Great Speech

President Bush gave a great speech commemorating the 5th anniversary of 9/11. It was good to hear the President detail his belief of how the attacks of 9/11 and reform in the Middle East are directly connected. We are engaged in a clash for the survivial of civilization, as the President put it, and we must not forget this. This clash does not require everyone to sacrifice their lives, but it does require a steadfast resolve to persevere to victory against Islamofascism (Tony Blair, British Prime Minister, addressed the fact that most of the public just doesn't get the grave danger posed to civilization from these extremists). It is good to have a President who is a resolute leader--determined to do what is necessary to protect not only America, but also the world.

Meanwhile...

The war in the western region of Sudan, Darfur, continues. Despite world outrage and a response by the UN (though lackluster), government troops a proxy militiament continue their killing and pillaging of innocent Darfurians. A snippet from the Washington Post story:

Yagoub Mustafa, 45, could not easily mimic the "whoop whoop whoop, boom! boom!
boom!" of two helicopter gunships that fired rockets into the huts in his Darfur village. He tried to make the noises, but they were not loud enough, or terrifying enough.

But the horror he experienced that July afternoon, while he crouched low under a tree with his sobbing sons, daughters and nephews pressed against him, was more easily expressed: Mustafa thought they all were going to die, he said. And as he offered soothing words to the children, he begged for rescue in a silent prayer. Please God help us. We need your mercy.

Three years into a war in the Darfur region of western Sudan, thousands of villagers have been victimized by government troops and proxy militiamen who killed, raped and looted. Now the government is intensifying an air war featuring Soviet-era Antonov planes jury-rigged into bombers and Mi-24 helicopter gunships turned against mud-and-thatch huts. New waves of shellshocked villagers have left their homes and trekked for days to bulging relief camps.

Here's hoping the awareness of the plight in Darfur continues and does not fizzle out.

Sign Of The Times

Oh happy day! The Human Rights Campaign has launched an online resource for providing clergy with help in planning gay affirming sermons. I'm sure the angels in heaven are rejoicing (tongue firmly planted in cheek). I don't even know where to begin...

A Real Hero

One last post for the evening. Ben Stein wrote a marvelous article for E! Online about who the real heroes are. Laura Ingraham put the link on her site this week, and so I just now discovered it. I think it's well worth reading.

Water, Water Nowhere

Well if the US going broke isn't enough to depress you (see below), perhaps the impedning water crisis is. Water is becoming more scarce according to the International Water Management Institute's report released this week (it's World Water Week!). Yet another crisis (but an interesting one that deserves not only policymaker attention, but also average citizen attention). However, Americans would rather not think about this (and all of the other dire situations). Is this a problem? Not the water situation, I know it's a problem (although if you'd like to submit that there really is no water crisis, I'd entertain that thought). But is the apathy of the American public toward these very real crises a problem?













Thanks Passport!

Going Bankrupt?

Is the United States going bankrupt? One economics professor thinks so, and he has a strategy to prevent that from happening. Among his proposals: eliminate our current tax system and institute a national retail sales tax, reform Social Security by creating personal retirement accounts and funding Social Security through the retail tax, and by creating a universal health insurance system replacing our current fee-for-service health care system. This article is only 16 pages and is an interesting read.

The professor raises an important question concerning America's fiscal solvency. The government is spending recklessly and is taking a very short-sighted and rosey-lensed view of entitlement programs. All Americans have an obligation to hold our elected officials accountable when it comes to fiscal matters. These entitlement programs directly impact us, it's time to make sure that we as a country remain strong by reigning in our government spending.

What do you think? Should ordinary Americans hold their elected officials accountable with regards to spending and entitlement programs?

Bring Back the Draft

Recently in the Oklahoman, several folks have suggested that the solution to so many problems lies in reinstating the draft. One fellow suggested in a letter today that the draft will combat effeminate households. Of course this idea is absurd. First of all, Pentagon officials do not want a draft because they like a military that is staffed by motivated (ie, people who want to be in the military) and skilled warfighters. An effective American military must have an expert, dedicated, specialized force, not people who are longing to go back to their "real" lives. And the idea that a draft would solve problems like effeminate men (is that really a problem) and renew patriotism is not accurate. Those problems will be solved by a rejecting of our passivist, self-centered culture.

Back

I'm back. Teresa and I are still sorting through wedding gifts and get everything unpacked as we settle into our new apartment. I'm also taking time to get back into the news loop after being out if it for a few weeks.

Hellllllloooooooooo

Have been absent for awhile...and will be absent for a little while longer. But, when I return I'll be tan, rested, and married!!

Iraq and Ike

The Washington Post has a great article discussing whether Defense Department officials ignored the lessons learned about counterinsurgency in Vietnam concerning counterinsurgency in Iraq. It is certainly an interesting article and does seem to show that those involved with the planning and executing of the Iraq war missed valuable advice that could have spared us all of the carnage currently being experienced in Iraq.

I also read Dwight Eisenhower's fairwell speech and it stirred me! This is his famous military-industrial complex speech. There's so much in there for we as Americans to think about.

On the military-industrial complex:
This conjunction of an immense military establishment and a large arms industry is new in the American experience. The total influence -- economic, political, even spiritual -- is felt in every city, every State house, every office of the Federal government. We recognize the imperative need for this development. Yet we must not fail to comprehend its grave implications. Our toil, resources and livelihood are all involved; so is the very structure of our society.
In the councils of government, we must guard against the acquisition of unwarranted influence, whether sought or unsought, by the militaryindustrial complex. The potential for the disastrous rise of misplaced power exists and will persist.
We must never let the weight of this combination endanger our liberties or democratic processes. We should take nothing for granted. Only an alert and knowledgeable citizenry can compel the proper meshing of the huge industrial and military machinery of defense with our peaceful methods and goals, so that security and liberty may prosper together.
--Notice how Ike places the burden of defending against this increase in power by the military-industrial complex squarely on the shoulders of the citizenry. Every American has a duty to be alert and knowledgeable when it comes to security and liberty. This is a particularly important message for we Americans to hear today in our age of national security and the war on terror.

On scientific advancement:
Yet, in holding scientific research and discovery in respect, as we should, we must also be alert to the equal and opposite danger that public policy could itself become the captive of a scientifictechnological elite.
It is the task of statesmanship to mold, to balance, and to integrate these and other forces, new and old, within the principles of our democratic system -- ever aiming toward the supreme goals of our free society.
--A great caution in the light of stem-cell research so hotly argued for my nearly everyone today.

On stewardship:
Another factor in maintaining balance involves the element of time. As we peer into society's future, we -- you and I, and our government -- must avoid the impulse to live only for today, plundering, for our own ease and convenience, the precious resources of tomorrow. We cannot mortgage the material assets of our grandchildren without risking the loss also of their political and spiritual heritage. We want democracy to survive for all generations to come, not to become the insolvent phantom of tomorrow.
--We all need to hear this again especially when it comes to our ballooning and scandalous federal budget deficit and our environment. We need more fiscal conservatives like Tom Coburn and John McCain in government to protect government coffers. We also need conservatives with the environmental philosophy of Theodore Roosevelt who recognised the importance of preserving our land and so established our national parks system.

On pipe-dreams:
Down the long lane of the history yet to be written America knows that this world of ours, ever growing smaller, must avoid becoming a community of dreadful fear and hate, and be instead, a proud confederation of mutual trust and respect.

Flush With Gambling

Christianity Today points to a story from the Christian Science Monitor detailing the rise in gambling on college campuses. I saw this rise especially during my junior and senior years of school. Don't think this is just some innocuous past time. People are at the very least losing some serious money and at the worst getting into gambling debt. Just this past week I encountered a client who is in a gambling treatment center. Her gambling habit has wrecked her family. As this client's 80 year old mother stated in exasperation, "they just keep building more casinos."

It's funny how gambling continues to increase in America and we as a soceity glorify it and turn a blind eye to its unsavory collateral damage. Oklahoma approved state sanctioned gambling in the form of a lottery and racinos in the fall of 2005. A certain amount of gambling revenue is designated to gambling treatment programs (talk about ironic...or stupid). This past spring Oklahoma Republicans fought to increase this program money. However, Oklahoma Democrats blocked this proposal. The problem will only get worse. Turning a blind eye won't help.

A Confession

I am a conservative and I listen to NPR (yes, National Public Radio). I know, I know, that's taboo in the conservative world. We are supposed to be listening to Rush, Sean Hannity, Michael Savage and Bill O'Reilly (truth be told, I think they're all rabid and advance the conservative cause very little). But alas, my quest for intelligent, serious, interesting discussions on the world and national events and culture brings me to listen to NPR during my morning and evening commutes. Yeah, there is a bit of a liberal bias, and the folks at Morning Edition and All Things Considered may be seen as a little snobbish and hoity-toity here in the Heartland, but I get alot out of the programming. Joe Carter has a great post that does a lot to sum up how I feel about NPR, so I'm going to point you over to his place to read a lilttle more.

Now, just for the record: Laura Ingraham is amazing and while I'm not able to receive Bill Bennett and Hugh Hewitt on the radio dial, I think they've got great shows. It's just that on top of the highly partisan attack shows I need a little more balance, a little more engagement, and a little more debate.

Observations From The Candidate Forum

I went to a candidate forum hosted by the Norman Chamber of Commerce. Candidates for District Attorney, County Commissioner, and State House and Senate districts were present. Let me tell you it was a hoot and a holler (yeah, I said it). A few things I noticed: All of the candidates were white. All but three were at least over 40. Only one candidate was female. As for the audience: a majority were at least over 50, majority white (I saw two non-white spectators), and one or two under 30.

The format of the forum was pretty bad. Each candidate was allowed a two minute opening statement and then one minute to answer each question. While this did allow for the candidates to get out a few of their points, it really stifled any meaningful debate. Of course, this is no surprise, because we are in a soundbite culture.

Two other observations: "incentivize" is the new buzzword, and the Main St./I-35 overpass in Norman is the worst overpass in the state, but construction won't start until 2011!

Overall, it was a good experience as I was able to get a better idea of who to vote for come next Tuesday.

Inside Hezbollah

Read a great piece by Robin Wright of the Washington Post detailing Hezbollah's current leader. It gives a good, brief look at what makes Hezbollah tick.

Supporting Israel

Israel, Lebanon, and Hezbollah

Want to know why this whole conflict between Israel and Hezbollah (which has subsequently spread into Lebanon) got started? Look no further than Prof. Joshua Landis's blog, Syria Comment. While Landis is primarily looking at things through how events affect Syria, he provides good insight into why Hezbollah took Israeli soliders hostage in the first place (to use as a bargaining chip). Check it out and get a brief education on the whole subject.

Liberal Christianity And Irrelevance

Beliefnet columnist Charlotte Allen writes a scathing indictment of Liberal Christianity in the Los Angeles Times.

To whet your appetite:

So this is the liberal Christianity that was supposed to be the Christianity of the future: disarray, schism, rapidly falling numbers of adherents, a collapse of Christology and national meetings that rival those of the Modern Language Assn. for their potential for cheap laughs. And they keep telling the Catholic Church that it had better get with the liberal program — ordain women, bless gay unions and so forth — or die. Sure.

HT: Albert Mohler

My Kind Of Feminist

Mark Noll writes in the Wall Street Journal concerning the King James version of the Bible and it's influence on American culture. In so doing, he describes those feminists whom I respect:

In the 1890s Elizabeth Cady Stanton and other aggrieved feminists published
"The Woman's Bible" in an effort to counter interpretations of Scripture that
had done women harm. When they asked others to comment, Frances Willard of the
Women's Christian Temperance Union made a telling response: "No such woman, as
Mrs. Elizabeth Cady Stanton, with her heart aflame against all forms of injustice and of cruelty . . . has ever been produced in a country where the Bible was not incorporated into the thoughts and the affections of the people and had not been so during many generations."

Gender Gap

The New York Times has a great story detailing how women are leaving men behind at college. A few interesting observations are included in this piece. At most universities across the country more women are graduating with honors than men, and 58% of those enrolled in college are women. Though feminazis want to continue to brainwash us that there is a glass ceiling and women are being oppressed when it comes to attaining a higher education and successful job, the facts show that this is just not true.

Newsweek ran a story several months ago on how boys are suddenly being left behind when it comes to elementary and secondary education (sorry, the story is archived, unless you're a print subscriber). This lack of attention on the education and socialization of boys is also found in the Times article. Women are more driven than their male counterparts, with more men likely to be slackers when it comes to their studies. College men, as we all know, are more likely to play video games. And we're not just talking about a few times a week or even a few hours each day, but instead 4-5 hours each day. C'mon fellas! Step it up! To think that we are breeding in males the idea that slacking off pays off is an idictment of decades of feminist propaganda. White male guilt is still alive and kicking and the feminization of our culture (including our churches) will only worsen the situation. Hopefully we aren't raising up a generation of "girly men" (Hat Tip to the Governator!).

North Korea

Foreign Policy Blog has a great, link-filled post on North Korea. As the blogger adeptly points out, outrage over the grave humanitarian misdeeds of Kim Jung Il is largely absent in the world.

Let Freedom Ring!

I am so grateful that God has given us America. He has blessed us with freedom and liberty. I am thankful for the men and women in the United States Armed Forces who today serve to not only preserve, protect, and defend our Constitution, but also to promote freedom and liberty to the despotically ruled, destitute regions of the world including Iraq and Afghanistan. May we reflect upon the great truths espoused in one of our greatest founding documents, the Declaration of Independence. May God bless America and may America bless God.

The Delcaration of Independence

When, in the course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the laws of nature and of nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. That to secure these rights, governments are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed. That whenever any form of government becomes destructive to these ends, it is the right of the people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their safety and happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shown that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such government, and to provide new guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former systems of government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over these states. To prove this, let facts be submitted to a candid world.

• He has refused his assent to laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.
  
• He has forbidden his governors to pass laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.
  
• He has refused to pass other laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of representation in the legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.
  
• He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their public records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.
  
• He has dissolved representative houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.
  
• He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected; whereby the legislative powers, incapable of annihilation, have returned to the people at large for their exercise; the state remaining in the meantime exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
  
• He has endeavored to prevent the population of these states; for that purpose obstructing the laws for naturalization of foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migration hither, and raising the conditions of new appropriations of lands.
  
• He has obstructed the administration of justice, by refusing his assent to laws for establishing judiciary powers.
  
• He has made judges dependent on his will alone, for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.
  
• He has erected a multitude of new offices, and sent hither swarms of officers to harass our people, and eat out their substance.
  
• He has kept among us, in times of peace, standing armies without the consent of our legislature.
  
• He has affected to render the military independent of and superior to civil power.
  
• He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his assent to their acts of pretended legislation:
  
• For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:
  
• For protecting them, by mock trial, from punishment for any murders which they should commit on the inhabitants of these states:
  
• For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world:
  
• For imposing taxes on us without our consent:
  
• For depriving us in many cases, of the benefits of trial by jury:
  
• For transporting us beyond seas to be tried for pretended offenses:
  
• For abolishing the free system of English laws in a neighboring province, establishing therein an arbitrary government, and enlarging its boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule in these colonies:
  
• For taking away our charters, abolishing our most valuable laws, and altering fundamentally the forms of our governments:
  
• For suspending our own legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.
  
• He has abdicated government here, by declaring us out of his protection and waging war against us.
  
• He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burned our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.
  
• He is at this time transporting large armies of foreign mercenaries to complete the works of death, desolation and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of cruelty and perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy of the head of a civilized nation.
  
• He has constrained our fellow citizens taken captive on the high seas to bear arms against their country, to become the executioners of their friends and brethren, or to fall themselves by their hands.
  
• He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavored to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian savages, whose known rule of warfare, is undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.
  

In every stage of these oppressions we have petitioned for redress in the most humble terms: our repeated petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Nor have we been wanting in attention to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which, would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, enemies in war, in peace friends.

We, therefore, the representatives of the United States of America, in General Congress, assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the name, and by the authority of the good people of these colonies, solemnly publish and declare, that these united colonies are, and of right ought to be free and independent states; that they are absolved from all allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the state of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as free and independent states, they have full power to levey war, conclude peace, contract alliances, establish commerce, and to do all other acts and things which independent states may of right do. And for the support of this declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our lives, our fortunes and our sacred honor.

On Fighting Old Battles

I can't believe that Democrats are still up in arms over the 2000 and 2004 elections. The lastest conspiracy theory comes from Robert F Kennedy Jr. in an article in the bastion of journalistic integrity and excellence, Rolling Stone. One of my favorite lefty bloggers, Chuck Currie blogs on this latest article, and I responded. Here's hoping the Dems continue with this absurd distraction while the Republicans gear up for '08. Go McCain Go!

UPDATE: The "intellectual" debate over at Chuck's continues. It never ceases to amaze me that people think the government of the United States is incapable of doing more than one thing.

The Scourge of Global Poverty

Presbyterian pastor Mark Roberts wrote a series of posts on the ONE campaign that I found particularly thought-provoking. I would encourage you to read his ruminations as he engages the issue of global poverty.

Roberts also linked to these two articles from evangelical Christian Ron Sider: Is God Really on the Side of the Poor, and An Evangelical Theology of Liberation. Both are excellent, thought-provoking articles.

Cambodia and Corruption

The World Bank wants Cambodia to pay back millions in contracts they say were misprocured due to corruption in the Cambodian government. Prime minister Hun Sen is having none of this, though. He's asking for proof from the World Bank of the corruption before he returns any money. The World Bank has given non-specific information to the Cambodian government because the Bank wants to protect their sources. That's not good enough for the always honest Prime Minister (errr....right...), and he'll wait it out til he gets the information he wants. It's no surprise that this is a problem in Cambodia--it's still full of corruption. Hopefully as more pressure is put on the country from international entities like the World Bank, the corruption can be cleaned up and the country can continue to develop.

Now That's My Kind Of Kid!

A three year old picked The Newshour with Jim Lehrer to be his theme for his birthday party. How cool is that?!?! The video is even better than the story...what an awesome kid!

Veritas

Thanks to Brandon for providing this link to the Veritas Forum. Many great and thought-provoking messages.

Now It's Confirmed!

I'm a huge West Wing fan (even if it's off air, I still have the DVDs!). Sam was always may favorite character (well, I liked Leo as well) so it is good to find out by such a reliable source that I am most like Sam.



The idealistic speechwriter is well-liked by just about everyone. He's known for his excellent writing, sense of humor, and tendency to be clutzy. Although being younger than the rest of the staff, he's often treated as so, much to his dismay.

:: Which West Wing character are you? ::

Quick Links

A few links I found interesting:

There are two particularly thought-provoking posts on Evangelical Outposts (two of many, by the way). One concerns youth ministry in the early church (worth the read and subsequent moments of pondering). The other concerns rejoicing in the deaths of terrorist leaders like Zarqawi (an aside: yesterday, when I heard of Zarqawi's death I was elated. It was until later in the day that I thought about whether such a reaction was "right." This clears that up).

Charles Krauthammer's column on protecting marriage expresses most of my thoughts in a much more clear and succinct way. Read it for good insight. Also, read Larry Kudlow's column on taxing the rich. His sarcasm accurately exposes the lunacy of attacks made on the rich by liberals.

Last, but not least, not all scientists agree that global warming is occurring (also see here). So younger scientists are intimidated by older scientists into toeing the party line, huh? Sounds like what's happening with evolution.

Laughing At Someone Else's Expense

For a good laugh, click here!

From Newsweek

A few articles from Newsweek that I especially enjoyed:

Here's an online special detailing 15 ideas to "recharge America". No real substantial or detailed ideas are put forth--just broad themes. However one in particular caught my eye. It's from Pete Peterson of the Blackstone Group, in which he warns of the need to reign in our sickening spending problem, particularly referring to the entitlement programs of Social Security and Medicare. A choice nugget, "If we don't fundamentally reform our gargantuan entitlement programs and at the same time our gluttonous energy and consumption habits and meager savings levels, we simply won't have the resources for these desperately needed R&D investments."

George Will writes as only George Will can write on "white guilt". He tells us of a new book written by "America's most discerning black writer" on the detriments of not taking personal responsibility in the black community. To whet your appetite, "Black 'mililtants' preaching militant dependency want guilt-ridden whites to feel obligated to deliver black advancement."

Finally, read about the hypocrisy of Mexican immigration policy. President Vicente Fox has sent troops to Mexico's southern border with Guatemala to crack down on the illegal Guatemalans coming into Mexico. Fox has been urging America to grant amnesty to millions of Mexicans while his government has only granted legal status to about 15,000 illegals in his country. Wages for illegal Guatemalans are abyssmal--$3.50 a day, and sometimes room and board is deducted! Want to know what the coffee plantation operators think of Mexican workers? Look no further: "You can't depend on Mexicans, they're irresponsible." Hmmm...sounds familiar. Meanwhile, Fox and other Hispanics lecture the US on our treatment of illegals immigrants. Gimme a break!

Southern Baptists and Public Schools

NPR ran a story on a resolution that will be proposed at this year's Southern Baptist Convention urging Southern Baptists to develop a strategy for pulling their children out of public schools.

While I do see the points made by those in favor of such a move, I can't help but think pulling children out of public schools would be disasterous not only for the children, but also for our country. It is true that public schools are becoming more and more secular as evolution and other secular humanist ideas become more and more entrenched in academia. It is also true that many children are exposed to certain lifestyles and viewpoints in public schools that are counter to Christ exalting living. My answer to both: welcome to the real world!

Christians, especially evangelical Christians cannot sequester themselves from a lost and dying world that needs a witness. I understand that a child's education is very important and philosophies and ideas contrary to God and His revealed Word can be damaging to a child. But my answer is not to take children out of that environment, but for parents to take an active role in educating the child at hime. Plus, let's be honest, public schools are not completely devoid of spirituality. FCA and Young Life have huge participation numbers as children are shown how they can bring their faith to bare in the world. And I would dare say that many, many children who come from lost homes have came to know Christ because of the testimony of a Christian classmate.

I can only imagine what will happen to our Christian children who have been educated in Christian schools when they finally are exposed to the lies of this world. Shock and awe will fill their faces and their minds as they wonder if what they have been taught is true. Even if they know truth, will they know how to engage the culture around them? Furthermore, will public schools become even more secular when Christians pull their children out of them? By doing such a thing, we evangelicals are essentially giving over an entire people group to Satan! I think the best way for Christians to have an impact on our culture is by keeping our children involved in public schools. It is in that dark environment where the light of Christ can shine brightly.

Wow!

My roomie connected me to a profound, challenging, convicting, and possibly life-changing sermon from Reggie McNeal called "Connecting Future Generations To Jesus Christ." Listen to this! It will rock your world!

Marriage Amendment

A federal marriage amendment is going to the full Senate for a vote that will occur in early June. Here's hoping it doesn't pass. I think that the definition of marriage ought to be defined by states. Any federal amendment infringes on the rights of states and thus violates the principles of Federalism. Conservatives should work in their own states to pass marriage protection, and not try to ram something through at the federal level.

On Missing The Point

Newsweek's cover story this week is on AIDS. In a story detailing the prevalance of HIV/AIDS among blacks, writers Claudia Kalb and Andrew Murr totally miss the point when diagnosing the root cause of the spread,

Understanding why HIV has taken hold of black America and how to prevent
its spread has proved to be no less daunting a challenge. The root of the
problems is poverty and the neglect that comes with it--inadequate health care
and a dearth of information about safe sex.

Excuse me? Poverty causes HIV? Tell that to the millions across the world in poverty that don't have the disease. Lack of knowledge concerning safe sex practices causes HIV? How many American students haven't heard about safe sex?!?! It's taught in schools for crying out loud! This has nothing to do with lack of information or lack of resources. I may not be the sharpest tack on the wall, but even I could correctly discern that sex outside of marriage and drug use spreads HIV. If people would stop engaging in these practices, I'm willing to guarantee HIV would be almost a non-issue in the world. I believe the woeful ignorance of these reporters is exactly the problem with global HIV/AIDS policy. The Bush administration has made a great stride in recognizing that the only way to successfully combat further spread of the disease is through abstinence and committing $15 billion to promote it. At the same time, they recognize that people will not want to follow such a policy, so condoms are provided. This is smart policy, and we should encourage more of this type of common-sense policymaking.

The Vital Africa

Helping Africa is not just about do-goodery. Helping Africa is also about American national security. It is vital that America ensures that stability exists on the African continent. For additional thoughts on this, check out this post, Why All of Africa Is In America's Interest. Then consider whether it is important for American citizens to call on our leaders to take an even more active and resourceful look at America's Africa policy. Roman scholar Pliny the Elder had it right when he said, "There is always something new out of Africa." My we ensure that that something new is freedom, peace, and hope.

Entitlement Nation

George Will wrote a great column in last week's Newsweek in which he briefly touched on the effect that entitlements have had on our country. For example, before 1977, no snowstorm had ever been declared a national disaster. However, today it is a rare feat indeed when a snowstorm, or any other storm doesn't garner the title of "emergency." The reason for the increase in emergency distinctions is because we as nation expect to not have these problems, or at the very least, believe we are entitled to safety and little inconvenience when natural disasters occur. Will explains much more fully, so check it out. One of his best lines: "A poll shows that approval of the job Congress is doing has plunged to just 22 percent. On wonders: who are those 22 percent?"

Bitterly Satirical

Geographically Illiterate

Apparently young Americans are geogrpahically illiterate, specifically world geography. Many couldn't point to Iraq or Indonesia on a map or detail which country had a major earthquake in October 2005 (Pakistan). Geography, as this survey demands, must be more thoroughly taught in elementary and highschools.

Letter To The Editor

The first genocide of the 21st century is well underway—over the past two years 400,000 people have already been murdered, and there are no signs of the slaughter abating. This reprehensible killing is raging in the western region of Sudan called Darfur. Despite the outrage expressed by many leaders, the United Nations has only been able to raise 32% of the $746 million needed to fund operations in the region. The war has now spread to neighboring Chad. More and more people are being unjustly murdered while the world watches and does nothing. We must act now. Please join the fight against genocide by petitioning Congress and the President to act more forcefully to stop the murder of defenseless, innocent human beings. God commands us. Justice demands it. Love propels us.

Hey Peaceniks

Now hear this:

Back home, as the election-year debate over Iraq rages on, I think about
that soldier's sacrifice and recall a final impassioned plea from an Iraqi
general named Aziz: 'Iraqi troops will finish this job; we will kill this
insurgency. But please tell the American people and President Bush that America
cannot withdraw before the Iraqi troops are ready. We can't stand alone yet. We
need more time.'

More Here

Random, Pertinent Fact

The Top 10 Oil Importers To the US

1. Mexico
2. Canada
3. Saudi Arabia (potentially politically unstable)
4. Nigeria (politically unstable)
5. Venezuela (politically unstable)
6. Angola
7. Iraq (politically unstable)
8. Ecuador
9. Brazil
10. Algeria
(HT: FP Passport--you really ought to check out this blog...it's great!)

Meanwhile, the vast oil deposits in the frozen, barren tundra of Alaska cannot be tapped by American oil companies to ease our depedence on foreign oil, because too many folks believe drilling will hurt the environment. Considering the technology used to drill and the fact that there really aren't that many animals let alone trees in the ANWR area, I don't think it's that big of a deal. Drill, says I!

Save Lives?? A Preposterous Idea!

The genocide in Darfur only gets worse. Will the nations that are more than able to put a stop to this genocide do anything? Judging from recent history (Cambodia,Rwanda, Srebrenica, abortion) I won't hold my breath. Click on the link to figure out how you can help stop genocide in Darfur.

In Remembrance

April 19, 1995














11 years later...

If You're Interested

Some Sunday evening reading:

A brief history of foot-washing

An excellent exploration of water conditions in Somalia, and perhaps a precursor to what the larger global community could be facing as fresh drinking water becomes more and more scarce.

Here's an interesting biographical sketch on al-Qaeda #2, Ayman al-Zawahiri

A brief photo essay of Uganda's night children is at Foreign Policy online (for more on this, go to Invisible Children).

Here is an example of why foreign aid just can't only come in the form of money or supplies. It must be undergirded by stipulations to reform society. In the case of Africa, the country does need money. But it also needs free and fair societies ruled by the people and not corrupt regimes. But China doesn't care.

Finally, here's a new blog by Foreign Policy.

Immigration Insanity

Hispanic leaders claim they are protesting for fair treatment of all immigrants. I say: Everyone wants that! Those of us who advocate enforcing American laws on immigration aren't anti-immigrant. We just believe that there is something wrong with breaking the law.

Hispanic leaders claim that illegal immigrants are coming over to America because they want to work and pursue the American dream. I say: Since when was the American dream based in illegality. I want people from all countries to come into America the legal way and provide for their families and pursue the American dream. I don't want people breaking the law and then claiming they just wanted "the dream."

Hispanic leaders call illegal immigrants "undocumented workers." I say: Yeah, they're undocumented alright, but let's not conveniently brush past the fact that they're illegal, and that's the problem.

Hispanic leaders claim the House immigration bill that criminalized illegal immigrants and prohibited charities--including churches--from helping illegals. I say: Yeah, I think the Republicans (once again) shot themselves in the foot with this one. Our problem isn't doing the human thing and helping those that are struggling. Our problem is enforcing border security and immigration laws. It's one thing to make illegal immigration a felonious offense. However, making humanitarian initiatives illegal is absurd and unnecessary. Much of the debate has centered around the charity aspect and not the underpinning problem--breaking border and immigration laws.

Hispanic leaders claim that illegal immigrants do work Americans won't do and so they should be allowed to stay. I say: While it may be true that illegals do some of the hard, dirty work, Americans would do that same work. It's just that Americans believe in being paid at least a minimum wage. Why would a corporation hire an American for $5.15 when they can hire an illegal for $5.00?

Some illegal immigrants say that everyone in North America is American and international borders ought not be enforced (yes, some actually said that in Washingotn DC today). I say: Being an American is a priviledge that should not be cheaply disposed of. There are rights and priviledges of being a citizen of any country. The nation-state is important to maintaining order and civility. America has an obligation to its citizens to maintain strong, healthy, secure borders.

In the end, it's important that America continues to have a diverse citizenry. We ought to continue welcoming immigrants from all across the world. Hispanics are a very important part of America. But, we as a nation founded on law and order cannot reward illegal behavior.















I say: Try becoming legal and getting vaild
Social Security numbers!




















I say: Why not wave the American
flag? After all, don't you love America?
Don't you want to puruse the American
dream?





















I say: Surely you protestors aren't
disrespecting the American flag and
in turn the United States of America?

Rewarding Illegality

Picture this: Mexican family A--looking for a better life so they apply for citizenship in America. Mexican family B--looking for a better life so they sneak across the border with the help of a smuggler called a coyote. The man of the house gets an immediate job doing landscaping and the woman gets a job cleaning houses. Because they're illegal neither one has a Social Security number, but instead go to a man who will supply them with counterfeit numbers. They work, pay their FICA taxes (which they can't take advantage of because they don't have a real Social Security number), send their kids to public schools (which neither parent paid for), and zap our health care system because they aren't insured and must instead rely on government aid. Then the US Congress and President decide they want an easy way out of the whole illegal immigration business and pass what is essentially an amnesty bill. So Mexican family B, because they've evaded they've successfully evaded the Bureau of Citizenship and Immigration Services for five years, gets US citizenship. Meanwhile Mexican family A is still waiting for clearance into America. What would you choose?

To think that the American government would consider rewarding illegal behavior. In fact that's where we are today. We have rules and laws for a reason. Border security and legal immigration must be enforced. We need a border fence. We need mandatory employee verification. We need to secure the country. It's not about discrimination--we welcome with open arms all immigrants. Just do it right!

As for these huge protests...they're ridiculous! It's good that these folks are taking a part of the governing process, but seriously! They are protesting because they want their or their families' illegal behavior rewarded. I think I might be able to take them a little more seriously if they didn't wave the Mexican flag, burn the American flag, and have posters proclaiming "reconquista" of the American West.

Cowardly Democrats

Oklahoma Senator Bernest Cain and the rest of the Oklahoma Democratic party showed just how liberal they really are by allowing seveal anti-abortion bills that were passed by the Republican controlled House to die in committee today. The bills would strengthen Oklahoma's informed consent law and tighten regulation of the morning after pill. Cain stated that he believed that comprehensive abortion laws were passed last year and he considered these bills to be piling on. Unfortunately, comprehensive abortion laws were not passed last year.

I remember sitting in the Senate chamber last year as Sen. Cain--pawn of Planned Parenthood and the rest of the pro-abortion crowd--and several other Democrats ignorantly framed the abortion debate around religion. In fact, the debate is much larger than religious beliefs. It has everything to do with killing humans. Sen. Cain's inaction has allowed much more than just bills to die today.

Judaism, Apartheid, and the Gospel

Ron Sider, in his book Good News and Good Works, tells the story of James, a Jewish student in South Africa, whom he met at a conference at a South African university.

"His passion in life was the struggle against apartheid. Somehow,
hoewever, these devout white Christians had caught his attention. James
and I quickly became friends talking about South African politics hour after
hour. ...[James said] 'God told me that if I would come to this
conference, I would learn something about his Son.'
I looked at James and replied, 'James, I believe that Jesus Christ died on
the cross and rose again for you.'
He paused for a second and then astonished me again, 'I believe all of that
Ron, I really do.' Still he held back. Something obviously was
blocking his acceptance of Christ. After a moment, he said quietly, 'I
don't want to be like those white Christians here. They sing about the
love of Jesus and the joy of heaven, but they don't care about justice in South
Africa. If I become a Christian will I have to give up the
struggle?'"

James later became a Christian. He certainly made a valid point, the lost must see in us a passion for Christ as well as a passion for the poor and the oppressed. Many more neat stories and valid points in Sider's book. And don't be confused, Sider is no liberal, social gospeler. He's very much a Bible believing, conservative Christian. Good stuff!

Ignorance

"I think we have a great need in our own country that should take top priority. We don't live in Africa, we live in America."

To Be A Christian In Afghanistan

A German newspaper offers this profile of one Afghani Christian. Pretty interesting.

Why We Must Try

The uncertainties of war and the hope of history.

March Madness!

Upset after upset. Is it too late to jump on the Patriot bandwagon? All of my other teams are gone...I've got to cheer for somebody!

In completely unrelated and more important news, Abdul Rahman, the Afghan who was on trial for converting to Christianity has had charges against him dropped. Good to hear!

Religious Freedom?

By now, you have probably heard about the man in Afghanistan who is being tried for converting to Christianity. If convicted he'll be put to death. The testimony this man has is amazing...or is it ordinary? Is the faith of this man, Abdul Rahman, the kind of faith that is natural of a Christian? I digress. To learn more about Rahman and Afghan Christians, check out this site. The US Commission on International Religous Freedom has weighed in with President Bush as well.

Of course most of us know that this is not the first time nor will it be the last time that a Christian is persecuted for his/her beliefs. It happens everyday across the world. This current situation dovetails with recent talk in the media regarding words spoken by Franklin Graham and Pat Robertson. Both men essentially stated that Islam was a wicked religion. Several in the media and liberal Christianity have questioned those thoughts, stating that they incite violence...even calling Graham and Robertson warmongers. Albert Mohler was on O'Reilly the other night speaking on this topic...O'Reilly wasn't too pleased with Mohler's belief that Islam is indeed an evil religion (after all, isn't anything that leads people away from Christ evil?). To watch a portion of this interview, click on over here (of course, this particular blogger is critical of Mohler). Another blogger, who disagrees with Mohler on just about everything, claims Mohler is bigoted for following the teachings of the Bible with regards to other religions. Needless to say, it is not a popular thing in our culture to speak against Islam. I'm waiting on condemnations of the belief system that advocates the death of those who choose to believe differently. I don't think it's a coincidence that Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Afghanistan are both Islamically governed countries and make it illegal to either convert to other religions, practice other religions, or both practice and convert to other religions.

Finally, think politics and government are boring and shouldn't be your concern? Have a look at this article written in 2003 when the Afghan constitution was being drafted. Paul Marshall sounded the alarm bells early. Had the Afghan constitution been written differently, this trial might not be going on today.

28 Gold Eiffel Towers

So a Republican controlled Senate voted this week to raise the debt ceiling to $9,000,000,000,000.00. Yep, $9 trillion. Strangely, I'm not surprised. After all, this epitomizes our culture--we Americans love to spend, and we spend what we don't have (average American credit card debt: $8562). But I digress.

Was it a good thing that the Senate passed this raise? Had the Senate not passed this, then America would have defaulted on its loans, and the government would have shut down. Now that wouldn't have been good. However, we should not have gotten here in the first place. Sadly, a Republican President, Republican Congress, and Republican Senate brought us to this point.

In the past, Republicans would criticize "tax and spend Democrats." After all, conservatives called the Republican party home. However, Republicans have turned into "cut and spend Republicans"—cut taxes and spend like there was no tomorrow. I understand that we are fighting a war and we had a terrible hurricane season, so we need to spend money. But we can't continue spending at this rate without raising taxes (yes, I just advocated raising taxes) rather than cutting taxes OR we must cut programs. Yet the leadership is not present in Washington to get this done. It is true that we have noble Senators like Tom Coburn (R-OK) and John McCain (R-AZ) who are willing to stand up to out of control spending. But most elected officials would rather avoid confrontation than make tough decisions.

It is imperative that reckless deficit spending ends! When we borrow, we must borrow from other countries, which makes us less independent. The top two lenders to America are Japan and China. The Bible makes it clear that the borrower is a servant to the lender (Prov 22:7). I'm not feeling too good about being a slave to Japan, let alone communist China or ANY country for that matter.

Of course the inevitable question must be answered: should we care? I believe we should. So often, Americans become very apathetic or disinterested in political issues. Sure things like abortion and war will get us worked up, but when a question like deficit spending comes up, most people tune out believing it is "just politics." Yet I believe this attitude is a detriment to the country. Elected officials respond to their constituents, after all, they want to be elected. I mean look what happened with the Dubai ports issue. Washington was flooded with calls against the deal, and Congress responded appropriately. The citizenry must speak up about such issues.

Let's stop placing the country on a shaky financial foundation. Let your elected officials know how you feel about the issue (it only takes a phone call--nothing elaborate--just tell them your name, where your calling from, and that you don't support deficit spending—it’ll take you about 5 minutes). This is an important issue for the whole country. Let those in Washington know how you feel. Let's stop buying gold Eiffel towers!

The White Man's Burden

Take up the White man's burden --
Send forth the best ye breed --
Go bind your sons to exile
To serve your captives' need;
To wait in heavy harness
On fluttered folk and wild --
Your new-caught, sullen peoples,
Half devil and half child.

Take up the White Man's burden --
In patience to abide,
To veil the threat of terror
And check the show of pride;
By open speech and simple,
An hundred times mad plain.
To seek another's profit,
And work another's gain.

Take up the White Man's burden --
The savage wars of peace --
Fill full the mouth of Famine
And bid the sickness cease;
And when your goal is nearest
The end for others sought,
Watch Sloth and heathen Folly
Bring all your hope to nought.

Take up the White Man's burden --
No tawdry rule of kings,
But toil of serf and sweeper --
The tale of common things.
The ports ye shall not enter,
The roads ye shall not tread,
Go make them with your living,
And mark them with your dead!

Take up the White man's burden --
And reap his old reward:
The blame of those ye better,
The hate of those ye guard --
The cry of hosts ye humour(Ah, slowly!) toward the light: --
"Why brought ye us from bondage,"Our loved Egyptian night?"

Take up the White Man's burden --
Ye dare not stoop to less --
Nor call too loud on freedom
To cloak your weariness;
By all ye cry or whisper,
By all ye leave or do,
The silent, sullen peoples
Shall weigh your Gods and you.

Take up the White Man's burden --
Have done with childish days --
The lightly proffered laurel,
The easy, ungrudged praise.
Comes now, to search your manhood
Through all the thankless years,
Cold-edged with dear-bought wisdom,
The judgment of your peers!
--Rudyard Kipling

This poem was written for Pres. Theodore Roosevelt, as it reflected much of his thoughts concerning foreign policy. Whle I won't go into detail about what I think about this poem (except to say I like it), I will provide this book review of The White Man's Burden that ran in Foreign Affairs Magazine this month. It's long, but provides some good insight about two conflicting viewpoints concerning foreign aid.

Superb

From the Social Security Advisory Board investigating Social Security's response to Hurricanes Katrina and Rita:

It has been said that a crisis reveals the true nature of an individual or
an organization. In its performance in response to the hurricanes of 2005,
the Social Security Administration showed that it and the people of SSA are
models of service to the public. As Representative Jim McCrery of Lousiana
said, 'In spite of the personal trauma caused by these hurricanes, Social
Security employees have been hard at work to ensure that eligible evacuees
received and will continue to receive their Social Security payments....
[Social Security] employees have exemplified excellence in public service--going
far and beyond the call of duty to serve those in dire need.'

Pleading Their Cause

Nicholas Kristof deemed conservative, evangelical Christians the new internationalists. This is true. American evangelicals have been at the forefront of fighting for peace and justice from the African continent to Southeast Asia. A new article in the Christian Science Monitor takes a closer look at evangelical foreign policy activism. A Christian woman from Midland, Texas brought the genocide in Sudan to the attention of the White House. Numerous groups including International Justice Mission (founded by evanglical Gary Haugen) fight sex-trafficking. Evangelical Christians including Charles Colson and Richard Land worked with others to bring about the landmark International Regligous Freedom Act of 1998 which protected the millions who are persecuted and stand to be persecuted for their religious beliefs. And then there is the response of conservative Christians to tsunamis and earthquakes--bringing in millions of dollars worth of food and supplies. Allen Hertzke, director of religous studies at the University of Oklahoma, wrote a well-respected book titled Freeing God's Children. In it, he discusses how evangelical Christians have formed ties with unlikely allies, including feminists and Jews, to help secure global human rights for the oppressed.

The point of this is not to trump up evangelicals. Rather the point is to defend a worldview that has come under scrutiny by the media and the Religous Left. Critics sometimes claim that evangelicals only care about forcing a theocracy on America or oppressing gays and thus don't care about the poor or the sick (for a glimpse of these critiques read Talk2Action**warning, there is rampant paranoia on that site**).

The facts tell a completely different story. For example, liberal Christians in America denied reports of persecution in China, because they had believed the government line that as long as Christians registered with the government, they would be free to worship. These liberal Christians justified registration as a legitimate national security measure for China. A blind eye was turned from the persecuted in China by the Religious Left. Similarly, the NCC aligned itself with the state operated church in North Korea. The government used the NCC to defend its human rights record. North Korea sent a letter to the NCC thanking the organization for its support of an international effort toward peace and denouncing the unfair and unjust actions of America. Hertzke writes,

“when many liberal Protestant leaders took a left turn on foreign policy from
the 1960s anti-Vietnam effort onward, they mirrored views of the secular
Left. The National Council of Churches, for example, moved from a position
of publicly criticizing the purges and religious persecution in the Soviet Union
and it satellites in Eastern Europe in the 1950s to a posture of rather
benevolent ‘silent diplomacy’ toward totalitarian regimes” (Hertzke 100).

The NCC demonstrated further ineptness toward human rights when it praised the Chinese government during the Cultural Revolution as having won a “Communist victory” and applauded the Chinese government for “working for the interests of the ordinary people” (Hertzke 100). The NCC saw the movement of the Religious Right to help persecuted Christians as a “muscular Christianity” and an “attitude of Christian superiority that not only led to the Inquisition but eventually to the Nazi Holocaust” (Hertzke 101).

Evangelicals should take heart in knowing that much is being done in Jesus' name to wipe out injustice throughout the world. Evangelicals also ought to take this as a call to do more "to act justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with their God."

In Lieu Of...

I was almost finished with a post about the new internationalists: evangelical Christians. Then Internet Explorer decided to mess up...so that post is gone. So, I thought I'd post a funny video of laughing babies. It is refreshing to hear babies laugh. Enjoy!

X&Y

I went to the Coldplay concert at the Ford Center last night. It was pretty much the best concert ever! So AWESOME!

Paradox Principle

Justin has a good post discussing how we are so often consumed with satisfying ourselves. It's worth a read and a ponder.

In other news: It's 6 p.m. and it's not dark!! Can't wait for spring!!

Arab Phobia?

This port deal has caused quite a stir. The Bush administration is pushing to approve a deal that would allow Dubai Ports World, a company owned by the government of the United Arab Emirates, to operate several major ports in America that are currently operated by the British company that was bought by DPW. President Bush has insisted that this deal has been throughly vetted by the administration, and it is safe for this UAE government owned company to operate several major ports.

Many, both Democrats and Republicans, oppose this deal. Their fear is that the national security of the country will be jeopardized by the deal. I think that's a valid point. Two of the 19 hijackers on 9/11 were from the UAE. Terrorist money is known to be funneled through UAE banks. That concerns me. I'm concerned by the thought of Islamic terrorists being employed by the company and secretly undermining American security controls. Our ports are already poorly secured according to the 9/11 Commission. Let's not contribute to that by allowing a foreign government to operate American ports.

Is this arab phobia or Islamophobia? Absolutely not. I'm not scared or paranoid of every Arab or Muslim. I'm just concerned that a government with a history of terrorist ties will be controlling our ports. I opposed the UnoCal takeover by China back in October for the same reason: it's not good for a foreign government (in China's case a chief competitior) to control such a large portion of American energy.

In short, I believe this is a major national security issue. While I support President Bush in his efforts to secure America, and I believe him to be very capable in doing this, I believe he is wrong in supporting this deal. Let your voice be heard, oppose this deal.

And if you'd like to read thoughts from those more informed than yours truly, then I suggest traveling to this link at the National Review Online (Thanks Laura!).

AIDS

I came across this documentary film on AIDS called A Closer Walk. I watched the trailer...it definetely looks interesting. When he was CIA director, George Tenet called AIDS one of the greatest threats to national security. I didn't really understand why at the time, but as I see the incredible loss of life associated with AIDS, and how the disease continues to spread (especially in SE Asia including a country near and dear to my heart, Cambodia), I'm beginning to understand why AIDS is such a threat not only to individual people, but to entire countries.

Awestruck

When I watched the men's 500m speedskating finals last night and saw Joey Cheek post great times and win the gold, I thought "Gosh, that guy is pretty cool." However, when I read this story about how he used his 15 minutes of fame and $25,000 prize to help disabled children in Chad and call others including his sponsors to do the same, I thought, "Man, he is the real deal!"

Hilarious!

Hey all you Back To The Future Fans, check this out: Brokeback To The Future. Stinkin' Funny!

Engaged!

Teresa and I are engaged!

Evangelicals And The Environment

Eighty-six evangelical Christian leaders have signed on to an initiative to fight global warming. Leaders include Rick Warren and thea head of the Salvation Army. These leaders recognize that the effects of global warming could cause millions to die, especially those in poorer countries. The group also congratulated several energy corporations for their efforts to reduce emissions.

This is a positive step for these evangelical leaders and will show the world that conservative Christians treasure the land that God gave us.

Go McCain!

McCain lashes out at Senator Obama. That's just one reason why I'm supporting a John McCain presidential run in '08.

Say What??

Apparently several churches are hosting Evolution Sunday soon. Imagine, a church celebrating a philosophy that contradicts everything Christianity is founded upon. To think that folks would go to church, sing hymns, and then hear a message essentially telling them that they were not created by God; instead they were randomly formed when some cosmic dust burst together. Then they hear that life just sort of happens, there's no purpose, it's all random. When the congregation inevitably ask the question "What about the Bible" the clergymen can give this wonderful explanation (my comments)

While virtually all Christians take the Bible seriously and hold it to be
authoritative in matters of faith and practice, the overwhelming majority do not
read the Bible literally (or at all), as they would a science textbook. Many of the beloved stories (key word: stories...not accounts, but stories) found in the Bible – the Creation, Adam and Eve, Noah and the ark – convey timeless truths about God, human beings, and the proper relationship between Creator and creation expressed in the only form capable of transmitting these truths from generation to
generation.(huh? what does that mean?) Religious truth is of a different order from scientific truth. Its purpose is not to convey scientific information but to transform hearts (my heart is transformed by some fairy tale?!? think again...were that the case, I think I would choose to be transformed by Rumplestiltskin--there aren't as many principles to follow that are contrary to the world in that story as in the Bible. I mean who in their right mind would give their lives to something that isn't true?!!!?)

Read more of this madness here--if you dare. Then thank God if you attend a church that places God-given truth found in the Bible and logical reason above the godless religion of evolution.

Oh, and by the way, modern science tells us that there is no God and a man cannot die and then be resurrected.

This Can't Be Good

It's interesting to observe the reactions of Muslims to the disrespectful cartoons that first appeared in Dutch newspapers, and have now been reprinted in numerous other European newspapers. Just two photos of the outrage:














I don't recall this outrage when Christ and Christianity has been insulted, degraded, and otherwise dragged through the mud (although we Christians don't like it, especially when it is government funded art...).

I believe these two starkly different reactions reflect the founders of Islam and Christianity. Christ was mocked and humiliated even to death on a cross. Yet through this meekness, he rose victorious, conquering sin. Mohammad operated by fear conquering through war and violence. People followed largely because Islam was the order of the day. Christ trancends insults and slander, Mohammad cannot.

State of Illusion

Here's a column by Newsweek columnist Anna Quindlen about the state of America today.

Here's my letter to the editor I sent to Newsweek:

As a conservative, I seldom agree with Anna Quindlen. However, I do
agree with her conclusion that it is hard to paint a completely rosey picture of
America (State of Illusion, Feb 6). But not for the reasons she
cited. Instead, America cannot be portrayed as stronger than ever when we
have allowed 45 million babies and counting to be murdered in the genocide
called abortion.

Odds And Ends

This Brooks & Dunn song, Believe is excellent. You can watch the video here on launch.com. Just click "see all 14 matches" and enjoy!

Cindy Sheehan was arrested in the House gallery minutes before the State of the Union address for unlawful conduct.

Bush gave a good defense of his administration in his address.

And finally, Al Mohler has some good posts including this about the changing theology of God in America, and this concerning his thoughts on reading books.

Home, Home On The Range

There is a clash of cultures going on in the American West, and this has nothing to do with Brokeback Mountain. Humans and wildlife are facing growing pains as Americans continue to expand into the forested, mountainous regions of the country. Of course when people move in, they take the natural living spaces of the wildlife, and these creature must go somewhere...but where? Well that's the $25,o00 question. Any suggestions?

The article mentions the affluent Americans who are building in the area, and have not come to peace with their furry neighbors. Apparently all is fine and dandy so long as the animals don't do...well...animals things. Then the rich yuppies get upset. This reminds me of a situation in my home county. City dwellers with money are going out and building in the country...I can't blame them...Kingfisher County is gorgeous. However, they aren't real happy with the dirt roads, because it gets their cars dirty. So they've complained to the county commissioners. Of course the commissioners won't do anything because paving those many miles of roads costs money, and lots of it. I guess those city folk are just going to have to put up with a little mud on their tires!

Darfur

Al Mohler has a great commentary on the genocide in Darfur. Worth a read.
Also, New York Times journalist Nicholas Kristof--who's a very good international journalist--has written extensively on the subject. Here's one example: Genocide in Slow Motion.

Bye, Bye Roe?

The South Dakota legislature will push a bill criminalizing abortion. It has a pretty good chance to pass, but opposition will be strong. What happens if it does pass? I would guess that most likely it would go to the courts--eventually heading to the Supremes. If it made it there, I think there's a shot at Roe v. Wade being overturned. Wishful thinking? Perhaps. But we can always pray.

Here's another story from the Washington Post about the anti-abortion protests in Washington yesterday.

With Alito likely to be confirmed by the full Senate, look out!

Politically Speaking

Why I'm A Conservative (not exhaustive):
1. Limited government is a good thing--just as many of the Founders believed.
2. Taxation should be limited
3. I care for the impoverished
4. Private institutions like churches and foundations are better able to care for the needs of the less fortunate.
5. I believe a market-based economy is a robust, strong economy.
6. Criminals ought to be punished and held accountable for their crimes.
7. Life is to be valued, and as such policies that support the destruction of life, should not be tolerated. Consequently: Abortion is wrong--abortion is murder. Euthanasia is wrong.
8. Education is the perogative of the local governments and not the federal government.
9. The Constitution does not support freedom from religion nor the separation of church and state.
10. The right to own guns is a Constitutionally protected right.
11. Throwing money at problems does not fix them.
12. Providing for the common defense, transportation systems, international aid, and other national infrastructures are the main duties of the federal government.
13. Freedom and democracy should be advanced throughout the world.
14. Rugged individualism built America, and it ought to be celebrated and encouraged. Any type of socialism/communism/"it takes a village" philosphies do not produce a strong nation.
15. God is the foundation upon which our society is based--He gave us inalienable rights including life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This should be recognized and celebrated in America.

I Wonder...

Do you know him?

42

42 days till Coldplay!!

A Little Yeast...

I read this interesting piece from one of my favorite political scientists, J. Budziszewski. It's titled What I Wrote In The Book of Life, and speaks about what allowing a little bit of sin or disobedience can do to one's faith. Enjoy.

Hermaphoriditic Polar Bears

Apparently, toxic gases carried from Europe and America have traveled via the ozone layer to Antartica and are causing polar bears to be born hermaphrodites. My question: how ought a Bible-believing Christian respond to the very real changes occurring in our environment due to reckless practices by we humans?

Piper and Cancer

Tonight I read that John Piper has prostate cancer. For those who have been touched by his ministry (whether agreeing completely with him or not), it would be good to pray for him. I share the letter he wrote to the Bethlehem congregation (may it encourage you) (HT: Reformissionary):

Tuesday,
January 3, 2006

Dear Bethlehem Family,

I hope this letter will encourage your prayer, strengthen your hope, and minister peace. I am writing with the blessing of the other elders to help you receive the news about my prostate cancer.

At my annual urological exam on Wednesday, December 21, the doctor felt an abnormality in the prostate and suggested a biopsy. He called the next day with the following facts: 1) cancer cells were found in two of the ten samples and the estimate is that perhaps 5% of the gland is affected; 2) my PSA count was 1.6, which is good (below 4 is normal); 3) the Gleason score is 6 (signaling that the cancer is not aggressive). These three facts incline the doctor to think that it is unlikely that the cancer has spread beyond the prostate, and that it is possible with successful treatment to be cancer-free.

Before going with Noël to consult in person with the doctor on December 29 about treatment options, I shared this news with the Bethlehem staff on Tuesday morning, December 27, and with the elders that evening. Both groups prayed over me for healing and for wisdom in the treatment choices that lie before us. These were sweet times before the throne of grace with much-loved colleagues.

All things considered, Noël and I believe that I should pursue the treatment called radical prostatectomy, which means the surgical removal of the prostate. We would ask you to pray that the surgery be completely successful in the removal of all cancer and freedom from possible side effects.

With the approval of the executive staff and elder leadership, we are planning surgery in early February. The recovery time is about three weeks before returning to a slow work pace, and six weeks to be back to all normal activities.

This news has, of course, been good for me. The most dangerous thing in the world is the sin of self-reliance and the stupor of worldliness. The news of cancer has a wonderfully blasting effect on both. I thank God for that. The times with Christ in these days have been unusually sweet.
For example, is there anything greater to hear and believe in the bottom of your heart than this: “God has not destined us for wrath, but to obtain salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us so that whether we are awake or asleep we might live with him” (1 Thessalonians 5:9-10)?

God has designed this trial for my good and for your good. You can see this in 2 Corinthians 1:9, “Indeed, we felt that we had received the sentence of death. But that was to make us rely not on ourselves but on God who raises the dead.” And in 2 Corinthians 1:4-6, “He comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God . . . If we are afflicted, it is for your comfort and salvation.”

So I am praying: “Lord, for your great glory, 1) don’t let me miss any of the sanctifying blessings that you have for me in this experience; 2) don’t let the church miss any of the sanctifying blessings that you have for us in this; 3) grant that the surgery be successful in removing cancer and sparing important nerves; 4) grant that this light and momentary trial would work to spread a passion for your supremacy for the joy of all peoples through Jesus Christ; 5) may Noël and all close to me be given great peace—and all of this through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever, Amen.” I hope God will lead you to pray in a similar way.

With deep confidence that

“Death is swallowed up in victory.
O death, where is your victory?
O death, where is your sting.
The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law.
But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our
Lord Jesus Christ."
1 Corinthians 15:54-57

Pastor John

With Sam Crabtree, Lead Pastor for Life Training
Kenny Stokes, Lead Pastor for Spreading
Tim Johnson, Chairman of the Council of Elders
Ross Anderson, MD, Bethlehem Elder

Caring People

I've not seen the ad, but apparently Southern Baptists are running this spot on TV. It's good, and the web site provides further information on Southern Baptists in addition to pointing people to Christ.

We Need More Wildfires

Nothing can be more riveting than wildfire/forest policy (okay, so I'm joking...). But the recent spate of wildfires over drought stricken Oklahoma and Texas (today the fire threat is again "extreme"), I've thought once-again about fire policy. Each year, the western United States is faced with forest and wildfire problems. The reason: that's how God designed the process of resource renewal to work--dead undergrowth must be regularly burned away. Before urban sprawl turned America's forests into bustling neighborhoods, the undergrowth was removed with ease. Lightning would strike, a tree would burn, hundreds of acres would be cleansed, and new growth would thrive. Today, this natural process is not allowed to occur because homes and towns would be burned. If a fire is burning, the forest service works to put the fire out causing no dead growth to remain. Of course, this creates a problem. America's forests and grasslands are filled with the decades of dead trees and grass. Consequently, we see the devastating fires that have occurred regularly for decades.

America needs to develop an aggressive controlled burn and logging program to ensure that naturally occurring forest fires are not fueled by tons of undergrowth creating extreme forest fires. If we don't want naturally occurring fires to burn, then we must make certain that we exercise strategic controlled burns. I don't mean to imply that we don't have controlled burns. We do. The key is to ramp up the burns...making sure we are burning more and more acres. Logging will help thin the overgrown forests. Despite what environmentalists say, the our forests are overgrown due to government restriction on logging and the effort to stop forest fires. Are you beginning to see the problem? We are not allowing healthy fires to occur and we can't compensate for that by logging because the enviros won't let us. Therefore, our forests are overgrown and unhealthy. This aggressive policy will not wipe out fire season, and homes will still be burned. However, it will help lessen the extent of the devastation. You may ask, "if this will help lessen the devastation, why don't we do?" The answer is simple, money and special interests.

It's not as if America doesn't have the money. In fact, we do. The problem is that Congress has other priorites (some good, some not so good). While this is a costly program, it is one that can be funded. The other problem are the special interest groups, particularly the environmentalists. The greenies protest this agressive policy. They don't want species endangered and trees burned. This type of thinking is not healthy. Contrary to what the left will tell you, they (not the right) are responsible for damaging the environment. We must begin exercising more controlled burns and heavier logging to thin our forests and get rid of dead undergrowth. THAT is earth-friendly policy.