tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32695298210418171912024-02-20T11:46:48.594-08:00Christianity for TodayMax Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.comBlogger545125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-44065693555260700302019-03-20T06:19:00.003-07:002019-03-20T06:19:30.850-07:00Turmoil in the Middle East; Signs of the Return of the KingThe situation in the Middle East is becoming more tense by the day. Last weekend two rockets were launched from within the Gaza Strip headed for Tel Aviv, the largest city within Israel. According to reports, Israel's Iron Dome defense system destroyed one of the incoming rockets, while the second landed harmlessly in a field. Residents living in Tel Aviv heard the sirens and headed for the nearest shelters. Having traveled through Tel Aviv on numerous occasions, I can only begin to imagine the confusion and chaos those sirens created. <br />
<br /><br />
Within hours of their launching, Israel's IDF retaliated striking over 100 targets associated with Hamas within the Gaza Strip. Later it was revealed that the two rockets launched from within the Gaza Strip had been fired in err. One might have thought that the leadership of Hamas would have been more careful, knowing the retaliatory impact of Israel. <br />
<br /><br />
To Israel's north more tunnels created by Hezbollah have been found. Recently the leadership of Hezbollah has stated that they now possess rockets that can strike any city within Israel, including both Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Where did they get those rockets? you might ask. They are a gift from the people of Iran who have as a stated goal the complete destruction of the nation of Israel. As the Syrian Civil War appears to be in its waning days, it is clear that President Assad will be remaining in power. That means that he will retain his support base from Moscow and Tehran. Of course this will keep Israel on a high state of alert in the Golan Heights. <br />
<br /><br />
Meanwhile, the nation of Israel is in the midst of a national campaign to determine which political party will retain power following the April 9 elections. To further complicate the process, it appears that Prime Minister Netanyahu will be indicted for fraud and conspiracy charges. What will such an indictment have upon the Israeli voters on April 9? Could there be a changing of the political guard in Israel? If so, what will that look like? <br />
<br /><br />
Following the April 9 elections, it appears that President Trump will introduce his "Deal of the Century" that will bring peace in the Middle East. Much is unknown of this plan although some portions have been leaked to the press. One such leak has to do with the Temple Mount and the change from a Jordanian authority to a Saudi Arabian authority over the Temple Mount. Personally I wonder what impact this would have upon the Jewish access to the Temple Mount site. Would the Saudi's grant Israel the right to build the third temple upon the Temple Mount? Would the Jewish leaders build a temple next to the Dome of the Rock? These are some of the many questions that would be reflected upon. Another leak involved the separation of the Old City into two halves. Again, having walked through the streets and alleys of the Old City many times and discovering how one quarter leads to another, I wonder how such a division would work. <br />
<br /><br />
Let me be honest with you all. I do not believe that there will be any peace-accord in the Middle East until the end of the age. I read in Daniel 9:26-27 about a leader who is coming who will sign a peace agreement with the people of Israel. This agreement will be the commencement of that period of time we know as the Tribulation. That leader who will initiate this peace agreement will be the Antichrist. Is President Trump's "Deal of the Century" that peace accord? Probably not, but it might be the forerunner of such an accord. <br />
<br /><br />
Anyway, I believe the world is literally rushing toward that one-world government. The clamor among the political candidates in America is toward a progressive-socialistic government where the bureaucracy dictates what people earn. There is no lack to their imagination as to how to spend other people's money: from free college tuition to a guaranteed job to free medical care. Yet none of those things is truly free; someone has to pay for them. There is an increased dialogue about implanting infrared digital chips in humans as a way to manage buying and selling. John describes something very similar in Revelation 13. Could those chips be the mark of the beast? Interesting comparisons you have to admit. I am preaching this Sunday on the discussion Jesus had with His disciples in answer to their question of how the world would end. As I read and studied it was almost as if Jesus was peering into the 21st century. The accuracy is electric. Yes, the end is not far distant. <br />
<br /><br />
These are days in which we need to keep our eyes focused upon the truths within the Word of God and also focused upon those things happening within our world. The former will explain the significance of the later for us. And we need to keep our ears attuned to the sounding of the trumpet. In addition, we need to be busy working as the hands and feet of Jesus to help others to know the grace and love Jesus has for them. Yes, the Kingdom is coming.<br />
<br />Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-17423677926559833432019-03-13T07:48:00.001-07:002019-03-13T07:48:50.727-07:00Worldwide Persecution of Christians; The Impact of Technology upon TeensI apologize for not getting a blog written last week. But Marlys and I had the opportunity of flying down to Phoenix where we met our daughter and grandson for some spring training. What a delight to go from winter white to desert brown, from subzero nights to balmy sunshine, from the sound of snowmobiles to the crack of a bat. Sort of rejuvenated our spirits. Spent time in the Rangers, Cubs, and Padres camps. Fun to see baseball once again. <br />
<br /><br />
But now we are home and some news items, some of which you probably never heard from the mainstream media. A week ago, Raymond Ibrahim published an article titled, "11 Christians Killed Every Day for Their Faith." It was published by the Middle East Forum and can be found at: <a href="http://www.meforum.org/57925/christians-persecuted-killed">www.meforum.org/57925/christians-persecuted-killed</a>. He writes, "Last year, Christians were persecuted more than ever before in the modern era - and this year is expected to be worse: '4,136 Christians were killed for faith-related reasons,' according to Open Doors USA in its recently published World Watch List 2019 of the top 50 nations where Christians are persecuted. 'On average, that's 11 Christians killed every day for their faith.' Additionally, '2,625 Christians were detained without trial, arrested, sentenced and imprisoned' in 2018, and '1,266 churches or Christian buildings were attacked.'<br />
<br /><br />
"Whereas 215 million Christians faced persecutions in 2018, 245 million will suffer in 2019, according to Open Doors - a 14% increase, that represents 30 million more people abused for their faith. This means that '1 in 9 Christians experience high levels of persecution worldwide.'<br />
<br /><br />
"One of the most noteworthy trends concerns the 'shocking reality of persecution against women.' 'In many places, they experience a "double persecution" - one for being a Christian and one for being a woman. Even in the most restricted circumstances, gender-specific persecution is a key means of destroying the minority Christian community.'"<br />
<br /><br />
Ibrahim cites that the majority of the persecution of Christians comes from Muslim-dominated countries. Seven of the top 10 in the World Watch List are Islamic countries. Even in our country we are seeing the gradual escalation in the attacks upon Christians. Businesses have been impacted, lawsuits have been issued, harassment has been experienced. I recall the words from the pen of the Apostle John: "This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but men loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that his deeds will be exposed" (John 3:19-20). As we near the day of Christ's return, I believe that those who dare to stand upon God's truth will increasingly become the target of Satan's assaults. Oh how we need to be fully clothed with the armor of God (see Ephesians 6:10-18).<br />
<br /><br />
I was intrigued with an article written by Robin Smith and titled, "Many Teens Stressed, Depressed, Obsessed with Self." You can find this article at: <a href="http://www.patriotpost.us/articles/61671-many-teens-stressed-depressed-obsessed-with-self">www.patriotpost.us/articles/61671-many-teens-stressed-depressed-obsessed-with-self</a>. I found this to be a fascinating and informative article. Allow me to quote portions of it. The author begins: "Inarguably, there is a rise in the incidence of depression, anxiety, serious mental illness diagnoses and, yes, suicide among teenagers and young adults. Why? There's no one cause and there are numerous risk factors. Among those cited by the Mayo Clinic for both depression and anxiety, there are a few that deserve a bit of discussion.<br />
<br /><br />
"There are environmental factors that impact mental health. Among those factors are parenting, specifically the presence of the father in the home. Not having a dad in the home doesn't necessarily predispose anyone to mental illness. But data is significant in volume and validity that children and students perform better in school when both parents are present in the home and have the long-term benefit of a more stable response to stress and traumatic experiences that, sadly, are relatively routine in life. Other environmental factors include exposure to either repeated stress or abuse, specifically physical, sexual or emotional abuse, as well as trauma, but conditioning is absolutely part of how our bodies respond and react. <br />
<br /><br />
"With reinforcement and repeated exposures, a behavior becomes 'normal.' There was a day when face-to-face conversation was normal with social interaction involving eye contact and personal interaction. Today, in the 'selfie' generation, it's more common and, yes, normal, to respond by emojis, texts, and photos posted in social media than to have the face-to-face stimulation and interaction of another human or group. We've become beings that are driven by content nor reasoning and discussion. <br />
<br /><br />
Now listen to what the author describes next. I found this so revelatory. "In this new normal of social media, absent physical presence and contact, several problems are inherent. First, whether in anger, frustration or emphasis of point, statements and communications via a device are not filtered by human empathy or care. There was a time that most would never dare say many of the things typed out in response via software platforms that safely distance individuals from personal accountability or thoughtfulness.<br />
<br /><br />
"Second, bullying, intimidation, and the declaration of false information as truth is not only easier, but a growing problem. When looking at the instances of bullying that have led to teens committing suicide or engaging in self-destructive behavior, too often, the posse of the platforms of Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat are found as key ingredients, used to target and marginalize a person. Again, these platforms permit a degree of distance that direct communication does not afford."<br />
<br /><br />
The author closes with these words: "As careers and professions demand more and more employment of high-tech touches, a deliberate effort must be made by all to establish that nothing replaces the impact of family, friends, and the community right around us. We're seeing the deleterious long-term outcomes of kids with the inability to cope, to communicate and to deal with conflict due to the one-way communication of technology. It's time to embrace more than just the 'selfie' approach to life and live it."<br />
<br /><br />
This article was arresting for me. I remember as a boy growing up that if you wanted to talk with your friends you did one of two things: you either picked up the phone, dialed their number, and talked with them over the phone, or you met them at the drugstore or ice cream shop where you talked and drank a "Green River" or a "cherry phosphate." I looked back upon the past two weeks of my life and I cannot recall having a phone conversation. I sent many emails and many texts - most of which were short. Face-to-face conversations really are not very common today. If this is what has happened to my generation, what has happened to that generation that has always lived with "high-tech?" For them a conversation is done in 120 characters or less. You say what you want to say without considering the person being talked about. Life is not only about ourselves, but is to have its focus upon others. <br />
<br /><br />
Technology is a great tool, but let us not forget that God has created each one of us to be within a community. We are designed to be relational. Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-84924620959697648002019-02-27T07:32:00.003-08:002019-02-27T07:32:55.653-08:00More Signs of the Times to PonderIt is not often that we can report on some good news, so will begin there with this blog. I have been following the General Conference of the United Methodist Church which closed their meeting last night in St. Louis. Of particular interest to me was the decision on whether to continue the policy regarding same-sex marriage and the ordination of homosexuals that had been adopted in 1972. This policy became known as the Traditional Plan. Last night, by a vote of 438-384, the Conference affirmed that 1972 decision, stating that "the practice of homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching." Now the question will focus upon those United Methodist churches that have affirmed same-sex marriage and the ordination of homosexuals. Tom Berlin, who pastors a church in the Washington suburb of Herndon, Virginia, told Reuters that "with the new plan in place, some church members would risk losing their credentials to practice their belief in LGBT rights." <br />
<br /><br />
Personally, I applaud the delegates who affirmed that same-sex marriage and the ordination of homosexuals violates scriptural principles. One wonders if this will cause a fracturing within the United Methodist Church. As we witnessed a few years ago when the Anglican Church was debating a similar position, the strength of the African Church and their holding to traditional orthodoxy became evident. It is not often that we witness "good news" in the debate between the Church and contemporary culture. So, thank you delegates to the General Conference of the United Methodist Church for standing strongly upon biblical truth. <br />
<br /><br />
This past Monday I read an article posted by the Jerusalem Post, one of the leading papers within Israel. The article was written by Herb Keinon and can be found at: <a href="http://www.jpost.com/Middle-East/Sis-if-Jews-return-to-Egypt">www.jpost.com/Middle-East/Sis-if-Jews-return-to-Egypt</a>. The article begins, "If Jews are interested in establishing a Jewish community in Egypt, the government will build synagogues and other communal institutions, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi told a US delegation during a two-hour meeting last week."<br />
<br /><br />
"President Sisi spoke fondly not only of Egypt's past vibrant Jewish community, but also said that should there be a resurgence of the Jewish community in Egypt, the government will provide every religious necessity required..." The article continues "that Sisi also promised to clean up the ancient Bassatine Cemetery in Cairo, a cemetery dating back to the ninth century and believed to be the second-oldest Jewish cemetery in the world. In December, Sisi also announced a multimillion dollar project to restore Jewish heritage sites in Egypt." <br />
<br /><br />
As I was reading this article, my mind was drawn to those prophetic words from Isaiah as recorded for us in Isaiah 19:19-22, which reads, "In that day (a reference to the end times) there will be an altar to the LORD in the heart of Egypt, and a monument to the LORD at its border. It will be a sign and witness to the LORD Almighty in the land of Egypt. When they cry out to the LORD because of their oppressors, he will send them a savior and defender, and he will rescue them. So the LORD will make himself known to the Egyptians, and in that day they will acknowledge the LORD. They will worship with sacrifices and grain offerings; they will make vows to the LORD and keep them. The LORD will strike Egypt with a plague; he will strike them and heal them. They will turn to the LORD and he will respond to their pleas and heal them." Could this invitation by President Sisi to the Jews be a prelude to an even greater work that God is going to do in Egypt? Could this invitation to the Jews be another sign that we are nearing the sounding of the trumpet? I do not believe in coincidences. I believe God is at work. <br />
<br /><br />
On February 4, a meeting was held in Abu Dhabi that really "traveled under the radar screen" for many of us. Yet this meeting held great prophetic significance. At that meeting Pope Francis signed an historic interfaith covenant with Sheikh Ahmed al-Tayeb, one of the most important Imams within Sunni Islamic world. The document includes this statement: "In the name of God and of everything stated thus far, Al-Azhar al-Sharif and the Muslims of the East and West, together with the Catholic Church and the Catholics of the East and West, declare the adoption of a culture of dialogue as the path, mutual cooperation as the code of conduct, reciprocal understanding as the method and standard. We, who believe in God and in the final meeting with Him and His judgment, on the basis of our religious and moral responsibility, and through this document, call upon ourselves, upon the leaders of the world as well as the architects of international policy and world economy, to work strenuously to spread the culture of tolerance and of living together in peace; to intervene at the earliest opportunity to stop the shedding of innocent blood and bring an end to wars, conflicts, environmental decay and the moral and cultural decline that the world is presently experiencing."<br />
<br /><br />
Friends, this is not new thinking. Pope John Paul II was committed to the creation of a "big tent" in which all the religions of the world could be gathered. This would create some type of panacea for the world. This one-world religion will happen. A careful reading of Revelation 13 will reveal that truth. It will be a religion that has bent backing and strong support of the Antichrist. This is just another sign that the sounding of the trumpet is near. One can only begin to ask this question: Is the false prophet alive today, and just who might he be?<br />
<br /><br />
One final news item, and this one grieves my heart to report. On Monday evening, within the sacred halls of the United States Senate, a vote was taken that stunned many of us. A bill, sponsored by Nebraska Senator Ben Sasse, had been introduced. Senator Sasse's bill would protect with full constitutional rights any child who survived an abortion. In other words, this bill would protect a baby, a little boy or little girl. Under Senate rules, it would take 60 votes to bring this bill forward for a vote. You would have thought that 100 Senators would vote in favor of this bill. But, 44 Senators actually voted against allowing this bill to be brought for a vote. As Tony Perkins writes, "Last night on the Senate floor, we saw with gut-wrenching clarity what we really are: a nation where 44 of our most powerful men and women would order America to back away from a table where struggling newborns cry out for help. It was the birth of a new extreme: Democrats for infanticide." (<a href="http://www.frc.org/get.cfm?i=WA19B55&f=WU19B18">www.frc.org/get.cfm?i=WA19B55&f=WU19B18</a>). Senator Sasse urged his colleagues to vote in favor of the bill: "We've heard speech after speech after speech that have nothing to do with what's actually in this bill. I urge my colleagues to picture a baby that's already been born, that's outside the womb gasping for air. That's the only thing that today's vote is actually about. We're talking about babies that have already been born... We're not talking about Roe v. Wade." <br />
<br /><br />
President Trump responded to the vote: "Senate Democrats just voted against legislation to prevent the killing of newborn infant children. The Democrat position on abortion is now so extreme that they don't mind executing babies AFTER birth. This will be remembered as one of the most shocking votes in the history of Congress. If there is one thing we should all agree on, it's protecting the lives of innocent babies." <br />
<br /><br />
Tony Perkins continues, "These are not 'choices' writhing on a metal table. They're not 'medical options' being thrown away in a heap of dirty towels. These are innocent human beings, as real as any son or daughter smiling from the picture frames in Senate offices. But in a party beholden to a powerful abortion lobby, only three Democrats - Senators Joe Manchin (W.Va), Doug Jones (Ala), and Bob Casey (Pa) - had the moral courage to say that infanticide is wrong. The others, including all five Democratic 2020 hopefuls, are so committed to killing that they'll allow it after birth."<br />
<br /><br />
What a sad day for America! Abortion is one thing, infanticide is another. Both are morally reprehensible. If Congress so quickly turns its back upon innocent children, one can only wonder what they will do when it comes time to turn its back upon the growing population of seniors. It is just a small step from infanticide to euthanasia - a very small step. <br />
<br /><br />
But all of these are signs that we are nearing the great staging of the rapture of the Church. What a glorious day that will be. Friends, keep looking up; yet also keep pressing forward with the business of the King. Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-27519969470282587762019-02-21T08:00:00.000-08:002019-02-21T08:00:29.475-08:00Dangers of Our TimesOne of my favorite lines from "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" is this: "It is always winter and never Christmas" in the land of Narnia. Looks like that now here in Minnesota. Yesterday we set the record for most snowfall in the month of February - over 31 inches; it just doesn't want to quit snowing. And we still have March to go. The snow is piling up with mountains of snow gracing parking lots all over the metro area. Yes, everything looks beautiful with its deep, white winter mantel. The snow is a reminder to us of how cleansed we are when forgiven by God. Praise God for that forgiveness. But so many of us are ready for some green grass and blooming flowers.<br />
<br /><br />
Well, the 2020 presidential campaign is beginning to heat-up. The Democratic field increases almost weekly. As one surveys that field of candidates, one is hard-pressed to name one declared candidate who would be considered to be "mainstream." The preponderance of candidates are leaning very much to the left, in fact, some of them dangerously so. I was just reading this morning about Senator Bernie Sanders who recently announced his candidacy for 2020. He will be running on a campaign theme of racial, social, and economic equality for all. Yet, according to the news source, Senator Sanders and his wife own three homes, two in Vermont and a townhome in Washington DC. So, I would like to ask Senator Sanders if he becomes the nominee, will he be selling his three homes and living in something more modest like the majority of Americans? Then I read that Senator Elizabeth Warren has a net worth of $7.8 million. Now I am not criticizing her net worth, yet she has consistently attacked those in the 1% who do not pay their "fair share" of taxes. I would like to ask her if she is paying her "fair share" or if she employs the "loop holes" to benefit herself? Oh the hypocrisy today, and sadly, it is not even disguised any longer. It is blatant and open. We are in for months of candidates advocating everything from free health care for all, to free college tuition, to a guaranteed job at a livable wage. Those may sound very nice, but they are also excessively expensive. Someone will have to pay the bill. Now I wonder who that someone might be? I look at one of those "someones" every morning in the mirror. Yes, you and I will be paying the bill; more correctly stated - our grandchildren and great-grandchildren will be paying the bill. It will create a debt that will never be repaid - ever! <br />
<br /><br />
Also of concern to me is the continued assault upon the State of Israel and of Judaism itself. In an article published by the group United with Israel (<a href="http://www.unitedwithisrael.org/ny-times-says-israel-inspired-9-11-terror-attacks">www.unitedwithisrael.org/ny-times-says-israel-inspired-9-11-terror-attacks</a>), Ira Stoll writes: "The New York Times is suddenly and retroactively blaming Israel for motivating the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, without much evidence to support the claim. ...The Times reports, 'The suffering of the Palestinians has long been an animating cause for Al Qaeda, a stand-in for the victimization of Muslims at the hands of Western powers. Biographies of Osama bin laden say that as an adolescent, he cried watching news coverage of displaced Palestinians who had been forced off their land." Just as Hitler blamed the Jews for all the problems within 1930's Germany, so the New York Times is now saying that it was the Israelis who caused the attacks of September 11, 2001. <br />
<br /><br />
Around the world we are seeing the rise of anti-Semitism. We have watched the assaults upon the Jewish communities in Europe. We have witnessed the increase hostilities toward Israel and the Jewish communities within the United Nations. No other nation on the face of the globe has had as many negative resolutions hurled at it by the General Assembly and the Security Council as has Israel. And now we have a strong anti-Semitic presence within our United States House of Representatives. Sadly Ilhan Omar is from the State of Minnesota. She is the first Somali representative ever elected to Congress. I remember that fall during the campaign, many were concerned about her strong pro-Palestinian positions and her equally strong anti-Israel positions. Once she was elected she did not waste any time in letting the world know that she was opposed to Israel. She even tweeted that she believed that AIPAC had bought off many of those within Congress. She quickly removed that tweet, but her bias was once again exposed. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, over the past few years I have read a lot about those days before World War II. The parallels between our time and those days is shocking. I strongly encourage you to read Erwin Lutzer's book titled, "When A Nation Forgets God: 7 Lessons We Must Learn from Nazi Germany." This is an excellent book for a group discussion. With blame already being cast at the Jews, all it took was for the rise of a man to ignite that firestorm of anti-Semitism that resulted in the "final solution." In many ways we are awaiting the rise of another "Hitler" who will do the same. And, furthermore, we know that such a person will arise. We know him via his biblical title, "The Antichrist." <br />
<br /><br />
These are indeed very interesting and exciting days in which we are living. But, for me, the excitement is predicated upon the foundation of knowing that Jesus Christ is going to return. That God has a plan that He is overseeing through the affairs of this world. That the King will soon come to claim His rightful throne in Jerusalem, ruling with a rod of truth and justice. But, I have to admit that if I did not have that lens through which to view our world, I would be filled with utmost despair. Oh the difference Jesus Christ brings! Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-17519430778756131392019-02-13T07:22:00.001-08:002019-02-13T07:22:13.150-08:00So Where Ae We Headed?Last week Marlys and I were down in sunny Dallas sharing some time with our grandkids there. What fun to sit beside their pool soaking in the sun! Around us were the evidences that spring will soon be in Texas. What an awakening as we flew back into Minneapolis to more snow and more cold. I am beginning to understand the mindset of "snow birds." So, in the midst of time in Texas, I did not get a blog written last week. But I want to share some important news with you . <br />
<br /><br />
When the <em>Roe v Wade</em> decision of the United States Supreme Court was enacted back on January 22, 1973, the lines were drawn concerning abortion. How late into the pregnancy could an abortion be performed? When would the developing baby reach the point of viability? But the ultimate question was when does life truly begin? For many life only begins when the baby is delivered and is outside of the womb. For others, life begins when a fetal heartbeat can be heard. For those of us who are followers of Christ, life begins the moment of conception. Over the succeeding years, tens of millions of babies have been aborted - many of them for the reason of convenience. <br />
<br /><br />
But a new "low" was made public in the state of Virginia. Gary Bauer, in a posting at The Patriot Post website, shared portions of an interview between Virginia Delegate Todd Gilbert and Delegate Kathy Tran, the author of a bill that would permit abortion up to the point of birth: "Under questioning from Del. Todd Gilbert (R), Tran acknowledged, 'I don't think we have a limit in the bill.' Gilbert pressed further, asking Tran if a woman who was 'dilating' and about to give birth could still request an abortion. Tran answered, 'My bill would allow that, yes.'" (<a href="http://www.patriotpost.us/opinion-60873-promoting-infanticide">www.patriotpost.us/opinion-60873-promoting-infanticide</a>).<br />
<br /><br />
When Virginia Governor Ralph Northam was asked about the bill - which was defeated, by the way - he argued, "If a mother is in labor ... the infant would be delivered. The infant would be kept comfortable. The infant would be resuscitated if that's what the mother and the family desired, and then a discussion would ensue between the physician and mother." (<a href="http://www.patriotpost.us/articles/60893-the-macabre-leftist-culture-of-death">www.patriotpost.us/articles/60893-the-macabre-leftist-culture-of-death</a>).<br />
<br /><br />
Friends, we have now reached the point in the abortion debate where we are sliding down the slippery slope toward infanticide - the willful murder of children outside of the womb. This is what the ancient Romans did. A child would be born. He or she would then be brought to the father who would determine whether the child would be accepted or rejected. If the father rejected the child, it would be left to die. Perhaps there were any number of reasons why a baby would be rejected: the hair color was wrong, the ears were too big, it was a girl and not a boy. <br />
<br /><br />
In his article, Gary Bauer asks this question: "Why stop at birth? On what moral basis can the left say that if a mother gets depressed 24 hours later, she can't change her mind and be allowed to kill her baby then? ... If an abortion is okay after 20 weeks, why not when the mother is dilating and the baby is beginning to crown? And there isn't much of a difference 24 hours later."<br />
<br /><br />
I had the privilege to share with a group of men this morning that I believed that our culture was descending rapidly into the quagmire of paganism. If you read the descriptions of those Canaanite cultures that God instructed the people of Israel to completely destroy, and if one reads the account of Paul about the Roman culture in which he lived, there is great similarities with our culture today. I believe we have advanced past the "post-Christian" culture to the "anti-Christian" culture. <br />
<br /><br />
Yet, my friends, we should not despair. It was in the midst of that depraved, pagan Roman culture that the Church grew so phenomenally. And why was that? I believe it was because Christians truly were set apart from that culture. This has always been God's plan - to use a separated people to minister His truth into a pagan culture. That was God's original design for Israel as they crossed the Jordan River into the land of the Canaanites. That was God's original design for the Church. But what happened to the people of Israel? They compromised with the culture. They adapted to the culture around them. They absorbed that culture into their own. As a consequence, their testimony became distorted and ineffective. What has happened to the Church? They have followed in the pattern of ancient Israel. As a consequence, the Church has lost its distinctive edge. <br />
<br /><br />
Is there still time for the Church to have another awakening? Perhaps, but I believe that time is running out at a more rapid pace than we even imagine. It is time for each one of us to shake off the apathy and spiritual drowsiness that have infected us. It is time to go to war. It is time to do what Jude declares: "snatch others from the fire and save them" (Jude 23). <br />
<br /><br />
Another sign of the times is the increased focus upon the worship of planet earth. This became evident these past few days with the increased publicity of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's "new green deal." Within ten years, no more airline travel. (I wonder how I will get tour groups to Israel then, pretty long bridge!) Within ten years, no more meat. (I had lunch this past week with a farmer and he said that I should enjoy that steak because cows will soon be no more). Within ten years, no more gas-fired furnaces, no more backyard bar-b-ques, no more gas-powered cars. Friends, it will take lots and lots of money to pay for all this. And where will the money come from? Yep, you guessed it: from your pockets and from mine, along with a rapidly escalating debt that my grandchildren and great-grandchildren will inherit. <br />
<br /><br />
Yes, this is an amazing planet that God has given to us. But His instructions were NOT to worship it, but to superintend over it. Can we and should we do a better job of superintending our planet? Absolutely. But when we worship our planet, then we have descended, once again, into paganism. Friends, "green" is beautiful, and about this time of year here in Minnesota, "green" becomes something we long for. "White" is good, but "green" is better! <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, let's wake up because our Redemption is soon to arrive. Are you ready for when that trumpet blows? <br />
<br /><br />
<br /><br />
Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-48397079681135817992019-01-28T13:16:00.001-08:002019-01-28T13:16:23.793-08:00Abortion - New York Got It WrongMy blog is coming out earlier this week because its subject just cannot wait. I want to share concerning the January 22, 2019 decision by the New York State Legislature concerning abortion. As you know, January 22 was the 46th anniversary of the 1973 Roe v Wade Supreme Court decision that legalized abortion. Since that decision tens of millions of boys and girls have been aborted. They were never given the opportunity of receiving any love from a mom or dad. They never were given the privilege of getting a hug from a loving aunt or uncle. They never played a game of baseball or played a trumpet. They never had the opportunity to go to school. Perhaps one of those aborted boys or girls was given the key to the prevention of cancer or heart disease. We will never know because their lives were snuffed out before they were born. <br />
<br /><br />
This past January 22, New York Governor Andrew Cuomo signed into law the Reproductive Health Act. This bill was passed by a 92 to 47 majority in the New York House, and by a 38 to 24 vote in the New York Senate. What does the Reproductive Health Act do? The bill grants legality to an abortion even if it is just moments before the baby is to be born. That's right! A child in the womb can be aborted at any time prior to its birth. And the killing of a child in the womb comes with no criminality associated with it at all. As Stacey Lennox at The Resurgent wrote, "So in New York, no one can be prosecuted for the deliberate or accidental killing of an unborn child and health is so broadly defined as to make almost any issue sufficient for a woman to request an abortion. ... New York just legalized Kermit Gosnell." (<a href="http://www.patriotpost.us/articles/60729-new-york-expands-culture-of-death">www.patriotpost.us/articles/60729-new-york-expands-culture-of-death</a>.)<br />
<br /><br />
New York just declared that a baby has absolutely no rights before it is born - not even the right to life itself. There are hunting regulations in New York on deer, but no hunting regulations on babies. <br />
<br /><br />
CBS New York reports, "Provisions in the bill include dropping most restrictions on abortion after 24 weeks, allowing midwives and nurse practitioners to perform abortions and ending criminal charges for harming children in the womb." (article cited above). In other words, an abortion does not necessarily have to be performed by a licensed physician. <br />
<br /><br />
But as much as I detested and was abhorred by the signing of the bill, it was the celebratory atmosphere afterwards that made me want to gag. Governor Cuomo, upon signing the bill, said, "The Reproductive Health Act is a historic victory for New Yorkers and for our progressive values. In the face of a federal government intent on rolling back Roe v Wade and women's reproductive rights, I promised that we would enact this critical legislation within the first 30 days of the new session - and we got it done. I am directing that New York's landmarks be lit in pink to celebrate this achievement and shine a bright light forward for the rest of the nation to follow." (from article cited above.)<br />
<br /><br />
The Catholic League's Bill Donohue said, "This is not the passage of abortion rights, but the permission to commit infanticide and call it by another name. An eight-pound baby can survive outside the womb with very little medical aid. If this isn't demonic, the word has no meaning."<br />
(article written by Tony Perkins, <a href="http://www.frc.org/get.cfm?i=WA19A53&f=WU19A18">www.frc.org/get.cfm?i=WA19A53&f=WU19A18</a>).<br />
<br /><br />
Meanwhile, also on January 22, Polk County District Judge Michael Huppert stuck down Iowa's so called "fetal heartbeat" law. Judge Huppert declared that Iowa's law, which was one of the most restrictive abortion bans in the nation, was unconstitutional. Planned Parenthood of the Heartland immediately responded with praise for Judge Hubbert's actions: "Today's ruling is a victory for every Iowan who has ever needed or will need a safe, legal abortion. We are pleased that especially today, on the 46th anniversary of the landmark decision Roe v Wade, abortion care was upheld as a safe and legal part of basic reproductive health care." Personally, I prefer the opinion of Iowa's Governor Kim Reynolds who said, "I am incredibly disappointed in today's court ruling, because I believe that if death is determined when a heart stops beating, then a beating heart indicates life." And the Governor is absolutely correct.<br />
<br /><br />
Permit me to share with you one of the most powerful statements in the Bible concerning life as it develops within the womb. Psalm 139 was written by David - when? the Bible does not tell us. But I like to think that he wrote it as he watched his young son struggle with life before he was ushered into God's presence. Listen to these amazing words from a dad:<br />
"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be. How precious to me are your thoughts, O God! How vast is the sum of them!" (Psalm 139:13-17).<br />
<br /><br />
Friends, I believe what happened on January 22, 2019, will create a stench in the nostrils of God. How can we point the finger of accusation at the pagans for offering their children as sacrifices to Molech and Chemosh and a host of other deities when we offer our children as sacrifices on the altar to convenience and self-centeredness? <br />
<br /><br />
Are you angry at what happened? Do we not affirm that we are endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable rights: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness? I guess that affirmation does not apply to a baby growing in his or her mother's womb. I guess that baby has no rights. I guess that baby has no value. But I am grateful that he or she does have eternal value to God. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, how we need to speak for those who have no voice - the children yet unborn. How we need to plead their case so that they can be given the opportunity to live. It is time that we get riled up and get into the fight. The lives of the next generation are depending upon us for their very survival. <br />
<br /><br />
<br /><br />
<br /><br />
<br />Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-65196465798684174742019-01-23T07:48:00.001-08:002019-01-23T07:48:44.665-08:00The Anger of the Left Demonstrated Once AgainIn last week's blog posting, I shared about how the Left is working diligently to dissuade Christians from being part of the political dialogue in America today. Not only Christian values but Christians themselves are being assaulted. This past weekend we witnessed a most blatant attack upon the wife of our Vice President simply because she had returned as a volunteer teacher to a private Christian school.<br />
<br /><br />
Tony Perkins wrote a scathing article against the Left and exonerating Karen Pence. You can read the entire article at: <a href="http://www.patriotpost.us/opinions/60620-karen-pence-the-teacher-and-the-religious-test">www.patriotpost.us/opinions/60620-karen-pence-the-teacher-and-the-religious-test</a>. The author begins his article with these powerful, yet insightful words: "It was supposed to be a day celebrating religious freedom in America. Instead, liberals decided to show everyone just how much our First Freedom is at risk. For Christians, who've tried to warn people that these last several years were about a lot more than marriage, the attacks on Second Lady Karen Pence certainly seem to prove their point. Three years after <em>Obergefell</em>, all of the lies about 'love' and 'tolerance' have been eclipsed by the court cases, articles, and editorial demonizing people of faith. What Americans see now is the truth: the Left is coming for our freedom. And they have no intention of letting up."<br />
<br /><br />
Note: You will remember that the <em>Obergefell</em> decision legalized same-sex marriage within our country. It was one of those Supreme Court decisions, like <em>Roe v Wade,</em> that has left a dark stain upon our nation's moral structure. <br />
<br /><br />
What did Karen Pence do that incurred the wrath and hate-filled speech from those on the Left? Her crime was volunteering to teach art at Immanuel Christian School, a private Christian school. Karen Pence said, "I am excited to be back in the classroom and doing what I love to do. I have missed teaching art, and it's great to return to the school where I taught art for 12 years." This all sounds pretty innocent, doesn't it? Why would anyone get all bent-out-of-shape? Well, Immanuel Christian School has a policy of only condoning biblical marriage - that of one man to one woman. Perkins quotes from CNN's Kate Bennett: "'So, lemme get this straight. The second lady of the United States has chosen to work at a school that openly discriminates against LGBT adults and children?'" He then quotes from Ben Shapiro, a conservative columnist: "'So, lemme get this straight. You're a reporter but you've never heard of religious people before? BREAKIN: Pence's wife is working for a Christian school that requires that Christian students pledge to abide by Christian standards of sin that have not changed in 2,000 years.'"<br />
<br /><br />
Perkins continues: "There used to be a consensus in this country that religious liberty was for everyone. When the Religious Freedom Restoration Act came before Congress, only three members voted against it. Over time, some liberals tried to isolate faith - to churches, Christian schools, or family rooms. You've heard me say before that the Left's hope is to quarantine religion within the four walls of the church. Now, it's becoming clear - even that won't satisfy them." He closes his article by quoting from Matt Walsh, a writer for the Daily Wire: "Suddenly, even Christianity behind closed doors, on private property, in a private school, is a target of outrage and scorn. It was a lie all along. They were never planning to stop outside the walls of our homes and our churches and our schools. That's just what they said to lull us to sleep. Now the next phase begins." <br />
<br /><br />
As I shared with my congregation this past Sunday, we are going to see an acceleration of these attacks upon Christians in the marketplaces, especially those in the arena of politics and governmental service. How we need to be prepared to "stand firm against the assaults of the evil one." <br />
<br /><br />
I trust you have been paying attention to what is happening in the Middle East these past few weeks. Given President Trump's statement that American troops will begin leaving Syria, it seems that Israel has stepped up its air assaults upon the Iranian backed Assad regime. This past week Israel launched a series of day-time air raids targeting Iranian military depots outside of Damascus. Israeli forces also discovered several more tunnels along the northern border with Lebanon that Hezbollah had dug for the purpose of invading Israel. And the situation along the Israeli-Gazan border remains on high alert. To make this even more complex, Israelis are in the midst of a national election. Because the coalition Prime Minister Netanyahu had created crumbled, the Knesset (Israel's equivalent to our Congress) was dissolved and new elections were mandated for early in April. Although, according to latest polling, Prime Minister Netanyahu is leading, there is much concern over a possible criminal indictment against him. Israel continues to bear a careful watching as we await the trumpet to sound.<br />
<br /><br />
The political gridlock continues in Washington. Even President Trump's State of the Union speech, scheduled for next Tuesday, is threatened to become one of the victims of this gridlock. The philosophy of "I want it all" has contributed greatly to this gridlock. Compromise? No - I want what I want! Sit down and have a civil conversation and negotiate? No - I want what I want! Our political parties have forgotten that governing is about providing for the betterment of America's citizens, not about improving the party. And, sad to say, I do not believe this philosophy will change any time soon, if ever. Just another reminder that we are getting closer to the return of the King. <br />
<br /><br />
<br />Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-50013870028029543112019-01-16T07:30:00.001-08:002019-01-16T07:30:53.711-08:00Oh How We Need to Rediscover Our Nation's History!As many of you know I have a deep love of history, especially that of our country. Over the past several years I have read numerous volumes about those early days of our nation's founding. In fact, I have shared some reviews of many of those volumes. Of all the nations of the world that have ever existed, in my opinion there are only two whose origins were directly guided by God: Israel and the United States. We all know the story of how God entered into a covenant with Abraham and promised that great patriarch three things: numerous descendants, a specific piece of land with clearly defined borders, and that through one of his descendants the entire world would be blessed. Of course, we know this descendant as the Lord Jesus Christ. (Read Genesis 12, 15, 17). And the miracle of Israel's founding, recorded for us in the pages of the Old Testament, continued as God preserved that nation through the perils of one pogrom and holocaust after another, finally coming to fruition with the founding of the State of Israel in 1948. If you want to read a power description of some of those 1948 miracles, I strongly recommend the book titled, "O Jerusalem!" written by Larry Collins and Dominique LaPierre. <br />
<br /><br />
Our nation's founding, I believe, was also guided by the hand of God. I believe that guidance was seen in the spiritual awakening that occurred within the Colonies prior to the Revolution. Instrumental were those ministry trips of George Whitefield. And the powerful preaching of Jonathan Edwards echoed strongly within the corridors of America's Independence Hall. Then one focuses upon perhaps the greatest group of statesmen that our nation has ever known: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John and Samuel Adams, Benjamin Franklin, James Madison, Alexander Hamilton, James Monroe, John Witherspoon, Patrick Henry, just to name a few. These men all had diversity of opinions and convictions. Oh the debates that occurred within the meeting rooms there in Philadelphia and in the taverns that dotted the nearby streets. Often those exchanges were very heated, yet there was this underlying thought that kept bringing this diverse group of men back together: they believed Providence was guiding them to create a new nation founded upon the principles that had a foundation upon a Judeo-Christian ethic and teaching. Again, if you would like to read more about these men and that time, I highly recommend the book by Joseph Ellis entitled, "Our Founding Brothers." <br />
<br /><br />
In the light of our nation's founding, to read of how people of faith are being almost driven from the posts of government becomes almost a national disgrace. On January 12, Todd Starnes, who writes for Fox News, published an article that can be found at: <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/todd-starnes-yes-kamala-harris-and-mazie-hirono-are-religious-bigots">www.foxnews.com/opinion/todd-starnes-yes-kamala-harris-and-mazie-hirono-are-religious-bigots</a>. Allow me to quote at length from this disturbing article: "There are a disturbing number of Democrat lawmakers who believe Christians must renounce their religious beliefs and affiliations in religious-based organizations if they want to hold public office. The latest victim of this blatant religious bigotry is Brian Buescher, President Trump's nominee for the U.S. District Court in Nebraska. Buescher came under attack by Senator Kamala Harris, D-Calif,. and Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, for his membership in the Knights of Columbus, a revered and highly-respected Catholic charitable organization.<br />
<br /><br />
"Both lawmakers posed a series of written questions demanding to know if he would end his membership in the Knights of Columbus should he be confirmed. 'The Knights of Columbus has taken a number of extreme positions,' Hirono wrote in the questionnaire. 'For example, it was reportedly one of the top contributors to California's Proposition 8 campaign to ban same-sex marriage.'<br />
<br /><br />
"Harris referred to the group as an 'all-male society' and took issue with their positions on abortion and other culture war issues. 'Were you aware that the Knights of Columbus opposed a woman's rights to choose when you joined the organization?' Harris queried. <br />
<br /><br />
"The condemnation from conservatives was swift. 'This isn't just about the Knights of Columbus or Catholics, this is an ongoing attack from the extremist left of the Democratic Party to silence people of faith and run them out of engaging in public service based on their religious beliefs,' Penny Nance, the president of Concerned Women for America, wrote in a statement."<br />
<br /><br />
Starnes than applauds Rep. Tulsi Gabbard, D-Hawaii and newly announced presidential candidate, for calling out members of her own party for 'weaponizing religion.' 'We must call this out for what it is - religious bigotry,' she wrote in a scathing op-ed in The Hill. 'I stand strongly against those who are fomenting religious bigotry, citing as disqualified Buescher's Catholicism and his affiliation with the Knights of Columbus. If Buescher is "unqualified" because of his Catholicism and affiliation with the Knights of Columbus, then President John F. Kennedy and the "liberal lion of the Senate" Ted Kennedy would have been "unqualified" for the same reasons. No American should be asked to renounce his or her faith or membership in a faith-based service organization in order to hold public office.'"<br />
<br /><br />
Starnes then quotes Dennis Prager who had stated on Fox Nation's Starnes Country radio program, that secularists and leftists are attempting to drive people of faith out of the public arena. "'The only organized opposition [to leftism] comes from within Judaism and Christianity. The Orthodox Jew, the faithful Mormon, the traditional Catholic, and the Evangelical Protestant, these are the only opponents of leftism, and they know it, and they will do anything they can to suppress it.'"<br />
<br /><br />
"In 2017, Notre Dame law professor and mother of seven Any Coney Barrett was grilled by Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif,, over orthodox beliefs. 'When you read your speeches, the conclusion one draws is that the dogma lives loudly within you, and that's of concern.'" I don't know about you, friends, but I applaud people whose lives are a reflection of those principles that they hold tightly to within their hearts. There can be no pretenses or hypocrisy with such reflections.<br />
<br /><br />
"During that same year, Sen. Bernie Sanders - I-Vt., viciously attacked the religious faith of Russell Vought, the president's nominee to be deputy director of the White House Office of Management and Budget. Sen. Sanders deemed Vought unsuitable for office because the nominee believes that salvation is found alone through Jesus Christ. He said someone with that kind of religious belief system is 'really not someone who this country is supposed to be about.'" Excuse me, Senator Sanders, you really do not know your American History. Senator Sanders, perhaps it is time for you to have a refresher course in American History; you need to know the story behind those Vermont patriots Ethan Allen and his Green Mountain Men. Perhaps, Senator Sanders, if you knew that history, you would not be rushing to create another Venezuela upon our shores. Russell Vought is exactly the kind of individual our Founding Fathers had in mind when they created our great nation. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, look at those biblical examples that we have of men who served their nation and God so very well. Joseph served Pharaoh and God in that ancient Egyptian nation. David served his people and God well as King of Israel. Daniel masterfully served not one, but two world powers, and yet also was faithful to God. When the day arrives that Christians are shunned from the arenas of politics and government, then the apocalypse will be upon us. <br />
<br /><br />
<br />Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-8136856008548192782019-01-09T07:46:00.002-08:002019-01-09T07:46:53.039-08:00The Russian Orthodox Patriarch and His Statement about the AntichristYesterday the leader of the Russian Orthodox Church, Patriarch Kirill, issued a statement that grabbed my attention. His remarks were picked up by various news sources around the world. Patriarch Kirill made his statement on Russian TV on Monday. He said that "The Antichrist is the person who will be at the head of the worldwide web." He went on to say, "Every time you use your gadget, whether you like it or not, whether you turn on your location or not, somebody can find out exactly where you are, exactly what your interests are and exactly what you are scared of. If not today then tomorrow methods and technology could appear that will not just provide access to all information but will also allow the use of this information. Do you imagine what power will be concentrated in the hands of those who gain knowledge about what is going on in the world? Control from such a single point is a harbinger of the coming of the Antichrist." Patriarch Kirill then said that the Russian Orthodox Church was not opposed to the internet or to uses of modern technology, but just wanted to issue a warning about "the development of a system that is aimed at controlling a person's identity."<br />
<br /><br />
This statement by the Russian Orthodox Church leader got me to thinking about the Antichrist. What does the Bible tell us about the Antichrist? We know from Revelation 13:7 that he will have control over the world: "He was given power to make war against the saints and to conquer them. <strong>And he was given authority over every tribe, people, language and nation</strong>." How can anyone capture such control? Well, I believe he will do it through two means. First, he will control the powers of commerce, the powers of buying and selling. We read in Revelation 13:16-17 these words: "He also forced everyone, small and great, rich and poor, free and slave, to receive a mark on his right hand or on his forehead, so that no one could buy or sell unless he had the mark, which is the name of the beast or the number of his name." Friends, that is a strong control. One person has the power to influence what I buy or what I sell, or whether I can even buy or sell. <br />
<br /><br />
We also know from the Scriptures that the Antichrist will seek to control people's mind through the power of deception. The Apostle Paul writes these words: "The coming of the lawless one will be in accordance with the work of Satan displayed in all kinds of counterfeit miracles, signs and wonders, and in every sort of evil that deceives those who are perishing" (2 Thessalonians 2:9-10). Notice that Paul proclaims that the Antichrist will be able to do some incredibly awesome miracles. I believe he will be enabled to do many of the miracles that Jesus did while on earth: calming stormy seas, healing various diseases, multiplying loaves and fishes, etc. But, unlike Jesus who refused to submit to the accolades of the throngs to become king (John 6:15 - "Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself"), the Antichrist will not only entertain such thoughts, but gladly accept them. And when he accepts their invitation, he will become the master-controller of their lives. He will influence how they think. He will influence their every decision. He will influence what they do. Quite literally, people will sell their souls to the Antichrist. <br />
<br /><br />
Now, how does all this relate to what the Russian Orthodox leader said. Look at how we are so strongly influenced today by the social media. People almost live on what they see and hear on their Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram accounts. We hear the sad stories of young people who take their own lives because of what they read on those social media pages. Somehow we have allowed our lives to be "controlled" by what is said on those pages. I believe the Russian Orthodox leader was simply saying how dangerous it will be when just one person has access to all of the social media accounts of people around the globe. <br />
<br /><br />
Technology can be a tool used to enhance our lives and to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ. But it can also be a tool the Enemy can use to accomplish his purposes. You control what is on your iphone; don't let what is on your iphone control you.<br />
<br /><br />
And keep looking up because our Redemption will soon be here. Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-4634593832127177992019-01-02T11:59:00.000-08:002019-01-02T11:59:14.179-08:00It's 2019, But Some Things Just Do Not changeI want to say a Happy New Year to each one of you. I trust that your new year has begun well. This year should be a very interesting one. What will the stock markets do this year? Will the "run of the bulls" continue, or will the "bear come out of hibernation?" If the past three months are any indication, it certainly appears that the markets will demonstrate great volatility. <br />
<br /><br />
What will happen in Washington DC this year? For the first time in two years we have a divided government with the Democrats have a 40 seat majority in the House while the Republicans have a 6 seat majority in the Senate. As the new Congress begins their session tomorrow, will those who have been elected to represent us actually do just that, or will they support the wishes of their party's leaders? Will it be America first, or party first, or my own political ambitions first? There are some difficult decisions to be made: border security and immigration reform being two of the top agenda items. As I have shared in previous blogs, what I find so disconcerting is that our political leaders either do not know how to conduct a civil dialogue any longer, or else they simply do not have a desire to do so. Debate is vital to the success of a democracy. There does need to be a openness to listening to the arguments from both sides of an issue. But when our own opinions are so strongly fixed that we cannot entertain the arguments from a different perspective, then conversation becomes confrontation, dialogue becomes argument. <br />
<br /><br />
I fear that 2019 will see the continuation of the erosion of our moral foundations. On December 15, Todd Starnes posted this article on the Patriot Post website: <a href="http://www.patriotpost.us/opinion/6003-teacher-fired-for-refusing-to-call-a-transgender-student-by-preferred-pronoun">www.patriotpost.us/opinion/6003-teacher-fired-for-refusing-to-call-a-transgender-student-by-preferred-pronoun</a>. "A devout Christian teacher was fired from a government-run school in West Point, Virginia, after he refused to call a girl who identifies as a boy by her preferred pronoun. The school district voted unanimously to fire Peter Vlaming, a veteran French teacher who is beloved by students. They accused him of 'misgendering' a student.<br />
<br /><br />
"'That discrimination then leads to creating a hostile learning environment. And the student had expressed that. The parent had expressed that," West Point Superintendent Laura Abel told NBC News. 'They felt disrespected.'<br />
<br /><br />
"Vlaming explained to school officials that his religious beliefs prevented him from using male pronouns when addressing a biological female. He had agreed to call the child by her new 'masculine' name, but the school district rejected that compromise.<br />
<br /><br />
"He was basically given a choice - either reject the teachings of the Bible and basic human biology or find another job. <br />
<br /><br />
"'Tolerance is a two-way street,' said Shawn Voyles, Vlaming's attorney. 'My client respects this student's rights; he is simply asking that his rights be respected as well... The student is absolutely free to identify as the student pleases. The school board adopted one viewpoint and required Mr. Vlaming, at the cost of his job, to repeat that ideology, repeat that viewpoint. That's where it's compelled speech. That's where it violates his First Amendment right he still retains as a public employee.'<br />
<br /><br />
"More than 100 students walked out of class to show their support for Vlaming. 'I don't think they should shut Mr. Vlaming and his rights out like that,' eighty-grader Cassidy Heidelberg told the Virginia Gazette. 'He has four children, a wife and it's hard enough earning enough as a teacher.'"<br />
<br /><br />
Now to the flip-side of the coin. On December 17, Robin Smith wrote an article, also posted on the Patriot Post website: <a href="http://www.patriotpost.us/articles/60073-modern-education-activism-has-displaced-academics">www.patriotpost.us/articles/60073-modern-education-activism-has-displaced-academics</a>. The author of this article, after citing the case of Peter Vlaming, then cited another case in Virginia. "In the same state, just about 100 miles due north as the crow flies, in the Arlington Public Schools, a second-grader, excited to share a story about Daniel from the Bible during show-and-tell, was silenced among his peers by his teacher. As told by his dad, his enthusiastic son stowed away his Bible among his school supplies in his bag for the purpose of telling a story that was important to him that involved the Jewish man whose courage and determination was used by God. The eight-year old exclaimed to his dad, 'The teacher stopped me from speaking and went on to the next person. I didn't get to tell them about Daniel.'"<br />
<br /><br />
Friends, a teacher is fired because he refused to use male pronouns to identify a transgender student who is a biological girl. And his refusal is based upon his religious convictions. A second-grader is interrupted in his show-and-tell presentation because he shares a Bible story about a man whose courage should be an example for all of us. Both this teacher and this student's rights are protected by the First Amendment. Yet, in today's world, the rights guaranteed in that First Amendment seemed to be applied in a discriminatory manner. If I am a Christian and believe in the Bible, then my First Amendment rights are limited; but, if I am a secularist, my First Amendment rights have no limitation. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, as we enter into another year, I do not believe that the assault upon Christians will lessen this year. In fact, I think the attacks upon believers who are committed to standing for truth will only increase. The reason why I say this is because I believe we are nearing the end of this age. The Bible tells us, quite clearly, that people will be deceived and believe the lie rather than the truth. So, this is a year in which we, as followers of Jesus Christ, will need to do two things. First, we will need to dig more deeply into the Word of God; and, second, we will need to have a strong Christian community that will give us encouragement. To accomplish the first, you will need to find a time to sit down with your Bible and just read and meditate on what God is saying to you. To accomplish the second, you will need to find a good church where the Bible is preached, and when you find one, get involved in it. Those two things will give you an edge toward a successful new year.Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-79567547925070572018-12-27T08:03:00.001-08:002018-12-27T08:03:25.778-08:00Some Thoughts as We Close 2018We are in the closing hours of a year that showered us with extremes. Extreme drought on the West Coast produced some of the deadliest wildfires those states that border the Pacific Ocean had ever seen. Extreme rainfalls on the East Coast prompted historic flooding in Virginia and the Carolinas, and that, coupled with the appearance of Hurricane Floyd brought misery to the Eastern Seaboard. The stock market kept us all wondering what was going to happen as it yoyoed through the early part of the spring and summer, but then it took a real "header off the cliff" in October and has plunged into numbers not seen since 2008.<br />
<br /><br />
And the political scene provided its share of drama this past year. The midterm elections were among the most contentious ever seen. The vitriol that was hurled by candidates toward one another has rarely been as intense as it was this year. And the manner in which the mainstream media has attacked President Trump for what he either did or did not do is almost unparalleled in American history. I think its closest comparison would be the attacks upon President Lincoln during those tumultuous days of the Civil War. Americans have forgotten how to have civil conversations. We have forgotten the art of debate rather than the heat of argument. We have given vent to anger rather than seeking compromise. And I am greatly saddened by this new reality. I believe it bodes ill-will as we attempt to move forward as a nation. I am not very optimistic that our now "divided government" will truly accomplish anything of significance in the coming year. The animosity appears to be too great - at least as we enter into the seating of a new Congress. <br />
<br /><br />
This past year saw the continued extremes within the international community. The civil war in Syria almost appears to be a war without an ending. It appears, at least from my perspective, that if that war is declared over, nothing will have changed. President Assad, the tyrant that he is, will still be in power. The Iranians and Russians, who were already embedded within the Syrian governmental structure, will also still be present. And those whose opposition to President Assad began this nearly decade-long civil war will still be opposed, but will have lost their strength and voice. What will be the impact when American forces are withdrawn from Syria? What impact will that have upon those rebel forces, including the Kurds, with which we have allied ourselves? <br />
<br /><br />
Of concern to Israel is the presence of Iranian forces near the border with Syria and within Lebanon. Just a few days ago, Israel launched a military airstrike against an Iranian supply depot near Damascus. According to Syrian sources, the Russian-supplied anti-missile defense system destroyed several of the air-to-ground missiles, yet some got through to create damage. And within the past few weeks, Israeli IDF officers have uncovered several Hezbollah tunnels under the Lebanese border, preventing what might possibly have been a serious terrorist attack upon Israel's northern-most cities. And there is still the problem of the Gaza Strip and of Hamas. One of the casualties of that "almost war" is the collapse of the Netanyahu coalition, thus creating the need for the dissolving of the Knesset and the calling of new elections in April 2019. What will Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran do during this time of political upheaval? Will they perceive this to be a time of weakness within Israel that could be exploited? <br />
<br /><br />
This past year saw an escalation in the persecution of Christians around the globe. Reports coming from China indicate that the Chinese government of President Xi-Xingping is clamping down upon those Christian churches that have not identified with the government-approved Three-Self Church movement. We read of Christians being murdered in Cameroons and in Nigeria and in Indonesia. We have read of the attacks upon expressions of faith right here within our own country. The expressions of faith within the public arenas have become targets by those who have a hatred of God. From school teachers and administrators to florists and bakers the risk of expressing your personal faith can have both financial and legal consequences. Yet I am free to express my contempt for God without any fear of reprisals. Something is definitely wrong with this picture.<br />
<br /><br />
And the crisis at America's southern border has reached a critical point. This crisis is the test of whether we continue to value the rule of law or do we cave to the demands of the mob. There is a legal way to enter into our country and we have welcome people through that portal for over two hundred years. And they have been received graciously. If we allow the mob to rule, then, essentially we will have no immigration laws. The Progressives and Socialists will have won with their "open borders." No one will be stopped. Criminal elements will traverse our borders as if they were merely going to the store. Security walls do work - just ask the Israelis. Yes, let's be welcoming to those who desire to come, but let's do it in the right way. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, articles are stacking up on my desk that I want to share with you as we enter into 2019. Some of them are alarming, while others are affirming. So, let's keep the dialogue going for another year.<br />
<br /><br />
As I close, isn't it great to know that, although we truly have no definitive sense of what will happen in 2019, we can say with confidence that we know Who is in control of 2019 and He is the one who will see us through the mountains and valleys that will define 2019. Perhaps 2019 will be the year that The King returns. Until that trumpet blows, let us resolve that we will remain faithful to Him and to His calling upon our lives. May He find us faithful when He comes. <br />
<br /><br />
God bless you all as you enter into a New Year.<br />
<br /><br />
<br /><br />
<br /><br />
<br />Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-84320979172076350172018-12-19T07:30:00.002-08:002018-12-19T07:30:21.635-08:00A Christmas Word - IncarnationIt is hard to believe that another Christmas is just a few days away. It seems that the older I get the faster Christmases come. But what a wonderful time of the year! The music of Christmas is always inspiring. The excitement of Christmas is both exhilarating and tiring - concerts, programs, living nativities, shopping, card mailings, etc. But the story of Christmas is always a blessing! In fact, no matter how many times a person hears the story of the birth of the Lord Jesus, a fresher understanding always touches the heart. <br />
<br /><br />
This "Christmas blog" is perhaps my favorite one to write during the course of the year. Perhaps it is because I never grow tired of sharing the news that the angels delivered to some frightened shepherds that evening outside of Bethlehem. "For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior who is Christ the Lord." Was there ever a grander birth announcement ever given? Was there ever a more special Child born? His birth changed the course of the world and His birth continues changing the lives of millions of people around the world. <br />
<br /><br />
If you have been following my blog over the years, you will remember that I have a strong fascination with that mystery known as the Incarnation - God becoming flesh. John writes such amazing and thought-provoking words as he begins his gospel account: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning." What John wants us to understand as he begins his grand retelling of the life of Jesus is that Jesus was God! He was not just alongside of God. He was not just an impersonation of God. No, Jesus was God! And he repeat that truth for our benefit with this powerful statement: "The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth." (John 1:14). In other words, friends, the key to understanding John's gospel is to believe that Jesus was God! <br />
<br /><br />
A similar analogy is found at the very beginning of Charles Dickens' classic "A Christmas Carol" where he begins by informing us that "old Marley was dead, dead as a doornail." Dickens then says that if we fail to understanding and believe that fact, then the rest of the story is totally irrelevant. I believe that John would have us believe that as well about Jesus.<br />
<br /><br />
Over the years many writers have wrestled with the idea of the Incarnation. Once such writer was C. S. Lewis. In his masterpiece of Christian apologetics known as "Mere Christianity," Lewis helps us to understand what occurred that first Christmas so many years ago in Bethlehem. Lewis writes: "Did you ever think, when you were a child, what fun it would be if your toys could come to life? Well suppose you could really have brought them to life. Imagine turning a tin soldier into a real little man. It would involve turning the tin into flesh. And suppose the tin soldier did not like it. He is not interested in flesh: all he sees is that the tin is being spoilt. He thinks you are killing him. He will do everything he can to prevent you. He will not be made into a man if he can help it.<br />
<br /><br />
"What you would have done about that tin soldier I do not know. But what God did about us was this. The Second Person in God, the Son, became human Himself: was born into the world as an actual man - a real man of a particular height, with hair of a particular colour, speaking a particular language, weighing so many stone. The Eternal Being, who knows everything and who created the whole universe, became not only a man but (before that) a baby, and before that a 'foetus' inside a Woman's body. If you want to get the hang of it, think how you would like to become a slug or a crab.<br />
<br /><br />
"The result of this was that you now had one man who really was what all men were intended to be: one man in whom the created life, derived from His Mother, allowed itself to be completely and perfectly turned into the begotten life. The natural human creature in Him was taken up fully into the divine Son. Thus in one instance humanity had, so to speak, arrived: had passed into the life of Christ. And because the whole difficulty for us is that the natural life has to be, in a sense, 'killed', He chose an earthly career which involved the killing of His human desires at every turn - poverty, misunderstanding from His own family, betrayal by one of His intimate friends, being jeered at and manhandled by the Police, and execution by torture. And then, after being thus killed - killed every day in a sense - the human creature in Him, because it was united to the divine Son, came to life again. The Man in Christ rose again: not only the God. That is the whole point. For the first time we saw a real man. one tin soldier - real tin, just like the rest - had come fully and splendidly alive." <br />
<br /><br />
Now, I realize that it takes several readings of C.S. Lewis to fully grasp what he has written. But I believe this is a remarkable description of something that is beyond our human understanding to fully grasp: God became a man; not just a man, but a baby. The powerful God became a powerless baby. The Creator became part of His creation. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, I trust you will take some time these next few days and just ponder that great mystery of God becoming man. And He did it for you and for me. I can assure you that you will not fully understand it - no one has, really - but your heart will be richly blessed by it. <br />
<br /><br />
And so I want to wish each of you a most blessed and special Christmas. <br />
<br /><br />
P.S. I have always thought it would be "cool" if Jesus would return on His birthday. Perhaps this might be the year. Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-90247759040907952322018-12-12T07:26:00.001-08:002018-12-12T07:26:06.679-08:00Another Assault upon ChristmasIf there is one season of the year in which those on the Left unite together against a common foe it is the Christmas Season. Their assault upon the season of our Savior's birth seems to know no limitations. Over the years we have seen Christmas programs within our elementary and secondary schools changed to Winter programs. We now celebrate snow and snowmen rather than the Savior and the shepherds. (Note: I am grateful for those schools who have not bent the knee to this Leftist lunacy and who still allow their students to celebrate the real reason for Christmas. I pray that they will continue to be firm in their resolve). <br />
<br /><br />
Municipalities have battled for years the legality of having a Nativity set up on the Town Square. When I was a boy growing up, nearly every little town in Iowa had its Nativity scene - some more elaborate than others, but each was a declaration by the community of the real reason for Christmas. Now one must travel for miles in search of such a Nativity display. The fears of lengthy and expensive litigation has now kept the manger in the warehouse. <br />
<br /><br />
Then a few years ago it became marketable to not use the words "Merry Christmas" within the retail communities. Yes, you could still use the greeting of "Happy Holidays" which I found to be inconsistent with their thinking. Let's see, the word "holiday" is a contraction of two words "holy" and "day." Now, let me ask you, "What makes this season, as opposed to, let's say August 25 or September 25 or July 25, a "holy day?" Is it not the birthday of Jesus Christ? So, when I say to a friend, "Happy Holidays," which I am really saying is this is a holy day because of Jesus.<br />
<br /><br />
But, just when you think the Left could not get more creative in their assault upon Christmas, a professor at Minnesota State University in Mankato dropped a bombshell this past week. Dr. Eric Sprankle is a professor in the graduate school of psychology at the university and also teaches classes on sexuality in the undergraduate school. Here is what Dr. Sprankle tweeted last week: "The virgin birth story is about an all-knowing, all-powerful deity impregnating a human teen. There is no definition of consent that would include that scenario. Happy Holidays." In other words, Dr. Sprankle is accusing God of sexually assaulting Mary against her wishes. <br />
<br /><br />
Dr. Robert Jeffress, pastor of First Baptist Church in Dallas responded, "Dr. Sprankle's comments are nothing but blasphemous babble from a liberal who is completely ignorant of the Bible." (quote from his interview with Todd Starnes). <br />
<br /><br />
Let's analyze the Biblical story to refute what Dr. Sprankle has said. First, there is no statement within the Gospel of Luke that records any sexual involvement between God and Mary. Here is what Luke simply says, "The angel answered, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God" (Luke 1:35). Why does Dr. Sprankle accuse God of sexual assault? It is because he has a limited view of God. According to him, there is only one way to create a baby and that is through a sexual union. And, you know, for every human being since the time of Adam and Eve, that is a true fact. But the conception of Jesus was unique. There was no sexual union. Mary remained a virgin until after she had given birth. So, Dr. Sprankle, there could be no assault because there was no sexual union. <br />
<br /><br />
Second, Luke records that Mary did consent to God's request. Again, let's read from the Luke text: "'I am the Lord's servant,' Mary answered. 'May it be to me as you have said.'" (Luke 1:38). Friends, those are words of consent. Those are words still filled with many unanswered questions. Those are words still shrouded with fear. Yet, Mary agreed to this unique invitation from God. She said, "Yes!" <br />
<br /><br />
Did the angel put pressure upon Mary so that she had no other option but to say "yes?" Certainly there is no indication of such pressure within the Luke story. Did Mary fear the reprisals from God if she said "no?" Again, there is no indication within the text. No, Luke would have us believe that Mary made her decision based upon faith. When approached, Mary volunteered for the assignment God had commissioned. <br />
<br /><br />
Dr. Sprankle, you are just wrong in your understanding of the most beautiful birth narrative recorded in human history. There has never been a baby born, either before or after, like Jesus. His birth marks the defining moment in the history of mankind. Calendars were changed because of His birth. No, Dr. Sprankle, the only thing more difficult to understand than the birth itself, is the reason why God entered into His world. And that reason can be stated with just one word; love. Dr. Sprankle, I want you to know that John 3:16 is for you, just as it is for me: "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." Oh that you would know the truth from that text. <br />
<br />Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-39214580279859426032018-12-05T08:30:00.001-08:002018-12-05T08:30:07.231-08:00My Annual Christmas Recommended Reading ListToday has been designated as a day of national mourning and prayer in memory of the death of our nation's 41st president, George H.W. Bush, who passed away at the age of 94. Bush's presidency is often lost as it was sandwiched between that of Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton. President Bush completed the process of the tearing down of the Iron Curtain that President Reagan had initiated. When Saddam Hussein invaded Kuwait in 1991, President Bush quickly assembled a coalition and countered that invasion. The only blemish in that war, which was won in a matter of days, was that he did not order the coalition forces to sweep on into Baghdad and overthrow the Saddam regime. If he had, perhaps 9-11 might not have happened. <br />
<br /><br />
Perhaps George H.W. Bush was the most qualified man to have sat in the Oval Office since the time of George Washington. His resume of political service was a long and distinguished one. Yet, he will be most remembered for those infamous words uttered during his presidential campaign, "Read my lips: No new taxes." Yet, he could not honor that pledge and that was his undoing when he attempted to run for a second term. There are some things the American people are quick to forget - immorality in the White House during the days of Bill Clinton; but there are some things people never seem to forget, especially when it comes to taxes. <br />
<br /><br />
It was right for President Trump to declare today a day of national mourning. It is right for our nation to honor a man who served us well. The historians can now tell the story of Bush #41. It will be a story worth reading, I am sure.<br />
<br /><br />
Speaking of stories to read. I want to highly recommend the newest book from the pen of Doris Kearns Goodwin. It is titled, "Leadership." Ms. Goodwin is a gifted writer of history. She researches her subjects well and she carefully documents her stories. This book is the study of four American presidents: Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and Lyndon Johnson. Now, friends, you cannot get more diverse than these four. Ms. Goodwin shares the remarkable story of how each of these men grew up and how each grew in his abilities to lead. Then she identifies one crisis in each one's administration that tested that leadership ability. For Lincoln, her focus was upon the Emancipation Proclamation; for Theodore Roosevelt, it was the coal strike; for Franklin Roosevelt, it was the great depression; and for Lyndon Johnson, it was the civil rights act of 1964. These crises certainly tested the resolve of each man. At times they walked the pathway alone, yet, all the while, continually teaching their cabinets and other officials of the necessity of following that vision. Ms. Goodwin closes her book with a study of how the death of each man impacted those that followed. This is not a difficult book to read. Ms. Goodwin has a way of drawing you into the story. I found myself getting involved in the tensions created within each president. This book would make for an excellent Christmas gift to that person who enjoys American history and to that person who is seeking to cultivate his or her leadership skills. <br />
<br /><br />
A second book that I would recommend is the newest book by Bill O'Reilly and titled, "Killing the SS." This is the latest book in his "Killing" series. Like most of his other books, this one reads so easily. Again it is well footnoted. The thesis for this book is the intense hunt that took place following World War II for those Nazi leaders who had orchestrated the "Final Solution" which came to be known as the Holocaust. The center piece of that focus was Adolph Eichmann. Others included Joseph Mengele, the doctor who performed medical experiments upon victims at Auschwitz, and Klaus Barbie, also known as the "Butcher of Lyon." One of the facts that surprised me as I read was the number of former SS officers who, following the War, were hired by our CIA to spy on the Russians. Some were never held accountable for the atrocities committed by the SS during the War. I found myself getting caught up in the intrigue of the search for Eichmann, of his kidnapping from his hiding place in Argentina, his trial and execution in Israel. This book would make a great Christmas gift to those readers on your list.<br />
<br /><br />
Let me close with two additional titles that were meaningful to me this past year. The first is titled, "The True Jesus" and was written by David Limbaugh. This book is a follow-up to a previous book titled, "The Emmaus Code." In that book, Mr. Limbaugh shares the portraits of Christ found in the Old Testament. He sort of envisions Jesus' conversation with the two disciples on the Road to Emmaus that first resurrection morning, thus the title. "The True Jesus" is a look at the portrait of Christ found within the four Gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Mr. Limbaugh attempts to follow the life of Jesus in a chronological sequence, and he does it very well. Either of these books could be used as a small group resource. I am anxious to read his latest book in this series, "Jesus Is Risen" which is the portrait of Christ discovered within the writings of the Apostle Paul and the Early Church writers. I have this on my shelf as a must for 2019. <br />
<br /><br />
The final book I would recommend is titled, "Grant" and was written by Ron Chernow; the same author who gave us the biography of Alexander Hamilton upon which the Broadway musical success "Hamilton" is based. This book will probably be the definitive study of the life of the man who led the Union to victory in the Civil War. Having only studied about Grant's war years, it was fascinating to me to read of those tumultuous years he served as President. Historians have been quick to cast the title of "inept or corrupt" upon the Grant Administration, but Mr. Chernow helped me to see that Grant was too accepting of people - he took them at face value. This was often the cause for people misusing that trust to accomplish their purposes rather than those of the President. This is a huge book - don't let its volume of pages deter you from a powerful read. After the reading I believe you will be convinced that Ulysses S Grant was one of the most dynamic leaders our nation has produced. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, that is my annual list of books I recommend for those readers on your list. With the winter months upon us, how refreshing it is to sit by the fireside with a steaming cup of hot tea or hot chocolate, and grab a book that will encourage and challenge us. <br />
Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-17983607247316863242018-11-28T07:48:00.001-08:002018-11-28T07:48:46.639-08:00On the Edge of an Ethical SlopeYesterday there was an article in the "Minneapolis Star-Tribune" that caught my eye. It was headlined: "Scientist claims first DNA-edited babies." The article was written by Marilynn Marchione, a writer for the Associated Press. The substance of this article is bound to stimulate a heated debate among scientists and ethicists around the globe. Allow me to quote briefly from this article: "Scientists and bioethics experts reacted with shock, anger and alarm Monday to a Chinese researcher's claim that he helped make the world's first genetically edited babies.<br />
<br /><br />
"He Jiankui of Southern University of Science and Technology of China said he altered the DNA of twin girls born earlier this month to try to help them resist possible future infection with the AIDS virus - a dubious goal, ethically and scientifically."<br />
<br /><br />
Okay, let's think through this for a few moments. Whenever genetic material is altered either by addition or subtraction, that genetic material is changed forever. In fact, really it is the creation of a new genetic material. Recently such genetic-editing has been used in cases of adults who are being treated for serious diseases. But, in the case of these twin girls whose genetic material was altered while still in the sperm and egg stage, or early embryo stage, these girls were born genetically different from their parents. They will now pass on to their children this genetic difference. And here is the problem: scientists do not know the long-term consequences of such genetic editing or alteration for future generations. <br />
<br /><br />
The article quotes from Notre Dame Law School Prof. O Carter Snead, a former presidential adviser on bioethics, who said the report was "deeply troubling, if true." Snead continued, "No matter how well intentioned, this intervention is dangerous, unethical, and represents a perilous new moment in human history. These children, and their children's children, have had their futures irrevocably changed without consent, ethical review or meaningful deliberations." <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, if this claim can be substantiated, then the future of "test-tube babies" has risen greatly. If we can genetically modify the material within an egg and sperm to eliminate the threat of AIDS, could not the same thing be done to prevent Down's Syndrome, or Parkinson's Disease, or leukemia, or, how about, cancers and heart disease? I know, on the surface we would almost cheer such a happening. But, here is the dilemma which is played-out in almost every sci-fi movie: for every good that is created, inevitably there is also something bad that is also created. So, these twin girls do not have to worry about an AIDS infection, but perhaps that altered DNA is now subject to something greater than AIDS. The scientific and ethical communities pose that question. And it is a very real one.<br />
<br /><br />
What is happening, friends, is that we have taken another step toward playing "god" in our world. The ultimate goal is to create the perfect world, filled with perfect people, living within a perfect environment. And, in that process we do not need the presence of God any longer. Man is the measure of all things; it is no longer God. Let me phrase it this way: the more man knows, in other words, the more information and knowledge a man has, the less inclined that man is to relying upon God. I believe this report is just another indicator pointing toward the soon return of the Lord Jesus. <br />
<br /><br />
Meanwhile, the Ukraine is poised on the brink of war with Russia over the latter's annexation of the Crimean Peninsula a few years ago. The civil war in Yemen seems to have no solution as Saudi Arabia and Iran seem to be using that small nation as the chessboard for who will dominate the Middle East. The Taliban and Al-Qada have stepped up their attacks upon American troops and Afghan civilians in their attempt to regain control of Afghanistan. The shaky cease-fire along the Israeli-Gazan border is still holding, but barely. California seeks to recover from the most devastating wildfires in its history. And, on America's southern border, pressures are mounting from those who seek to by-pass American law and enter into our country illegally. I do not doubt that, among the thousands of people crowded into camps around Tijuana, and soon to be other places, there are stories of legitimate need. These people need to be told that if they proceed with the proper paperwork and applications and follow the required protocols, that Americans will welcome them as they have millions of others down through the centuries. <br />
<br /><br />
I was just reading again the other morning from Matthew 24 - Jesus's answer to the disciples' question as to when the end would come. I would encourage each of you to read that chapter and then ponder the world in which we now live. It is almost as if Jesus could peer that day into the heart of the 21st century. Yes, He is coming! Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-21073169355876223202018-11-21T07:33:00.000-08:002018-11-21T07:33:23.712-08:00A Spirit of ThanksgivingAs we enter into the season of Thanksgiving, the world continues tottering near the brink. A fragile cease-fire continues to hold along the Israeli-Gazan border; yet that cease-fire has brought the Netanyahu government to near collapse as one of the centerpieces of his coalition has walked away because of the cease-fire. As of now, the Prime Minister holds a narrow one-seat majority within the Knesset. It appears that many Israelis are becoming increasingly frustrated with the "on-again, off-again" mini-wars with Hamas. They are wanting Israel to step in and create an atmosphere of security and safety. Will special elections be called in Israel? Is there anyone who has the political power that Prime Minister Netanyahu has and who will challenge him? Stay tuned because this could get very interesting.<br />
<br /><br />
The devastation from the fires burning in California continues to escalate. More bodies are discovered amidst the smoldering ruins of homes and automobiles. And there yet remains a long listing of people who are unaccounted for. The blame game has already begun as to who is responsible for these fires. Governor Jerry Brown has declared that it is the consequence of climate change, or global warming. We do know that California has experienced a series of devastating droughts in the past few years. President Trump has stated that the fires are a result of poor forest management. There is a powerful environmentalist movement in California that has greatly influenced laws governing the harvesting of trees. It has become increasingly more difficult for logging companies to harvest those trees that are either dead or dying. These unharvested trees create an ample fuel supply for wildfires, such as those we have witnessed these past months. But, whatever the causes were, the suffering of those people whose lives have been impacted is very real. Yes, homes and businesses can be rebuilt. But how does a family rebuild those pictures and memories from the past? How does one start all over again? We do need to reach out and help them as best we can. <br />
<br /><br />
And what about the economy? It is certainly on a roller-coaster ride right now. As a financial planner shared, "this is not for the faint at heart." The bulls had a long run - one of the longest in history. Is it time for the bears to have their say? If so, how long with it last? What will be the consequences? How will the nervousness about the financial markets impact the upcoming holiday shopping season? How will it impact year-end giving to nonprofits and local churches, most of which are dependent upon substantial year-end gifts?<br />
<br /><br />
Yet, Thursday is the day set aside as a day of Thanksgiving. In spite of the problems that surround us, each of us could compose a long list of things for which we are grateful to God. We might include on our list our families, our jobs, our friends, our health. Each year I am challenged with the reading of Psalm 103. There David composes his list of things for which he is eternally grateful to God. Allow me to highlight just a few of them.<br />
<br /><br />
1. "He forgives all my sins." - Topping David's list is that of God's forgiveness of his sins. David will later say, "He does not treat us as our sins deserve or repay us according to our iniquities" (vs. 10). And he concludes with this amazing statement: "As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us" (vs. 12). Oh how grateful I am that God still forgives my sins. Certainly that should be on my "thanksgiving list."<br />
<br /><br />
2. "He heals all my diseases." - I find this very interesting. Now I don't believe David had in mind those diseases that plague us because of the fallen world in which we live. But David is referring to that greatest of diseases, that fatal disease we had known as "separation from God." We call it salvation or "being born again." David says, "he redeems my life from the pit." What a gift we have received! Yes, that most certainly should be on my "thanksgiving list."<br />
<br /><br />
3. "As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him." - I am grateful for the Father's love for me. I am grateful for those moments when He throws His arms around me and just hugs me tightly. I am grateful for those moments when I feel His presence so very near and I hear His words of encouragement: "Max, I am right here! Keep on going!" That had better be on my "thanksgiving list."<br />
<br /><br />
Friends, there are many more suggestions for thanksgiving found within this amazing psalm. I would strongly encourage you to spend some time these next couple of days prayerfully reading Psalm 103. Make it your "thanksgiving prayer" to God. Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-54578631939538773582018-11-14T07:43:00.001-08:002018-11-14T07:43:48.914-08:00Tensions in Israel with Gaza and in Florida with BallotsThings had gotten so quiet on the Israeli border with Gaza that we almost came to think that something good had happened. Then reality returned this past Sunday. An undercover Israeli commando force traveling within the Gaza Strip was discovered. A firefight ensued in which seven Palestinian militants and one Israeli officer were killed. What followed next was one of the most massive rocket attacks upon Israel from the Gaza Strip in recent memory. Over four hundred rockets and mortar rounds were fired from within the Gaza Strip into Israeli communities across the border. Over 100 of those rockets were shot-down by Israel's Iron Dome missile defense system. But those rockets that penetrated that barrier caused damage within some Israeli communities. Once again Israeli citizens living in places such as Sderot and Beersheba heard the sounds of air-raid sirens. Fear once again became a reality. <br />
<br /><br />
Israeli war planes responded with over 160 missions over the Gaza Strip attacking those strongholds of Hamas and its sister organization Islamic Jihad. Yesterday both Hamas and Israeli leaders accepted a Egyptian-brokered cease fire. As of this morning it was still holding, but is extremely fragile. We have witnessed previous attempts at a cease fire only to have both sides shooting at each other in a matter of days.<br />
<br /><br />
What makes this attack difficult to understand is that both the Israelis and Hamas were actually in negotiations over a long-term peace agreement. The citizens living within the Gaza Strip are among the most impoverished people in the world. Unemployment is very high. Corruption among governmental authorities is well documented. Hamas leadership certainly knows that it would only take a few days for the IDF to completely overwhelm Gaza and bring the entire region back under Israeli authority - much as it was before the 2005 Israeli disengagement from Gaza. <br />
<br /><br />
Yet I don't believe that Israeli leadership desires to have a military intervention in Gaza. But they would like to strike some type of accord whereby the people living in Gaza would be benefited economically and the Israelis living in those border towns would experience security. But, in order for this type of accord to be reached, Hamas would have to give up its rockets and its rocket-manufacturing entities. Hamas would have to turn away the military hardware provided by Iran and Hezbollah. In other words, Hamas would have to give up its stated purpose which is the total destruction of Israel. Is the situation within Gaza desperate enough that Hamas would consider such drastic steps? Only time will tell. And, if such an accord is made between Israel and Hamas, how would it be monitored? What guarantees would Israeli leaders have that Hamas would keep the accord? There certainly is no level of trust that has been created since 2007 when Hamas wrestled the leadership of Gaza away from the Palestinian Authority. <br />
<br /><br />
Underlying all this is the shadow of Iran which has used Hamas as a proxy to provoke Israel, thus keeping Israel away from attacks on Iran itself. How much longer will Hamas continue saluting the Iranian flag? The Iranians could care less about those people living in Gaza. They are mere pawns in a greater contest. Will the leadership of Hamas wake up to the realization of how they have been used by Iran to accomplish another purpose? These are questions that linger in the fragile stillness of this cease fire. <br />
<br /><br />
And, as Israel keeps a watchful eye on Gaza, it cannot dismiss the existential threats that lie at its northern borders from Hezbollah and Syria. Tensions especially remain high along the Golan Heights as Iranian backed Syrian forces battle rebels. Israel has warned Syria and its coalition partners - Russia and Iran - of the dangers of any type of offensive excursion into Israeli territory. <br />
<br /><br />
As a believer I do keep my eyes focused upon what is happening in the Middle East. What happens there has a significant prophetic bearing as we anticipate the arrival of the King. <br />
<br /><br />
Meanwhile, the midterm elections are now a week into our rearview mirror. Once again two counties in Florida have the final outcome of the election hanging in the balance. I have not heard the term "hanging chads" as was heard following the 2000 election, but mysterious boxes of ballots seemingly appear out of nowhere. They are found in closets and even in cars. Why is it that the majority of Americans can go to the polls, cast their vote, and there is very little voter irregularity reported, yet for two counties in Florida, voting becomes a challenge? Perhaps it is not the system that needs changed so much as it is the personnel operating the system that need changed. <br />
<br /><br />
Here is what I am very interested in observing. Many of those Democrats who were elected to the House a week ago are rookies. This will be their first time in Washington. Many of them ran as centrists and moderates. Some of them even sounded somewhat conservative in their attitudes about the economy, etc. Now they come to Washington and into a House that will be lead by "the old guard" under the leadership of Nancy Pelosi, Maxine Waters, and others. They have already indicated that their agenda will be to issue subpoena after subpoena against the President and the Administration. They have indicated very little interest in working with the President to help better the plight of American citizens. Americans don't want an impeachment, but they do want a solution to the immigration crisis and how our borders can be made more safe and secure. Americans don't want Congress to conduct a "witch hunt," but they do want Congress to tackle the issue of healthcare. Americans don't want litigation, they want legislation. So, will these rookie House members stand up for those promises they made to their constituents that caused them to get elected, or will they buckle under the pressures of party loyalty and become mere pawns in the game being played? If they will repudiate Nancy Pelosi and her team and take a stand for what they promised, then I believe our President will be able to work in a bipartisan way to accomplish great things for the American people. <br />
<br /><br />
How interesting the world is becoming! I believe God is in the final preparations before the stage is set for the entrance of the King. How exciting will that day be! Perhaps it will happen before this year draws to a close. "Come, quickly, Lord Jesus."Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-32589741041466556652018-11-07T08:04:00.001-08:002018-11-07T08:04:29.157-08:00A Postlude to The ElectionYesterday Americans turned out in record numbers for a midterm election. Many incumbents were dealt a defeat; many new comers to politics experienced a victory. Some of the races that were expected to be non-contested,, instead became nail-biters. Still many of the races are too close to call. Many will demand recounts, so the final results might be days and even weeks away. But, the bottom line is this: the Republicans held on to the majority role in the United States Senate - with their margin of majority perhaps increasing; the Democrats regained the majority role in the United States House of Representatives, although by not as great a margin as first guessed. <br />
<br /><br />
Once again our nation is faced with a divided government. What will be the consequences? As I have looked at the returns from last night, knowing that some of the races are yet to be decided, there seems to be two ways our government will be impacted. First, the most negative one is that for the next two years there will be a stalemate with very little being accomplished. We have seen periods of stalemate before and it has not been beneficial to anyone. Could this occur once again? The early indications are that it could easily move in this direction. Friends, this stalemate or non-stalemate lies within the soon-to-be chosen leadership within the House. The old-guard leaders quickly went on record that among the first things that they will do is to increase the investigation of President Trump, to subpoena mountains of administrative records. It will be a House leadership team that will have as its focus the President. <br />
<br /><br />
But, what will be the attitude of some of those first-time elected Representatives? Many of them ran on a platform of helping their constituents. Will they continue to affirm those words `of pledge delivered to the people, or will they quickly fall into the desires of the old-guard? I will be watching closely as new leaders are chosen on both sides of the aisle to get a sense of whether there will be a stalemate or not.<br />
<br /><br />
The second result, and one that I certainly am hopeful will occur, is that the leadership of both the House and the Senate will sit down with the President and begin to work through many of the problems facing our nation. The economy is strong, but how can it continue in that pathway of strength? Immigration policies need to be changed with loop holes needing to be closed. Will there even be a civil discussion about that issue? Healthcare needs continued reforms; again, will civility prevail in those discussions? Will the leaders in Washington realize the need to work on behalf of all Americans, or will they just follow the "party line?" <br />
<br /><br />
I know that many Christians were praying diligently for this election. Together we affirmed that God was in control. So, what is our role now that the election is over? What should we be doing? First, and perhaps most importantly, we are to pray for those who have been elected. The Apostle Paul write these instructions to Timothy: "First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth" (1 Timothy 2:1-4). I may not agree with those in positions of authority - I am pretty sure that the Apostle Paul did not affirm everything that the Roman Emperor Nero said and did - yet, I believe Paul prayed for him. Should we not do the same? Leaders are in those roles because of the will of God. Again, I am reminded of the words of the Apostle Paul: "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God" (Romans 13:1). So, our first responsibility is to pray.<br />
<br /><br />
Secondly, I need to stay informed. How can that be done today? It seems that a person can no longer have confidence in a fair and balanced reporting from the mainstream media. So, if I am going to be informed, then I need to go outside of the mainstream. I can have direct communication with my senators and representatives, with my governor, with my mayor. I can read from papers such as the Wall Street Journal which attempts at a more balanced approach in its news reporting. There are many online news sources as well. The better informed I am, the more focused I will be in my prayers. <br />
<br /><br />
Another election has come and gone. In a few weeks, the focus will be upon the 2020 presidential election. Every election cycle is a celebration of the genius of our Founding Fathers. A representative democracy is not a fail-safe method of governing; in fact, the only truly fail-safe government will occur when Jesus reigns upon His throne in Jerusalem. But until that day, I am grateful to live in a nation where the voice of the people still can be heard. Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-24693591337276265342018-10-31T07:56:00.001-07:002018-10-31T07:56:15.499-07:00Anti-Semitism Rears Its Ugly Head; What Can a Believer Do?This past Saturday, a family gathered at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh to celebrate a bris, a special service of the circumcision, in the case of a boy, and the naming of a Hebrew child. This is a festive event with friends close to the family being invited. That which was intended to be a time of celebration became instead a time of violence, bloodshed, and death. Robert Gregory Bowers, a 46-year old man with a strong history of anti-Semitism, entered into the synagogue fully armed and opened fire upon those present. Eleven people were murdered and six others were injured before the assailant was himself wounded in the exchange of gunfire with authorities. Bowers told authorities that he "just wanted to kill Jews." <br />
<br /><br />
What happened in Pittsburgh is the greatest massacre of Jews ever in the history of our nation. And they were killed for no other reason than that they were Jews. Over the years we have witnessed an increase in anti-Semitic acts in Europe, especially in France. We have been led to believe that such targeted violence against Jews would not occur here. But now it has. In his article, published by The Patriot Post, Dennis Prager writes: "Anti-Semitism is exterminationist. Anti-Semites don't just want to persecute, enslave or expel Jews; they want to kill them. On Passover, Jews read the Haggadah, the ancient Jewish prayer book of the Passover Seder. In it are contained these words: 'In every generation, they arise to annihilate us' - not 'persecute' us; not 'enslave' us; annihilate us. So, when the murderer yelled, 'All Jews must die,' he encapsulated the uniqueness of anti-Semitism." (<a href="http://www.patriotpost.us/opinions/59150-the-pittsburgh-synagogue-anti-semitism-and-trump">www.patriotpost.us/opinions/59150-the-pittsburgh-synagogue-anti-semitism-and-trump</a>.)<br />
<br /><br />
Almost immediately the mainstream media placed the blame for this murderous event upon the shoulders of President Trump. They cited President Trump's identifying himself as being a "nationalist." According to the Webster's New World Compact School and Office Dictionary, "nationalism" is defined this way: "devotion to one's nation, patriotism." So, in his interview with Laura Ingraham this past week, when asked about his use of the term "nationalist," President Trump responded with a dictionary definition - "I love my country." Yet, what has happened is that the term "nationalist" has been commandeered by the media and is now identified with being a far-right white supremacist. Now, that is not the way the dictionary defines the term, but it has become the way that culture has defined the term. So, according to the mainstream media, when President Trump says he is a "nationalist" he is saying that he is a white-supremacist. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, I would love to share with President Trump that the definitions of words change. For example, one has to be careful how one uses the word "gay" these days. It used to mean "being joyous" but today it means being a homosexual. It has changed in its meaning. We now have to find alternatives to express the idea of what the term "gay" used to mean. Perhaps, instead of saying "I am a nationalist," it would be better to say, "I am very patriotic." It is indeed sad that we have come to that point in our cultural history that words need to be chosen carefully for what I intend by their meaning often is not what is heard by others. I wrestle with that reality nearly every week as I prepare my sermon and teaching materials. I knew what President Trump meant, but perhaps using the word "patriot" might have been less offensive. <br />
<br /><br />
But this I do know, President Trump is not anti-Semitic. If anything, he is the most strongly pro-Jewish, pro-Israeli president we have had since President Truman. His moving the American embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem gave strong evidence the he is not anti-Semitic. Here is what is very interesting: the mass murderer of the Jews worshiping at the Tree of Life synagogue was himself strongly anti-Trump. He had expressed that he felt that President Trump was merely a pawn used by Israel. <br />
<br /><br />
I have traveled extensively in Israel having visited that nation fourteen times. I have cultivated relationships with several Israeli-Jews who have become friends. I have watched with interest the politics of Israel change over the years, and I have observed their wars for survival. Do I approve of every decision Israeli leaders make? Of course not, no more than I approve of every decision our leaders make. But I am continually drawn to those words of God to Abraham as found in Genesis 12: "I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you; I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing. I will bless those who bless you, and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you." <br />
<br /><br />
As a follower of Jesus Christ, I must expose and oppose all forms of anti-Semitism. Why? First, because my Savior lived here upon this earth being raised in a Jewish home, ministered primarily among the Jewish people, and died as a Jewish rabbi. Second, the Word of God which I proclaim each week was given to us primarily by Jewish authors. The Bible is a Jewish book which shares with us God's plan for salvation and for abundant living. Third, the Apostle Paul, writing in the eleventh chapter of his letter to the Romans, shares the truth that we, as Gentile believers, have been grafted into olive tree which is that of Israel. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, anti-Semitism will finally be destroyed when the King comes to claim His rightful throne in Jerusalem. The great proponent of anti-Semitism, Satan himself, will be cast into the abyss. The nations of the world will gather in Jerusalem to worship King Jesus. What a remarkable day that will be! But until that day occurs, I am challenged by Scripture to "Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: 'May those who love you be secure. May there be peace within your walls and security within your citadels.' For the sake of my brothers and friends, I will say, 'Peace be within you.' For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek your prosperity." (Psalm 122:6-9).<br />
<br /><br />
Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-4965373932758726182018-10-24T08:17:00.002-07:002018-10-24T08:17:37.712-07:00An Invasion from the South and the Rule of LawTwo weeks from today we will be analyzing the results of one of the most contested and important midterm elections of my lifetime. Not just the control of Congress but the direction of our country will be determined on November 6. The ideologies separating the two political parties could not be more polar opposites. The political pundits and prognosticators who had been so confident a few months ago of a massive "blue wave" are now quietly speaking of a possible narrow "blue" victory in the House and possible "red" gains in the Senate. But the real polling is already taking place and will conclude on November 6. Let me remind you of how important this election is on both a national and a local and state level. Some of you live in states where governorships will be decided. And each of us will be asked to choose a Representative for Congress and perhaps a Senator or two. Take time to carefully study the positions your candidates take on the important issues of today: immigration, national security, economic well-being, etc. Do your homework and then vote your choice. This is not an election to sit on the sidelines and be uncommitted. Too much is at stake. So, take time to vote. <br />
<br /><br />
Speaking of immigration, all eyes seem to be focused upon a growing "mob" of people walking through the corridors of Mexico. Estimates are between 7,000 and 14,000 people in this main body of Central Americans who are walking to the southern border of the United States. They come from Honduras, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Costa Rico. From video footage, they are mainly men and women in their twenties and thirties, although I have noticed some "grandma and grandpa" types as well. Included are many children - some accompanied by their parents or other family members, some are traveling alone. <br />
<br /><br />
I am confident that many of those traveling have a story to share. And, perhaps, many of those stories are legitimate ones. Yes, they have lived under repressive regimes for many years. Yes, they have endured a life of poverty, working hard just to eke out of meager living for themselves and their families. Yes, many have lived in the shadow of a growing and often violent drug cartel and other gangs. But many others within this group are coming in order to create chaos at the border. Their stories have no legitimacy. But how are the agents at the border to know which stories to believe? That is the timely question. <br />
<br /><br />
The timing of this "march" or "mob" however you want to describe it raises many questions. How is it that all of a sudden thousands of Central Americans decided that they wanted to seek asylum in the United States? Repressive regimes are not a new entity within Central American governments. And why choose the weeks just before a major midterm election in the United States? Could not this "march" have occurred last February or next January? Who is providing food and water for all these thousands of people? If they are coming with little finances of their own, somebody has to be feeding them? Who is providing the medical treatment many of them have needed and will continue to need in their "march" to America? Friends, a "march" of this magnitude does not simply happen spontaneously - a hundred people, possibly; seven thousands, absolutely not! Someone has had to orchestrate and finance this "march." And it is costing a lot of dollars to do so. Perhaps it would have been better to simply give each person a $1000 and tell them to stay home. <br />
<br /><br />
But, there is a method to someone's madness with this "march," or as one radio host calls it, "an invasion." The ultimate purpose is NOT to better the lives of these people. These people are mere pawns in a greater game. The ultimate purpose is an assault upon the laws that protect the citizens of the United States. Yes, we are a nation ruled by law. I know that many within Congress would like to abolish the rule of law - except for those laws that benefit themselves. If you listen carefully to their talk, they are for open borders - allow anyone to enter. Abolish ICE so that we have no knowledge of who enters into our country nor of their intended purposes whether beneficial or nefarious. Yet these people continue to live in their gated-communities. They want to be protected from the same people they want to be allowed into our country. <br />
<br /><br />
What is our President supposed to do? His first responsibility is to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States. And, as part of that Constitution and laws based upon that Constitution, there is a legitimate process that is to be followed if a person desires to be granted entrance into our country. Our borders are never to be opened to an invasion. President Trump has said that he will call for the military. Constitutionally that is what he should do. The borders need to be sealed. Entry points need to be few in number. Laws need to be enforced. These people need to be processed, given forms that can be completed and given instructions about submitting those forms to the United States embassy and/or consulate, and then returned to their respective countries. We would then have a clearer understanding of those who had legitimate desires to come to America. <br />
<br /><br />
Some of you might say, "Well, Max, that seems unfair. After all, they have walked for weeks to get here, and you will just tell them to turn around and walk back home? That seems so cruel. No, what was cruel was the promise given to these people that when they arrived at the American border they could cross over into our country. All that promise provided was an empty hope. If the organizers of this "march" truly cared about these people, they would have provided information to help them get into our country legitimately. So, I believe it is not cruel to send them away. And, suppose we do allow them to enter - as we seemingly do for thousands each you; what message does that send to those who chose to enter our country legally. It is a "slap in the face" to them. It creates a two-tier level of immigration. <br />
<br /><br />
What should a Christian do? First, we should pray for these people - many of whom simply need a reason to hope for tomorrow. Pray that they would receive Jesus as their Savior, knowing that He alone can bring true hope. Second, we can support those mission organizations who are already working in those Central American countries - teaching people life skills as well as the Gospel message. Third, we can support Fair Market ministries. Marlys and I recently visited the Ark Encounter in Kentucky (I will share about that experience another time, but let me just say it was "a WOW!" visit) and in their gift shop was a section titled Fair Market - a collection of products produced by people living in the third world. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, America has retained its leadership of the free world because it has retained its commitment to the values and laws enshrined within our Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Adherence to those laws is what has made America great. Now is not the time to deviate from them. Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-43745709907247232802018-10-15T12:12:00.000-07:002018-10-15T12:30:32.718-07:00Israel and Hamas Poised on the Brink of WarThe crisis between Israel and Hamas within the Gaza Strip seems near the "boiling over" point. Tensions have been building since the border-fence riots began last March. Dozens of Palestinians have been killed as the IDF has retaliated following attacks by Hamas rebels. Thousands of acres of Israeli farm fields, pastures, and orchards have been scorched by the incendiary balloon and kites launched from Gaza into Israel's Negev communities. The border crossings have often been closed because of violence that occurred there. And, when the border crossings are closed, that means that the people living in Gaza are denied those supplies upon which they rely for survival. But, when Israel does open those crossings, immediately they become the focal points of Hamas attacks.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
In today's front page article of the Jerusalem Post, Prime Minister Netanyahu states that unless quiet is restored along the border with Gaza, "fearsome blows" would occur. He did not detail what those "blows" would be, but it appears that Israel might launch another offensive into the Gaza Strip as they did several years ago. The continued draining of the financial resources of the people living within the Gaza Strip by the leadership of Hamas certainly demonstrates that they have very little, if any, concern for the welfare of its citizens. People are starving, but let's spend those dollars sent to us on bullets instead of beans. Unemployment is high, but, instead of creating jobs that will benefit the welfare of all its citizens, people are told to stoke fires with tires, dig tunnels, and to create mayhem along the borders. <br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<br />
In spite of the obvious fact, at least to many of us, that Hamas is the chief antagonist, the world continues to condemn Israel, with the Palestinian Authority leadership bringing Israel before the International Court on charges of "crimes against humanity." If the charges were not so serious, they would seem ludicrous. I find it fascinating that, when there are days with no Hamas-directed attacks against the frontier fence, the IDF merely monitors as they would any other part of the nation. It is not the IDF that is stirring up conflict, but Hamas seeking to cause as much destruction and death as it possibly can. Yet, I don't hear anyone declare about Hamas that it is guilty of "crimes against humanity." <br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<br />
And the United Nations continues it assault upon the legitimacy of Israel as a nation. Last Wednesday, the PX Commission of the Executive Board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization, better known as UNESCO, adopted a resolution that declared the Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hebron and Rachel's Tomb in Bethlehem to be an integral part of the Palestinian Territory. I find this to be a resolution based, not upon history, but upon political bias. The cave of Machpelah in Hebron, was purchased by Abraham from the Hittites to be used for a burial place for his wife Sarah. Subsequently Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah, Leah, and finally Jacob were all buried here. Friends, the history of a Hebrew presence in Hebron goes back nearly four millenniums. Centuries later, Hebron was given as an inheritance to Caleb who drove out its giants. The city became one of the Levitical Cities, even being a City of Refuge. The earliest known Muslim presence in Hebron did not occur until the 7th century AD - some 2700 years after the time of Abraham. Yet, somehow in the minds of the leadership of UNESCO, Hebron is a Palestinian Historical Site. <br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<br />
According to an article published on the United with Israel website, "Israel has long criticized the anti-Israel bias within UNESCO, where Israel and its allies are far outnumbered by Arab countries and their supporters. Since 2009, UNESCO has passed 71 resolutions condemning Israel and only two resolutions against all other countries combined." (<a href="http://www.unitedwithisrael.org/unesco-again-attempts-to-steal-Israeli-heritage-with-lies-and-biases">www.unitedwithisrael.org/unesco-again-attempts-to-steal-Israeli-heritage-with-lies-and-biases</a>.)<br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<br />
Last year United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Nicki Halley, withdrew the United States from UNESCO citing its increasingly growing anti-Semitism. (She will be sorely missed as an advocate for our nation and for Israel in the United Nations). Israel is in the process of withdrawing from UNESCO as well. <br />
<br /><br />
<br />
<br />
Prime Minister Netanyahu declared that "UNESCO must top the absurdity of passing resolutions which deny the connection between the Jewish people and the Land of Israel, between the Jewish people and our eternal capital Jerusalem. No matter what UNESCO says, the Western Wall is not occupied Palestinian territory and the Cave of the Patriarchs - the burial site of Abraham, Sara, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, and Leah - is not a Palestinian Heritage Site." On those two issues, the Prime Minister is absolutely correct. <br />
<br /><br />
President Trump has stated that he has developed a plan for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict. His plan has not yet been made public. Is it a workable plan? President Trump has declared before the world that he recognizes Jerusalem as the historical, undivided capital of the states of Israel. The Israeli leaders have categorically stated that the issue of the return of Palestinian refugees is a non-starter for them. To grant such a request would be tantamount to the destruction of the Jewish State. And Israel would certainly strongly object to having any Palestinian State become an armed one. You had to have traveled in Israel in order to understand why Israel would make this demand. The very survival of Israel would depend upon an unarmed Palestinian state. So, there are not a lot of substantive issues remaining upon which to broker a deal for a two-state solution. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, I am convinced that there will always be unrest in the Middle East until, first the antichrist comes and declares a time of pseudo-peace in the region which will last for a brief time. Then he will declare his true intentions and conflict on a scale unseen before will be unleashed in the Middle East. True peace will only come when The Prince of Peace returns to establish His Kingdom. And oh what a day that will be. Perhaps it will occur soon! Hallelujah!Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-15186689969154033642018-10-09T11:53:00.000-07:002018-10-09T11:53:06.571-07:00A New Justice and a New HurricaneOver the weekend Judge Kavanaugh became Associate Justice Kavanaugh. But the final decision was wrought with drama. In spite of an FBI report, which the Democrats had aggressively sought and for which Senator Flake (R-AZ) had requested, that showed there was no corroborative evidence for the allegation that Dr. Ford had brought, the minority party was still not satisfied. They now yelled that the FBI had not done an adequate job. But, you can only go as far as the evidence will direct you, and, in this case, there simply was no evidence. Would the confirmation of Judge Kavanaugh be stopped because of unsubstantiated allegations? The fate of that decision would be decided by the vote of three senators: Collins (R-ME), Flake (R-AZ), and Manchin (D-WV). Senator Collins, on Friday afternoon, made an impassioned speech in which she affirmed her "yes" vote on the confirmation. Almost immediately she became the target of the aggressive hatred from the Left. Senator Collins speech was based upon her belief that a man should not be convicted if there was no evidence to substantiate the charges brought against him. In fact, Senator Collins spoke in favor of what the United States Constitution declares: a man is innocent until he is proven guilty. <br />
<br /><br />
On Saturday afternoon we witnessed an historic vote. Judge Brett Kavanaugh was confirmed to sit on the highest court in the land - the United States Supreme Court. With his confirmation, the Supreme Court has a conservative majority. This will be a Court that will NOT be inclined to make law, but merely to interpret law. It is a Court that will ask the question: what was the original intent of the framers of the Constitution. And with that the Court will be in the place where the framers originally intended it to be. <br />
<br /><br />
I have had people come to me and say that now Roe v. Wade will be overturned. Friends, I highly doubt that will happen. If one studies the rulings of the Supreme Court it is very adverse to overturning precedent-setting cases, even if those cases really were bad rulings. The Dred Scott Decision, perhaps one of the worst rulings ever from a Supreme Court, was not overturned. Roe v. Wade will not be either. But, I believe the Court will be more inclined to listen to arguments that might restrict some of the latitude we have seen with recent Roe v. Wade type cases. There are many interesting and important cases the Court will be hearing in this Fall Session. Justice Kavanaugh will not have the opportunity to crawl into a corner and just listen. No, his positions will soon become evident. <br />
<br /><br />
But this is what grieves me - the hostility and hatred shown by the Left and by the mainstream media toward those who voted for this confirmation. Emails threatening beheadings have been sent to family members of the Senators. Vicious verbal assaults have been unleashed upon Senators when in public. Friends, these actions are simply un-American and totally unacceptable. Yes, we can have disagreements. Yes, we can choose sides on issues. But we do NOT have the right to incite riots or to threaten bodily harm to those who disagree with us. <br />
<br /><br />
We are now just four weeks away from the most important midterm election of my lifetime. The stakes could not be any higher. The control of the House of Representatives and the Senate are prizes that both parties are eagerly seeking. Positions of leadership on both the state and local levels are to be determined. Here in the State of Minnesota we are electing a governor and two United States Senators. This is not a time when Christians are to sit at home indifferent to what is happening. This is the time to study the candidates and the issues. Then, on November 6, it is time to go to the polling places and vote your conscience. <br />
<br /><br />
I want to close with a prophetic weather update. A 7.2 earthquake with its accompanying tsunami takes the lives of over 1200 people in Indonesia. One of the strongest cyclones in history brings destruction to the Philippines, Hong Kong, and into China. Hurricane Floyd left a path of devastation across the Carolinas. Now Hurricane Michael, one of the strongest storms to hit the northeast coast of Florida in years, is poised to strike. Portions of the Midwest have been drenched with multi-day rain events. Rivers are swollen and flooding has become almost inevitable. Now, we can either blame all these events on climate change, or we can say that God is trying to get our attention that time is running out. I prefer to believe the latter. I believe the natural world is probably more conscious of the imminent return of Jesus than are most people. The Apostle Paul, in Romans 8, proclaims that the creation groans awaiting its redemption. Seems to me that the groaning is getting louder and louder. I think this planet is getting excited because its King is soon to come! <br />
<br /><br />
It is time for us to "wake up" from our slumber and apathy. It is time for us to put on the whole armor of God. It is time for us to get back into the front lines of the struggle for the souls of lost men and women, teenagers, and boys and girls. Time is running out...it's time to get going for Jesus!Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-88338611095491025442018-10-03T08:01:00.002-07:002018-10-03T08:01:38.499-07:00Why Are People Leaving the Church Today? Two Viewpoints.It appears that the FBI is nearing the end of its investigation of the allegations made against Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanagh. The findings of the FBI should prove to be interesting as the foundations for these allegations appear to be crumbling - filled with inconsistencies and still lacking corroboration. It appears, at least from reports from several news sources, that the confirmation vote will occur probably on Saturday. As people will look back upon this nomination they will certainly discover that this was NOT one of America's finest moments. It can only be hoped that what happened with this nomination is not setting a trend for future nominations not only to the Supreme Court but to other governmental appointments. <br />
<br /><br />
Last week two articles came across my desk. One was an editorial, written by Ron Way who lives in Edina, MN, that was published in the September 23 edition of the "StarTribune." The editorial was titled, "What Churches Get Wrong [and how to repopulate them]." The second was an article, written by Andy Stanley, pastor of North Point Ministries located in Georgia, that was published by Fox News. It was titled, "Five reasons people leave the church." This article can be found at: <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/opinions/2018/09/23/five-reasons-people-leave-church">www.foxnews.com/opinions/2018/09/23/five-reasons-people-leave-church</a>. <br />
<br /><br />
Both Mr. Way and Pastor Stanley are looking at the growing concern of people leaving American churches today. As Mr. Way looks at the churches of today he describes the scene of abandonment by many this way: "Sure, folks are busy. But there's something more basic: The church, broadly, has been hijacked by TV scammers, narrow-interest evangelicals and unending sex scandal. Too, the church has largely stuck with Sunday school scripture by anecdote and has failed to remain relevant to society's altered priorities. Frankly, the institutional church has itself to blame. In a period of social divide and gathering doubts, it's a bit puzzling why so many mainline churches seem mired in orthodoxy and creedal dogma that take us on Sunday morning jaunts through antiquity before sending us out and into today." Later in the editorial he would write, "Mainline churches too often take the Bible wildly out of context, spread misinformation (no, Jesus did not oppose gay marriage, and it was Romans, not Jews, who crucified Jesus as a Galilean insurrectionist), and insist the Bible was divinely inspired. As more people peeked behind the curtain as I did, they see a church tied to ancient myth while missing the larger messages for today." One of Mr. Way's criticisms of the church is that it is "mired" in the scriptures. He states that is one of the problems that is causing people to leave the church. <br />
<br /><br />
But is proclaiming the Scriptures really the problem? I am presently teaching a class here at my church on Church History. It has been a fascinating journey filled with those moments of "Wow! can you believe that!" to moments of "You have got to be kidding." And yet the Bible was proclaimed. But something was wrong then, and something is wrong today. The Bible was preached but it was never made relevant to the needs of the people. The Bible was proclaimed in a sterile environment. People never made the connection between what the Bible said and how it was to be lived out in their very lives. <br />
<br /><br />
Furthermore, if the Bible is simply a collection of ancient myths, legends, and fables, as Mr. Way contends, then how can it purport to be relevant to our lives today. I can read the stories of the ancient Babylonian legends but find no connection between those stories and real life today. I can read the ancient stories that were a part of the Egyptian history, but again, find no connection between those stories and real life today. So, if I only believe the Bible to be a collection of myths and legends, then it follows that I really cannot make a relevant connection between those stories and the world in which my congregation and I live. My understanding of the Bible creates the framework for my proclamation of the Bible. <br />
<br /><br />
But, what if the Bible really does relate to us God's Story? What if the Bible really does tell us of actual people, living in an actual time period, and facing actual problems and difficulties in life? If those are true, then the Bible takes on a relevancy for life today. <br />
<br /><br />
So, as I read Mr. Way's editorial I was affirmed with two truths. First, I affirmed that the Bible is the inerrant, inspired, infallible, authoritative Word of God. I affirmed that God created the heavens and the earth. I affirmed that God appeared to Moses in a burning bush. I affirmed that fire fell from heaven when Elijah prayed. I affirmed that Jesus Christ was born of a virgin and that He died upon a cross and rose three days later from the dead. Basically I affirmed that the Bible is true! Second, I affirmed that I MUST proclaim Biblical truth and make it relevant to the times in which we live. It was not just good enough for the prophets to say "thus says the Lord" to their generation, but they MUST say "thus says the Lord" to our generation. So, as much as I struggled with many of Mr. Way's points, I have to say that I believe he had a strong point to make and I appreciated the reminder.<br />
<br /><br />
Andy Stanley approached this topic of people leaving the church from a different viewpoint. He states in his article, "Many people see Christianity as anti-intellectual, overly simplistic, and easily discredited. For decades, college professors with biases against religion have found Christian freshmen easy targets. Much of what makes American Christianity so resistible to those outside the faith are things we should have been resisting all along. While many of us have been working hard to make church more interesting, it turns out that fewer people are actually interested." He then proceeds to share five reasons why people are leaving the church. <br />
<br /><br />
"1. We tell people that the Bible is the basis of Christianity." I must confess that I struggled with this thought. Yet, the more I pondered what Dr. Stanley was saying, the more I had to agree with Him. Yes, we need to hold the Bible up as our standard of Truth, but the Bible must never replace our focus upon Jesus Christ. For He alone is the true basis for our faith. <br />
<br /><br />
"2. They believe suffering disproves the existence of God. ... But the foundation of our faith is not a world without suffering. Pain and suffering don't disprove the existence of God. It only disproves the existence of a god who doesn't allow pain and suffering."<br />
<br /><br />
"3. They had a bad church experience." I have witnessed this many times over the 46-plus years I have been in the ministry. Those bad experiences are not easily forgotten or overcome.<br />
<br /><br />
"4. We're bad at making people feel welcome. ... It wasn't just his message that made Jesus irresistible. It was Jesus himself. People who were nothing like him, liked him. And Jesus liked people who were nothing like him. Jesus invited unbelieving, misbehaving, troublemaking men and women to follow him and to embrace something new, and they accepted his invitation." <br />
<br /><br />
"5. We made 'ekklesia' (the church) a building. ... 'Ekklesia' was not, and is not, a religious term. It does not mean church or house of the Lord. It certainly shouldn't be associated with a temple. The term was used widely to describe a gathering, assembly, civic gatherings, or an assemble of soldiers. Or as was the case in Acts 19, an assembly of rioting idol manufacturers. An 'ekklesia' was a gathering of people for a specific purpose. Any specific purpose. It's not a building. It's not a physical location. It's a group of people. It's a lot easier to stop showing up at a place than it is to disconnect from a group of people who intimately know, love, and support each other."<br />
<br /><br />
Two writers, each looking at the decline of the American Church but through differing lenses. Yet there is much we can learn from each viewpoint. I appreciate the way Dr. Stanley closed his article: "If we want people to stop leaving the church - if we want Christianity to be irresistible again to the world - then maybe it's time to take another look at the movement Jesus started 2,000 years ago." To that I would say a rousing "Amen!" <br />
<br />Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-37415482045136063712018-09-26T08:00:00.001-07:002018-09-26T08:00:10.047-07:00A Brazen Attack upon the Constitution by the LeftTomorrow the Senate Judiciary Committee will hold a special meeting to question Dr. Christina Ford and Judge Brett Kavanaugh. Dr. Ford has alleged that, while in high school some three decades ago, she was sexually assaulted by Judge Kavanaugh. Those whom she has recalled being present at the time of the alleged assault do not themselves recall being there. There is no corroborative witnesses; there is no corroborative evidence. To date Dr. Ford has not been placed under oath to share here story; that being placed under oath is to occur tomorrow. I am grateful that Dr. Ford will have this opportunity, as will Judge Kavanaugh. <br />
<br /><br />
But here is where my anger kicks in, friends. Why is the burden of proof being placed upon Judge Kavanaugh to show his innocence? Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) said, "We have a constitutional duty to get to the bottom of these allegations. They are serious and credible. And now, the person with the most knowledge about them, namely, Judge Brett Karanaugh, has a responsibility to come forward with evidence to rebut them." Really! You have to be kidding! This is not the way our judicial system has worked so well these many years. In American jurisprudence, a person is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty. I have watched enough Perry Mason and Matlock shows to know that a client always enters a plea of "not guilty." That is his/her constitutional privilege. The burden of proof rests upon the prosecutor with the presentation of evidence to support the accusation, and only then, does the burden of proof rest upon the defense team to refute that evidence and to enter additional evidence in support of the accused.<br />
<br /><br />
Yet, even with the complete lack of any evidence to support her allegations, the Democratic members of the Senate Judiciary Committee have fully believed her story. The mainstream media members have trumpeted her story as if it was the only story worth knowing. And, if polls are to be believed, a growing number of Americans have believed the mainstream media reports and believed Dr. Ford rather than Judge Kavanaugh. The clamor is for the FBI to investigate these allegations. But what is the FBI to investigate? No criminal complaint was ever filed by Dr. Ford after the alleged assault. No threats were ever lodged against Dr. Ford by Judge Kavanaugh over the years. There is no evidence to even warrant an investigation. The reason for the continued clamoring for an FBI investigation is simply to delay the nomination of Judge Kavanaugh to a seat on the United States Supreme Court.<br />
<br /><br />
What adds to my anger of what is happening is that those who want an FBI investigation are those who have already said they fully believe Dr. Ford's story and have been on public record as opposing Judge Kavanaugh's nomination since it occurred in July. It would make no difference to them to have an investigation by the FBI and to have as its final report that Judge Kavanaugh was never involved in this alleged incident; they would not change their vote. Yes, they have the right to vote no. That right is accorded to them under the Constitution of the United States. But, those who desire to vote yes also have a constitutional right to do so. Right now, that right is being impeded. <br />
<br /><br />
I have not heard Senator Feinstein request those 65 women, who have worked alongside of Judge Kavanaugh and have known him these many years, to come and testify. Sixty-five women - that is a significant number who have knowledge of the character and conduct of Judge Kavanaugh. But, does their testimony count for anything? Of course not because those women's stories do not agree with the outcome Senator Feinstein and her allies desire: the derailing of this nomination. Friends, if you are going to request testimonial evidence - which, right now, in this case, is basically hearsay evidence as there is a lack of physical evidence - then seek the complete testimonial evidence. Yes, invite Dr. Ford and those one or two others who have allegedly come forward with accusations. But also invite as many of those 65 other women to testify as are able to come and do so. That is the American way of jurisprudence. But sadly it seems to be lacking in this case. <br />
<br /><br />
Ultimately, friends, this is a Constitutional matter. On Monday night, Tucker Carlson, a Fox Channel news host, shared a monologue which appeared in written form on Tuesday. This monologue can be found at: <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2018/09/25/tucker-carlson-kavanaugh-chaos-if-youre=republican-may-be-wondering-why-should-bother-to-vote">www.foxnews.com/opinion/2018/09/25/tucker-carlson-kavanaugh-chaos-if-youre=republican-may-be-wondering-why-should-bother-to-vote</a>. This is an article that every American needs to read. It is alarming! Allow me to share five brief sentences from Mr. Tucker's monologue: "If the Bill of Rights doesn't apply to Brett Kavanaugh, it probably doesn't apply to you, either. ... It's not just Kavanaugh under assault. Elected officials have announced they no longer believe in our Western understanding of justice. There's no precedent for that. It's stunning."<br />
<br /><br />
Last week, Thomas Gallatin wrote an editorial that was published by the Patriot Post. It is found at: <a href="http://www.patriotpost.us/articles/58294-democrats-assault-the-constitution-over-kavanaugh">www.patriotpost.us/articles/58294-democrats-assault-the-constitution-over-kavanaugh</a>. This is another highly recommended article to be read. Mr. Gallatin writes: "Democrats' calls to immediately halt the confirmation vote on Kavanaugh in order to investigate this allegation undermine the very spirit of the Constitution and the American judicial system. The foundational concept of 'innocent until proven guilty' is what has made the U.S. justice system the envy of the world. Democrats are pushing the dangerously flaws concept of assuming guilt based solely on the seriousness of the accusation and then demanding that the accused prove his innocence. Make no mistake, this is an assault on the Constitution - and today is, ironically, Constitution Day."<br />
<br /><br />
So, what can we do as Christians? It is time that we join hands in praying for that Senate Judiciary Committee hearing tomorrow. To pray for Senator Grassley as he chairs that committee. For Judge Kavanaugh and his family as they endure another day of accusations. For Judge Kavanaugh to be open and transparent with the committee members. And that a decision will be reached, not based upon a political mindset, but upon the truth that is revealed. I invite you to join with me in prayer tomorrow morning as these hearings begin. God is still in control. And I know His purposes will be accomplished. Thanks for praying. Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3269529821041817191.post-36120460937250853462018-09-18T06:22:00.000-07:002018-09-18T06:22:38.923-07:00Whatever Happened to Innocent Until Proven Guilty?I am leaving for a conference in Greensboro, NC tomorrow morning so decided to get my blog out early this week. The conference several of the leaders from our church are attending is a D6 Conference. D6 stands for Deuteronomy 6, a passage that refers to the challenge to parents to disciple their own children. I am looking forward to going and being challenged to help do just that with many of the families within my congregation. <br />
<br /><br />
I am not sure how you are responding to the events surrounding the confirmation of Judge Brett Kavanaugh to the United States Supreme Court, but I have become angry in my spirit. I can almost imagine what that special Judiciary Committee hearing on Monday will be like. It will be partisan and contentious. Angry voices will be heard. Diatribes will be offered by senators. Dialogue will be absent and decorum not present. This has all the bearings of the 1991 Supreme Court confirmation hearings of Judge Clarence Thomas and Anita Hill. <br />
<br /><br />
This entire last-minute desperation act by Senator Feinstein is just that - desperation. She has known of this story since last July. She had numerous opportunities to address this alleged act with Judge Kavanaugh both in private conversations as well as during the public hearings. But she said nothing until the hearings were over. Then she brings out this alleged "smoking gun." Why? Because she saw that Judge Kavanaugh had conducted himself with decorum and class during the confirmation hearings. He did not become argumentative. He held firmly to his beliefs that a judge should not make law, only interpret law according to the dictates of the Constitution. She and her Democratic allies had to do something to derail this man from serving on the Court. <br />
<br /><br />
Here is what is so sad to me and what makes me angry in my spirit. Judge Kavanaugh has been tried and found guilty in the eyes of many of the members of the Senate and in the eyes of the media. To listen to the mainstream media, Judge Kavanaugh should withdraw his name from consideration, not withstanding his own assertions of innocence. According to the Constitution, a person is presumed to be innocent until he or she is found to be guilty. This has been the legal discourse that has made the American system of jurisprudence so special. But that discourse does not apply in the case with Judge Kavanaugh it would seem. <br />
<br /><br />
Friends, aren't you glad that somehow in the process of life we finally do grow up. We are not what we once were. I think of those stories of our heroes from the Bible. Take Abraham for example. Because of fear he placed his wife in a difficult place not once but twice. We almost could accuse Abraham of spousal abuse today because of that. Yet God gave some powerful promises to Abraham. Take David as another example. David was the king, yet he violated God's commands by having an adulterous relationship with not just another man's wife, but the wife of one of his closest advisors and friends; then having that friend put in a position within a battle where he would knowingly be killed. Yet God gave to David the promise of an eternal throne. Let's look at another example, this time from the New Testament. How about Peter: impulsive, impetuous, a denier of his Lord. Yet God uses Peter to become the leader of the Church. <br />
<br /><br />
If each of these men were living today and were being considered for a leadership role each would probably be denied not because of something "allegedly" done in their past, but knowingly done. I can hear the voices of the confirmation hearings on Abraham challenging him on why he abused his wife by putting her into harms way. Perhaps David might be excused for his sexual indiscretions because, after all, we have had experience of Presidents doing something very similar. <br />
<br /><br />
People can change and I am eternally grateful for that powerful truth. God changes people's lives. If one would carefully examine the life of Judge Kavanaugh with care, one will notice that he has a strong record of moral decency and community service that is impeccable. Many are those who would come forward to substantiate his decency as a man, as a husband, as a father, and as a judge. This is who he is. And it is upon this fact that the confirmation of this man either rises or falls. <br />
<br /><br />
I will be praying that truth will be revealed at those hearings on Monday. That there will be civility in the dialogue. That the United States Senate will rediscover the roots that have made it the august body that it has been historically. That at the close of those hearings there will be clarity on how to move forward. And I know you will join me in that prayer.Max Frazierhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13168641707904792320noreply@blogger.com0