As the days drag on and the tar and oil covered wildlife creep ever closer to our beaches, I have not been the only one frustrated. I'm having flashbacks of Slick Willie's "I feel your pain" every time Obama opens his mouth with a fisherman, business owner or multi generation shrimper.I am frustrated at those who think big oil is the monster and ought to be shut down and gone for good. I'm angry at government for causing this disaster to be as big as it is and still growing. Before you say, now wait a minute, it's BP's fault, let me lay out some things.
First of all, I do blame BP. They have a huge mess that shouldn't have, or wouldn't have been if they had have done things right when they started fudging the safety rules. They have a responsibility to their employees to make sure things are done safely and properly. They have a responsibility to their share holders to do business the right way- to make money honestly. They have a responsibility to those independent franchise owners who bear the BP name, whom, by the way are feeling the brunt of much of this by ignorant people boycotting them. These are localized businesses folks- boycotting them hurts only your own local working folks, not the head corporation.
Anyway, BP has much responsibility, and they are and will be paying for their part.
I have to ask though. Who is going to take responsibility in the American government for their huge part in making this the worst environmental disaster to hit the Gulf States?
Long before, when the liberals prevented onshore and interior drilling, most oil companies were moved far off shore where accidents would not be able to be contained as quick as they could be if they were allowed to drill closer. We've seen all the failed attempts to cap this well in deep water, and we know that the first attempt would have worked if they had have been allowed in shallower waters or on land.
Government regulations have been in place for decades- so tell me, if the BP corp has questionable safety records- whose responsibility is it to shut them down until they clean themselves up? Uh, the government perhaps? Why bother having regulations if you don't regulate??!
This present administration did not cause this spill, but thanks to them and their politicking, using this in those famous Rham Emmanuel words "Don't let a good crisis go to waste", well, they ought to be proud of themselves- as they are milking this situation for everything they can. They have made big oil the fall guy- again. These progressives just hate corporations. Well, except when they are getting campaign millions that is. So, most folks who follow the lame stream media religiously all now hate big oil. Isn't that great? The wildlife is dying, but at least people hate corporate fat cats. So. Obama cares- he feels our pain. That's why he's been on this from day one. Sure. Go play another golf game obama, maybe we might just get this cleaned up quicker.
Our southern governors have no one to turn to, so they are tying to do all they can for themselves. Too bad the feds keep getting in the way.Quick run down, and I'll give the link for each one- if you're interested in learning.
People blamed Bush for the Katrina disaster. It's old news and people believe what they want to believe. At least Bush wavered the Jone's Act so to allow help into the coasts of Katina stricken states. Now, with Gov. Jindall who has been begging for help since day one, he has tried to do what he can to take charge. Only problem is, every time he turns around, his efforts are being hemmed in by the feds- the EPA, the Coast Guard and Federal Fish and Wildlife. The man's hands have been tied while he sees his people's lives sacked, and his shorelines trashed.
Obama has been on this from day one- sure. He's had offers from around the world to help with this- but they've been denied because of the Jone's Act. He's refused until now to lift the ban on foreign vessels. Counties who have offered have shaken their heads over the denials of help.
Sure and Obama has made his rounds a couple of times, blaming big oil all the way. He's used this crisis to push his Cap and Trade (Read massive fake global warming energy tax) and like Chicago gangsters of old, muscled his way and strong armed BP into paying massive amounts of money into a private account for a third party to pay out to those affected. Al Capone would have been proud!
Now, I have no problem with BP paying damages- but it is beyond the Constitution for any president to order a private corporation to do with their money. But then again, he's done the same thing over and over again with Big Auto, Big banks and so why not with Big Oil?He's pandering and positioning himself before the left of the left- forcing evil oil to pay up or else. The socialists are happy (Well, actually they are still griping) because BP will have to suspend their dividends for at least a year and not be able to pay out to their shareholders. YAY right?! Uh, well, take it from this peon- there are many other peons who actually own some shares and were depending on them (and other evil wall street type stocks) for their retirements. Oh well that's fine and dandy- now they can depend on the glorious government.
I digress. As I said, progressives really do hate any kind of capitalism- except when they are padding their campaign coffers with their money. Obama and the socialist libs have been raking in millions by Wall Street and big Oil. Why don't they give their money to the poor fishermen? Nah.
One last thought. It's scary to think about all the possibilities the government can do to make this crisis linger on. Now that hurricane season has started, it wouldn't surprise me to believe this administration would allow this crisis to go on hoping that a hurricane will come along. After all, it'd give more fodder to the global warming garbage they are still trying to sell us. It'd give more muscle to cap and trade and more government and bigger government control. Sad to think such things about an American government- but even sadder when America's recent government has given us reason to believe such things.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Scoffers
I read an article from Newsweek online called "Blood in the Water", which was the usual ignorance of "fundamentalist Christian" belief about the end times. Normally, I don't go in for this kind of tripe, but being long a student of Eschatology, I wanted to check it out, even though I knew it would be so off the mark. I wasn't disappointed. The reason I am even writing about it, and giving any lip service to the article at all, is because I've had this on my mind for quite a while, that there is so much confusion, error and lies about the Bible prophecies.
Consider the second part of the header of the piece- "To some Christian fundamentalists, the oil plume in the Gulf of Mexico heralds the apocalypse." Personally, I don't know anyone who believes in the literal prophetic writings who believes this disaster in the Gulf is part of Revelation. I know many of us have a thought that this is judgment on America for a variety of reasons, most recent is the appalling treatment of Israel by the antisemitic administration in the White House. But a part of Revelation which states in 8:8–11, “The second angel blew his trumpet, and something like a great mountain, burning with fire, was thrown into the sea. A third of the sea became blood, a third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed … A third of the waters became wormwood, and many died from the water, because it was made bitter.” I seriously doubt this. Besides, as destructive as this disaster is, the Gulf of Mexico can hardly be considered a third of the world's sea!
This author writes, "Broadly speaking, these Christians subscribe to a theology called "premillennial dispensationalism." In this world view, they are warriors on the side of God: a cosmic battle—culminating in apocalypse, judgment, and, finally, the reign of Jesus in “a new heaven and a new earth”—will come soon. The most determined of these believers mine the Book of Revelation for signs that the end is near. (I'd call it studying- not mining) A text of terrifying and mysterious prophesy, Revelation forecasts the apocalypse in coded language; Christians have spent lifetimes trying to break that code by correlating its verses to current events..."
The article then goes on to tell about those who have predicted the end- but not bothering to mention that the Bible itself says that no man, not even the Son knows the hour of the judgment of the Lord. God has His own timing. I know there have been many predictions made over the years, even by some very knowledgeable folks. Fact is, when we do witness things which seem to fit, many Bible believing Christians tend to get excited because we are waiting for the literal return of Christ. Some do make the mistake of predictions, which do a disservice to the Word of the Bible, in that non or new believers get discouraged or become cynical about any of the end time Prophecies.
The part which really struck me though, was later on in the article when the author (and I use the term lightly) attempts to put a political spin on a deeply held conviction.
"But there’s a problem. In the place where American religion and politics intersect, signs of the end times have traditionally been interpreted by members of the right as punishment for ungodly behavior by those on the left. And because the values of the religious right have mirrored those of the Republican Party—at least before the last presidential election—the "good guys" in the cosmic battle have tended to look like Republicans on the far-right fringe and the “bad guys” like liberal Democrats.....Yet through a biblical lens, it’s hard to see the oil spill as anything but God’s punishment for greed and a disrespect of Creation—and both of those sins fall mostly on the shoulders of the Republicans....So the question for biblical literalists becomes one of political alliances. Does God wreak apocalyptic wrath on members of one’s own party—or only on the opposition?"
One part at a time deserves rebuttal here, and if this woman is supposed to be a so called religion correspondent, she needs care and do a little more homework! First of all, I know that more Bible believing Christians do happen to be on the conservative side of the political aisle- but to put it "signs of the end times have traditionally been interpreted by members of the right as punishment for ungodly behavior by those on the left" is just plain ignorant.
Yes, there are a lot of issues politically which make Bible believing Christians angry, sad or outspoken, but to say republicans blame democrats for the End of days as written in prophecy is a little too egotistical and ridiculous. To think that someone because of their political affiliation has an "in with God" to where we can say that Revelation is coming because of another political party is offensive. God didn't decide that the world would end because only Democrats or Republicans are all sinful and evil. He is bringing about a new heaven and new earth to complete His plan where His will will be done on earth as it is in heaven. All are sinful, no matter who we are. The only thing which separates us is whether one has a personal relationship with Christ, whether one is born in the Spirit and has received the gift of Salvation through Christ Jesus. It is not up to me as a conservative to determine that the prophecies are coming to pass because I don't agree with liberals.
Next she presumes to know the mind of God- something which liberals always accuse us "fundies" of doing. She says, "Yet through a biblical lens, it’s hard to see the oil spill as anything but God’s punishment for greed and a disrespect of Creation—and both of those sins fall mostly on the shoulders of the Republicans...."
Oh, Ok. I'm sorry I brought this destruction down on the Gulf of Mexico- on beaches including one of the states where I live. Please! If one wants to look at this oil spill as punishment, I would say that again, God curses those who curse His People. With our treatment of Israel during the past few decades, it doesn't surprise me. I have posted in the past the "coincidences" which have occurred whenever our Government has cursed by agenda, the Israeli people. I see this latest as perhaps another coincidence, but keeping in mind that with the Lord there are no such things as coincidences. Could be that this was just a tragic accident. There are such things you know. And as for greed, greed and corruption fall in any political party, social status or society. Greed, I assume this author is speaking of wealth? One can be wealthy, and give more to society than can one who has very little. Yes, there are some who are wealthy yet greedy. For a little sample of those, look at my last post on charitable giving.
As for the author's last snide comment, "So the question for biblical literalists becomes one of political alliances. Does God wreak apocalyptic wrath on members of one’s own party—or only on the opposition?"Again, is a rediculous comment, uttered only because she, like so many these days have a disrespect not of Bible believing Christians, but of the Bible- God's Word. The prophecies of the end of times has nothing to do with political sides. Again, the judgements of the end of times as described not only in the Book of Revelation, but throughout the Bible, are on those who refuse to recieve Christ. Plain and simple. I know there are millions who take issue of this and would call me, and everyone else who believes this every name they could think of- intolerant, inclusive, sexist, xenophobic, racist (huh?!) and ignorant. Go ahead, we're used to it. But beware, it is not us who you are calling names- it is Christ Jesus, because after all it is He who says these things.
Ok, so, I knew the comment section of the article would be as interesting and predictable as the article. Here is a sampling:
"You godbots have been predicted the end for 2000 years now. Grow up."
"For any fundies who really believe this nonsense, I have a question. Can I have your car since you won't be needing it after the rapture?"
"As Abraham Maslow said in 1966, "It is tempting, if the only tool you have is a hammer, to treat everything as if it were a nail." If the focus of your consciousness is Revelations, then most of what you see will fit your interpretation - or you'll modify your interpretation to make it fit. How else would we see repetitions of the same predictions through history? People like drama, especially fundamentalists."
"I wonder when the world doesn't end, will these folks who are so sure it's going to, acknowledge they were wrong? I seriously doubt it. You'd think being wrong about something like that would have an effect on people's faith, but it doesn't really seem to. They just move on to the next "sign" and make up a new doomsday scenario, forgetting that they are always, inevitably, wrong. It is truly amazing that 60+ million Americans are completely delusional."
So, we are infants who like drama, and delusional doomsayers who willingly give up our cars at the rapture. See, I can be as sarcastic. Actually, it makes me sad. The whole thing, and so much of the attitudes of millions of unbelievers make me sad. They see, but are blind. They have heard but shut their ears. They, through pride or fear or anger refuse to acknowlege there is someone bigger than this life, that there is a greater purpose than this life. I'm not saying this out of spite or meanness- I say this because we have all put ourselves first- or our lives including our families, without acknowleging the One who created us. It is just that some of us have put our focus on Him now that we have found Him.
Moving on. You know what? I have had a similar discussion with family and friends who claim that every generation has believed they would be the generation that Jesus told about and that's true. Every generation has seen the decay and godlessness spread. Doesn't mean anything really though- there has been horrid rampant sin since the days of Noah. However, the point I make with everyone I discuss this topic with, is that no other generation had the rebirth of Israel. That, my dear ones is the clincher. Now, I am not going to predict that Jesus is coming this week, next month or 2 years from now. I have no idea when He is coming. All I know is that He will be coming soon. He gave us specific signs to look for, and those signs are now. Begining with the fig tree blooming- Israel reborn as a nation, the signs have been pointing along the way for the past 60 years. I am not going to go through them all here, as I have outlined them on Understanding the Bible Prophecies. There is a lot happening right now, as all news again and still is on Israel. There are some major things happening lately in which prophecies are coming to pass. Read Isaiah, Read Ezekiel, and you will see today's news headlines.
I do want to make a couple of points in wrapping this up however.
I have been wondering why I have such a fascination with Bible prophecy. It finally came to me. Even though I am reading the Whole Word, and can and try to find ways to apply it to my daily life, the prophecies are now. They are alive now. I look at the things happpening in the world and know that even though previous generations believed they were the ones, I know by history and present happenings that there were no way near the amount of things occurring as they are now which have already been told about in prophecy.
When I read the Word of Jesus, I see specifically the phrases: not yet..begining...then.... These from the Gospel accounts of what Jesus told His disciples when they asked for the signs of the times. A few of the commentors on the article had it right when they pointed out that the Revelation verse about the water turning to blood will be one of the judgments passed after the rapture. They will happen after certain other things come to pass, which have not passed yet. If people read the whole Word, they would not attempt to be so trite in writing such an article.
My last thought. I watched the movie 2012 this past weekend. First hollywood movie I've seen in quite some time. While I found it "hollywoodish" and I know the makers of the movie think Christians are nutjobs, after all he had great glee in the destruction of Christian symbols- the fact is, some day there will be horrible disasters come upon the world, something no hollywood producer could even conceive of. People think folks like myself are nuts because I believe what the Bible says. No, I don't believe the world will end on Dec. 31, 2012. I do know the world as we know it is coming to an end though. Jesus Christ will be coming soon- first for His own, then as the King of Kings , to make things right once and for all.
It is my sincere hope and prayer that instead of mocking, read the book. Read for yourself, with an open mind. After all, most claim Bible believing Christians are those with the small minds. Read the Gospels, read Ezekiel, Daniel, Psalm 83. Read Revelation. Ask for understanding. If you are not a believer, ask anyway- God, if you are real, please help me to understand and see. What can it hurt except your pride?
Jesus is coming. Some day every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess He is Lord. It would be much better for those to confess now willingly, instead of later.
Consider the second part of the header of the piece- "To some Christian fundamentalists, the oil plume in the Gulf of Mexico heralds the apocalypse." Personally, I don't know anyone who believes in the literal prophetic writings who believes this disaster in the Gulf is part of Revelation. I know many of us have a thought that this is judgment on America for a variety of reasons, most recent is the appalling treatment of Israel by the antisemitic administration in the White House. But a part of Revelation which states in 8:8–11, “The second angel blew his trumpet, and something like a great mountain, burning with fire, was thrown into the sea. A third of the sea became blood, a third of the living creatures in the sea died, and a third of the ships were destroyed … A third of the waters became wormwood, and many died from the water, because it was made bitter.” I seriously doubt this. Besides, as destructive as this disaster is, the Gulf of Mexico can hardly be considered a third of the world's sea!
This author writes, "Broadly speaking, these Christians subscribe to a theology called "premillennial dispensationalism." In this world view, they are warriors on the side of God: a cosmic battle—culminating in apocalypse, judgment, and, finally, the reign of Jesus in “a new heaven and a new earth”—will come soon. The most determined of these believers mine the Book of Revelation for signs that the end is near. (I'd call it studying- not mining) A text of terrifying and mysterious prophesy, Revelation forecasts the apocalypse in coded language; Christians have spent lifetimes trying to break that code by correlating its verses to current events..."
The article then goes on to tell about those who have predicted the end- but not bothering to mention that the Bible itself says that no man, not even the Son knows the hour of the judgment of the Lord. God has His own timing. I know there have been many predictions made over the years, even by some very knowledgeable folks. Fact is, when we do witness things which seem to fit, many Bible believing Christians tend to get excited because we are waiting for the literal return of Christ. Some do make the mistake of predictions, which do a disservice to the Word of the Bible, in that non or new believers get discouraged or become cynical about any of the end time Prophecies.
The part which really struck me though, was later on in the article when the author (and I use the term lightly) attempts to put a political spin on a deeply held conviction.
"But there’s a problem. In the place where American religion and politics intersect, signs of the end times have traditionally been interpreted by members of the right as punishment for ungodly behavior by those on the left. And because the values of the religious right have mirrored those of the Republican Party—at least before the last presidential election—the "good guys" in the cosmic battle have tended to look like Republicans on the far-right fringe and the “bad guys” like liberal Democrats.....Yet through a biblical lens, it’s hard to see the oil spill as anything but God’s punishment for greed and a disrespect of Creation—and both of those sins fall mostly on the shoulders of the Republicans....So the question for biblical literalists becomes one of political alliances. Does God wreak apocalyptic wrath on members of one’s own party—or only on the opposition?"
One part at a time deserves rebuttal here, and if this woman is supposed to be a so called religion correspondent, she needs care and do a little more homework! First of all, I know that more Bible believing Christians do happen to be on the conservative side of the political aisle- but to put it "signs of the end times have traditionally been interpreted by members of the right as punishment for ungodly behavior by those on the left" is just plain ignorant.
Yes, there are a lot of issues politically which make Bible believing Christians angry, sad or outspoken, but to say republicans blame democrats for the End of days as written in prophecy is a little too egotistical and ridiculous. To think that someone because of their political affiliation has an "in with God" to where we can say that Revelation is coming because of another political party is offensive. God didn't decide that the world would end because only Democrats or Republicans are all sinful and evil. He is bringing about a new heaven and new earth to complete His plan where His will will be done on earth as it is in heaven. All are sinful, no matter who we are. The only thing which separates us is whether one has a personal relationship with Christ, whether one is born in the Spirit and has received the gift of Salvation through Christ Jesus. It is not up to me as a conservative to determine that the prophecies are coming to pass because I don't agree with liberals.
Next she presumes to know the mind of God- something which liberals always accuse us "fundies" of doing. She says, "Yet through a biblical lens, it’s hard to see the oil spill as anything but God’s punishment for greed and a disrespect of Creation—and both of those sins fall mostly on the shoulders of the Republicans...."
Oh, Ok. I'm sorry I brought this destruction down on the Gulf of Mexico- on beaches including one of the states where I live. Please! If one wants to look at this oil spill as punishment, I would say that again, God curses those who curse His People. With our treatment of Israel during the past few decades, it doesn't surprise me. I have posted in the past the "coincidences" which have occurred whenever our Government has cursed by agenda, the Israeli people. I see this latest as perhaps another coincidence, but keeping in mind that with the Lord there are no such things as coincidences. Could be that this was just a tragic accident. There are such things you know. And as for greed, greed and corruption fall in any political party, social status or society. Greed, I assume this author is speaking of wealth? One can be wealthy, and give more to society than can one who has very little. Yes, there are some who are wealthy yet greedy. For a little sample of those, look at my last post on charitable giving.
As for the author's last snide comment, "So the question for biblical literalists becomes one of political alliances. Does God wreak apocalyptic wrath on members of one’s own party—or only on the opposition?"Again, is a rediculous comment, uttered only because she, like so many these days have a disrespect not of Bible believing Christians, but of the Bible- God's Word. The prophecies of the end of times has nothing to do with political sides. Again, the judgements of the end of times as described not only in the Book of Revelation, but throughout the Bible, are on those who refuse to recieve Christ. Plain and simple. I know there are millions who take issue of this and would call me, and everyone else who believes this every name they could think of- intolerant, inclusive, sexist, xenophobic, racist (huh?!) and ignorant. Go ahead, we're used to it. But beware, it is not us who you are calling names- it is Christ Jesus, because after all it is He who says these things.
Ok, so, I knew the comment section of the article would be as interesting and predictable as the article. Here is a sampling:
"You godbots have been predicted the end for 2000 years now. Grow up."
"For any fundies who really believe this nonsense, I have a question. Can I have your car since you won't be needing it after the rapture?"
"As Abraham Maslow said in 1966, "It is tempting, if the only tool you have is a hammer, to treat everything as if it were a nail." If the focus of your consciousness is Revelations, then most of what you see will fit your interpretation - or you'll modify your interpretation to make it fit. How else would we see repetitions of the same predictions through history? People like drama, especially fundamentalists."
"I wonder when the world doesn't end, will these folks who are so sure it's going to, acknowledge they were wrong? I seriously doubt it. You'd think being wrong about something like that would have an effect on people's faith, but it doesn't really seem to. They just move on to the next "sign" and make up a new doomsday scenario, forgetting that they are always, inevitably, wrong. It is truly amazing that 60+ million Americans are completely delusional."
So, we are infants who like drama, and delusional doomsayers who willingly give up our cars at the rapture. See, I can be as sarcastic. Actually, it makes me sad. The whole thing, and so much of the attitudes of millions of unbelievers make me sad. They see, but are blind. They have heard but shut their ears. They, through pride or fear or anger refuse to acknowlege there is someone bigger than this life, that there is a greater purpose than this life. I'm not saying this out of spite or meanness- I say this because we have all put ourselves first- or our lives including our families, without acknowleging the One who created us. It is just that some of us have put our focus on Him now that we have found Him.
Moving on. You know what? I have had a similar discussion with family and friends who claim that every generation has believed they would be the generation that Jesus told about and that's true. Every generation has seen the decay and godlessness spread. Doesn't mean anything really though- there has been horrid rampant sin since the days of Noah. However, the point I make with everyone I discuss this topic with, is that no other generation had the rebirth of Israel. That, my dear ones is the clincher. Now, I am not going to predict that Jesus is coming this week, next month or 2 years from now. I have no idea when He is coming. All I know is that He will be coming soon. He gave us specific signs to look for, and those signs are now. Begining with the fig tree blooming- Israel reborn as a nation, the signs have been pointing along the way for the past 60 years. I am not going to go through them all here, as I have outlined them on Understanding the Bible Prophecies. There is a lot happening right now, as all news again and still is on Israel. There are some major things happening lately in which prophecies are coming to pass. Read Isaiah, Read Ezekiel, and you will see today's news headlines.
I do want to make a couple of points in wrapping this up however.
I have been wondering why I have such a fascination with Bible prophecy. It finally came to me. Even though I am reading the Whole Word, and can and try to find ways to apply it to my daily life, the prophecies are now. They are alive now. I look at the things happpening in the world and know that even though previous generations believed they were the ones, I know by history and present happenings that there were no way near the amount of things occurring as they are now which have already been told about in prophecy.
When I read the Word of Jesus, I see specifically the phrases: not yet..begining...then.... These from the Gospel accounts of what Jesus told His disciples when they asked for the signs of the times. A few of the commentors on the article had it right when they pointed out that the Revelation verse about the water turning to blood will be one of the judgments passed after the rapture. They will happen after certain other things come to pass, which have not passed yet. If people read the whole Word, they would not attempt to be so trite in writing such an article.
My last thought. I watched the movie 2012 this past weekend. First hollywood movie I've seen in quite some time. While I found it "hollywoodish" and I know the makers of the movie think Christians are nutjobs, after all he had great glee in the destruction of Christian symbols- the fact is, some day there will be horrible disasters come upon the world, something no hollywood producer could even conceive of. People think folks like myself are nuts because I believe what the Bible says. No, I don't believe the world will end on Dec. 31, 2012. I do know the world as we know it is coming to an end though. Jesus Christ will be coming soon- first for His own, then as the King of Kings , to make things right once and for all.
It is my sincere hope and prayer that instead of mocking, read the book. Read for yourself, with an open mind. After all, most claim Bible believing Christians are those with the small minds. Read the Gospels, read Ezekiel, Daniel, Psalm 83. Read Revelation. Ask for understanding. If you are not a believer, ask anyway- God, if you are real, please help me to understand and see. What can it hurt except your pride?
Jesus is coming. Some day every knee will bow, and every tongue will confess He is Lord. It would be much better for those to confess now willingly, instead of later.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
The Harlot Church
The Lord talks about apostasy. He tells of false Christs, wolves in sheep's clothing. Satan is described as an angel of light, the father of lies, coming to kill and destroy.
I've had so much on my mind for a long time now, it's been hard for me to write much. I've had so much going through my mind about daily things going on, in my own life and goings on in the world that I've almost shut down because it's almost overloaded me with burdens. Forgive me if I'm rambling.
As some of you know, I've written my blogs for over 5 years now- and I've written a bit about many things. Most of which has been politics, and as the byline of my blogs have always been world events with a Biblical Perspective. Some past posts have dealt with the church, and various leaders, mega church activities and how the world has not just crept into the church, but pretty much bombarded it. I'd like to expand on my thoughts about the way such entities as government, media and church leaders have begun (actually they began quite a while ago, but it's becoming more so now) to fuse together- all in the name of social justice.Now, although I do listen to Glenn Beck, I've had this subject on my mind for a long time, so it is purely coincidence that I write about it now as he has been focusing on the same subject for the past little while.
Where to begin- there is so much to write, to think about. This is going to be one of my notorious long ones folks, so get something to drink and make yourselves comfortable.
There are a few things about it all, but I guess the place to start would be here and now, with the current president and his Marxist ideologies. Not just his own, but that of nearly everyone he has surrounded himself with for decades. I'll only include some of the names here and now, as much of these are old news now. The only reason to bring them up is a refresher. There was and is Bill Ayres, that infamous unrepentant terrorist and member of the radical 60's organization, the Weather Underground. There was the "Almost like an uncle" Pastor of the Black Liberation church, Jeremiah Wright- with his 20 something years of antisemitic, anti American, socialist sermons which moved Obama so much as to be baptized by the man, and have him baptize his daughters. There is Rahm "never let a good crisis go to waste" Immanuel, the main man behind the teleprompter. There was Anita "one of my favorite people was Mao" Dunn. There is Saul Alinsky, the father of the socialist community organizer, whom in his book (a handbook to all progressive Marxists) Rules for Radicals," Alinsky wrote: “Lest we forget at least an over the shoulder acknowledgement of the very first radical, from all our legends, mythology, and history … the first radical known to man who rebelled against the establishment and did it so effectively that he at least won his own kingdom—Lucifer.”
If you read back on past memories of Obama, you will find that he has purposely surrounded himself with radicals, Marxists etc. He is actually quoted as saying, "To avoid being mistaken for a sellout, I chose my friends carefully. The more politically active black students. The foreign students. The Chicanos. The Marxist Professors and the structural feminists and punk-rock performance poets."
Enter the progressive media, which has done a great job of burying all of Obamas Marxist ties and ongoing relationship with a true terrorist, while at the same time painting the Bible believing Christian voters and tea party folks as homegrown terrorists. This same media who about stroked out when President Bush announced a faith based initiative has been either silent about Obama's continuation and even more involved version, or they all of a sudden have "found religion" themselves. Case in point, when the Obama care agenda was really heating up, we heard from folks such as Ed Schultz, who on his MSNBC program, “The ED Show” told viewers back in September, that he believed Jesus would vote for a government public option.
I have often talked about the hypocrisy of the liberals in wanting to hold on to the false doctrine of the separation of church and state, until religion could be used for their own purposes. Liberal politicians have been actually preaching from the pulpits of liberal churches for years and not a peep, but have a pastor speaking out on bills such as the recent homosexual marriage amendments in California and Florida, and there has been hell to pay. So, latest example, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said she has told Catholic cardinals, archbishops and bishops that she wants them to speak from the pulpit for immigration reform and tell Catholics who oppose it that reform “is a manifestation of our living the gospels.”
(For more about that, most of my thoughts on that are in my previous post about illegal immigration) She is not the first, nor will she be the last hypocrite to speak to church leaders or in a church. We've had to listen to guys like Al Gore spreading his inconvenient lie right into the church for years. Oh, and speaking of the environment, we have this from Ted "Christianity is for losers" Turner who lamented about America's greed in polluting the world. “I’m not a real religious person, but I’m somewhat religious. And I’m just wondering if God is telling us he doesn’t want us to drill offshore,” he said. “And right before that we had that coal mine disaster in West Virginia where we lost 29 miners,” as well as repeated mining disasters – “Maybe the Lord’s tired of having the mountains of West Virginia, the tops knocked off of them so they can get more coal. I think maybe we ought to just leave the coal in the ground and go with solar and wind power and geo-thermals where it’s applicable.”
OK, just a few examples, but you can get the point. Religion is good if these folks can use it for their own advantage or to spread their own ideas of what everyone else should do. Christ is not good though, for preaching the Bible because it might offend and be deemed hate speech.
Enter the liberal church. Leaders such as Obama's latest guru, Jim Wallace of the Sojourners. Now, I wrote about him and a few others of the "red letter Christians" about 4 years ago. They have had a huge increase in popularity over the past few years, starting with their emergent church philosophies and more so with liberals who are gaga over social justice issues.
When first reading or listening to guys like Wallace, everything seems A OK. In fact, on the surface, what he preaches is pretty good, and can be something that everyone could benefit from. I read quite a few of his articles again the other night, and yes, he seemed to make sense. Whenever I have gone onto socialist or communist websites, and liberal/progressive church sites, much of what they talk about sounds good. That is, until you dig a little deeper. It is much the same with guys like Jim Wallace, Tony Compollo, Rick Warren and others. It sounds good- on the surface, but as I was thinking to myself last night, there was something not quite right. I couldn't put my finger on what was bothering me. I was asking (praying for guidance) if I was being like a pharisee about groups like the Sojourners. I mean, these guys preach about helping the poor, taking care of the earth, trying to heal the sick, loving our neighbors and our enemies. These are all things Jesus talks about right? So, Lord- why do I still feel like there's something not quite right?
The answer came a little while later. No- I do not physically hear a voice in my head, but the answer did come. While these men may touch briefly on Jesus and His forgiveness, to them, that is it. I have not once read or heard them speak of redemption on the cross, Christ crucified for our sins and repentance. I have not once heard these groups preach the Gospel message. I have not once heard about Christ coming to set up His Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven- NO. Their message rests on demands that we, specifically, they, with help from world leaders and government bodies, work towards creating His Kingdom. That is what has bothered me for the longest time.
These folks, so many of them, continuously preach on saving the planet from greedy destruction, saving people's physical lives through eradication of disease- spread much by greedy nations, redistributing wealth to make everyone on equal standing. Fixing society's problems- without telling them about eternal salvation. These folks have the sin of pride in believing that the Lord's creation can heal itself, that we, who are in His image, are like Him in that we can make His Kingdom on earth.
Satan is good. Good at deceiving that is. He uses circumstances and opportunities by preaching just enough of the Truth to make it sound right, but always going back to human effort, dependence on human will instead of doing God's will.
Listen, and listen good. Bible believing Christians do care about the earth. We care because the Lord gave it to us to live and thrive. However- caring for His creation is much different that worshiping His creation. Bible believing Christians worship the God who created- but we know by His Word that this earth will pass away, along with everything else, and everything will be made new. By God- not by man! We aren't ignorant because we don't believe all the global warming hype of people like Al Gore. We know because of the Lord's Word that the earth will last as long as He wills it, until His purpose is done. You know, maybe, just maybe men like Al Gore would be a little more believable if they weren't hypocrites. He makes millions of dollars a year speaking around the world about how we are killing the earth. He scares children. All the while, he is making money hand over fist with phony carbon credits, buying a huge mansion along the coast of California, and using more electricity in his Tennessee home in one month than most Tennesseans use in a year. It's not the size of his homes, the private jets and SUV's parked in his driveway- it is his do as I say, not as I do mentality which bothers me. I could care less how many billions he has. I've known rich people all my life- and am not biased towards wealth. I think it's great that people can invent or have the talents to "strike it rich". What I do not agree with is making money off of phony scare mongering and hypocrisy.
Bible believing people believe in loving others, and our enemies. Wallace and others make much ado about their "dialogues" and "interfaith" gatherings. They are proud of the way they can get along with people of other beliefs. OK, again I say- good for you! But I also say, you are allowing many, many people to follow a road which will lead them to hell, all because you don't want to offend your interfaith groups by preaching the Good News of Christ! You are loving people into hell. Bible believing Christians pray for their enemies, preach, even to death to those who would kill them, because Mr. Wallace, and every other progressive "christian", we LOVE them. We love them enough to know that they too, can be saved, they too are made in God's own image, they too, have every God given talent, gift and dignity to work to earn a living. No matter the color of their skin, Rev. Wright, no matter their social standing Rev. Sharpton, no matter their circumstances Mr. Obama- all people have from God, what it takes to live productively. Jesus tells us to go into all nations and spread the Good News. He tells us to love one another yes, but He tells us to tell others about Him! Bible believing Christians do that- the social justice/progressive church leaders do not.
Bible believing Christians believe in helping those who can not help themselves. We teach others to fish, because we know that giving them a fish will not feed them forever. Teaching them how, they will have the way to eat every day. Jesus does talk about the poor a lot, but He talks about hell more. Tell me Mr. Compollo- why is that? Perhaps because as He said, the poor will always be among us- but the eternal life is more important than this life? That we are told to not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal?Those who do not work, do not eat. The Bible talks about sharing, but it does not say for governments or elite groups to take away from one group to give to another. That taken by force is not charity. Give unto Caesar that which belongs to him, Give unto God that which belongs to God- is not a license for government to demand 60 percent of wages from the rich to give to the poor through taxes. Government is not the giver of liberties- God is the giver of liberties. The progressive democrats and church do not believe this. They believe it is man who gives, or they would not be demanding social justice.
Maybe if progressives did as they demand others to do, it wouldn't be so bad. But again, these are hypocrites! They spew lies about greed and corruption, create class warfare by promoting stories about greedy capitalists such as those on Wall Street. Corporate greed, capitalist greed, big bank, big oil etc., etc. How much have we heard this from Obama and company? They all claim the same thing. They care about the poor. I asked my mother in law once why she believed so much in the democrats. She answered the same thing- because they care about the poor and the workin' man.
OK. Lets see how much they care. Here are a couple of examples of how generous and caring some of these folks are.
Then Vice President Al Gore's charitable contributions, as a percentage of his income, were below the national average: He gave 0.2 percent of his family income, one-seventh of the average for donating households. He was, it was told, being charitable, as liberals understand that word, by redistributing wealth by social justice and high taxes on the rich.
Andrew Cuomo, former New York Attorney General was an advocate for the homeless. He had, according to his website, “compassion toward the most vulnerable of us.” [...] but according to his own tax returns he made no charitable contributions between 1996 and 1999. In 2000 he donated a whopping $2,750. In 2004 and 2005, Cuomo had more than $1.5 million in adjusted gross income but gave $2,000 to charity.
Barack Obama has a rather poor track record when it comes to charitable contributions. He consistently gave 1 percent of his income to charity. In his most charitable year, 2005, he earned $1.7 million. By the way, obama does have that brother living in a hut over there in Kenya- still in a hut.
Senator John Kerry, in 1995 gave zero to charity, but did spend $500,000 to buy a half stake in an antique piece of art. In 1993, he gave $175 to the needy. Later, of course, Kerry married Theresa Heinz, rich heiress of the Heinz Ketchup fame, and today is active in charitable "causes" using the Heinz foundation money.
Senator Ted Kennedy was known as the ultimate liberal Robin Hood. He once told Al Hunt of the Wall Street Journal, “I come from an advantaged life, and I’ll be goddamned if I’m going to get re-elected to the U.S. Senate by taking food out of the mouths of needy children.” Too bad that Senator Kennedy never actually practiced by giving much money to needy children. His tax returns were top secret until he ran for President in the 1970s. He then released some of them. With a net worth of more than $8 million in the early 1970s and an income of $461,444 from a series of family trusts, that liberator of the little man gave barely 1 percent of his income to charity. The sum is about as much as Kennedy claimed as a write-off on his fifty-foot sailboat.
Robert Reich, once Bill Clinton’s Secretary of Labor and now a professor at Berkeley, has been outspoken about how greedy conservatives are. Because of conservatives, “America has placed too high a value on selfishness.” When he ran for governor of Massachusetts in 2002, he had to release his tax returns. Reich’s 1040 revealed an income of more than $1 million, much of it giving speeches to corporations and universities for up to $40,000 a pop. He contributed just $2,714 to charity, or .2 percent of his income and part of that was the value of a donation of a used drum set to an organization called City of Peace.
Mr. Rainbow Coalition, Jesse Jackson has often claimed that he operates from a “liberal spirit of compassion and love” while conservatives are “heartless and uncaring toward the silent poor.” But according to his publicly-released tax returns, he regularly donates less than 1 percent to charity. Jackson and his family have also established a charitable foundation called the Jackson Foundation to support the underprivileged. According to tax records, the foundation board is controlled by family members and they receive large contributions from corporations. In 2004, for example, they collected $964,000 from corporations like McDonald’s, Anheuser-Busch, and GMAC. When asked on the tax form to described “direct charitable activities,” the foundation responded: “none.” From the close to million dollars collected, they gave away only $46,000 to a couple of colleges. The Jackson Foundation spent nearly twice that amount — $84,172 — on a “gala celebration” in honor of — Jesse Jackson.
Franklin "Chicken in every pot" Roosevelt. He is regarded by many on the left as the personification of charity and compassion, but FDR actually had a pathetic record when it comes to giving to charity. Roosevelt had an average income of $93,000 ($1.3 million in today’s dollars) but gave away about 3 percent of his income to charity. In 1935, during the height of the Great Depression, when people really could have used it, he donated just 2 percent.
Much has been written about the Clintons earning over $100 million since leaving the white house. They also made liberal use of the charitable deduction, claiming $10.2 million in charitable giving over the eight years. Intriguingly, nearly all the donations went to the Clinton Family Foundation, which has disbursed only half the money. The Clintons can thus use the foundation for giving, such as the $100,000 it donated last year to a local South Carolina library - the day after Mrs. Clinton debated in that primary state. There are other examples of such politically targeted philanthropy, and it's worth noting that most of the foundation's disbursements came only after Mrs. Clinton announced her Presidential run. Interesting too, in a story not too long ago about donation of clothing for charity- it included, yuck, used underwear. Oh, and the Clinton's have a neice, about Chelsea's age, who is destitute. Her parents died, and she was left with nothing. Gee, Uncle Bill- can't you spare a dime?
Then there is that paragon of Christian virtue, Ms. "we will rid Washington of croneism and corruption" Pelosi. Pelosi’s salary as Speaker of the House earns her just $217,400. (Just?!) Except, of course, that Mrs Pelosi lists assets held jointly with her husband as being worth up to $92 million. The generous and charitable Mrs Pelosi’s contributions are to things which are disproportionately enjoyed by other wealthy people. Gee, how about that! The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the San Francisco Symphony are things rather rarely attended by people such as the workin' man.
If I could dig it up, I'd find the charitable contributions on the rest of them- but what's the point. Studies have shown that although liberal families' incomes average 6 percent higher than those of conservative families, conservative-headed households give, on average, 30 percent more to charity than the average liberal-headed household ($1,600 per year vs. $1,227). In the 10 reddest states, the average percentage of personal income donated to charity was 3.5. Residents of the bluest states, donated just 1.9 percent.
One of the best quotes I found while researching for this post is this: People who reject the idea that "government has a responsibility to reduce income inequality" give an average of four times more than people who accept that proposition. I don't know who said it, but it is brilliant, and true.
Oh, and one more thought about this. Obama's inquisition on the wealthy is creating a charity deficit. Because of this depression (remember- never let a good crisis go to waste!) and the demand for more taxes for government take overs of industry, healthcare, energy and banks, charitable contributions have declined.
From News Busters, I gathered this bit of info-- Another devastating intended/unintended consequence of the Obama administration's major government expansion: charity organizations (already in deep struggle to weather current economic conditions) will likely experience additional major decline in contributions. On the April 16 broadcast of Fox Business Network's "Varney & Co.," Rick Dunham, CEO of fundraising consultant Dunham & Company, weighed in on the new budget proposal that would scale back charitable deductions for families making over $250,000. We are talking about a large amount of money which could be going to help the poor. Unfortunately, the progressive, for the workin' man, marxists, believe in the government to provide, not private or church giving.
When Obama started talking about continuing with the faith based initiative which George W. Bush began, Obama stated,
"Now, make no mistake, as someone who used to teach constitutional law, I believe deeply in the separation of church and state, but I don’t believe this partnership will endanger that idea – so long as we follow a few basic principles. First, if you get a federal grant, you can’t use that grant money to proselytize to the people you help and you can’t discriminate against them – or against the people you hire – on the basis of their religion. Second, federal dollars that go directly to churches, temples, and mosques can only be used on secular programs. And we’ll also ensure that taxpayer dollars only go to those programs that actually work.”
So, in tying this all up. Obama with help from his faith leaders, will blend government and faith. Obama wants to use federal subsidies offered through the EPA and his faith-based outreach to get churches to do just what he claimed he is against- proselytizing, but this time it will be the green faith, the man based faith, the human ingenuity faith. Not only is the problem with the environmental lies of the green movement. The socialist church of Obama and friends focus on all social issues, mainly focusing on the environment, "gender" issues (the typical description for the homosexual lobby), re distribution of wealth etc. Oh, and I don't know why they call it redistribution- I mean, it's not like anyone distributed the money to all the wealthy people in the first place. These people actually earned by working for their wealth. Just call it as it is- stealing from those who have to give to the nanny state so they can give out what ever is left from their skimming off the top.
The left is always preaching about helping the poor- but I ask, after 70 years of government programs such as welfare, medicaid, social security, food stamps, government housing, government grants- why are there still so many poor among us? Mr. Wallace and the rest of the Liberal church- we can not be so pompous to believe that man can solve man's problems. Once the fall ocurred, humans as well as all creation fell under sin. Jesus Christ came the first time to save us from our sins by dying on the Cross. He overcame the power of death and Satan by raising bodily in the flesh 3 days after. Be sure- He will be coming again soon- to set things right once and for all. To set His Kingdom on earth as it is in Heaven. His Will will be done, not ours, not yours, not Obama or any other government. This heaven and this earth shall pass away, for Him to make all things new. You folks claim to live by Jesus's words, to you, that means the red letters. You do not beleive in the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. If you did, you would know that His Word is the Word of the Holy Scriptures. Jesus quoted the scriptures constantly. You can take the messages of His love yes! He does love each and every one of us! But we must take His whole word- not just the happy, easygoing, ear tickling parts, but all of it- and as leaders in our society, it is up to you to preach the whole Word. Woe to you teachers who lead your flocks astray.
The world has bombarded the church. Progressivism has invaded every denomination- from the Catholic Church, to the Baptist church, from the Protestants to the Episcopals. Satan is using just enough truth to spread his lie, that lie which will come soon to the formation of the one world church. Unfortunately that church will be still full- once Christ comes for His own.
I've had so much on my mind for a long time now, it's been hard for me to write much. I've had so much going through my mind about daily things going on, in my own life and goings on in the world that I've almost shut down because it's almost overloaded me with burdens. Forgive me if I'm rambling.
As some of you know, I've written my blogs for over 5 years now- and I've written a bit about many things. Most of which has been politics, and as the byline of my blogs have always been world events with a Biblical Perspective. Some past posts have dealt with the church, and various leaders, mega church activities and how the world has not just crept into the church, but pretty much bombarded it. I'd like to expand on my thoughts about the way such entities as government, media and church leaders have begun (actually they began quite a while ago, but it's becoming more so now) to fuse together- all in the name of social justice.Now, although I do listen to Glenn Beck, I've had this subject on my mind for a long time, so it is purely coincidence that I write about it now as he has been focusing on the same subject for the past little while.
Where to begin- there is so much to write, to think about. This is going to be one of my notorious long ones folks, so get something to drink and make yourselves comfortable.
There are a few things about it all, but I guess the place to start would be here and now, with the current president and his Marxist ideologies. Not just his own, but that of nearly everyone he has surrounded himself with for decades. I'll only include some of the names here and now, as much of these are old news now. The only reason to bring them up is a refresher. There was and is Bill Ayres, that infamous unrepentant terrorist and member of the radical 60's organization, the Weather Underground. There was the "Almost like an uncle" Pastor of the Black Liberation church, Jeremiah Wright- with his 20 something years of antisemitic, anti American, socialist sermons which moved Obama so much as to be baptized by the man, and have him baptize his daughters. There is Rahm "never let a good crisis go to waste" Immanuel, the main man behind the teleprompter. There was Anita "one of my favorite people was Mao" Dunn. There is Saul Alinsky, the father of the socialist community organizer, whom in his book (a handbook to all progressive Marxists) Rules for Radicals," Alinsky wrote: “Lest we forget at least an over the shoulder acknowledgement of the very first radical, from all our legends, mythology, and history … the first radical known to man who rebelled against the establishment and did it so effectively that he at least won his own kingdom—Lucifer.”
If you read back on past memories of Obama, you will find that he has purposely surrounded himself with radicals, Marxists etc. He is actually quoted as saying, "To avoid being mistaken for a sellout, I chose my friends carefully. The more politically active black students. The foreign students. The Chicanos. The Marxist Professors and the structural feminists and punk-rock performance poets."
Enter the progressive media, which has done a great job of burying all of Obamas Marxist ties and ongoing relationship with a true terrorist, while at the same time painting the Bible believing Christian voters and tea party folks as homegrown terrorists. This same media who about stroked out when President Bush announced a faith based initiative has been either silent about Obama's continuation and even more involved version, or they all of a sudden have "found religion" themselves. Case in point, when the Obama care agenda was really heating up, we heard from folks such as Ed Schultz, who on his MSNBC program, “The ED Show” told viewers back in September, that he believed Jesus would vote for a government public option.
I have often talked about the hypocrisy of the liberals in wanting to hold on to the false doctrine of the separation of church and state, until religion could be used for their own purposes. Liberal politicians have been actually preaching from the pulpits of liberal churches for years and not a peep, but have a pastor speaking out on bills such as the recent homosexual marriage amendments in California and Florida, and there has been hell to pay. So, latest example, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) said she has told Catholic cardinals, archbishops and bishops that she wants them to speak from the pulpit for immigration reform and tell Catholics who oppose it that reform “is a manifestation of our living the gospels.”
(For more about that, most of my thoughts on that are in my previous post about illegal immigration) She is not the first, nor will she be the last hypocrite to speak to church leaders or in a church. We've had to listen to guys like Al Gore spreading his inconvenient lie right into the church for years. Oh, and speaking of the environment, we have this from Ted "Christianity is for losers" Turner who lamented about America's greed in polluting the world. “I’m not a real religious person, but I’m somewhat religious. And I’m just wondering if God is telling us he doesn’t want us to drill offshore,” he said. “And right before that we had that coal mine disaster in West Virginia where we lost 29 miners,” as well as repeated mining disasters – “Maybe the Lord’s tired of having the mountains of West Virginia, the tops knocked off of them so they can get more coal. I think maybe we ought to just leave the coal in the ground and go with solar and wind power and geo-thermals where it’s applicable.”
OK, just a few examples, but you can get the point. Religion is good if these folks can use it for their own advantage or to spread their own ideas of what everyone else should do. Christ is not good though, for preaching the Bible because it might offend and be deemed hate speech.
Enter the liberal church. Leaders such as Obama's latest guru, Jim Wallace of the Sojourners. Now, I wrote about him and a few others of the "red letter Christians" about 4 years ago. They have had a huge increase in popularity over the past few years, starting with their emergent church philosophies and more so with liberals who are gaga over social justice issues.
When first reading or listening to guys like Wallace, everything seems A OK. In fact, on the surface, what he preaches is pretty good, and can be something that everyone could benefit from. I read quite a few of his articles again the other night, and yes, he seemed to make sense. Whenever I have gone onto socialist or communist websites, and liberal/progressive church sites, much of what they talk about sounds good. That is, until you dig a little deeper. It is much the same with guys like Jim Wallace, Tony Compollo, Rick Warren and others. It sounds good- on the surface, but as I was thinking to myself last night, there was something not quite right. I couldn't put my finger on what was bothering me. I was asking (praying for guidance) if I was being like a pharisee about groups like the Sojourners. I mean, these guys preach about helping the poor, taking care of the earth, trying to heal the sick, loving our neighbors and our enemies. These are all things Jesus talks about right? So, Lord- why do I still feel like there's something not quite right?
The answer came a little while later. No- I do not physically hear a voice in my head, but the answer did come. While these men may touch briefly on Jesus and His forgiveness, to them, that is it. I have not once read or heard them speak of redemption on the cross, Christ crucified for our sins and repentance. I have not once heard these groups preach the Gospel message. I have not once heard about Christ coming to set up His Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven- NO. Their message rests on demands that we, specifically, they, with help from world leaders and government bodies, work towards creating His Kingdom. That is what has bothered me for the longest time.
These folks, so many of them, continuously preach on saving the planet from greedy destruction, saving people's physical lives through eradication of disease- spread much by greedy nations, redistributing wealth to make everyone on equal standing. Fixing society's problems- without telling them about eternal salvation. These folks have the sin of pride in believing that the Lord's creation can heal itself, that we, who are in His image, are like Him in that we can make His Kingdom on earth.
Satan is good. Good at deceiving that is. He uses circumstances and opportunities by preaching just enough of the Truth to make it sound right, but always going back to human effort, dependence on human will instead of doing God's will.
Listen, and listen good. Bible believing Christians do care about the earth. We care because the Lord gave it to us to live and thrive. However- caring for His creation is much different that worshiping His creation. Bible believing Christians worship the God who created- but we know by His Word that this earth will pass away, along with everything else, and everything will be made new. By God- not by man! We aren't ignorant because we don't believe all the global warming hype of people like Al Gore. We know because of the Lord's Word that the earth will last as long as He wills it, until His purpose is done. You know, maybe, just maybe men like Al Gore would be a little more believable if they weren't hypocrites. He makes millions of dollars a year speaking around the world about how we are killing the earth. He scares children. All the while, he is making money hand over fist with phony carbon credits, buying a huge mansion along the coast of California, and using more electricity in his Tennessee home in one month than most Tennesseans use in a year. It's not the size of his homes, the private jets and SUV's parked in his driveway- it is his do as I say, not as I do mentality which bothers me. I could care less how many billions he has. I've known rich people all my life- and am not biased towards wealth. I think it's great that people can invent or have the talents to "strike it rich". What I do not agree with is making money off of phony scare mongering and hypocrisy.
Bible believing people believe in loving others, and our enemies. Wallace and others make much ado about their "dialogues" and "interfaith" gatherings. They are proud of the way they can get along with people of other beliefs. OK, again I say- good for you! But I also say, you are allowing many, many people to follow a road which will lead them to hell, all because you don't want to offend your interfaith groups by preaching the Good News of Christ! You are loving people into hell. Bible believing Christians pray for their enemies, preach, even to death to those who would kill them, because Mr. Wallace, and every other progressive "christian", we LOVE them. We love them enough to know that they too, can be saved, they too are made in God's own image, they too, have every God given talent, gift and dignity to work to earn a living. No matter the color of their skin, Rev. Wright, no matter their social standing Rev. Sharpton, no matter their circumstances Mr. Obama- all people have from God, what it takes to live productively. Jesus tells us to go into all nations and spread the Good News. He tells us to love one another yes, but He tells us to tell others about Him! Bible believing Christians do that- the social justice/progressive church leaders do not.
Bible believing Christians believe in helping those who can not help themselves. We teach others to fish, because we know that giving them a fish will not feed them forever. Teaching them how, they will have the way to eat every day. Jesus does talk about the poor a lot, but He talks about hell more. Tell me Mr. Compollo- why is that? Perhaps because as He said, the poor will always be among us- but the eternal life is more important than this life? That we are told to not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal?Those who do not work, do not eat. The Bible talks about sharing, but it does not say for governments or elite groups to take away from one group to give to another. That taken by force is not charity. Give unto Caesar that which belongs to him, Give unto God that which belongs to God- is not a license for government to demand 60 percent of wages from the rich to give to the poor through taxes. Government is not the giver of liberties- God is the giver of liberties. The progressive democrats and church do not believe this. They believe it is man who gives, or they would not be demanding social justice.
Maybe if progressives did as they demand others to do, it wouldn't be so bad. But again, these are hypocrites! They spew lies about greed and corruption, create class warfare by promoting stories about greedy capitalists such as those on Wall Street. Corporate greed, capitalist greed, big bank, big oil etc., etc. How much have we heard this from Obama and company? They all claim the same thing. They care about the poor. I asked my mother in law once why she believed so much in the democrats. She answered the same thing- because they care about the poor and the workin' man.
OK. Lets see how much they care. Here are a couple of examples of how generous and caring some of these folks are.
Then Vice President Al Gore's charitable contributions, as a percentage of his income, were below the national average: He gave 0.2 percent of his family income, one-seventh of the average for donating households. He was, it was told, being charitable, as liberals understand that word, by redistributing wealth by social justice and high taxes on the rich.
Andrew Cuomo, former New York Attorney General was an advocate for the homeless. He had, according to his website, “compassion toward the most vulnerable of us.” [...] but according to his own tax returns he made no charitable contributions between 1996 and 1999. In 2000 he donated a whopping $2,750. In 2004 and 2005, Cuomo had more than $1.5 million in adjusted gross income but gave $2,000 to charity.
Barack Obama has a rather poor track record when it comes to charitable contributions. He consistently gave 1 percent of his income to charity. In his most charitable year, 2005, he earned $1.7 million. By the way, obama does have that brother living in a hut over there in Kenya- still in a hut.
Senator John Kerry, in 1995 gave zero to charity, but did spend $500,000 to buy a half stake in an antique piece of art. In 1993, he gave $175 to the needy. Later, of course, Kerry married Theresa Heinz, rich heiress of the Heinz Ketchup fame, and today is active in charitable "causes" using the Heinz foundation money.
Senator Ted Kennedy was known as the ultimate liberal Robin Hood. He once told Al Hunt of the Wall Street Journal, “I come from an advantaged life, and I’ll be goddamned if I’m going to get re-elected to the U.S. Senate by taking food out of the mouths of needy children.” Too bad that Senator Kennedy never actually practiced by giving much money to needy children. His tax returns were top secret until he ran for President in the 1970s. He then released some of them. With a net worth of more than $8 million in the early 1970s and an income of $461,444 from a series of family trusts, that liberator of the little man gave barely 1 percent of his income to charity. The sum is about as much as Kennedy claimed as a write-off on his fifty-foot sailboat.
Robert Reich, once Bill Clinton’s Secretary of Labor and now a professor at Berkeley, has been outspoken about how greedy conservatives are. Because of conservatives, “America has placed too high a value on selfishness.” When he ran for governor of Massachusetts in 2002, he had to release his tax returns. Reich’s 1040 revealed an income of more than $1 million, much of it giving speeches to corporations and universities for up to $40,000 a pop. He contributed just $2,714 to charity, or .2 percent of his income and part of that was the value of a donation of a used drum set to an organization called City of Peace.
Mr. Rainbow Coalition, Jesse Jackson has often claimed that he operates from a “liberal spirit of compassion and love” while conservatives are “heartless and uncaring toward the silent poor.” But according to his publicly-released tax returns, he regularly donates less than 1 percent to charity. Jackson and his family have also established a charitable foundation called the Jackson Foundation to support the underprivileged. According to tax records, the foundation board is controlled by family members and they receive large contributions from corporations. In 2004, for example, they collected $964,000 from corporations like McDonald’s, Anheuser-Busch, and GMAC. When asked on the tax form to described “direct charitable activities,” the foundation responded: “none.” From the close to million dollars collected, they gave away only $46,000 to a couple of colleges. The Jackson Foundation spent nearly twice that amount — $84,172 — on a “gala celebration” in honor of — Jesse Jackson.
Franklin "Chicken in every pot" Roosevelt. He is regarded by many on the left as the personification of charity and compassion, but FDR actually had a pathetic record when it comes to giving to charity. Roosevelt had an average income of $93,000 ($1.3 million in today’s dollars) but gave away about 3 percent of his income to charity. In 1935, during the height of the Great Depression, when people really could have used it, he donated just 2 percent.
Much has been written about the Clintons earning over $100 million since leaving the white house. They also made liberal use of the charitable deduction, claiming $10.2 million in charitable giving over the eight years. Intriguingly, nearly all the donations went to the Clinton Family Foundation, which has disbursed only half the money. The Clintons can thus use the foundation for giving, such as the $100,000 it donated last year to a local South Carolina library - the day after Mrs. Clinton debated in that primary state. There are other examples of such politically targeted philanthropy, and it's worth noting that most of the foundation's disbursements came only after Mrs. Clinton announced her Presidential run. Interesting too, in a story not too long ago about donation of clothing for charity- it included, yuck, used underwear. Oh, and the Clinton's have a neice, about Chelsea's age, who is destitute. Her parents died, and she was left with nothing. Gee, Uncle Bill- can't you spare a dime?
Then there is that paragon of Christian virtue, Ms. "we will rid Washington of croneism and corruption" Pelosi. Pelosi’s salary as Speaker of the House earns her just $217,400. (Just?!) Except, of course, that Mrs Pelosi lists assets held jointly with her husband as being worth up to $92 million. The generous and charitable Mrs Pelosi’s contributions are to things which are disproportionately enjoyed by other wealthy people. Gee, how about that! The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and the San Francisco Symphony are things rather rarely attended by people such as the workin' man.
If I could dig it up, I'd find the charitable contributions on the rest of them- but what's the point. Studies have shown that although liberal families' incomes average 6 percent higher than those of conservative families, conservative-headed households give, on average, 30 percent more to charity than the average liberal-headed household ($1,600 per year vs. $1,227). In the 10 reddest states, the average percentage of personal income donated to charity was 3.5. Residents of the bluest states, donated just 1.9 percent.
One of the best quotes I found while researching for this post is this: People who reject the idea that "government has a responsibility to reduce income inequality" give an average of four times more than people who accept that proposition. I don't know who said it, but it is brilliant, and true.
Oh, and one more thought about this. Obama's inquisition on the wealthy is creating a charity deficit. Because of this depression (remember- never let a good crisis go to waste!) and the demand for more taxes for government take overs of industry, healthcare, energy and banks, charitable contributions have declined.
From News Busters, I gathered this bit of info-- Another devastating intended/unintended consequence of the Obama administration's major government expansion: charity organizations (already in deep struggle to weather current economic conditions) will likely experience additional major decline in contributions. On the April 16 broadcast of Fox Business Network's "Varney & Co.," Rick Dunham, CEO of fundraising consultant Dunham & Company, weighed in on the new budget proposal that would scale back charitable deductions for families making over $250,000. We are talking about a large amount of money which could be going to help the poor. Unfortunately, the progressive, for the workin' man, marxists, believe in the government to provide, not private or church giving.
When Obama started talking about continuing with the faith based initiative which George W. Bush began, Obama stated,
"Now, make no mistake, as someone who used to teach constitutional law, I believe deeply in the separation of church and state, but I don’t believe this partnership will endanger that idea – so long as we follow a few basic principles. First, if you get a federal grant, you can’t use that grant money to proselytize to the people you help and you can’t discriminate against them – or against the people you hire – on the basis of their religion. Second, federal dollars that go directly to churches, temples, and mosques can only be used on secular programs. And we’ll also ensure that taxpayer dollars only go to those programs that actually work.”
So, in tying this all up. Obama with help from his faith leaders, will blend government and faith. Obama wants to use federal subsidies offered through the EPA and his faith-based outreach to get churches to do just what he claimed he is against- proselytizing, but this time it will be the green faith, the man based faith, the human ingenuity faith. Not only is the problem with the environmental lies of the green movement. The socialist church of Obama and friends focus on all social issues, mainly focusing on the environment, "gender" issues (the typical description for the homosexual lobby), re distribution of wealth etc. Oh, and I don't know why they call it redistribution- I mean, it's not like anyone distributed the money to all the wealthy people in the first place. These people actually earned by working for their wealth. Just call it as it is- stealing from those who have to give to the nanny state so they can give out what ever is left from their skimming off the top.
The left is always preaching about helping the poor- but I ask, after 70 years of government programs such as welfare, medicaid, social security, food stamps, government housing, government grants- why are there still so many poor among us? Mr. Wallace and the rest of the Liberal church- we can not be so pompous to believe that man can solve man's problems. Once the fall ocurred, humans as well as all creation fell under sin. Jesus Christ came the first time to save us from our sins by dying on the Cross. He overcame the power of death and Satan by raising bodily in the flesh 3 days after. Be sure- He will be coming again soon- to set things right once and for all. To set His Kingdom on earth as it is in Heaven. His Will will be done, not ours, not yours, not Obama or any other government. This heaven and this earth shall pass away, for Him to make all things new. You folks claim to live by Jesus's words, to you, that means the red letters. You do not beleive in the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. If you did, you would know that His Word is the Word of the Holy Scriptures. Jesus quoted the scriptures constantly. You can take the messages of His love yes! He does love each and every one of us! But we must take His whole word- not just the happy, easygoing, ear tickling parts, but all of it- and as leaders in our society, it is up to you to preach the whole Word. Woe to you teachers who lead your flocks astray.
The world has bombarded the church. Progressivism has invaded every denomination- from the Catholic Church, to the Baptist church, from the Protestants to the Episcopals. Satan is using just enough truth to spread his lie, that lie which will come soon to the formation of the one world church. Unfortunately that church will be still full- once Christ comes for His own.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Anti Illegal Flap Getting Ridiculous
I wasn't going to get into this Arizona law business, because everyone is talking about it already, and frankly, I'm getting tired of all the craziness going on these days and feeling more than a little overwhelmed by it all. I had to add my two cents however- the tipping point for me, is the latest story about some students sent home from school for wearing - are you ready for this? Gasp- they were wearing of all things, shirts with American flags or colors!!!! How Dare they?! On Cinco De Mayo of all days! A false supposed Mexican holiday (Mexican independence day is in September) and these kids were told that their T-shirts "incendiary". Who ever would have thought that wearing a shirt- or any other article of clothing featuring an American flag, in America, would be considered trying to stir up trouble. Is this what our soldiers are fighting and dying for?
We've got the usual groups from La Raza, Al "mr. I get along with everybody" Sharpton, and the other leftist, socialist gangs calling for lawsuits, boycotts and well, it wouldn't surprise me if they eventually called for the writers, signers and Governor of Arizona's illegal immigrant bill to be tarred, feathered and run out of the state on a rail. The Phoenix Sun basketball team is in on the act, but calling themselves the Los Sun. Wouldn't it be more politically correct to use the whole Spanish- as in Los Sol?! These groups are calling for Major League Baseball to change the location of next year's All Star Game from to somewhere else. May I suggest holding it in Juarez Mexico- that quaint peaceful town across the river from Laredo Texas? As a life long baseball fan, with many happy and good memories- if they cave in to this ridiculous demand, I will never watch baseball again. Why watch something when it defends something so cowardly and non American?
Non American. Yes, that's what I said. This law that Arizona passed is nothing more than what the federal law says anyway. We hear the leftist drivel- that this is a bigoted and racially charged law, provoking Gestapo type behavior whereas the innocent law breaking illegal aliens are ordered to "Show your papers". Let me clear this up. We are all required to show identification. When I go to the bank- even to deposit into my account, I have to show my drivers license. Every few years, I must make my trek to the nearest ICE office to renew my legal residence status. Because you know what? If I don't, gasp, I could be deported!! This law is already on the books folks- at the federal level, but we all know that the feds have not done anything to keep our borders safe. Millions of us come to America the legal way, many whom go through a rigorous process in order to even step foot here. Is it a pleasant process? No- but I'm glad they have it- or we'd be, well, we'd have the same kind of problem they do now. We'd have rapists, murders, drug lords, gangs, people with dangerous communicable diseases, and those who have no way of supporting themselves entering the country at all times of the year.
When one comes through the legal way, we have to have medical examinations to be sure we won't be spreading disease such as swine flu, tuberculosis, pneumonia, HIV, and a host of others. We have to have a criminal background check to prove we have no criminal history or outstanding warrants. We have to have a sponsor, who will vouch for us and make sure we don't come to take advantage of social programs such as welfare. When the law is ignored or broken, we have the mess we have. The law is the Law and millions of people who are coming across now, and who have been here years are lawbreakers. Where I come from, that's not the right or good thing. The country, America, I came to, it never used to be the right or good thing. Those of us who came here legally for whatever freedoms we came here for, respect and follow that law, and we respect and follow every other law. When you don't come here legally, you disrespect the Immigration law, and end up disrespecting other laws- even the "misdemeanors" such as driving without insurance or license.
This is not a humanitarian, or racist, or bigoted, or republican or civil rights issue, or even anti immigrant as so many of these groups claim. This is a LAW issue. A Safety issue. This is an American Issue, not a global community problem as Obama and others, including Mexico's own Vicente Fox has claimed. Fox has no right to say anything anyway. Have you seen the immigration laws of Mexico lately?!
The Federal government has dropped the ball on this for decades, and the States and their people are suffering for it. Through higher crime, senseless murder, higher taxes, lower wages- all because people are breaking the law to come here undocumented. These groups who claim to be compassionate and even those who call it the "Christian thing to do" in giving these people amnesty need to get with real life. How is is compassionate to allow them to be deprived of all the goodness and freedom to thrive in this country in the ways which millions of legal immigrants have done since the foundation? When one is hiding in a trunk of a vehicle, starving and dehydrated in the desert, at the whim of human traffickers, made to live in fear of being caught- you call that compassionate? How is it Christian to allow people to break the law? Even when a society's law contradicts Biblical law, which in this case it is not, there are other avenues to change society's law- not by giving people the idea to break it.
Yes, the Bible tells us to care for the alien in our midst- and to take care of the less advantaged. However, the Bible is clear on obeying the Law, even governments who may be against the people. In Israel, any alien who came to Israel, was allowed, but they were to conform to Israeli ways, they were to forget the gods of their ancestors and turn to the Lord God of Israel. They were to adopt Israeli festivals, feasts and traditions, and Israeli Law.
In years past, when people came to America's shores from such far away places, they knew that they were in a Blessed, Free land. They integrated. Sure, they still held to their old world traditions, language and religious backgrounds, but they also learned the ways and language of America, and worked hard to make this country their home. They took and swore an oath. (So help me who?) That is still the case for so many of us who have come here since, but unfortunately, it's no longer the same Nation. Now we are a nation of mini nations- we are a hyphenated society, everyone is something else first, American last.
I am not a Canadian American. I am not a citizen yet, but I still call myself an American. I still celebrate my Canadian roots, but I do not expect others to celebrate with me, and I certainly do not expect the rest of the country to conform to my roots. As long as I live in America, I will respect and honor the Constitution of this country. I do not fly the Maple Leaf above the Stars and Stripes, not even side by side. Stars and Stripes are my flag now- as long as I live in America.
I know that I have ruffled feathers in the past by stating that America is not found in the Bible. I know. I love America too- or what America used to be. It's hard to think that America will no longer be the shining city on a hill, the freedom for millions world over, and the help of the world. But the Truth of it is, that the world is quickly coming to an end, as written in the Bible and America, while it was the Super power of the world and one would expect to see a super power mentioned, America is no where to be found in Bible Prophecies concerning the end times. This incident of so called racial bigotry and humanitarian crisis is just another nail in the coffin of America.
Imagine. Kids being sent home from school- simply for being proud of America. Who would believe it. Only since I started studying the Word of the Lord, would I know that this is believable.
We've got the usual groups from La Raza, Al "mr. I get along with everybody" Sharpton, and the other leftist, socialist gangs calling for lawsuits, boycotts and well, it wouldn't surprise me if they eventually called for the writers, signers and Governor of Arizona's illegal immigrant bill to be tarred, feathered and run out of the state on a rail. The Phoenix Sun basketball team is in on the act, but calling themselves the Los Sun. Wouldn't it be more politically correct to use the whole Spanish- as in Los Sol?! These groups are calling for Major League Baseball to change the location of next year's All Star Game from to somewhere else. May I suggest holding it in Juarez Mexico- that quaint peaceful town across the river from Laredo Texas? As a life long baseball fan, with many happy and good memories- if they cave in to this ridiculous demand, I will never watch baseball again. Why watch something when it defends something so cowardly and non American?
Non American. Yes, that's what I said. This law that Arizona passed is nothing more than what the federal law says anyway. We hear the leftist drivel- that this is a bigoted and racially charged law, provoking Gestapo type behavior whereas the innocent law breaking illegal aliens are ordered to "Show your papers". Let me clear this up. We are all required to show identification. When I go to the bank- even to deposit into my account, I have to show my drivers license. Every few years, I must make my trek to the nearest ICE office to renew my legal residence status. Because you know what? If I don't, gasp, I could be deported!! This law is already on the books folks- at the federal level, but we all know that the feds have not done anything to keep our borders safe. Millions of us come to America the legal way, many whom go through a rigorous process in order to even step foot here. Is it a pleasant process? No- but I'm glad they have it- or we'd be, well, we'd have the same kind of problem they do now. We'd have rapists, murders, drug lords, gangs, people with dangerous communicable diseases, and those who have no way of supporting themselves entering the country at all times of the year.
When one comes through the legal way, we have to have medical examinations to be sure we won't be spreading disease such as swine flu, tuberculosis, pneumonia, HIV, and a host of others. We have to have a criminal background check to prove we have no criminal history or outstanding warrants. We have to have a sponsor, who will vouch for us and make sure we don't come to take advantage of social programs such as welfare. When the law is ignored or broken, we have the mess we have. The law is the Law and millions of people who are coming across now, and who have been here years are lawbreakers. Where I come from, that's not the right or good thing. The country, America, I came to, it never used to be the right or good thing. Those of us who came here legally for whatever freedoms we came here for, respect and follow that law, and we respect and follow every other law. When you don't come here legally, you disrespect the Immigration law, and end up disrespecting other laws- even the "misdemeanors" such as driving without insurance or license.
This is not a humanitarian, or racist, or bigoted, or republican or civil rights issue, or even anti immigrant as so many of these groups claim. This is a LAW issue. A Safety issue. This is an American Issue, not a global community problem as Obama and others, including Mexico's own Vicente Fox has claimed. Fox has no right to say anything anyway. Have you seen the immigration laws of Mexico lately?!
The Federal government has dropped the ball on this for decades, and the States and their people are suffering for it. Through higher crime, senseless murder, higher taxes, lower wages- all because people are breaking the law to come here undocumented. These groups who claim to be compassionate and even those who call it the "Christian thing to do" in giving these people amnesty need to get with real life. How is is compassionate to allow them to be deprived of all the goodness and freedom to thrive in this country in the ways which millions of legal immigrants have done since the foundation? When one is hiding in a trunk of a vehicle, starving and dehydrated in the desert, at the whim of human traffickers, made to live in fear of being caught- you call that compassionate? How is it Christian to allow people to break the law? Even when a society's law contradicts Biblical law, which in this case it is not, there are other avenues to change society's law- not by giving people the idea to break it.
Yes, the Bible tells us to care for the alien in our midst- and to take care of the less advantaged. However, the Bible is clear on obeying the Law, even governments who may be against the people. In Israel, any alien who came to Israel, was allowed, but they were to conform to Israeli ways, they were to forget the gods of their ancestors and turn to the Lord God of Israel. They were to adopt Israeli festivals, feasts and traditions, and Israeli Law.
In years past, when people came to America's shores from such far away places, they knew that they were in a Blessed, Free land. They integrated. Sure, they still held to their old world traditions, language and religious backgrounds, but they also learned the ways and language of America, and worked hard to make this country their home. They took and swore an oath. (So help me who?) That is still the case for so many of us who have come here since, but unfortunately, it's no longer the same Nation. Now we are a nation of mini nations- we are a hyphenated society, everyone is something else first, American last.
I am not a Canadian American. I am not a citizen yet, but I still call myself an American. I still celebrate my Canadian roots, but I do not expect others to celebrate with me, and I certainly do not expect the rest of the country to conform to my roots. As long as I live in America, I will respect and honor the Constitution of this country. I do not fly the Maple Leaf above the Stars and Stripes, not even side by side. Stars and Stripes are my flag now- as long as I live in America.
I know that I have ruffled feathers in the past by stating that America is not found in the Bible. I know. I love America too- or what America used to be. It's hard to think that America will no longer be the shining city on a hill, the freedom for millions world over, and the help of the world. But the Truth of it is, that the world is quickly coming to an end, as written in the Bible and America, while it was the Super power of the world and one would expect to see a super power mentioned, America is no where to be found in Bible Prophecies concerning the end times. This incident of so called racial bigotry and humanitarian crisis is just another nail in the coffin of America.
Imagine. Kids being sent home from school- simply for being proud of America. Who would believe it. Only since I started studying the Word of the Lord, would I know that this is believable.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Earth Day the Biblical Way
This is a re post of last year's earth day message.
Genesis
I love the Genesis account of the Creation. I love how there are facts having to do with Science, which weren't "discovered" by scientists until centuries and a millennium later.While many people have taken the verses about God giving man dominion over the earth and all that is in it, to mean license to rape the earth, I believe that we have been given a special task to be stewards of the beautiful planet God gave to us.
Being a good steward doesn't mean we have to give in to every bogus science claim about global warming, cooling and over population scares. Instead, I take it to mean we respect and be thankful for all the goodness of the earth that God gave us. We need to respect the animals- not because they are "our equals" as some environmentalists claim, but because God created them.We need to respect trees and plants, not only because they are habitats for creatures, but because they sustain all life, feed life and are beautifully created.
There is a good feeling about recycling, and line drying laundry. Those who can afford or have a convenient way to have an environmentally friendly car are doing a good thing. There is nothing wrong with wanting to keep our planet healthy, but we need to keep things in a Biblical perspective, and keep the Lord God at the center. Without Him, we would not need a beautiful planet, because we wouldn't be here.
Some day, this earth as we know it won't be here anymore. Jesus tells us that some day this heaven and earth will pass away:
Matthew 24:35Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.
And John tells us that there will be a new heaven and a new earth as he saw:Revelation 21I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.
Some people, including many liberal christians, would not like to hear passages such as these because they, especially those in the environmental movements, believe that man is the cause of earth's problems and it is only man who can save the earth. Through whatever social program which is popular and politically correct, others will be swayed and deceived into thinking we can make this planet perfect and a "heaven on earth" global village.
Bible believing Christians however, remember that this earth doesn't belong to us. It doesn't belong to the animals, the trees, the endangered swamp rat, spotted owl or any other. This earth belongs to the One who created it. It would do well for others to understand this as well on this earth day.
1Corinthians 10:26 for, "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it.
Genesis
I love the Genesis account of the Creation. I love how there are facts having to do with Science, which weren't "discovered" by scientists until centuries and a millennium later.While many people have taken the verses about God giving man dominion over the earth and all that is in it, to mean license to rape the earth, I believe that we have been given a special task to be stewards of the beautiful planet God gave to us.
Being a good steward doesn't mean we have to give in to every bogus science claim about global warming, cooling and over population scares. Instead, I take it to mean we respect and be thankful for all the goodness of the earth that God gave us. We need to respect the animals- not because they are "our equals" as some environmentalists claim, but because God created them.We need to respect trees and plants, not only because they are habitats for creatures, but because they sustain all life, feed life and are beautifully created.
There is a good feeling about recycling, and line drying laundry. Those who can afford or have a convenient way to have an environmentally friendly car are doing a good thing. There is nothing wrong with wanting to keep our planet healthy, but we need to keep things in a Biblical perspective, and keep the Lord God at the center. Without Him, we would not need a beautiful planet, because we wouldn't be here.
Some day, this earth as we know it won't be here anymore. Jesus tells us that some day this heaven and earth will pass away:
Matthew 24:35Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.
And John tells us that there will be a new heaven and a new earth as he saw:Revelation 21I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth had passed away, and there was no longer any sea. I saw the Holy City, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride beautifully dressed for her husband. And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Now the dwelling of God is with men, and he will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God.
Some people, including many liberal christians, would not like to hear passages such as these because they, especially those in the environmental movements, believe that man is the cause of earth's problems and it is only man who can save the earth. Through whatever social program which is popular and politically correct, others will be swayed and deceived into thinking we can make this planet perfect and a "heaven on earth" global village.
Bible believing Christians however, remember that this earth doesn't belong to us. It doesn't belong to the animals, the trees, the endangered swamp rat, spotted owl or any other. This earth belongs to the One who created it. It would do well for others to understand this as well on this earth day.
1Corinthians 10:26 for, "The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it.
Monday, February 22, 2010
It's Called Spite
Democrats, and left leaning Republicans along with Obama all know that come November, there will be some changes in Washington. We've seen some lifers (career politicians) declaring they won't run again, and we see many other races around the county where the lifer is having, er, forgive the pun, the run of his or her life. They know that it will be a real battle come November, with a good chance of being defeated, in some cases by a no name newcomer who not many people know. Folks like Sharon Angle, in Nevada going up against Harry, and in Florida, we have Marco Rubio, a true conservative going up against RINO Charlie Crist, who annoyingly is the favored of the Republican party.
People are frustrated, finally, to a point where they are awake and delving into the political arena in ways they never would have imagined. Ever since before last spring, folks from all walks of life and all political persuasions have marched. Whether into local town hall meetings, or on their state capital and even Washington, they have gone to show this government that they will not put up with the ridiculous spending and politics as usual. Even more than the usual politics, they are not going to go for Chicago style thuggery.
So, now we have, still breathing, the Obama healthcare issue. Most of us were hoping the plan was dead, but no, big government progressives are keeping it on life support until they can ram it through, no matter what. They know they are finished in Washington. They know they will be gone come November. The only reason why we will have government "care" is out of spite. They know the people have spoken, have been speaking all year, and they know we don't want any part of what they have to offer. They know they don't have the votes to go about it, so in Nancy Pelosie's words, they will "go over, under or through" any way to pass it, even if it means bringing in the nukes- as in nuclear option, or worse, by Obama himself writing it into legislation, which is the way I see it.
Obama, a few weeks ago, after slamming Republicans for being the party of no, and not trying to be bipartisan, invited them to a healthcare forum, or summit, or whatever you want to call it, to try and "work out a plan", to get something passed. So, against better judgement, and pretty much against the people's wishes (again), they will meet with Obama to work out some deal. Only thing is, Obama has just come out with his "plan", no thanks to anyone but the Senate and House bills which the people were hoping were dead. What this "new and improved" plan is, is basically a mix of the two bills previously denied by the people. Yes, there are a few changes. Remember Nebraska's Ben Nelson, making the deal of the century to have his state's medicare covered by the feds? Well, instead of just Nebraska, all states will have it covered until the year 2018 After that, I guess it will be back up to the states to cover their burgeoning Medicaid costs themselves. Ok, and then their was the so called Stupak Amendment, where abortion wouldn't be covered by federal funding- well, except for the usual excuses to have abortion on demand. The amendment has been removed- so basically, I can assume this anti life Obama will allow all forms of aborting babies be covered by people's tax dollars.Oh, and remember a couple of months ago, Obama paid big time to his Union supporters in the form of allowing Unions to keep their "Cadillac" healthcare plans without being taxed or penalized in anyway? Well, there is a provision to include ALL Cadillac plans which will not be taxed, again until the year 2018 After that, what. I can imagine with this kind of tax and spend fanatic, the taxes will probably be retroactive. Oh well, who knows. Oh, and did I mention, this healthcare plan is estimated to be 950 Billion?! Chances are good that it will be more than a trillion by 2020.
One thing which is still there, the IRS will have the power to fine, or imprison those who do not accept the government plans or choose to purchase private insurance.
Basically, the government all have their own excellent healthcare, which they know will keep them all set until they die, but they know what's best for the rest of us, and it ain't their kind of health coverage.
Some people claim it's unChristian to deny the "right" of healthcare. These same folks turn to the Bible, specifically the "render unto Caesar that which is Caesar's" verse, believing that Jesus was all for the government to provide for people. That and the fact that Jesus is a lover of the poor. Sure, taking a couple of verses out of the context of all of the Bible, it would seem like a good argument. Especially if you take Paul's meaning in the early church people selling all they had and giving it to the church or the poor. There is a couple of points though which show that coercion by a government is NOT what Jesus has in mind, nor is forced sharing is the focus of those early givers of the church. Jesus does love the poor- but shocking to some, He loves the rich as well. Being rich is not an evil thing. Not wanting to have what you worked hard for all your life given without permission to those who don't work, or those who are lawbreakers is not evil. Sure there is greed, but again, shocking, that greed is not only on the side of the rich, there are many poor who are greedy as well. The point is that the early church VOLUNTEERED to sell all they owned to give to the church. It was their own choice what to give or not to give. Being forced to give is communism. Volunteering is compassion, and that is what Jesus and the Bible believing church is all about- compassion. There is nothing compassionate about taking something from one class to give to another. There is nothing Biblical about being forced to give to others and there is nothing charitable about government giving what doesn't belong to them to the poor. No doubt there is many folks who are down and out, who need care- but they already have it, through already established government plans in Medicare and Medicaid, and no hospital will deny anyone who needs emergency care. My family does not have healthcare, my husband is still after a year, unemployed. We do NOT want others paying for us, nor do we expect them to. We do NOT want this government plan, which is nothing but an anti Christian power grab by others who have no intention of taking the same thing they are making us take.
I have been arguing with radio talk show hosts half the day, when they wonder why and how can the democrats do this when they know they are going to be finished? It's called spite. Pure and simple. Oh, and throw in a big dose of ego maniacal and power lust in for good measure. The biggest of them all, Obama, who, because he can, Constitution be damned, will do this no matter what the people want or need. Spite. We're done folks.
When a government no longer listens to it's people, when the government pushes constitutional programs on the people against their will, and have the nerve to threaten fines and imprisonment for not purchasing something, well, welcome to tyranny. Some day the world will be ruled by Satan's tyrant. You don't have to live through that time, because Jesus will be coming before then to take His own out of harm's way. Put your trust in Jesus- not tyrants. Some day the world will see what real tyranny is. Don't say you weren't warned.
People are frustrated, finally, to a point where they are awake and delving into the political arena in ways they never would have imagined. Ever since before last spring, folks from all walks of life and all political persuasions have marched. Whether into local town hall meetings, or on their state capital and even Washington, they have gone to show this government that they will not put up with the ridiculous spending and politics as usual. Even more than the usual politics, they are not going to go for Chicago style thuggery.
So, now we have, still breathing, the Obama healthcare issue. Most of us were hoping the plan was dead, but no, big government progressives are keeping it on life support until they can ram it through, no matter what. They know they are finished in Washington. They know they will be gone come November. The only reason why we will have government "care" is out of spite. They know the people have spoken, have been speaking all year, and they know we don't want any part of what they have to offer. They know they don't have the votes to go about it, so in Nancy Pelosie's words, they will "go over, under or through" any way to pass it, even if it means bringing in the nukes- as in nuclear option, or worse, by Obama himself writing it into legislation, which is the way I see it.
Obama, a few weeks ago, after slamming Republicans for being the party of no, and not trying to be bipartisan, invited them to a healthcare forum, or summit, or whatever you want to call it, to try and "work out a plan", to get something passed. So, against better judgement, and pretty much against the people's wishes (again), they will meet with Obama to work out some deal. Only thing is, Obama has just come out with his "plan", no thanks to anyone but the Senate and House bills which the people were hoping were dead. What this "new and improved" plan is, is basically a mix of the two bills previously denied by the people. Yes, there are a few changes. Remember Nebraska's Ben Nelson, making the deal of the century to have his state's medicare covered by the feds? Well, instead of just Nebraska, all states will have it covered until the year 2018 After that, I guess it will be back up to the states to cover their burgeoning Medicaid costs themselves. Ok, and then their was the so called Stupak Amendment, where abortion wouldn't be covered by federal funding- well, except for the usual excuses to have abortion on demand. The amendment has been removed- so basically, I can assume this anti life Obama will allow all forms of aborting babies be covered by people's tax dollars.Oh, and remember a couple of months ago, Obama paid big time to his Union supporters in the form of allowing Unions to keep their "Cadillac" healthcare plans without being taxed or penalized in anyway? Well, there is a provision to include ALL Cadillac plans which will not be taxed, again until the year 2018 After that, what. I can imagine with this kind of tax and spend fanatic, the taxes will probably be retroactive. Oh well, who knows. Oh, and did I mention, this healthcare plan is estimated to be 950 Billion?! Chances are good that it will be more than a trillion by 2020.
One thing which is still there, the IRS will have the power to fine, or imprison those who do not accept the government plans or choose to purchase private insurance.
Basically, the government all have their own excellent healthcare, which they know will keep them all set until they die, but they know what's best for the rest of us, and it ain't their kind of health coverage.
Some people claim it's unChristian to deny the "right" of healthcare. These same folks turn to the Bible, specifically the "render unto Caesar that which is Caesar's" verse, believing that Jesus was all for the government to provide for people. That and the fact that Jesus is a lover of the poor. Sure, taking a couple of verses out of the context of all of the Bible, it would seem like a good argument. Especially if you take Paul's meaning in the early church people selling all they had and giving it to the church or the poor. There is a couple of points though which show that coercion by a government is NOT what Jesus has in mind, nor is forced sharing is the focus of those early givers of the church. Jesus does love the poor- but shocking to some, He loves the rich as well. Being rich is not an evil thing. Not wanting to have what you worked hard for all your life given without permission to those who don't work, or those who are lawbreakers is not evil. Sure there is greed, but again, shocking, that greed is not only on the side of the rich, there are many poor who are greedy as well. The point is that the early church VOLUNTEERED to sell all they owned to give to the church. It was their own choice what to give or not to give. Being forced to give is communism. Volunteering is compassion, and that is what Jesus and the Bible believing church is all about- compassion. There is nothing compassionate about taking something from one class to give to another. There is nothing Biblical about being forced to give to others and there is nothing charitable about government giving what doesn't belong to them to the poor. No doubt there is many folks who are down and out, who need care- but they already have it, through already established government plans in Medicare and Medicaid, and no hospital will deny anyone who needs emergency care. My family does not have healthcare, my husband is still after a year, unemployed. We do NOT want others paying for us, nor do we expect them to. We do NOT want this government plan, which is nothing but an anti Christian power grab by others who have no intention of taking the same thing they are making us take.
I have been arguing with radio talk show hosts half the day, when they wonder why and how can the democrats do this when they know they are going to be finished? It's called spite. Pure and simple. Oh, and throw in a big dose of ego maniacal and power lust in for good measure. The biggest of them all, Obama, who, because he can, Constitution be damned, will do this no matter what the people want or need. Spite. We're done folks.
When a government no longer listens to it's people, when the government pushes constitutional programs on the people against their will, and have the nerve to threaten fines and imprisonment for not purchasing something, well, welcome to tyranny. Some day the world will be ruled by Satan's tyrant. You don't have to live through that time, because Jesus will be coming before then to take His own out of harm's way. Put your trust in Jesus- not tyrants. Some day the world will see what real tyranny is. Don't say you weren't warned.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Freedom of Speech, Sticks and Stones
Constitution of the United States : Bill of Rights 1st Amendment
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity. Prov. 21:23
Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue. Prov.17:28
When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. Prov. 10:19
There are more than 60 references to the tongue in the Bible, and nearly that many to words. There is power in the tongue, and power in words. Most of us have heard the sayings, "Sticks and stones will break my bones, but names will never hurt me". How about this one, Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18
Speech is a powerful thing. It makes people think, it helps people form ideas, expresses emotion, helps us communicate. Words can heal a sad heart, words can even heal a hurting or diseased body. Words can heal, but they can kill too. They can kill a spirit, they can harm a person's character, they can cause all kinds of hurt. Words can convict, and words can liberate- it all depends on how we use them.
Have I said things I regret? Oh yeah. I've said things- stupid and hurtful things, I've said things I'm ashamed of. Thankfully, I am learning- although slowly, to tame my tongue, but I have to admit that it gets the best of me still- proving nothing really, except that I am still foolish and sinful. I hope that someday I can have more control over what comes out of my mouth.
So, what am I leading up to this time. I've been quiet about this for some time, but ever since last summer, I have been quietly watching, listening and getting a little p'd off with what I am hearing. Not only what, but whom I am hearing from. Now, I know that most folks who read this are on the same side of the political fence as me, and in many, if not most ways, we are much the same thought on Biblical perspectives. Every now and then, I get people commenting who are in complete disagreement with my views. That's OK though. Oftentimes I wish there were more who were in disagreement, because that makes for interesting and different views. It seems to me though, that more and more people are showing total disrespect, bitterness, hate and nastiness in their words these days. Not only in the comment sections of most news and opinion columns, but from that bastion of "Free speech and of the press", those who deliver their views every day on cable and news columns. Not only from the press, but politicians themselves.
Used to be that politics was dirty- only it was during campaigns where the mud was slung towards opponents who were also campaigning. Now, it is the politicians who are slinging mud to those who put them in office. The press used to comment on dirty politics- now they revel and roll around in it themselves, adding to the muck. The people commenting only pile it on higher.
Now, it is from all sides. Not just a liberal thing, nor a republican thing, although those on the left love to point out how hateful, bigoted and narrow minded those on the right are. When a politician on the right shouts out the word "Lier", he is somehow hateful and racist. Sure, the guy could have held his tongue at least until the end of the speech, but in light of certain ways in which the present administration is working, there is much truth to the word which was shouted. Race and hate had nothing to do with it. Seems that the left can go 8 years calling the president all kinds of things from Nazi to lier, from murderer to racist- and everything is OK because it's their right to voice a redress. When it is the right who call out socialist, and voice anger over out of control spending and dubious practices, they are unpatriotic, fear spreading, racist hate mongers.
People on the left claim that "right wing" blog sites and radio hosts are full of hatred, bigoted and incite violence. People who comment on news are described as narrow minded, uneducated and backwards. Anyone who speaks from a Christian viewpoint is homophobic, xenophobic, racist, bigoted, hate filled taliban.
From all directions lately, these kinds of words have been directed at folks like me, who happen to be pro life, pro marriage, pro Christian values, pro Constitution, pro small government, pro free market, pro conservative, pro founding principals and pro individual rights. Every time I hear or see words from a politician or a member of the press, describing folks like me, I feel it directed at me, and at so many other good and loving folks who believe in the same ideas as I do.
Every time I have heard these: gun toting, Bible clinging, uneducated, backwoods, hick, inbred, racist, hatemonger, terrorist, extremest, teabagger, throwback, Christian taliban, homophobic, lier- I tend to take it personally. It makes me sad to see elected officials describing their constituents in such degrading terms as "teabaggers" because they know it will offend. To hear them call their constituents fear mongers and hate mongers because they are standing up for their rights under the 1st Amendment, and actually involving themselves in town hall meetings. Since when have town hall meetings only been open to those who agree with politicians anyway? How can there be a discussion about an important issue when the people have read a proposed bill, but the politician has not? How can there be a discussion when the only ones welcome to speak are those who agree?
When someone who is running for the President of the United States of America can give a speech to one segment of society, those who are among the wealthiest and elite, claim he is for the average American, for the poor, then insult a good portion of that very part of society, this saddens me. To be called bigoted, Bible clinging.. well, even he has the freedom to speak doesn't he.
What makes me sad though really, is that there are some very good people who look up to these name calling foolish people. They are so blinded by the smoothness, they are deaf to the fact that we are being insulted on a daily basis. I have said before that I have been insulted many times for my Bible believing views, and I am used to it. Does that mean I like it? No. I don't. Much of is is very offensive to me. It hurts- as words do. Does that mean I want them silenced? Nope. Not at all. They have every right to speak freely. From my thinking, they can keep it up, because it just re affirms how foolish and hateful they are. Maybe some day, more of us can speak in edifying and loving ways even when we disagree. Some day, our passions will not rule our mouths.
I am learning from the Ultimate Word- Jesus, that words count in so many ways- for good or bad, and I pray and try and help others to learn too. The Lord has given us the right and ability to all speech, and our forefathers realized that right when they wrote our Constitution, and I have no right to take that away from anyone. All I would ask, is that, you join me, and try and think about the power we do have, and use it for goodness.
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
He who guards his mouth and his tongue keeps himself from calamity. Prov. 21:23
Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue. Prov.17:28
When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. Prov. 10:19
There are more than 60 references to the tongue in the Bible, and nearly that many to words. There is power in the tongue, and power in words. Most of us have heard the sayings, "Sticks and stones will break my bones, but names will never hurt me". How about this one, Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18
Speech is a powerful thing. It makes people think, it helps people form ideas, expresses emotion, helps us communicate. Words can heal a sad heart, words can even heal a hurting or diseased body. Words can heal, but they can kill too. They can kill a spirit, they can harm a person's character, they can cause all kinds of hurt. Words can convict, and words can liberate- it all depends on how we use them.
Have I said things I regret? Oh yeah. I've said things- stupid and hurtful things, I've said things I'm ashamed of. Thankfully, I am learning- although slowly, to tame my tongue, but I have to admit that it gets the best of me still- proving nothing really, except that I am still foolish and sinful. I hope that someday I can have more control over what comes out of my mouth.
So, what am I leading up to this time. I've been quiet about this for some time, but ever since last summer, I have been quietly watching, listening and getting a little p'd off with what I am hearing. Not only what, but whom I am hearing from. Now, I know that most folks who read this are on the same side of the political fence as me, and in many, if not most ways, we are much the same thought on Biblical perspectives. Every now and then, I get people commenting who are in complete disagreement with my views. That's OK though. Oftentimes I wish there were more who were in disagreement, because that makes for interesting and different views. It seems to me though, that more and more people are showing total disrespect, bitterness, hate and nastiness in their words these days. Not only in the comment sections of most news and opinion columns, but from that bastion of "Free speech and of the press", those who deliver their views every day on cable and news columns. Not only from the press, but politicians themselves.
Used to be that politics was dirty- only it was during campaigns where the mud was slung towards opponents who were also campaigning. Now, it is the politicians who are slinging mud to those who put them in office. The press used to comment on dirty politics- now they revel and roll around in it themselves, adding to the muck. The people commenting only pile it on higher.
Now, it is from all sides. Not just a liberal thing, nor a republican thing, although those on the left love to point out how hateful, bigoted and narrow minded those on the right are. When a politician on the right shouts out the word "Lier", he is somehow hateful and racist. Sure, the guy could have held his tongue at least until the end of the speech, but in light of certain ways in which the present administration is working, there is much truth to the word which was shouted. Race and hate had nothing to do with it. Seems that the left can go 8 years calling the president all kinds of things from Nazi to lier, from murderer to racist- and everything is OK because it's their right to voice a redress. When it is the right who call out socialist, and voice anger over out of control spending and dubious practices, they are unpatriotic, fear spreading, racist hate mongers.
People on the left claim that "right wing" blog sites and radio hosts are full of hatred, bigoted and incite violence. People who comment on news are described as narrow minded, uneducated and backwards. Anyone who speaks from a Christian viewpoint is homophobic, xenophobic, racist, bigoted, hate filled taliban.
From all directions lately, these kinds of words have been directed at folks like me, who happen to be pro life, pro marriage, pro Christian values, pro Constitution, pro small government, pro free market, pro conservative, pro founding principals and pro individual rights. Every time I hear or see words from a politician or a member of the press, describing folks like me, I feel it directed at me, and at so many other good and loving folks who believe in the same ideas as I do.
Every time I have heard these: gun toting, Bible clinging, uneducated, backwoods, hick, inbred, racist, hatemonger, terrorist, extremest, teabagger, throwback, Christian taliban, homophobic, lier- I tend to take it personally. It makes me sad to see elected officials describing their constituents in such degrading terms as "teabaggers" because they know it will offend. To hear them call their constituents fear mongers and hate mongers because they are standing up for their rights under the 1st Amendment, and actually involving themselves in town hall meetings. Since when have town hall meetings only been open to those who agree with politicians anyway? How can there be a discussion about an important issue when the people have read a proposed bill, but the politician has not? How can there be a discussion when the only ones welcome to speak are those who agree?
When someone who is running for the President of the United States of America can give a speech to one segment of society, those who are among the wealthiest and elite, claim he is for the average American, for the poor, then insult a good portion of that very part of society, this saddens me. To be called bigoted, Bible clinging.. well, even he has the freedom to speak doesn't he.
What makes me sad though really, is that there are some very good people who look up to these name calling foolish people. They are so blinded by the smoothness, they are deaf to the fact that we are being insulted on a daily basis. I have said before that I have been insulted many times for my Bible believing views, and I am used to it. Does that mean I like it? No. I don't. Much of is is very offensive to me. It hurts- as words do. Does that mean I want them silenced? Nope. Not at all. They have every right to speak freely. From my thinking, they can keep it up, because it just re affirms how foolish and hateful they are. Maybe some day, more of us can speak in edifying and loving ways even when we disagree. Some day, our passions will not rule our mouths.
I am learning from the Ultimate Word- Jesus, that words count in so many ways- for good or bad, and I pray and try and help others to learn too. The Lord has given us the right and ability to all speech, and our forefathers realized that right when they wrote our Constitution, and I have no right to take that away from anyone. All I would ask, is that, you join me, and try and think about the power we do have, and use it for goodness.
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