Here is my December submission to "River Region's Journey" magazine. I trust you'll find it thought-provoking as we examine how our religious liberties are being challenged across America, especially during the Christmas season...
Could this possibly be the point of view of a non-Christian in December of 2050?
Recently, the signs of that December holiday began to be apparent again – yes, the ol’ orange and black retail decorations were swiftly replaced as if a magic wand had run amok in certain establishments. Brightly colored lights have begun to adorn yards and houses around our neighborhood, and the dates have already been set and invitation lists crafted for certain festive occasions.
It’s fun to celebrate, to spend happy times with family and friends. There once was a time when this season used to be known as Christmas. That was before certain retailers decided that it was too costly to offend customers who did not adhere to a certain set of religious beliefs. Slowly, but surely, the ads that used to say “Merry Christmas” were replaced by the more tolerant, “Happy Holidays”. Now no one even needs to specify which holiday – because they figure everyone knows. Society has a more sanitized, generic celebration, and those church people, well, they can have their ancient rituals celebrated in a more appropriate place – the church, inside their four walls, where no one has to be exposed to their archaic incantations.
I was, to say the least, quite pleased when our government got out of that “endorsing-of-religion” business a while back. Those scenes of Jesus in a manger, surrounded by the so-called, “holy” family, were an affront to those of us who wished to live our lives without being reminded that there are people who want to pass judgment on those of us who are not Christians. Christians claim they celebrate the birth of a baby who they say came to save the world – sure, he was a popular teacher in his day, but this mystical, “mind-over-matter” stuff was just a bit much for a reasoned society. So, those nativity scenes are no longer native to city hall grounds and courthouse squares, and those Christmas trees have become treated as symbols of family, friendship, and fun.
Sure, there are other holidays, which still retain their original names and personalities – Valentine’s Day is a celebration for lovers, the 4th of July has become a great reminder of tolerance and freedom of expression, and Halloween is just plain fun, with a dalliance or two with the dark side thrown in for good measure. But, none of these compare with THE holidays, the season, the winter festival, a way to break the monotony between the finality of fall and the promise of spring. It’s become much more carefree without the religious overtones – no more “war on Christmas”, when Christians would try to coerce retailers to put some mention of Christmas in their advertising, back when 95% of people in our country said they celebrated Christmas. It’s good that intimidation no longer rules the day and Christians keep their outdated religion to themselves.
When the courts began to enforce the Establishment Clause of the Bill of Rights, our governments, from Washington to cities and counties across our land, set a tone that church and state were to be absolutely separated. Even though for a while, certain high-profile Christians screamed that we were a “Christian” nation and that their freedom of expression was being limited, nevertheless there became so much hostility toward these people that their voices eventually were silenced. So now we don’t have to drive by a government building and be reminded of those 10 Commandments or walk into a store and have someone wish us “Merry Christmas”. We can now eat, drink, and be merry, and not pay a bit of attention to who we might offend. Freedom is a wonderful thing…
But, I’m really wondering why I end up rolling up a huge credit card debt this time of year to buy gifts for others, when I could be saving for that boat that I want so badly. Why am I looking for the right electronic gadget to enhance my light display? Why do we spend the time in preparation for a party that will be forgotten this time next year, or next week? Oh, yes, it’s THE holidays, the happy holidays, that are supposed to be bigger and better every year…but at the end of it all, after we shout “Happy New Year” (there’s that word, “happy”, again), it’s time to put it all back in the box. Is that what this has become – some instant gratification, some modicum of happiness that comes and goes as we load and unload boxes full of…glass…and cords? Wait a minute, I have a text, got to go pick up that holiday ham – there’s plenty to celebrate, isn’t there? You know, in a way, I miss those Christians and all there revelry this time of year…it just doesn’t seem the same without ‘em.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Toward a More Civil Society
Here is a copy of the November column that I submitted for "River Region's Journey" magazine.
The tone is unmistakable. We see it in the gestures made by drivers who feel like their fellow road warriors have gotten just a bit too close. We observe it in the children who show disrespect for parents and other authorities in their lives. We sense it on the athletic field, as the spirit of competition morphs into a spirit of outright cruelty. And then, there are those politicians who engage in mean-spirited attacks and change their focus from issues to personal nuances.
These examples, I believe are symptomatic of the type of society in which we’re living, where anger and rage have replaced honor and respect. But, it gives us as Christians a unique opportunity to provide a strong contrast to the behavioral norms that have developed, practicing the words of our Lord, as He told us to love our neighbor as ourselves.
I would like share a few principles on cultural civility, rooted in the Biblical ideals of the Golden Rule (which is not, “do unto others before they do it unto you”!) and the answer to the question, “who is my neighbor?”.
First, recognize that we have a unique opportunity. These are days in which the Scriptures can be tremendously relevant. In the midst of angry people and attitudes, we can reflect peace and longsuffering. People are upset these days over a wide range of circumstances, whether it be the economy, issues at home, or an overstressed schedule. To go against the grain and reflect the fruit of the Spirit can attract others to the presence of Christ within you.
A smile is an outward expression that cannot be underestimated. If I had to describe the general emotion of our culture today, I don’t think “happy” or “joyful” would be two of the adjectives I would use. A smile can be contagious, reflecting an attitude that stands in contrast to what many are experiencing these days.
Kind words diffuse emotional upheavals. I had the chance several months ago to talk with Dr. Gary Chapman, perhaps best known for his association with the 5 Love Languages. He lamented the lack of civility in our society, saying, “We’ve forgotten…how to dialogue and how to be civil to somebody, even if you disagree with what they’re saying.” Dr. Chapman essentially said we could recapture a sense of civility if we as Christians learn how to treat people kindly and courteously, and demonstrate all the other traits of love. In his book, Love as a Way of Life, he identifies 7 characteristics of authentic love: kindness, patience, forgiveness, humility, courtesy, generosity, and honesty. This conversation is posted on the Meeting House website at www.meetinghouseonline.info/download.
Acts of kindness are living examples of Christ’s mercy. I believe that the faith walk is more than just talking the talk, but it involves walking in Christ’s steps. I think we practice His love and mercy by not only toning down our rhetoric and choosing our words carefully, but also engaging the culture by doing acts that back up our words.
Be intentional about people to whom you can lend a helping hand.
Last year, I interviewed Dr. Crawford Loritts, Senior Pastor of Fellowship Bible Church in the Atlanta area. Several years ago, after concluding a series on giving, church members were given a total of $30,000 in small bills to use in a “Kingdom Assignment”. The people were told to invest the money in advancing the cause of the gospel. Dr. Loritts said that, “God did some remarkable things”. Examples included families giving out packets to the homeless in downtown Atlanta, providing an eye exam and glasses for a special needs child in a single-parent situation, drilling wells in Third World countries, and the purchase of an ad for a website for prayer – the word of that purchase spread through the newspaper office and landed the church on the front page of the newspaper!! I believe that we can identify special people and projects, in addition to being ready in and out of season to reflect His nature.
And, remember, you are an ambassador for Christ. Our family has learned this in special ways over the last few months. The four of us went on a missions trip to North Carolina to help in the building of a camp that will serve inner city youth. We participated in a service day with our church, and helped paint a house and do other chores at a special lady’s house. Plus, my wife and daughter ministered to the fair workers by assisting in serving them breakfast. It is in serving that we begin to lose ourselves and truly love our neighbors, and that brings joy to us personally and spreads the light of Christ to a world that needs to see the difference that is in us.
The interview with Crawford Loritts, to which I referred in the column, can also be found at www.meetinghouseonline.info/download.
The tone is unmistakable. We see it in the gestures made by drivers who feel like their fellow road warriors have gotten just a bit too close. We observe it in the children who show disrespect for parents and other authorities in their lives. We sense it on the athletic field, as the spirit of competition morphs into a spirit of outright cruelty. And then, there are those politicians who engage in mean-spirited attacks and change their focus from issues to personal nuances.
These examples, I believe are symptomatic of the type of society in which we’re living, where anger and rage have replaced honor and respect. But, it gives us as Christians a unique opportunity to provide a strong contrast to the behavioral norms that have developed, practicing the words of our Lord, as He told us to love our neighbor as ourselves.
I would like share a few principles on cultural civility, rooted in the Biblical ideals of the Golden Rule (which is not, “do unto others before they do it unto you”!) and the answer to the question, “who is my neighbor?”.
First, recognize that we have a unique opportunity. These are days in which the Scriptures can be tremendously relevant. In the midst of angry people and attitudes, we can reflect peace and longsuffering. People are upset these days over a wide range of circumstances, whether it be the economy, issues at home, or an overstressed schedule. To go against the grain and reflect the fruit of the Spirit can attract others to the presence of Christ within you.
A smile is an outward expression that cannot be underestimated. If I had to describe the general emotion of our culture today, I don’t think “happy” or “joyful” would be two of the adjectives I would use. A smile can be contagious, reflecting an attitude that stands in contrast to what many are experiencing these days.
Kind words diffuse emotional upheavals. I had the chance several months ago to talk with Dr. Gary Chapman, perhaps best known for his association with the 5 Love Languages. He lamented the lack of civility in our society, saying, “We’ve forgotten…how to dialogue and how to be civil to somebody, even if you disagree with what they’re saying.” Dr. Chapman essentially said we could recapture a sense of civility if we as Christians learn how to treat people kindly and courteously, and demonstrate all the other traits of love. In his book, Love as a Way of Life, he identifies 7 characteristics of authentic love: kindness, patience, forgiveness, humility, courtesy, generosity, and honesty. This conversation is posted on the Meeting House website at www.meetinghouseonline.info/download.
Acts of kindness are living examples of Christ’s mercy. I believe that the faith walk is more than just talking the talk, but it involves walking in Christ’s steps. I think we practice His love and mercy by not only toning down our rhetoric and choosing our words carefully, but also engaging the culture by doing acts that back up our words.
Be intentional about people to whom you can lend a helping hand.
Last year, I interviewed Dr. Crawford Loritts, Senior Pastor of Fellowship Bible Church in the Atlanta area. Several years ago, after concluding a series on giving, church members were given a total of $30,000 in small bills to use in a “Kingdom Assignment”. The people were told to invest the money in advancing the cause of the gospel. Dr. Loritts said that, “God did some remarkable things”. Examples included families giving out packets to the homeless in downtown Atlanta, providing an eye exam and glasses for a special needs child in a single-parent situation, drilling wells in Third World countries, and the purchase of an ad for a website for prayer – the word of that purchase spread through the newspaper office and landed the church on the front page of the newspaper!! I believe that we can identify special people and projects, in addition to being ready in and out of season to reflect His nature.
And, remember, you are an ambassador for Christ. Our family has learned this in special ways over the last few months. The four of us went on a missions trip to North Carolina to help in the building of a camp that will serve inner city youth. We participated in a service day with our church, and helped paint a house and do other chores at a special lady’s house. Plus, my wife and daughter ministered to the fair workers by assisting in serving them breakfast. It is in serving that we begin to lose ourselves and truly love our neighbors, and that brings joy to us personally and spreads the light of Christ to a world that needs to see the difference that is in us.
The interview with Crawford Loritts, to which I referred in the column, can also be found at www.meetinghouseonline.info/download.
Friday, October 17, 2008
7 Leadership Labels
I wanted to pass along my latest column from "River Region's Journey" magazine. It's so important that men and women of character are elected to public office, and that the leadership characteristics that are consistent with Scripture are demonstrated by God's people. So here are some thoughts that I submitted to Journey.
The 2008 elections will be here practically before we realize it, and it is definitely time to be praying for the choices that we will make. As I’ve said on my radio program, The Meeting House, on Faith Radio, it’s important that we exercise our right to vote and make prayerful and informed choices.
I have crafted a list of 7 characteristics – “leadership labels”, if you will, that can be qualities that each of us would want to emulate and that we can look for in the leaders we choose.
Character.
One’s character is the essence of his or her personality. I’ve heard it said that character is who a person is when there is nobody watching. I think that a person of good character is someone who can be trusted, who takes life seriously and soberly, and has a keen sense of his or her life’s purpose. I believe that one of the key elements of character is one’s…
Core Beliefs.
When examining candidates for public office, I think it’s critical that, whenever possible, we determine what drives a person – not merely what someone will say in order to get elected, but what activities in which he or she has participated, and with whom or what the person has associated. If one’s motivation can be discerned, then it can go a long way in determining how someone will behave when assuming the mantle of public trust. How willing is someone to govern based on those core beliefs? Do those beliefs become…
Convictions.
Convictions are solidly held principles that provide a strong foundation for how a person behaves. Unfortunately, some politicians say that they hold a certain set of beliefs, yet do not believe they should impose those beliefs on others. If one holds to his or her convictions, then that person will do the right thing, regardless of the political fallout. I believe respect can be gained if someone is willing to make policy decisions that reflect deeply-held convictions. I believe that faith has a key role in the development of public policy, and an important question for people of faith who aspire to high office is: how does your personal faith influence the decisions you make? And a person who has convictions will allow themselves to be governed by…
Conscience.
A conscience is grounded in a sense of right and wrong – a moral compass that helps one to make good decisions, even in the heat of the moment. A good leader, I believe, has an intuitive sense of how to act when leadership is needed or desired. And, if someone is dedicated to following one’s conscience, then it will be reflected in his or her…
Communication.
Words have meaning. A person of ideas is well-served if those ideas can be communicated in a clear, concise, and sincere manner. People who share candidly, from the heart, can make a distinct impression and use their influence for the good of others. Jesus was such a communicator – He understood the power of ideas, was able to relate to people on their level, and used words to paint effective pictures of the truth He desired for people to embrace. A person with good communication skills alone is not necessarily a good leader, but a person who backs his speech up with quality, consistent action is someone to whom we should pay attention. And we can be drawn by…
Creativity.
The ability to speak and act creatively helps someone stand out from the crowd - Not flashy, but fresh…not mundane, but motivational. If one is content with the status quo, then complacency can set in. But, if one is constantly evaluating, looking for ways to improve, some creative energy can be generated that can bring about the desired results. And, at all time, the good leader keeps in mind that it’s not all about him or her, but the focus should be…
Centered on Others.
Jesus came to earth, becoming one of us so that we might be saved. He said in Mark that He did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. Does a politician, someone aspiring to hold public office, recognize the calling he or she has to be a servant-leader? A quality leader is not looking to rule, but to serve…not to dictate, but to illustrate what it means to help other people.
Of course, issues are very important, and in examining potential leaders, I encourage you to evaluate the positions on a variety of issues, consistent with a Biblical worldview perspective. I believe that we are a country that has a tremendous leadership void, and that statesmen – quality leaders - are required in the future to address the significant challenges of our public entities.
The 2008 elections will be here practically before we realize it, and it is definitely time to be praying for the choices that we will make. As I’ve said on my radio program, The Meeting House, on Faith Radio, it’s important that we exercise our right to vote and make prayerful and informed choices.
I have crafted a list of 7 characteristics – “leadership labels”, if you will, that can be qualities that each of us would want to emulate and that we can look for in the leaders we choose.
Character.
One’s character is the essence of his or her personality. I’ve heard it said that character is who a person is when there is nobody watching. I think that a person of good character is someone who can be trusted, who takes life seriously and soberly, and has a keen sense of his or her life’s purpose. I believe that one of the key elements of character is one’s…
Core Beliefs.
When examining candidates for public office, I think it’s critical that, whenever possible, we determine what drives a person – not merely what someone will say in order to get elected, but what activities in which he or she has participated, and with whom or what the person has associated. If one’s motivation can be discerned, then it can go a long way in determining how someone will behave when assuming the mantle of public trust. How willing is someone to govern based on those core beliefs? Do those beliefs become…
Convictions.
Convictions are solidly held principles that provide a strong foundation for how a person behaves. Unfortunately, some politicians say that they hold a certain set of beliefs, yet do not believe they should impose those beliefs on others. If one holds to his or her convictions, then that person will do the right thing, regardless of the political fallout. I believe respect can be gained if someone is willing to make policy decisions that reflect deeply-held convictions. I believe that faith has a key role in the development of public policy, and an important question for people of faith who aspire to high office is: how does your personal faith influence the decisions you make? And a person who has convictions will allow themselves to be governed by…
Conscience.
A conscience is grounded in a sense of right and wrong – a moral compass that helps one to make good decisions, even in the heat of the moment. A good leader, I believe, has an intuitive sense of how to act when leadership is needed or desired. And, if someone is dedicated to following one’s conscience, then it will be reflected in his or her…
Communication.
Words have meaning. A person of ideas is well-served if those ideas can be communicated in a clear, concise, and sincere manner. People who share candidly, from the heart, can make a distinct impression and use their influence for the good of others. Jesus was such a communicator – He understood the power of ideas, was able to relate to people on their level, and used words to paint effective pictures of the truth He desired for people to embrace. A person with good communication skills alone is not necessarily a good leader, but a person who backs his speech up with quality, consistent action is someone to whom we should pay attention. And we can be drawn by…
Creativity.
The ability to speak and act creatively helps someone stand out from the crowd - Not flashy, but fresh…not mundane, but motivational. If one is content with the status quo, then complacency can set in. But, if one is constantly evaluating, looking for ways to improve, some creative energy can be generated that can bring about the desired results. And, at all time, the good leader keeps in mind that it’s not all about him or her, but the focus should be…
Centered on Others.
Jesus came to earth, becoming one of us so that we might be saved. He said in Mark that He did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many. Does a politician, someone aspiring to hold public office, recognize the calling he or she has to be a servant-leader? A quality leader is not looking to rule, but to serve…not to dictate, but to illustrate what it means to help other people.
Of course, issues are very important, and in examining potential leaders, I encourage you to evaluate the positions on a variety of issues, consistent with a Biblical worldview perspective. I believe that we are a country that has a tremendous leadership void, and that statesmen – quality leaders - are required in the future to address the significant challenges of our public entities.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
"Fireproof" Catching Fire
Have you heard? The Kendrick brothers from Albany, Georgia and Sherwood Baptist Church are at it again - their next project is called, "Fireproof", and it's due in theaters on September 26th.
These are genuinely humble individuals who desire to touch the world from their hometown of Albany, and through the movie, "Facing the Giants", they presented a powerful gospel message against the backdrop of high school football. The miracle story of how a church-based production company made a movie for $100,000 and grossed $10 million at the box office is an incredible testimony to God's greatness.
Now, they are attempting to share a message of the sanctity of marriage and God's ability to save and revolutionize marriage through their film, "Fireproof".
A pastor and church leader screening is in the works for the Montgomery area, and I encourage you to visit the website at http://www.fireproofthemovie.com/. Here's a source for information on "Fireproof":
You can hear my interview with Stephen Kendrick of Sherwood Pictures, Producer of "Fireproof" at: www.meetinghouseonline.info/download.
These are genuinely humble individuals who desire to touch the world from their hometown of Albany, and through the movie, "Facing the Giants", they presented a powerful gospel message against the backdrop of high school football. The miracle story of how a church-based production company made a movie for $100,000 and grossed $10 million at the box office is an incredible testimony to God's greatness.
Now, they are attempting to share a message of the sanctity of marriage and God's ability to save and revolutionize marriage through their film, "Fireproof".
A pastor and church leader screening is in the works for the Montgomery area, and I encourage you to visit the website at http://www.fireproofthemovie.com/. Here's a source for information on "Fireproof":
You can hear my interview with Stephen Kendrick of Sherwood Pictures, Producer of "Fireproof" at: www.meetinghouseonline.info/download.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Religious Freedom Scorecard - Liberty 2, Suppression 1
I like to think that by tracing some of these instances where religious liberties are being called into question and...carried into court, that it will serve to embolden Christians to take a stand for our constitutional rights and to recognize the rich religious heritage that we have, which our laws were designed to uphold.
I have 3 situations to share -
#1 - Gainesville, Florida. A Christian-based fraternity, Beta Upsilon Chi ("Brothers Under Christ"), desired to be recognized officially on the campus of the University of Florida. However, the university refused to do so. Recently, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals handed down a ruling in favor of BYX, and the fraternity's Executive Director, Jason Hoyt, came on The Meeting House to talk about it.
Listen
You can find out more about the fraternity by going to www.betaupsilon.chi.org.
#2 - Fredericksburg, Virginia. In this Southern city, a city councilman, who also is a local minister, desired to participate in the prayer rotation at the council meetings AND close his prayers in the name of Jesus. The council adopted a policy allowing only non-sectarian prayers, and the minister filed suit. The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, including former Supreme Court justice Sandra Day O'Connor, ruled against the minister. I was joined by former navy Chaplain Gordon James Klingenschmitt, who discussed this case with me:
Listen
You can discover more about this and the case I am about to highlight by going to www.prayinjesusname.org.
#3 - Baker City, Oregon. The City Council in this city took a look at its policy allowing only "non-sectarian" prayer to open its meetings, and decided to strike that requirements. Here again is Chaplain Klingenschmitt:
Listen
To download these 2 full interviews, you can go the Intersection Download Center at www.meetinghouseonline.info and find the .mp3 on the alphabetized list. Stay tuned to The Meeting House for regular updates concerning our religious liberties in America.
I have 3 situations to share -
#1 - Gainesville, Florida. A Christian-based fraternity, Beta Upsilon Chi ("Brothers Under Christ"), desired to be recognized officially on the campus of the University of Florida. However, the university refused to do so. Recently, the 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals handed down a ruling in favor of BYX, and the fraternity's Executive Director, Jason Hoyt, came on The Meeting House to talk about it.
Listen
You can find out more about the fraternity by going to www.betaupsilon.chi.org.
#2 - Fredericksburg, Virginia. In this Southern city, a city councilman, who also is a local minister, desired to participate in the prayer rotation at the council meetings AND close his prayers in the name of Jesus. The council adopted a policy allowing only non-sectarian prayers, and the minister filed suit. The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals, including former Supreme Court justice Sandra Day O'Connor, ruled against the minister. I was joined by former navy Chaplain Gordon James Klingenschmitt, who discussed this case with me:
Listen
You can discover more about this and the case I am about to highlight by going to www.prayinjesusname.org.
#3 - Baker City, Oregon. The City Council in this city took a look at its policy allowing only "non-sectarian" prayer to open its meetings, and decided to strike that requirements. Here again is Chaplain Klingenschmitt:
Listen
To download these 2 full interviews, you can go the Intersection Download Center at www.meetinghouseonline.info and find the .mp3 on the alphabetized list. Stay tuned to The Meeting House for regular updates concerning our religious liberties in America.
Saturday, July 19, 2008
Great Expectations
One of the real challenges that I considered when starting this blog was making sure I kept it updated - sometimes I've gone to sites that may have had their most recent post from the previous year or two. So, that's not what I had in mind. Actually, the fact that I haven't updated the blog in a little over a month bothers me a bit, so I'm going to try to be real good and play catch up here. I wanted to include my monthly column from the current issue of "River Region's Journey", and to enhance that reading experience, I will insert some audio from a recent interview with Randy Singer, an author and pastor who is mentioned in the column. So, here goes...
Supernatural?!
The novel’s protagonist labored under a cloud of suspicion – you see, she had contacted law enforcement officials to share with them that she had been having these visions that revealed possibly incriminating evidence in a string of horrific murders. The recipients of this information concluded that since she knew so much, she had to be the perpetrator.
This is my attempt to summarize the basic premise of a new novel by attorney and pastor Randy Singer called, By Reason of Insanity. This novel certainly raises questions about the realm of the supernatural. In fact, when Randy joined me on The Meeting House on Faith Radio recently, he made reference to a legal proceeding documented in the book of Acts, where the Apostle Paul was told that much learning had made him “mad”.
Unfortunately, in today’s culture, the realm of the supernatural is something that is explored, and even glorified, as long as it does not involved Christ or Christians. It is acceptable for horror movies and creepy novels to journey into the paranormal, UFO’s become a cute diversion, and the existence of space aliens a source of curiosity. But, if it deals with miracles, well, there seems to be an element that just tosses it away as “insanity”.
Here are some of Randy Singer's comments now from a recent edition of The Meeting House radio program:
Supernatural?!
The novel’s protagonist labored under a cloud of suspicion – you see, she had contacted law enforcement officials to share with them that she had been having these visions that revealed possibly incriminating evidence in a string of horrific murders. The recipients of this information concluded that since she knew so much, she had to be the perpetrator.
This is my attempt to summarize the basic premise of a new novel by attorney and pastor Randy Singer called, By Reason of Insanity. This novel certainly raises questions about the realm of the supernatural. In fact, when Randy joined me on The Meeting House on Faith Radio recently, he made reference to a legal proceeding documented in the book of Acts, where the Apostle Paul was told that much learning had made him “mad”.
Unfortunately, in today’s culture, the realm of the supernatural is something that is explored, and even glorified, as long as it does not involved Christ or Christians. It is acceptable for horror movies and creepy novels to journey into the paranormal, UFO’s become a cute diversion, and the existence of space aliens a source of curiosity. But, if it deals with miracles, well, there seems to be an element that just tosses it away as “insanity”.
Here are some of Randy Singer's comments now from a recent edition of The Meeting House radio program:
Is God still working outside of our human understanding – today, in our midst? We hear the obligatory references to God’s hand of protection when a disaster might claim fewer lives that we would have expected, but is a fascination with how He is working - beyond our senses – something that Bible-believing Christians should be involved in? The International Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention reports that a number of Muslims are coming to Christ through – yes, dreams and visions!! A note here – God’s primary method of communication is His Word, the Bible, and a person’s claim to have heard from God must line up with the principles and edicts of Scripture. If the Holy Spirit is truly leading us, then we certify His leading by ascertaining how it is lining up with God’s Word. But we also recognize that His Spirit is in the earth today, and He is capable and culpable in doing work that is outside the boundaries of what we can readily explain. He is moving in the hearts of believers, and He is communicating to us – and we can be challenged to discern whether are not we are truly hearing and listening.
Randy Singer, in that Meeting House interview, elaborated on being sensitive to the supernatural in a Christian sense:
Listen
The Bible depicts a spiritual realm in Ephesians 6, telling us that we are not waging “war” against flesh and blood, but against various legions of supernatural, evil forces. Angels and demons are truly all around us. In fact, the prophet Daniel was told by a powerful angel that an evil entity called, “the prince of Persia” hindered him for 21 days in attempting to bring a message to Him. So, what do we do with this information? I believe that we should be emboldened as believers to walk in a manner that certifies that, as 1st John 4:4 says, greater is He who is in us that He that is in the world.
Some final thoughts from Randy Singer on how to know that we are hearing God's voice or sensing His direction:
Listen
Super Potential!
I’ve been thinking about the notion of expectations – we’re promised in Scripture, in Ephesians 3:20, that God is able to do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we can ask or think. So, we acknowledge the supernatural realm and allow God to increase our level of expectation in Him. We also recognize the God-given abilities that He has placed within us – the gifts and talents that He desires to use for His glory.
And, there’s no better time to see these innate abilities developed than during the teen years. This was driven home by a recent Meeting House interview with Alex and Brett Harris, founders of a movement of teens called The Rebelution, and the authors of the book, Do Hard Things: A Teenage Rebellion Against Low Expectations. They are taking aim at, as Alex put it, “the modern notion of the teen years as really a vacation from responsibility.” In fact, they refer to something called the “myth of adolescence”.
I believe when our young people are challenged and energized, they can do amazing things and bring honor and glory to their Creator. It’s important that they are reinforced (lovingly, of course) in using those God-given abilities, and that we find ways to engage them in productive activities that take their minds off themselves and a sense of self-indulgence, and place it on God and others.
For more information on Randy Singer and his resources, you can visit his website at http://www.randysinger.net/. The brothers Harris have a website called http://www.therebelution.com/. Great and mighty is the Lord our God!!
The Harris brothers were featured in an earlier post here on the blog. Check out the May post, "Toward Higher Expectations", which has some .mp3 audio to which you can listen.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Who's Your Idol (from River Region's Journey)
The current edition of River Region's Journey magazine contains more Christian cultural commentary - in this piece from the June edition, I attempted to tie 3 threads from recent Meeting House programs together, and I hope it gives us all some thoughts upon which to reflect:
Around our house, Tuesday nights had morphed into quite a ritual – dinner in front of the tube, eyes and ears transfixed as the next “Idol” attempted to win the hearts of America. And while I’ve never been so crazy about the name, nevertheless the search for talent, the sense of competition, and the sharp comments of the judges make the program a regular part of life between March and May.
It’s funny what and who society tends to idolize and even place unrealistic expectations upon. I have to admit, as I wrote in my Meeting House blog, the finish to "Idol Gives Back" was absolutely incredible. I was thrilled that the end of the program featured the worship favorite, “Shout to the Lord”, and I wrote this:Yes, it stung that the name of Jesus was edited out of the first line of "Shout to the Lord", but I don't think that changes the meaning of the song to embrace some sort of Oprah-type generic religion…Sure beats some generic, so-called inspirational song like "We are the World".With regard to the choice of "Shout to the Lord" and the editing of the name of Jesus to "shepherd", I think we have to realize that the job description of the world is not to evangelize - that's our job...and we as Christians have been given a great opportunity to talk about the "Idol" show and perhaps get someone thinking about spiritual things and a relationship with Christ.
So, the inclusion of “Shout to the Lord” does not signify some sort of cultural epiphany, but I do believe it recognizes a place for faith in American life. And, I was glad that Jesus’ name was put back in when the contestants sang it the next night. Bob Kauflin talked about the event on The Meeting House and wrote about it on his blog at www.worshipmatters.com.
And, speaking of an “idol” in America and someone who has great expectations placed upon her, a moment about the whole Miley Cyrus/Vanify Fair deal. That high-profile story really gave Christian parents a dilemma – Do you show the pictures or even tell your teen or tween girls about the inappropriate photos that were shot by a Vanity Fair photographer who had a background in suggestive poses for her subjects? Well, I think that the whole situation becomes a teachable moment with our children as we can discuss issues of making right choices. When you get to be someone of Miley Cyrus’ stature, you have a greater responsibility – the stakes are higher, and it’s important that you remember that people are watching. Miley says her faith will keep her from ending up like Britney or Lindsay – let’s pray that she will be a good ambassador for Christ. To her credit, she was humble in apologizing for the Vanity Fair pictures and some Internet photos that circulated.
The practical lesson for each of is that as Christians, we are being watched closely – I just want to make sure that my life is a good representation of His glory…and that’s a great lesson to pass on to the next generation. For some insight, read recent Meeting House guest Kristen Fyfe’s piece, “Miley Media Mania” on the Culture and Media Institute website at www.cultureandmedia.com. Her colleague, Colleen Raezler, highlighted another subject that we can relate to the Miley meltdown - how society is bombarded with sexual messages, as she reviewed Carol Platt Liebau’s book, Prude: How the Sex Obsessed Culture Damages Girls (and America too!). Raezler, in paraphrasing Liebau, says that, “In consequence we are tolerating, even normalizing, sexual behavior among teens, to the detriment of girls above all.” It’s important that we as parents are cognizant of the messages that are being sent to our young people so that we can help them gird their minds with Biblical truth with regard to what is pure and appropriate.
And, finally, one of our longtime American idols – Oprah Winfrey – has bought into New Age spirituality, which Craig Branch of the Apologetics Resource Center and I discussed on the air. Some of latest higher-consciousness-we-are-all-part-of-God philosophy is seen in books such as The New Earth by Eckhart Tolle, who has been recently been featured in web seminars through Oprah’s website. Oprah herself discounts Jesus’ teaching that He is the way, the truth, and the life. Rhonda Byrne (The Secret) and Marianne Williamson (A Course in Miracles) are just two more of the teachers who embrace mystic self-as-God teachings. Truly, everything that’s spiritual is not necessarily Biblical. It’s critical that Christians evaluate what we see and hear in light of God’s word.
Idolatry comes in many personalities and philosophies, but it’s God who is the only One who can fulfill all our expectations.
You can visit the Meeting House website at www.meetinghouseonline.info to learn more about some of the topics being discussed on the program. I attempt to approach a variety of topics, including current issues, from a Christian worldview perspective, and I invite you to listen on Faith Radio and www.faithradio.org weekday afternoons between 4 & 6pm Central Time.
Around our house, Tuesday nights had morphed into quite a ritual – dinner in front of the tube, eyes and ears transfixed as the next “Idol” attempted to win the hearts of America. And while I’ve never been so crazy about the name, nevertheless the search for talent, the sense of competition, and the sharp comments of the judges make the program a regular part of life between March and May.
It’s funny what and who society tends to idolize and even place unrealistic expectations upon. I have to admit, as I wrote in my Meeting House blog, the finish to "Idol Gives Back" was absolutely incredible. I was thrilled that the end of the program featured the worship favorite, “Shout to the Lord”, and I wrote this:Yes, it stung that the name of Jesus was edited out of the first line of "Shout to the Lord", but I don't think that changes the meaning of the song to embrace some sort of Oprah-type generic religion…Sure beats some generic, so-called inspirational song like "We are the World".With regard to the choice of "Shout to the Lord" and the editing of the name of Jesus to "shepherd", I think we have to realize that the job description of the world is not to evangelize - that's our job...and we as Christians have been given a great opportunity to talk about the "Idol" show and perhaps get someone thinking about spiritual things and a relationship with Christ.
So, the inclusion of “Shout to the Lord” does not signify some sort of cultural epiphany, but I do believe it recognizes a place for faith in American life. And, I was glad that Jesus’ name was put back in when the contestants sang it the next night. Bob Kauflin talked about the event on The Meeting House and wrote about it on his blog at www.worshipmatters.com.
And, speaking of an “idol” in America and someone who has great expectations placed upon her, a moment about the whole Miley Cyrus/Vanify Fair deal. That high-profile story really gave Christian parents a dilemma – Do you show the pictures or even tell your teen or tween girls about the inappropriate photos that were shot by a Vanity Fair photographer who had a background in suggestive poses for her subjects? Well, I think that the whole situation becomes a teachable moment with our children as we can discuss issues of making right choices. When you get to be someone of Miley Cyrus’ stature, you have a greater responsibility – the stakes are higher, and it’s important that you remember that people are watching. Miley says her faith will keep her from ending up like Britney or Lindsay – let’s pray that she will be a good ambassador for Christ. To her credit, she was humble in apologizing for the Vanity Fair pictures and some Internet photos that circulated.
The practical lesson for each of is that as Christians, we are being watched closely – I just want to make sure that my life is a good representation of His glory…and that’s a great lesson to pass on to the next generation. For some insight, read recent Meeting House guest Kristen Fyfe’s piece, “Miley Media Mania” on the Culture and Media Institute website at www.cultureandmedia.com. Her colleague, Colleen Raezler, highlighted another subject that we can relate to the Miley meltdown - how society is bombarded with sexual messages, as she reviewed Carol Platt Liebau’s book, Prude: How the Sex Obsessed Culture Damages Girls (and America too!). Raezler, in paraphrasing Liebau, says that, “In consequence we are tolerating, even normalizing, sexual behavior among teens, to the detriment of girls above all.” It’s important that we as parents are cognizant of the messages that are being sent to our young people so that we can help them gird their minds with Biblical truth with regard to what is pure and appropriate.
And, finally, one of our longtime American idols – Oprah Winfrey – has bought into New Age spirituality, which Craig Branch of the Apologetics Resource Center and I discussed on the air. Some of latest higher-consciousness-we-are-all-part-of-God philosophy is seen in books such as The New Earth by Eckhart Tolle, who has been recently been featured in web seminars through Oprah’s website. Oprah herself discounts Jesus’ teaching that He is the way, the truth, and the life. Rhonda Byrne (The Secret) and Marianne Williamson (A Course in Miracles) are just two more of the teachers who embrace mystic self-as-God teachings. Truly, everything that’s spiritual is not necessarily Biblical. It’s critical that Christians evaluate what we see and hear in light of God’s word.
Idolatry comes in many personalities and philosophies, but it’s God who is the only One who can fulfill all our expectations.
You can visit the Meeting House website at www.meetinghouseonline.info to learn more about some of the topics being discussed on the program. I attempt to approach a variety of topics, including current issues, from a Christian worldview perspective, and I invite you to listen on Faith Radio and www.faithradio.org weekday afternoons between 4 & 6pm Central Time.
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Toward Higher Expectations, Part II
Yes, I had to do it...I started out my interview with John Rosemond for May discussing keeping kids occupied during the summer, and before I knew it, I had changed tracks and begun to follow-up on a conversation highlighted here on the Meeting House Blog with Alex and Brett Harris, founders of The Rebelution and authors of Do Hard Things, about increasing the expectation level for teens and exploring some of the negative aspects about what is now called adolescence. John weighed in on that topic and provided plenty of fodder for thought and conversation:
Listen
When we look at some of the attitudes and aptitudes of American teens, John actually puts some of the blame on parents and their leadership styles. He provided this insight:
Listen
John Rosemond is a regular guest of The Meeting House on Faith Radio, and you can regularly download our conversations in the Intersection Download Center at www.meetinghouseonline.info. His websites are www.rosemond.com and www.parentingbythebook.com.
Listen
When we look at some of the attitudes and aptitudes of American teens, John actually puts some of the blame on parents and their leadership styles. He provided this insight:
Listen
John Rosemond is a regular guest of The Meeting House on Faith Radio, and you can regularly download our conversations in the Intersection Download Center at www.meetinghouseonline.info. His websites are www.rosemond.com and www.parentingbythebook.com.
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