerously true. Keep your eyes and ears open for so-called 'hate crime' bills. Interestingly enough, and as God would have it occur, Miss California, Carrie Prejean simply answered a question with her opinion that marriage should be between a man and a woman, and she's called a bigot. Celebrities and talk show hosts personally attack her for not giving a politically correct answer and they call it free speech. Nice. It infuriated activists because she had the gall to speak her mind publicly with millions watching the Miss USA pageant. Homosexuals are given platforms in the supportive media and on television shows, so they've been louder and much bolder in public than conservatives. We’ve fallen for the propaganda about so-called tolerance. This shouldn’t change Gods purpose for you. John 15:16 says, "I chose you to go and bear fruit." As believers, we need to answer these questions honestly: What 'fruit' are we producing? Do we love the approval of man more than the approval of God? Do we fear offending, so we don't publicly speak about the Bible, our convictions, or even voice a simple opinion in casual conversation? Do we fear man more than we fear God? Yes, we'll probably be attacked and ridiculed. So what?! Around the world people are being jailed, tortured or killed for their faith, and I don't mean water-boarding. I mean fingers, limbs or eyes being removed and other believers are executed.

Free speech is one of our most precious, valuable rights. It's easy to see we've forgotten, and sometimes neglected the truths by which our nation was established. (Today, our Founders would be considered right-wing radicals) We have a media and a President who make fun of average citizens who peacefully protest current policies, like at "Tea Parties" across the country. There's almost nothing the current administration could do that would surprise me. Look at who's been appointed; tax cheats, abortion advocates, speech censorship supporters, and other corrupt officials. The kind of changes happening today are not good for the America I grew up loving, and we need to come back to God. Never be ashamed to share the good news of Christ and the hope of heaven. Galatians 5:22 reads, "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such things there is no law." Jesus said, "you will know them by their fruits", and there's rotten fruit coming from Washington. We have to pick our battles wisely because we can't possibly get involved in all the causes. Consider your call to action re-ignited! Get your news from the right sources, contact your local and state representatives about specific issues, and talk to friends. Turn up your sensitivity to media bias, unite with others, and keep fighting the good fight of faith and values! God causes all things to work together for good. Remember your purpose, remember our history, and may the silent majority not be as silent anymore.

You can never truly enjoy Christmas until you can look up into the Father's face and tell him you have received his Christmas gift. ~ John W Rice

Hi! I had a refreshing day of reflection yesterday as I thanked God for the many blessings in my life, including friends that He has brought along my path in my sojourn here. Imagine those we've lost contact with, and better yet - those we may have touched in some way but won't find out until we reach heaven! Cool thought, hey? I hope you have a very Merry Christmas! I hope you won't be too distracted by the flurry of activity that you forget to celebrate Christ. I also hope that each Christmas party you attend is meaningful, and that at every "holiday" party you attend, the guest of honor is invited in some way, even if you are the one who brings Him in with you. I hope you're never ashamed to greet someone with a heart-felt, "Merry Christmas". I also hope you don't mind a post on Facebook! I think about how obligated I used to feel to mail lots of Christmas cards out...that the number of cards I sent somehow made my efforts worthy, when 70% of the friends I sent them to rarely if ever responded or kept in touch. Though that's not the reason (expecting a card or gift) for Christmas, I had to reduce my list little by little each year. My list was over 80 people; imagine the postage year after year! Maybe you completely understand, and we do need to keep the meaning alive. For a nice article on Christmas, http://townhall.com/columnists/BillOReilly/2008/12/20/why_christmas_matters.

Seriously, I'm sending you a note to say that I think of you from time to time, (maybe when I see your email in this address book!), and when you send me an update or a prayer request, Rosanna and I are blessed to be able to pray for you. She and I are doing well, and our relationship has grown much closer in the years we've lived here in the Midwest. Our lives are mixed with radio, music ministry, cosmetology school, acting jobs, friends, three great doggies, and future plans. I'm thankful for friends who keep in touch, even if it's on occasion. (hint!) I pray that God uses you to be salt and light for Him this season, especially around your family members or friends who don't know the true meaning of the joy, hope, and peace of Christ that we celebrate. God forgive us for taking it for granted sometimes! We are called to be ambassadors, not secret agents. Jesus is Lord, and because of Him, you and I are united as part of His family, wherever we may live. The good news of Christmas and Easter is that we have a Savior, and He was sent to bridge the gap between us and a holy God! And we just have to believe! "By grace you have been saved through faith. It is God's gift to us, not a result of works, (anything we could do on our own) that no one can boast." - Ephesians 2:8 (Romans 10:9-10) We needed saving, or we wouldn't be celebrating Christmas. Aren't you glad? Because of Him, this whole crazy life makes sense, and there IS a plan and purpose for everything, and everyone!

Have a wonderful, Spirit-filled Christmas season, dear friend. I'll leave you with a minute of political humor. www.Glennbeck.com - click on the video, "Happy RamaHanuKwanzmas!" Say it loud and proud, "Merry Christmas"!! God bless you always.