The news almost leaps off the pages of our newspapers and from our smartphone screens. Last week was one of those weeks when it seemed that the world was crying out to be heard. Boston was the scene of tragedy, yet modern technology helped to locate and capture one young terrorist and kill another before greater tragedies could be meted out by this pair of brothers. Surveillance cameras created incredible images that greatly assisted law enforcement officials. Yet the question remains as to whether such cameras are an invasion into our rights to privacy. For those who advocate a greater use of such cameras, Boston will become exhibit A as to their effectiveness. We would probably be surprised if we knew how many times a day our picture was being taken by unseen cameras.
What was the motivation for these two young men to wreck such terror upon innocent by-standers just watching the Boston Marathon? It is being learned that the older brother, during the time he spent in his homeland of Dagastan, one of the former Soviet Republics, had often attended a mosque where anti-American rhetoric was common. Some say that he had become brain-washed. And, perhaps he had. I believe it is time that we wake up and begin to understand that since 9-11 our nation has experienced several terrorist attacks. What is common to each is that thread of radical Islamic teaching. I heard a statement on the radio the other day that I thought was very good. The speaker said, "In America we need to understand that not all Muslims are terrorists, but that all terrorists are radical Muslims." There are many good, honest, law-abiding Muslims in our country and around the world. Many just want to be accepted as others are accepted. Yet, as is so often the case, it is the actions of the few that bring judgment upon the many. Perhaps it is time that we begin to monitor more carefully the anti-American rhetoric spoken in many mosques, including those here in the United States. If evangelical pastors are going to be monitored to see if they include any hate-statement against homosexuals with the threat of imprisonment if heard and caught, why should we not monitor anti-American statements in the mosques? If we are to infringe upon the First Amendment rights of one group, why should another group not have the same infringement made upon them?
I was interested in the headlines in one of the Jewish on-line services this morning. "Ex-MI Head: Iran Has Passed Red Line" (see www.IsraelNationalNews.com for April 23, 2013.) The article reads in part, "Former Military Intelligence head, Maj. Gen (res) Amos Yadlin, said Tuesday that 'Iran has already crossed Israel's new "red line" regarding nuclear weapons development. Yadlin, who is the Head of the Institute for National Security Studies (INSS), said that in the summer Iran will reach a distance of one or two months between a decision and a bomb. That is, it will be able to build a nuclear bomb within a month or two of deciding to do so. 'This will be a breakthrough range that will make it very difficult to stop Iran, when it decides to have a bomb.'" The article concluded with these thoughts from Yadlin: "Negotiations can succeed if the U.S. creates a credible military option. This will be achieved if the U.,S. prepares for a surgical strike for stopping the nuclear program and makes clear that it will be able to deal with the escalation that will follow such a strike." So, once again the threat of some type of pre-emptive strike against Iran begins to take center-stage. Could we be looking at some type of action late spring or early summer? Recent talks with Iran proved fruitless; in fact, they sort of laughed at the attempts. The impact such a pre-emptive strike might have is portrayed very well in Joel Rosenberg's latest books, including "The Twelfth Iman" and "Damascus Countdown."
Tensions remain high on the Korean Peninsula. The North Korean government has made it very clear that the price for de-escalating its nuclear ambitions would be the lifting of all sanctions imposed upon it. Many wonder if the North Koreans would be so foolish as to launch some type of nuclear attack upon South Korea or Japan? Here is just my opinion, so take it as just that - an opinion: the North Koreans could be banking upon the fact that the world is growing tired of war, especially here in America, that they might be betting that the response of the world would be conciliatory rather than retaliatory. They have observed the rhetoric launched against their ally Iran, but it has been just that - rhetoric. Perhaps North Korea is acting as a ploy for Iran, being used by Iran to see how serious the world might be in a response. Whatever the case, I believe the Korean Peninsula will become a very interesting place in the next few weeks, if not sooner.
Meanwhile the status of things in Syria continues with relentless bloodshed being perpetrated by both sides. Now comes confirmation that Assad has used chemical weapons against the rebels. According to Brig. Gen. Itay Brun, head of the Research Section of Military Intelligence for the IDF, Bashar Assad's regime has used chemical weapons in Syria recently. He said, "To the best of our professional understanding, the regime has made use of deadly chemical weapons against the rebels in a number of incidents in the past few months." He goes on to state that the physical symptoms suffered by those had been exposed to the chemical sarin were evident: "The reduced pupils, the foam coming out of the mouth and other additional signs provide evidence that deadly chemical weapons have been used." The General concluded with these words, "There is a huge arsenal of chemical weapons in Syria. The developments are worrisome; the very use of chemical weapons without a suitable response from the world could signal that this is legitimate." Sort of troubling words, don't you think?
I know you are saying, "Max, you certainly are the "doom and gloom guy" this week." Perhaps I am. But look around you. Rumors of war abound on every hand. And I did not even mention the increase in earthquake activity around the world this past week: Iran, China, Japan, Oklahoma - just to name a few. Friends, did not Jesus say that these would be signs to look for as we await His return? I was just reading Matthew 24 where Jesus said, "You will hear of wars and rumors of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be famines and earthquakes in various places. All these are the beginning of birth pangs." (Matthew 24:6-9). We certainly are seeing these things today.
But then Jesus continues, and this is what caught my attention: "Then you will be handed over to be persecuted and put to death, and you will be hated by all nations because of me. At that time many will turn away from the faith and will betray and hate each other, and many false prophets will appear and deceive many people" (Matthew 24:9-11). Did you hear what Jesus said? As we observe the wars and rumors of war, the famines and the earthquakes, we need to prepare ourselves because the next thing that will happen is persecution and hatred by the world. I believe the Coptic Christians in Egypt know about this, as do the believers in Iran and Iraq and in Saudi Arabia and countless other places. We are soon going to know it here in America as well. How we need to be prepared.
These days are only exciting if one knows of a living hope in Christ. Friends, take courage because we know how the story ends. Jesus Christ wins...and we will reign with Him forever. Amen!
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Thoughts on a Boston Tragedy and An Audience with God
Our nation was rocked by the horrors of terrorism this past Monday. Two IEDs were detonated near the finish line at the Boston Marathon resulting in the deaths of three people and the wounding of over 150, several of them critically. As of today, the perpetrators of this vicious attack have not been found nor has a motive been established as to why the Marathon was targeted. If there is a silver lining, it is in that at least two other IEDs did not detonate and the timing was not at the height of the finish of the race where the casualties might have been greater.
The FBI investigation is ongoing and those responsible will be caught and brought to justice. But one wonders what will be the consequences of this act? Someone jokingly said, "Well, I guess pressure-cookers will now be outlawed, or at least you will have to undergo a background check in order to obtain one." With the 9-11 terror act, flying was forever changed. Gone were the days of free-access to airports and to greeting arriving friends at their gate. With the shoe-bomber, shoes were now to be removed and sent through the scanners. Then all liquids were banned, then only 3 ounces or less, in a quart bag, can be carried onto the plane. All bags are checked as you enter a sporting arena, perhaps now that screening will include shopping centers as well. In the name of safety, we have certainly seen our lives changed dramatically.
Of course the question is asked, "Is this the beginning of the prophesied destruction of America that the radical Islamists have proclaimed for the past decade?" First, at this writing, we do not know if radical Islamists were behind the Marathon explosions there in Boston. Second, at the present there is no chain of events that would link several events together. But, that being said, there is a seriousness with which we need to take those radical Islamist threats. Ours is a big nation and our borders are rather porous - just ask any illegal immigrant about that fact. It would be rather easy for radicals to infiltrate and create catastrophic events and as quickly leave. No matter the safe-guards we might put into place, it is impossible to protect every event, every building, every person 24/7. But, I can take great hope that God is still in control, and whatever happens, God already knew about it and permitted it to happen. We may not understand His purposes here, but we have confidence that His purpose is being accomplished.
This year, as part of my morning devotions, I have been reading through some selections from the writings of C.S. Lewis, one of my spiritual heroes. This portion is from the book he wrote after the death of his wife, Joy Gresham. The book is titled, "A Grief Observed." It is one of those short works - less than 100 pages - that packs so much encouragement, especially as one goes through trying times. Let me share a portion with you that was a blessing to me.
"For all sorts of mistakes are possible when you are dealing with Him [meaning God]. Long ago, before we were married, H. [this is how Lewis usually referred to his wife - her name was Helen Joy] was haunted all one morning as she went about her work with the obscure sense of God (so to speak) 'at her elbow,' demanding her attention. And of course, not being a perfected saint, she had the feeling that it would be a question, as it usually is, of some unrepented sin or tedious duty. At last she gave in - I know how one puts it off - and faced Him. But the message was 'I want to give you something' and instantly she entered into joy."
As I read that portion I thought of how that is usually how I feel when God gets my attention. I am like the little boy being summoned into the Principal's Office - certainly not with great feelings of joy and excitement. Why is it that we often associate an audience with God as being one of the worst things imaginable? God is our Father. I believe He has only the best interests of His children at heart. And, a father's role is not just to discipline his children, but to reward them and to bless them. Isn't that what God delights in doing? "I want to give you something." Oh how like God is that statement. I was blessed by that thought this morning. May it bless you today. May you receive something special from God today. You know He loves you so greatly.
The FBI investigation is ongoing and those responsible will be caught and brought to justice. But one wonders what will be the consequences of this act? Someone jokingly said, "Well, I guess pressure-cookers will now be outlawed, or at least you will have to undergo a background check in order to obtain one." With the 9-11 terror act, flying was forever changed. Gone were the days of free-access to airports and to greeting arriving friends at their gate. With the shoe-bomber, shoes were now to be removed and sent through the scanners. Then all liquids were banned, then only 3 ounces or less, in a quart bag, can be carried onto the plane. All bags are checked as you enter a sporting arena, perhaps now that screening will include shopping centers as well. In the name of safety, we have certainly seen our lives changed dramatically.
Of course the question is asked, "Is this the beginning of the prophesied destruction of America that the radical Islamists have proclaimed for the past decade?" First, at this writing, we do not know if radical Islamists were behind the Marathon explosions there in Boston. Second, at the present there is no chain of events that would link several events together. But, that being said, there is a seriousness with which we need to take those radical Islamist threats. Ours is a big nation and our borders are rather porous - just ask any illegal immigrant about that fact. It would be rather easy for radicals to infiltrate and create catastrophic events and as quickly leave. No matter the safe-guards we might put into place, it is impossible to protect every event, every building, every person 24/7. But, I can take great hope that God is still in control, and whatever happens, God already knew about it and permitted it to happen. We may not understand His purposes here, but we have confidence that His purpose is being accomplished.
This year, as part of my morning devotions, I have been reading through some selections from the writings of C.S. Lewis, one of my spiritual heroes. This portion is from the book he wrote after the death of his wife, Joy Gresham. The book is titled, "A Grief Observed." It is one of those short works - less than 100 pages - that packs so much encouragement, especially as one goes through trying times. Let me share a portion with you that was a blessing to me.
"For all sorts of mistakes are possible when you are dealing with Him [meaning God]. Long ago, before we were married, H. [this is how Lewis usually referred to his wife - her name was Helen Joy] was haunted all one morning as she went about her work with the obscure sense of God (so to speak) 'at her elbow,' demanding her attention. And of course, not being a perfected saint, she had the feeling that it would be a question, as it usually is, of some unrepented sin or tedious duty. At last she gave in - I know how one puts it off - and faced Him. But the message was 'I want to give you something' and instantly she entered into joy."
As I read that portion I thought of how that is usually how I feel when God gets my attention. I am like the little boy being summoned into the Principal's Office - certainly not with great feelings of joy and excitement. Why is it that we often associate an audience with God as being one of the worst things imaginable? God is our Father. I believe He has only the best interests of His children at heart. And, a father's role is not just to discipline his children, but to reward them and to bless them. Isn't that what God delights in doing? "I want to give you something." Oh how like God is that statement. I was blessed by that thought this morning. May it bless you today. May you receive something special from God today. You know He loves you so greatly.
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
A Remembrance and A Warning
The world lost a great leader this past week with the death of former British Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher. The world had not witnessed a woman leader with such grits and determination since the days of Jewish Prime Minister Golda Meier. Prime Minister Thatcher was known for her steely resolve, thus earning the name "the iron lady." She was a steadying influence in Britain during those final days of the Cold War, working hand-in-hand with her ally and friend, President Ronald Reagan to bring about the collapse of European Communism and the restructuring of Europe. Along with the many who praised her leadership, I have been amazed at the outpouring of vitriolic speech against her yet today, even after her passing. Along with President Reagan, Margaret Thatcher will be remembered for her quips and quotes. Here are just a few that have resurfaced since her death on Monday:
"The larger the slice taken by government, the smaller the cake available for everyone."
"To be free is better than to be unfree - always. Any politician who suggests the opposite should be treated with suspect."
"There is much to be said for trying to improve some disadvantaged people's lot. There is nothing to be said for trying to create heaven on earth."
"Of course it's the same old story. Truth usually is the same old story."
"Constitutions have to be written on hearts, not just paper."
And here is one of my favorites:
"Look at a day when you are supremely satisfied at the end. It's not a day when you lounge around doing nothing; it's when you've had everything to do, and you've done it."
Maggie Thatcher will be missed. With her passing an era of bold, creative, no-nonsense leaders seems to have come to an end. She helped to safely guide Britain and the free-world through the troubled seas of her time.
Meanwhile, the war in Syria continues to deteriorate. One wonders how it could deteriorate any more, but it just seems that it does. News came this past week that Assad pulled back 20,000 Syrian forces that were stationed on or near the Golan Heights with Israel, bringing them closer to Damascus. Israel was concerned over the vacuum that created on one of the Israel's most strategic borders. And those concerns were legitimate as Jihadists began to assume control in the region. Israeli leaders feared that the Golan would now be an active staging ground for terrorist attacks into Galilee. And fears heightened with thoughts of what the Jihadists would do with Syria's massive canisters of biological and chemical weapons. Sadly the civilian casualty counts continue to increase with little involvement of those in the West. (Note: last week, while in Florida for a few days of sun and fun, I read Joel Rosenberg's latest novel, "Damascus Countdown." Without giving away the plot or how the story ended, let me just say that I believe it is his best novel to date. I was riveted with the story, especially how closely it parallels and could parallel events in the Middle East today and tomorrow. I strongly recommend it - only be sure you have a good block of time for reading, as you will not be able to put it down).
Yesterday, a friend sent me an article from "Investor's Business Daily." It was titled, "Has U.S. Army Declared War on Christianity?" It was an article that renewed an inner anger at what is happening around us, all in the name of tolerance. An atheist U.S. soldier, stationed at Forward Operation Base Orgun-E in Afghanistan, made a formal complaint about the steeple and crosses on a chapel on the base. A spokesman for the ISAF Joint Command said, "We can confirm that those items were removed from the chapel. These items were removed out of respect for the beliefs of other faiths." The writer of the article then stated, "Excuse us, but Christian American soldiers have died in Afghanistan protecting Muslims, just as they died in Iraq. Americans put their lives at risk in Bosnia to protect Muslims, and the notion that a cross on a chapel on a battlefield where Americans put their lives on the line is interpreted as a reincarnation of the Crusades is, to put it charitably, nonsense. Mosques dot the American landscape and we were told that to put a Muslim 'cultural center,' a mosque by a different name - within walking distance of where terrorists brought down the World Trade Center - was a symbol of tolerance. We are also told a cross on a chapel at an Army base is offensive to Muslims. Tolerance, it seems, is a one-way street." The article then quotes an unnamed soldier, "My personal feeling is that it is a direct attack against Christianity and Judaism. When you look at the regulation and you notice the four items directly quoted are cross, crucifixes, the Star of David and the Menorah."
This same article also related an incident where a U.S. Army training instructor listed evangelical Christianity and Catholicism as examples of religious extremism along with Al-Qaida and Hamas during a briefing with an Army Reserve unit based in Pennsylvania. For a more complete discussion, go to www.mobile.wnd.com/2013/04/military-warned-evangelicals-no-1-threat.
Yes, the world is seeing Christians as being more of a problem than radical Islam. Yet, as I have written in previous blogs over the past several years, this should not come as a surprise to us for Jesus told us that the world would hate us as it hated Him. I trust we have as steely a resolve as did Daniel and his three friends. Read those first few chapters of Daniel again this week. Follow their lead. Let's be prepared to, first give an account for the hope that lies within, and second, to be willing to suffer for Christ's sake if called upon to do so.
"The larger the slice taken by government, the smaller the cake available for everyone."
"To be free is better than to be unfree - always. Any politician who suggests the opposite should be treated with suspect."
"There is much to be said for trying to improve some disadvantaged people's lot. There is nothing to be said for trying to create heaven on earth."
"Of course it's the same old story. Truth usually is the same old story."
"Constitutions have to be written on hearts, not just paper."
And here is one of my favorites:
"Look at a day when you are supremely satisfied at the end. It's not a day when you lounge around doing nothing; it's when you've had everything to do, and you've done it."
Maggie Thatcher will be missed. With her passing an era of bold, creative, no-nonsense leaders seems to have come to an end. She helped to safely guide Britain and the free-world through the troubled seas of her time.
Meanwhile, the war in Syria continues to deteriorate. One wonders how it could deteriorate any more, but it just seems that it does. News came this past week that Assad pulled back 20,000 Syrian forces that were stationed on or near the Golan Heights with Israel, bringing them closer to Damascus. Israel was concerned over the vacuum that created on one of the Israel's most strategic borders. And those concerns were legitimate as Jihadists began to assume control in the region. Israeli leaders feared that the Golan would now be an active staging ground for terrorist attacks into Galilee. And fears heightened with thoughts of what the Jihadists would do with Syria's massive canisters of biological and chemical weapons. Sadly the civilian casualty counts continue to increase with little involvement of those in the West. (Note: last week, while in Florida for a few days of sun and fun, I read Joel Rosenberg's latest novel, "Damascus Countdown." Without giving away the plot or how the story ended, let me just say that I believe it is his best novel to date. I was riveted with the story, especially how closely it parallels and could parallel events in the Middle East today and tomorrow. I strongly recommend it - only be sure you have a good block of time for reading, as you will not be able to put it down).
Yesterday, a friend sent me an article from "Investor's Business Daily." It was titled, "Has U.S. Army Declared War on Christianity?" It was an article that renewed an inner anger at what is happening around us, all in the name of tolerance. An atheist U.S. soldier, stationed at Forward Operation Base Orgun-E in Afghanistan, made a formal complaint about the steeple and crosses on a chapel on the base. A spokesman for the ISAF Joint Command said, "We can confirm that those items were removed from the chapel. These items were removed out of respect for the beliefs of other faiths." The writer of the article then stated, "Excuse us, but Christian American soldiers have died in Afghanistan protecting Muslims, just as they died in Iraq. Americans put their lives at risk in Bosnia to protect Muslims, and the notion that a cross on a chapel on a battlefield where Americans put their lives on the line is interpreted as a reincarnation of the Crusades is, to put it charitably, nonsense. Mosques dot the American landscape and we were told that to put a Muslim 'cultural center,' a mosque by a different name - within walking distance of where terrorists brought down the World Trade Center - was a symbol of tolerance. We are also told a cross on a chapel at an Army base is offensive to Muslims. Tolerance, it seems, is a one-way street." The article then quotes an unnamed soldier, "My personal feeling is that it is a direct attack against Christianity and Judaism. When you look at the regulation and you notice the four items directly quoted are cross, crucifixes, the Star of David and the Menorah."
This same article also related an incident where a U.S. Army training instructor listed evangelical Christianity and Catholicism as examples of religious extremism along with Al-Qaida and Hamas during a briefing with an Army Reserve unit based in Pennsylvania. For a more complete discussion, go to www.mobile.wnd.com/2013/04/military-warned-evangelicals-no-1-threat.
Yes, the world is seeing Christians as being more of a problem than radical Islam. Yet, as I have written in previous blogs over the past several years, this should not come as a surprise to us for Jesus told us that the world would hate us as it hated Him. I trust we have as steely a resolve as did Daniel and his three friends. Read those first few chapters of Daniel again this week. Follow their lead. Let's be prepared to, first give an account for the hope that lies within, and second, to be willing to suffer for Christ's sake if called upon to do so.
Friday, March 29, 2013
Another Sign of the Times
Yesterday cnbc.com published an article that grabbed my attention. It is titled, "Watch Out, World Bank: Here Comes the BRICS Bank." The article originated with The Associated Press and Reuters. BRICS stands for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa; these nations have been petitioning for a new world currency. The article began: "Leaders of the five BRICS nations plan to create a development bank in a direct challenge to the World Bank that they accuse of Western bias. The bank would use $50 billion of seed capital shared equally between Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa but would undoubtedly be dominated by China. It would be the first institution of the informal forum started in 2009 amid the economic meltdown to chart a new and more equitable world economic order. At a summit meeting on Wednesday in Durban, South Africa, Russian President Vladimir Putin gave support for the bank but cautioned it 'must work on market principles.' India's trade minister said BRICS will 'have a defining influence on the global order of this century.' The five countries represent a fifth of global GDP and share high growth and geopolitical importance in their separate regions, but have struggled to find common ground that would convert their economic weight into joint political clout."
The article continued, "At the Durban summit, the group's fifth since 2009, the BRICS leaders were also expected to endorse plans to create a joint foreign exchange reserves pool. The proposed development bank and reserves pool reflect frustration among emerging nations at having to rely on the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, which some see as reflecting the interests of rich nations. The reserves pool of central bank money would be available to emerging economies facing balance of payment difficulties or could be tapped to stabilize economies during crises, according to documents obtained by Reuters outlining it."
Now you might be asking why this article caught my attention. The world's financial condition is approaching a crisis. These five countries, as I have stated above and in previous blogs, have indicated that they desire a new monetary system, replacing that built upon the America dollar. Now they are stating powerfully to those third world countries - targeting especially Africa and Latin America - that they do not have to depend upon pleading with the Western-focused World Bank and International Monetary Fund, but now have friends who can assist them with capital funds, providing jobs for roads, ports, railroads, and power facilities.
I believe this is simply another step forward toward the creation of a universal monetary system. The Bible, especially in Revelation 13, strongly indicates that a day is coming when one person will have absolute influence over the economies of the world. We are getting closer to the unveiling of that one person.
You can find the above cited article at www.cnbc.com/id/100596232.
Again, I wish you a Blessed Easter and Resurrection Sunday.
P.S. There will not be a blog next week as I will be taking a few days off to spend time with family in Florida.
The article continued, "At the Durban summit, the group's fifth since 2009, the BRICS leaders were also expected to endorse plans to create a joint foreign exchange reserves pool. The proposed development bank and reserves pool reflect frustration among emerging nations at having to rely on the World Bank and International Monetary Fund, which some see as reflecting the interests of rich nations. The reserves pool of central bank money would be available to emerging economies facing balance of payment difficulties or could be tapped to stabilize economies during crises, according to documents obtained by Reuters outlining it."
Now you might be asking why this article caught my attention. The world's financial condition is approaching a crisis. These five countries, as I have stated above and in previous blogs, have indicated that they desire a new monetary system, replacing that built upon the America dollar. Now they are stating powerfully to those third world countries - targeting especially Africa and Latin America - that they do not have to depend upon pleading with the Western-focused World Bank and International Monetary Fund, but now have friends who can assist them with capital funds, providing jobs for roads, ports, railroads, and power facilities.
I believe this is simply another step forward toward the creation of a universal monetary system. The Bible, especially in Revelation 13, strongly indicates that a day is coming when one person will have absolute influence over the economies of the world. We are getting closer to the unveiling of that one person.
You can find the above cited article at www.cnbc.com/id/100596232.
Again, I wish you a Blessed Easter and Resurrection Sunday.
P.S. There will not be a blog next week as I will be taking a few days off to spend time with family in Florida.
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Easter - Praise God for Our Blessed Hope
To my Jewish friends, I want to begin with "Chag Pesach Sameach" - Happy Passover. Passover officially began at sundown this past Monday evening. It is a time of festive celebration and remembrance of God's deliverance of Israel from Egypt. For the next three evenings, the church I serve as Preaching Pastor will be celebrating the Seder. During the Seder we will be focusing upon those portions of that meal that Jesus used as symbols of His impending death for our sins.
Even though this is Holy Week and Passover, world events continue to dramatically unfold around us. The situation on the island of Cyprus is another wake-up call to the fragility of the world's economy. Those individuals who hold accounts in Cyprian banks above $130,000 will now be taxed at 40%, thus reducing the savings of many individuals and families significantly. Just ask yourself this question: If the U.S. government declared that, in order to pay down the country's debt, every bank account or investment account over $100,000 would be taxed 40%, what would be your response? Cypriots, in haste to draw down their accounts, could only remove $130 per day. What confidence do you think they have in their government right now who has said that they would protect financial accounts within government banks? What confidence would you have in the U.S. government if they taxed those accounts that they have said they would protect? Friends, I believe this is just another wake-up warning reminding us of the impending financial collapse around the globe and of Satan's "man of the hour" being revealed. If my understanding of Paul's words in 2 Thessalonians 2 about the restrainer of the man of lawlessness being the ministry of the Holy Spirit through the Church, then can the Rapture be far away? Even if my understanding of those words is not accurate, that does not nullify the nearness of a scenario that will bring about the introduction of the Antichrist.
Another sign that we cannot ignore. I have shared with you from time to time about the rapid moral descent of our nation. As reported by Drew Zahn on WND.com on March 23, "students from the Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School, or PVPA - which serves 400 pupils, grades 7-12, in South Hadley, Mass. - on March 15-17 performed the controversial play, 'The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told.' A 1998 Paul Rudnick comedy that had a run in theaters in New York City, 'The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told' alters the biblical book of Genesis to include homosexual couples Adam and Steve and Jane and Mabel in the Garden; as well as a 'horny' rhinoceros that tries to seduce men on the Ark; and Mary, the mother of Christ, arguing she can't be pregnant, because she's a lesbian" The article then relates that at St. Timothy's United Methodist Church in Cedar Falls, IA, at its living Nativity scene in December 2010, two women were featured instead of a man and woman starring as Joseph and Mary. The pastor, Rev. Linda Butler, was quoted, "It's not very ground breaking at all to use the youngest baby in the congregation to play the role of Jesus. The parents just happened to be two women. They were playing the role of the Holy Family, not necessarily Mary and Joseph. We never referred to the moms as Mary and Joseph. We referred to them as the Holy Family." How much longer before God says, "I am giving you over to the depravity of your minds and hearts?"
Fox News Radio reported on an incident that occurred at Florida Atlantic University. It was reported by Todd Starnes on March 21, and can be found at www.radio.foxnews.com/toddstarnes/top-stories/professor-makes-students-stomp-on-jesus. The instructor, Deandre Poole, had told the students in his Intercultural Communications class, to write the name "Jesus" on a sheet of paper. Then they were told to put the paper on the floor, stand up, and stomp on it. One young student, a devout Mormon named Ryan Rotela, refused to do that and said to the teacher, "With all due respect to your authority as a professor, I do not believe what you told us to do was appropriate. I believe it was unprofessional and I was deeply offended by what you told me to do." Now that student is facing disciplinary action from the University. The question is asked, "Why stomp on the name Jesus? Why not stomp on the name Mohammed or Buddha or Pope Francis? If the purpose of the lesson was to "discuss the importance of symbols in culture," why was Jesus chosen as the symbol? I think it shows the prevailing attitude in academia toward Christ and His followers.
Friends, aren't you grateful for that wonderful news that "He is risen...He is risen indeed?" Aren't you grateful for that exciting hope we have in the return of Jesus for us...hopefully very soon? I believe the world is going to become an increasingly more hostile place for those who are committed followers of Jesus Christ. Those very principles we have held dear are being assaulted viciously at times. Marriage is being redefined, not according to God's definition, but according to the cultural screams of the crowds today.
Let me, just for a moment, make a connection that God has impressed upon my heart these past few days. On Palm Sunday, the crowds enthusiastically shouted, "Hosanna." Now that word means "save us." Those people were looking for Jesus to ride into Jerusalem and save them from Roman tyranny. A few days later, many of those same people shouted, "Crucify Him." Little did they know that they were asking for that very thing that would bring them the salvation they had asked for the previous Sunday - a salvation not from Rome's tyranny, but from the tyranny of sin. In essence, they would receive the answer to their request - they just did not know it. I believe that the crowds today are shouting to God what they want - certainly not "Hosanna" or "save us", but "set us free so we can do what our hearts want to do." And, according to Romans 1, such a day of God's "setting them free" to do exactly what they desire will soon be upon them. What a sad day for them! What a joyous day for us as we await the return of our resurrection Lord and Savior!
So, with joy on Sunday proclaim to one another - "He is risen...He is risen indeed!" And then share that good news with those who are still in darkness and fear about tomorrow.
Even though this is Holy Week and Passover, world events continue to dramatically unfold around us. The situation on the island of Cyprus is another wake-up call to the fragility of the world's economy. Those individuals who hold accounts in Cyprian banks above $130,000 will now be taxed at 40%, thus reducing the savings of many individuals and families significantly. Just ask yourself this question: If the U.S. government declared that, in order to pay down the country's debt, every bank account or investment account over $100,000 would be taxed 40%, what would be your response? Cypriots, in haste to draw down their accounts, could only remove $130 per day. What confidence do you think they have in their government right now who has said that they would protect financial accounts within government banks? What confidence would you have in the U.S. government if they taxed those accounts that they have said they would protect? Friends, I believe this is just another wake-up warning reminding us of the impending financial collapse around the globe and of Satan's "man of the hour" being revealed. If my understanding of Paul's words in 2 Thessalonians 2 about the restrainer of the man of lawlessness being the ministry of the Holy Spirit through the Church, then can the Rapture be far away? Even if my understanding of those words is not accurate, that does not nullify the nearness of a scenario that will bring about the introduction of the Antichrist.
Another sign that we cannot ignore. I have shared with you from time to time about the rapid moral descent of our nation. As reported by Drew Zahn on WND.com on March 23, "students from the Pioneer Valley Performing Arts Charter Public School, or PVPA - which serves 400 pupils, grades 7-12, in South Hadley, Mass. - on March 15-17 performed the controversial play, 'The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told.' A 1998 Paul Rudnick comedy that had a run in theaters in New York City, 'The Most Fabulous Story Ever Told' alters the biblical book of Genesis to include homosexual couples Adam and Steve and Jane and Mabel in the Garden; as well as a 'horny' rhinoceros that tries to seduce men on the Ark; and Mary, the mother of Christ, arguing she can't be pregnant, because she's a lesbian" The article then relates that at St. Timothy's United Methodist Church in Cedar Falls, IA, at its living Nativity scene in December 2010, two women were featured instead of a man and woman starring as Joseph and Mary. The pastor, Rev. Linda Butler, was quoted, "It's not very ground breaking at all to use the youngest baby in the congregation to play the role of Jesus. The parents just happened to be two women. They were playing the role of the Holy Family, not necessarily Mary and Joseph. We never referred to the moms as Mary and Joseph. We referred to them as the Holy Family." How much longer before God says, "I am giving you over to the depravity of your minds and hearts?"
Fox News Radio reported on an incident that occurred at Florida Atlantic University. It was reported by Todd Starnes on March 21, and can be found at www.radio.foxnews.com/toddstarnes/top-stories/professor-makes-students-stomp-on-jesus. The instructor, Deandre Poole, had told the students in his Intercultural Communications class, to write the name "Jesus" on a sheet of paper. Then they were told to put the paper on the floor, stand up, and stomp on it. One young student, a devout Mormon named Ryan Rotela, refused to do that and said to the teacher, "With all due respect to your authority as a professor, I do not believe what you told us to do was appropriate. I believe it was unprofessional and I was deeply offended by what you told me to do." Now that student is facing disciplinary action from the University. The question is asked, "Why stomp on the name Jesus? Why not stomp on the name Mohammed or Buddha or Pope Francis? If the purpose of the lesson was to "discuss the importance of symbols in culture," why was Jesus chosen as the symbol? I think it shows the prevailing attitude in academia toward Christ and His followers.
Friends, aren't you grateful for that wonderful news that "He is risen...He is risen indeed?" Aren't you grateful for that exciting hope we have in the return of Jesus for us...hopefully very soon? I believe the world is going to become an increasingly more hostile place for those who are committed followers of Jesus Christ. Those very principles we have held dear are being assaulted viciously at times. Marriage is being redefined, not according to God's definition, but according to the cultural screams of the crowds today.
Let me, just for a moment, make a connection that God has impressed upon my heart these past few days. On Palm Sunday, the crowds enthusiastically shouted, "Hosanna." Now that word means "save us." Those people were looking for Jesus to ride into Jerusalem and save them from Roman tyranny. A few days later, many of those same people shouted, "Crucify Him." Little did they know that they were asking for that very thing that would bring them the salvation they had asked for the previous Sunday - a salvation not from Rome's tyranny, but from the tyranny of sin. In essence, they would receive the answer to their request - they just did not know it. I believe that the crowds today are shouting to God what they want - certainly not "Hosanna" or "save us", but "set us free so we can do what our hearts want to do." And, according to Romans 1, such a day of God's "setting them free" to do exactly what they desire will soon be upon them. What a sad day for them! What a joyous day for us as we await the return of our resurrection Lord and Savior!
So, with joy on Sunday proclaim to one another - "He is risen...He is risen indeed!" And then share that good news with those who are still in darkness and fear about tomorrow.
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Comments on Expectations of President Obama's Trip to Israel
Today the wheels of Air Force One touched down at Ben Gurion International Airport just outside Tel Aviv. The occasion was President Obama's first state visit to Israel. (He and his entourage will be staying at the King David Hotel. I have had the privilege of peering into that very room on the 6th floor of that stately and historic old hotel). We know that while in Israel, President Obama will be visiting the Shrine of the Book (the museum that houses the Dead Sea Scrolls), Yad Vashem (the memorial to the Holocaust), and to Bethlehem's Church of the Nativity. He will also journey to Ramallah for a visit with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and later go to Amman, Jordan, for a visit with King Abdullah. The President declined an invitation to address the Knesset, the Jewish Parliament.
What is the purpose of this visit? According to Thomas Friedman, editorialist for the "New York Times," not much. He writes, "It is hard for me to recall a less-anticipated trip to Israel by an American president. But there is a message in that empty bottle: Little is expected from this trip - not only because little is possible, but because, from a narrow U.S. point of view, little is necessary." But, is this assessment a correct one? It is not, according to Joel Rosenberg. In his column, that appears at www.foxnews.com/opinion/2013/03/19/three-critical-questions-obama-needs-to-answer he identifies three very important questions that President Obama needs to be asked.
1. Have diplomacy, sanctions and covert operations failed to stop Iran from building nuclear weapons.
2. If so, will President Obama order airstrikes against Iran, or give Israel the "green light" to hit Iran's nuclear sites since other measures have failed?
3. If not, why not?
Unfortunately, I don't believe those questions will be asked. Yet, as Rosenberg points out in his column, the Obama Administration has given mixed signals about the situation in Iran in recent weeks. On March 4, Vice President Biden, in a speech before the AIPAC Policy Conference meeting in Washington, stated that President Obama is committed to preventing Iran from getting a nuclear device and that the "window is closing" for diplomacy and sanctions to work. However, on March 5, Secretary of State Kerry said that he believed the president wanted to "avoid any consideration of any kind of military action." Also, on March 5, U.S. CENTCOM commander General James Mattis, in testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee, in answer to a question about whether sanctions were working in Iran, responded, "No, sir." Both President Obama and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu keep talking about an as yet undefined "red line" concerning Iran's nuclear program, but one wonders if the two men are talking about the same "red line."
So, the more I think of those three questions Joel Rosenberg has proposed, the more I believe he is right on target. But these are the questions few are willing to ask and even fewer, especially those within political circles, are willing to answer.
Also facing both President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu are reports that came out of Syria yesterday about the use of chemical weapons. As of yet it has been undetermined whether those chemical weapons were used by the Assad Regime or the Rebels. According to an article posted on the Fox News website, the Syrian state-run SANA news agency said "a missile containing a chemical substance:" was fired at the village of Khan al-Assal in Aleppo province by "terrorists" - the term it uses for rebels. It was reported that 31 people were killed and more than 100 injured, some critically. The rebel forces quickly denied these accusations but said that there were cases of "suffocation and poison" among civilians in Khan al-Assal after a missile was fired at the area. The rebels went on to say that the cases were "most likely" caused by regime forces' use of "poisonous gases." Both Israel and the United States have stayed away from any direct intervention in the Syrian Civil War that is now in its third year, but both countries have said that if chemical weapons were used, that policy would change. So, if this report coming out of Syria this morning is validated as being true, what will be the responses of Israel and the United States? And what will that response look like?
Finally, there is always the issue concerning the resumption of peace-negotiations with the Palestinians. How hard will President Obama press the Israelis and the Palestinian leaders to get back to the negotiation table? President Abbas has said that a precondition for the resumption of talks is for Israel to not only stop its settlement building in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, but to begin removing settlements. Prime Minister Netanyahu has indicated that there would be no preconditions. This is an impasse with great consequences. I don't foresee any resumption of peace-talks anytime soon. For the Israelis, this is no longer a front-burner issue as are the Syrian Civil War and the nuclear development in Iran.
Friends, don't lose your focus upon what is happening in the Middle East. If you want to keep abreast, read the editorial pages of the "Jerusalem Post." You can find them at www.jpost.com. I heartily endorse them for your reading - not always agreeing with them, but finding them stimulating.
A few weeks ago, here at our church in Buffalo, I was preaching on the return of Jesus. How I love preaching on that theme! We sang an old song of the Gaithers that morning, and I close with those gloriously hopeful words: "The King is coming, the King is coming, I just heard the trumpet sounding and now His face I see; the King is coming, the King is coming, Praise God He's coming for me!" And to that I will close with a hearty "Amen!"
What is the purpose of this visit? According to Thomas Friedman, editorialist for the "New York Times," not much. He writes, "It is hard for me to recall a less-anticipated trip to Israel by an American president. But there is a message in that empty bottle: Little is expected from this trip - not only because little is possible, but because, from a narrow U.S. point of view, little is necessary." But, is this assessment a correct one? It is not, according to Joel Rosenberg. In his column, that appears at www.foxnews.com/opinion/2013/03/19/three-critical-questions-obama-needs-to-answer he identifies three very important questions that President Obama needs to be asked.
1. Have diplomacy, sanctions and covert operations failed to stop Iran from building nuclear weapons.
2. If so, will President Obama order airstrikes against Iran, or give Israel the "green light" to hit Iran's nuclear sites since other measures have failed?
3. If not, why not?
Unfortunately, I don't believe those questions will be asked. Yet, as Rosenberg points out in his column, the Obama Administration has given mixed signals about the situation in Iran in recent weeks. On March 4, Vice President Biden, in a speech before the AIPAC Policy Conference meeting in Washington, stated that President Obama is committed to preventing Iran from getting a nuclear device and that the "window is closing" for diplomacy and sanctions to work. However, on March 5, Secretary of State Kerry said that he believed the president wanted to "avoid any consideration of any kind of military action." Also, on March 5, U.S. CENTCOM commander General James Mattis, in testimony before the Senate Armed Services Committee, in answer to a question about whether sanctions were working in Iran, responded, "No, sir." Both President Obama and Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu keep talking about an as yet undefined "red line" concerning Iran's nuclear program, but one wonders if the two men are talking about the same "red line."
So, the more I think of those three questions Joel Rosenberg has proposed, the more I believe he is right on target. But these are the questions few are willing to ask and even fewer, especially those within political circles, are willing to answer.
Also facing both President Obama and Prime Minister Netanyahu are reports that came out of Syria yesterday about the use of chemical weapons. As of yet it has been undetermined whether those chemical weapons were used by the Assad Regime or the Rebels. According to an article posted on the Fox News website, the Syrian state-run SANA news agency said "a missile containing a chemical substance:" was fired at the village of Khan al-Assal in Aleppo province by "terrorists" - the term it uses for rebels. It was reported that 31 people were killed and more than 100 injured, some critically. The rebel forces quickly denied these accusations but said that there were cases of "suffocation and poison" among civilians in Khan al-Assal after a missile was fired at the area. The rebels went on to say that the cases were "most likely" caused by regime forces' use of "poisonous gases." Both Israel and the United States have stayed away from any direct intervention in the Syrian Civil War that is now in its third year, but both countries have said that if chemical weapons were used, that policy would change. So, if this report coming out of Syria this morning is validated as being true, what will be the responses of Israel and the United States? And what will that response look like?
Finally, there is always the issue concerning the resumption of peace-negotiations with the Palestinians. How hard will President Obama press the Israelis and the Palestinian leaders to get back to the negotiation table? President Abbas has said that a precondition for the resumption of talks is for Israel to not only stop its settlement building in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, but to begin removing settlements. Prime Minister Netanyahu has indicated that there would be no preconditions. This is an impasse with great consequences. I don't foresee any resumption of peace-talks anytime soon. For the Israelis, this is no longer a front-burner issue as are the Syrian Civil War and the nuclear development in Iran.
Friends, don't lose your focus upon what is happening in the Middle East. If you want to keep abreast, read the editorial pages of the "Jerusalem Post." You can find them at www.jpost.com. I heartily endorse them for your reading - not always agreeing with them, but finding them stimulating.
A few weeks ago, here at our church in Buffalo, I was preaching on the return of Jesus. How I love preaching on that theme! We sang an old song of the Gaithers that morning, and I close with those gloriously hopeful words: "The King is coming, the King is coming, I just heard the trumpet sounding and now His face I see; the King is coming, the King is coming, Praise God He's coming for me!" And to that I will close with a hearty "Amen!"
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Two Sites That Bear Watching Closely
The eyes of the world are focused these days upon two locations as diverse as black is from white. One location reminds us of the pomp and regalia that has endured for centuries, while the other location is a reminder of a war that did not end well nearly sixty years ago.
The first location is that of the Vatican in Rome. Last night, black smoke was seen coming from the chimney at St. Peter's indicating that, at least on the first ballot, not one of the cardinals had received the necessary two-thirds vote to become the next Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. At least two more votes are scheduled for today. News teams from around the world have gathered in Rome to witness this selection of a church leader. This selection process has its roots deeply embedded within the traditions of the Roman Catholic Church. The Church is in turmoil today with several challenges that the new Pope will have to address. Included among those challenges are: the right of priests to marry (we know from the history of the Church, that priests were granted that privilege centuries ago; even Martin Luther was married) and the voice of women who desire roles within the priesthood. But the paramount issue is that of the resolution of the ever deepening sexual abuse scandal that has plagued the Church. One of the cardinals representing Great Britain was forced to resign after admitting sexual failure over the years. The diocese of Los Angeles just yesterday received a severe financial penalty after admitting several priests under its jurisdiction had sexually abused those under their care. The task before the new Pope will not be an easy one. Many commentators I have read in recent days have strongly indicated that the success or failure of the Roman Catholic Church will rest solely upon the shoulders of this man.
The second location is that of North Korea, one of the most impoverished countries in the world. In recent weeks we have seen the North Koreans, under their new leader, Kim Jong Un, launch a long-range missile and explode an underground nuclear device. Last week the North Koreans indicated that they would no longer abide by the armistice that ended the Korean War. Kim Jong Un has been talking about war including a pre-emptive nuclear strike against the United States. And all the while the relationship between North Korea and Iran continues to grow. The United States and South Korea have partnered in a renewed military preparedness in recent days as well.
Two different locations. Two different philosophies. Two different visions for the world. One focuses upon the task of revitalizing a Church that seems to have lost some sense of its purpose. The other focuses upon the task of challenging the world for dominance with fears and threats. Both stories are incredibly important for those of us who are watching for the return of the Lord Jesus.
Friends, we are nearing that very special week known as Holy Week. It is the time when we remember those final days of Jesus' life and of His sacrifice on the cross for our sins. I have been reading the Gospel accounts of those final days. They are filled with powerful teachings that flow from the heart of Jesus. He is strongly aware of His impending sacrificial death. He is aware of the impact that event will have upon His disciples. So, with great determination and passion, Jesus addresses those events that will follow His death and resurrection. I had not been aware before of the great amount of teaching on the end times from Jesus during the final week of His life. Matthew 24-25 and Luke 21 record what we know as the Olivet Discourse. (I must admit there are many verses within this message of Jesus that are difficult to understand; I wonder what the disciples understood). And then there are those powerful words of Jesus in the Upper Room that Passover Night and later in the Garden of Gethsemane (John 14-17). I would encourage you to read these passages slowly during the next couple of weeks. Listen to the heart of Jesus carefully. Among His final requests to His disciples before He died were these: watch carefully for My return and work zealously until I come back. Those are still words that should characterize our lives now twenty centuries afterwards.
The first location is that of the Vatican in Rome. Last night, black smoke was seen coming from the chimney at St. Peter's indicating that, at least on the first ballot, not one of the cardinals had received the necessary two-thirds vote to become the next Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. At least two more votes are scheduled for today. News teams from around the world have gathered in Rome to witness this selection of a church leader. This selection process has its roots deeply embedded within the traditions of the Roman Catholic Church. The Church is in turmoil today with several challenges that the new Pope will have to address. Included among those challenges are: the right of priests to marry (we know from the history of the Church, that priests were granted that privilege centuries ago; even Martin Luther was married) and the voice of women who desire roles within the priesthood. But the paramount issue is that of the resolution of the ever deepening sexual abuse scandal that has plagued the Church. One of the cardinals representing Great Britain was forced to resign after admitting sexual failure over the years. The diocese of Los Angeles just yesterday received a severe financial penalty after admitting several priests under its jurisdiction had sexually abused those under their care. The task before the new Pope will not be an easy one. Many commentators I have read in recent days have strongly indicated that the success or failure of the Roman Catholic Church will rest solely upon the shoulders of this man.
The second location is that of North Korea, one of the most impoverished countries in the world. In recent weeks we have seen the North Koreans, under their new leader, Kim Jong Un, launch a long-range missile and explode an underground nuclear device. Last week the North Koreans indicated that they would no longer abide by the armistice that ended the Korean War. Kim Jong Un has been talking about war including a pre-emptive nuclear strike against the United States. And all the while the relationship between North Korea and Iran continues to grow. The United States and South Korea have partnered in a renewed military preparedness in recent days as well.
Two different locations. Two different philosophies. Two different visions for the world. One focuses upon the task of revitalizing a Church that seems to have lost some sense of its purpose. The other focuses upon the task of challenging the world for dominance with fears and threats. Both stories are incredibly important for those of us who are watching for the return of the Lord Jesus.
Friends, we are nearing that very special week known as Holy Week. It is the time when we remember those final days of Jesus' life and of His sacrifice on the cross for our sins. I have been reading the Gospel accounts of those final days. They are filled with powerful teachings that flow from the heart of Jesus. He is strongly aware of His impending sacrificial death. He is aware of the impact that event will have upon His disciples. So, with great determination and passion, Jesus addresses those events that will follow His death and resurrection. I had not been aware before of the great amount of teaching on the end times from Jesus during the final week of His life. Matthew 24-25 and Luke 21 record what we know as the Olivet Discourse. (I must admit there are many verses within this message of Jesus that are difficult to understand; I wonder what the disciples understood). And then there are those powerful words of Jesus in the Upper Room that Passover Night and later in the Garden of Gethsemane (John 14-17). I would encourage you to read these passages slowly during the next couple of weeks. Listen to the heart of Jesus carefully. Among His final requests to His disciples before He died were these: watch carefully for My return and work zealously until I come back. Those are still words that should characterize our lives now twenty centuries afterwards.
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