I think that almost of all us feel the same way about family. They can irritate you to the point of distraction at times. And because of this, you may complain about them, criticize them. And in a way, that’s okay. But… But if someone else says something critical about a member of my family—well, watch out. You don’t talk about my family. I can say what I want, because I am family. But you’re not family. So keep your opinions off my family!
I think you understand what I mean. Continue reading
One of the bedrock foundations of our republic is the concept of religious freedom. It is basic to everything we believe. It was considered divinely-ordained right by our Founding Fathers. It was codified and guaranteed to us in our Bill of Rights. Yet, religious expression and liberty of conscience is increasingly coming under attack. Consider a few examples…
The Fire Chief of Atlanta, Kelvin Cochran, self-published a book that briefly mentioned biblical teaching regarding non-marital sexual relations, including homosexuality. He was not claiming to state official policy of the Atlanta Fire Department. He was simply stating his personal beliefs. For this “offense” he was first suspended, then fired from his job. Continue reading
There is going to be a Black Mass at Harvard University on Monday night, May 12. Yes, you heard me correctly. A Black Mass. At Harvard. Here in the good ol’ USA. The Harvard Extension Cultural Studies Club has organized a Black Mass reenactment at the Queen’s Head Pub, which is on the university campus. This is being done for “educational purposes.” And how does Harvard University itself respond to this upcoming event? Harvard says it “supports the rights of students and faculty.” Humph! Continue reading
Introduction: Here is something a little bit different for your reading. This piece was written by my wife, Sue. For those who don’t know, I work full time at an international missions agency called Advancing Native Missions (ANM). Sue is here sharing about an experience she had at ANM not too long ago.
There was a missionary couple visiting ANM the day of one of our community Bible studies. Nothing unusual in that. There are frequently visitors on Thursday, and they are often invited to share about their ministry and what God is doing in their lives. This is a young couple with three children. They seemed loving, humble, kind and eager to tell others about Jesus. Continue reading
Today I write with no glib words, no zany humor, and no flowery expressions. I write with sobriety and solemnity. Today…I call on all of us to remember.
Today is April 8. I want to take you back to another April 8, on a Sunday, exactly 68 years ago. It is 1945, and although their end is rapidly approaching, for the moment the National Socialists still reign supreme in Germany.
In your mind’s eye see a prisoner, a German man incarcerated in a German prison. He has a squarish face, rather common looking. His rimless glasses help give him an ordinary look. He seems so average. Yet, his appearance belies the uniqueness, indeed, the brilliance of the man.
Although a political prisoner, a prisoner of conscience (these words have never been applied more truly), this man is also a Christian—and a pastor. He has gathered about him in Schoenberg Prison a group of faithful believers to worship and study together.
This imprisoned church has just finished its Sunday morning worship. The pastor has just said the final “Amen.” Suddenly two soldiers appear at the door. They call out the pastor’s name and deliver an order: “Make ready and come with us.” The small group of believers looks at their pastor with a mixture of terror and compassion in their eyes. They know the meaning of these words. This is the standard summons issued to a condemned prisoner.
The pastor rises and prepares to leave with the soldiers. However, just before he exits, he turns and says to one of his flock: “This is the end—but for me, the beginning—of life.” Moving words from a deeply spiritual man.
The next day, Monday, April 9, 1945, the pastor is executed by hanging. Continue reading
TRUTH BUILDERS MINISTRIES 