An old prospector shuffled into the town of EIidio, Texas leading an old tired mule. The old man headed straight for the only saloon in town, to clear his parched throat. He walked up to the saloon and tied his old mule to the hitch rail. As he stood there, brushing some of the dust from his face and clothes, a young gunslinger stepped out of the saloon with a gun in one hand and a bottle of whiskey in the other.
The young gunslinger looked at the old man and laughed, saying, "Hey old man, have you ever danced?" The old man looked up at the gunslinger and said, "No, I never did dance... never really wanted to."
A crowd had gathered as the gunslinger grinned and said, "Well, you old fool, you're gonna' dance now," and started shooting at the old man's feet. The old prospector, not wanting to get a toe blown off, started hopping around like a flea on a hot skillet. Everybody was laughing, fit to be tied.
When his last bullet had been fired, the young gunslinger, still laughing, holstered his gun and turned around to go back into the saloon. The old man turned to his pack mule, pulled out a double-barreled shotgun, and cocked both hammers. The loud clicks carried clearly through the desert air.
The crowd stopped laughing immediately. The young gunslinger heard the sounds too, and he turned around very slowly. The silence was almost deafening. The crowd watched as the young gunman stared at the old timer and the large gaping holes of those twin barrels.
The barrels of the shotgun never wavered in the old man's hands, as he quietly said, "Son, have you ever kissed a mule's ass?"
The gunslinger swallowed hard and said, "No sir...... but... I've always wanted to."
There are two lessons for us all here:
Don't waste ammunition.
Don't mess with old people.
Sunday, December 02, 2012
willfull warfare
Does "spiritual warfare" exist? I think anyone who has given himself over to the leading of the Holy Spirit knows that it does and is conscious on some level of the daily need to be watchful for those moments that trip us up and result in the chaos of our lives.
Can we blame "spiritual warfare" for all the negative impacts on our lives? Not all, certainly some, but there is one point we must take responsibility for.
We must, in most cases, allow ourselves to be swayed, lead, moved to acts of personal destruction. We must take responsibility for being sideswiped.
It is on me to say alert, to be watchful, to continue the righteous walk.
Can we blame "spiritual warfare" for all the negative impacts on our lives? Not all, certainly some, but there is one point we must take responsibility for.
We must, in most cases, allow ourselves to be swayed, lead, moved to acts of personal destruction. We must take responsibility for being sideswiped.
It is on me to say alert, to be watchful, to continue the righteous walk.
Saturday, December 01, 2012
God is listening
Millions of Americans, on a regular, daily (hourly?), consistent basis, proclaim, "God Damn!". American television, movies, music, radio, and all forms of entertainment use His Holy Name as an expression of disgust, of anger, and of condemnation. "God Damn" is only followed by "Jesus Christ" and the "F" word as "acceptable" cursing for our eager ears.
Might He be answering America's "prayers"?
Exo 15:3 The LORD is a man of war: the LORD is his name.
Exo 15:4 Pharaoh's chariots and his host hath he cast into the sea: his chosen captains also are drowned in the Red sea.
Exo 15:5 The depths have covered them: they sank into the bottom as a stone.
Exo 15:6 Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy.
Exo 15:7 And in the greatness of thine excellency thou hast overthrown them that rose up against thee: thou sentest forth thy wrath, which consumed them as stubble.
Exo_20:7 Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
Lev_18:21 And thou shalt not let any of thy seed pass through the fire to Molech, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.
Lev_19:12 And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.
But those who call on Him for salvation, shall not fear, but ready for the next life, His glorious return and a new life on a new earth.
Mal_3:16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.
Rev 21:1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
Rev 21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
Rev 21:3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
Rev 21:4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
Rev 21:5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
Rev 21:6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
Rev 21:7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
Psa_72:19 And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory; Amen, and Amen.
Psa_113:2 Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time forth and for evermore.
Might He be answering America's "prayers"?
Exo 15:3 The LORD is a man of war: the LORD is his name.
Exo 15:4 Pharaoh's chariots and his host hath he cast into the sea: his chosen captains also are drowned in the Red sea.
Exo 15:5 The depths have covered them: they sank into the bottom as a stone.
Exo 15:6 Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy.
Exo 15:7 And in the greatness of thine excellency thou hast overthrown them that rose up against thee: thou sentest forth thy wrath, which consumed them as stubble.
Exo_20:7 Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.
Lev_18:21 And thou shalt not let any of thy seed pass through the fire to Molech, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.
Lev_19:12 And ye shall not swear by my name falsely, neither shalt thou profane the name of thy God: I am the LORD.
But those who call on Him for salvation, shall not fear, but ready for the next life, His glorious return and a new life on a new earth.
Mal_3:16 Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD hearkened, and heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon his name.
Rev 21:1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.
Rev 21:2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
Rev 21:3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.
Rev 21:4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.
Rev 21:5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.
Rev 21:6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.
Rev 21:7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.
Psa_72:19 And blessed be his glorious name for ever: and let the whole earth be filled with his glory; Amen, and Amen.
Psa_113:2 Blessed be the name of the LORD from this time forth and for evermore.
Friday, November 30, 2012
gingrich: "do the right thing"
Gingrich to GOP: Stop negotiating on fiscal cliff
Greta Van Susteren interviews Newt Gingrich on the looming "fiscal cliff".
Greta Van Susteren interviews Newt Gingrich on the looming "fiscal cliff".
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
fiscal cliff or crepe
then our economy goes over the cliff and we be in REAL fiscal
"trouble". Right? But isn't this the same thing we've been facing for
the last four years?
The Real mystery in this go round is, of course, whether one man or woman in Washington, of any party, can or will do the right thing at any time; "right" being defined as good for the American people as a whole and putting ZERO dollars in any politicians pocket.
Saturday, November 24, 2012
what's your glimpse?
Randy Alcorn, in his book, "Heaven", states, "The best of life on earth is a glimpse of heaven; the worst of life is a glimpse of hell. For Christians, this present life is the closet they will come to hell For unbelievers, it is the closest they will come to heaven. The reality of the choice that lies before us in this life is both wonderful and awful."
Alcorn leads us into a wonderful journey, searching for Biblical truth and enlightenment on the realities and expectations of our future home.
Is my mind set on my future home? Is yours?
Randy Alcorn leads us on the journey in "Heaven".
Alcorn leads us into a wonderful journey, searching for Biblical truth and enlightenment on the realities and expectations of our future home.
Is my mind set on my future home? Is yours?
Randy Alcorn leads us on the journey in "Heaven".
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
the not so humorous side of religion
Merriam Webster defines religion as "a personal set or institutionalized system of religious attitudes, beliefs, and practices", and " a cause, principle, or system of beliefs held to with ardor and faith".
By these definitions, I would qualify that I am a religious person, as should anyone with any type of belief structure, be it faith based, political, regional, organizational, etc..I think, however, when someone probes my character with the "religious" question they are more looking for my faith based structure.
I maintain a relationship with The Lord Jesus, but I don't consider myself part of a religious faction or of the trappings of formality. I believe that The Bible is God's Word to humanity, both to me and to you. Whether or not each of us follows the instructions remains a personal choice. When we follow along with a group of others, to also adhere to a formatted list of additional rules, proceedings, tenants and coordinated agreements, we step into my definition of religion.
Merriam-Webster defines "Christian" as "one who professes belief in the teachings of Jesus Christ". I fall into that defined category, so, for me, let's leave it there.
According to Mary Fairchild, About.com Guide , "Today in the U.S., about 79.5% of adults (247 million) identify themselves as Christian." She also notes, "Of the approximate 2 billion Christians in the world today, 279 million (12.8% of the world's Christian population) identify themselves, as Pentecostals, 304 million (14%) are Charismatics, and 285 million (13.1%) are Evangelicals, or Bible believing Christians.".
Clearly, if we are all reading the same book, one has to wonder why there are so many differing views on the contents. We can not logically blame the Writer, though millions of "non-believers" would argue this point, so we are left with "religion".
The precipitate of this train of thought was the following article brought to us by our liberally canted but always thought provoking guardians of the news at CNN: "Birthplace of Christ" to be first Palestinian World Heritage site?.
I was bemused by several of the passages and the (possibly unintended, though I think not) portrayal of the fallacies of organized "religion" combined with regional politics and tourism.
"Bethlehem, situated in the West Bank, about eight kilometers south of Jerusalem, is considered the Palestinian Territories' top visitor destination partly due to the religious significance of the church."
"She said the center considered Bethlehem's inclusion on the list "as a Palestinian dream, and as a reward of 11 years of work in the field of preserving the cultural and natural heritage in Palestine."
"Visitor numbers have hit record highs in recent years, but, according to a report into developing tourism in the town, Bethlehem has yet to properly capitalize on its potential. The majority of the visitors were day trippers on short visits, meaning the full economic benefits of tourism did not flow into the town."
So, while the Palestinians want to kill all the people of Israel, they also want to make sure they get their fair share of tourism dollars associated with the "Christian" shrine.
The local "Christians" looked even worse, "The condition of the church, which has suffered extensive earthquake damage in its history, has been of concern. One of the issues is that responsibility for its administration is shared between three religious authorities -- the Greek Orthodox, Armenian and Roman Catholic churches. On occasion, tensions between the groups have spilled over into violence; in December, about 100 Greek Orthodox and Armenian clerics fought with brooms when a tussle broke out while cleaning the church."
Yup, It's a "Holy Place", according to the tour guides, but watch out for jihadists and infighting among the caretakers!
Money. Prestige. Power. A strong Travelocity rating. Oh, how that "Little Town of Bethlehem" has grown.
I'll continue to follow the teachings of Jesus, because that is what I believe God wants me to do, as outlined in His instruction manual, The Holy Bible. I'll go to church and fellowship with like-minded believers, as also outlined in the book; and I'll do the best I can to be a good neighbor to mankind.
But I'll shy away from swinging brooms and selling souveniers to "the place where Jesus slept".
Friday, November 16, 2012
growing the body
Greg Laurie shares a few thoughts on church growth.
"I would suggest that one reason they don’t work is because they tend to approach church as if it were a business. For example, some church growth experts are telling pastors their “customers” no longer attend to commune with God, but to “consume” a personal or family service. In a recent survey of 1,000 church attenders, respondents were asked, “Why does the church exist?” According to 89 percent, the church’s purpose was “to take care of my family’s and my spiritual needs.” Only 11 percent said the purpose of the church is “to win the world for Jesus Christ.”"
"A careful reading of Acts 2:42-47 shows that the early church didn’t make bigger and better their business. Instead, they focused on five priorities: worship, prayer, evangelism, learning, and loving. The passage ends with the words, “And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved”(KJV). The first church didn’t have a problem with growth because God took care of the growth as they took care of honoring His principles"
Read the entire article on Greg's Blog
"I would suggest that one reason they don’t work is because they tend to approach church as if it were a business. For example, some church growth experts are telling pastors their “customers” no longer attend to commune with God, but to “consume” a personal or family service. In a recent survey of 1,000 church attenders, respondents were asked, “Why does the church exist?” According to 89 percent, the church’s purpose was “to take care of my family’s and my spiritual needs.” Only 11 percent said the purpose of the church is “to win the world for Jesus Christ.”"
"A careful reading of Acts 2:42-47 shows that the early church didn’t make bigger and better their business. Instead, they focused on five priorities: worship, prayer, evangelism, learning, and loving. The passage ends with the words, “And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved”(KJV). The first church didn’t have a problem with growth because God took care of the growth as they took care of honoring His principles"
Read the entire article on Greg's Blog
listen, and respond in peace
"Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry." ~ James 1:9, NLT
This is really hard sometimes (especially for me), but by letting God lead the way, we can manage. In these trying times of political adversity, financial uncertainty and social upheaval, let's all try to take it just a bit slower and listen just a little closer. Hug and love on each other and receive the same with joy. You and I can do it, because Jesus took it all for us.
K-LOVE's Encouraging Word is a daily Bible verse to help brighten your day.
This is really hard sometimes (especially for me), but by letting God lead the way, we can manage. In these trying times of political adversity, financial uncertainty and social upheaval, let's all try to take it just a bit slower and listen just a little closer. Hug and love on each other and receive the same with joy. You and I can do it, because Jesus took it all for us.
K-LOVE's Encouraging Word is a daily Bible verse to help brighten your day.
we can't say that there were no warnings ...
Micah 6
8 No, O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.
9 Fear the LORD if you are wise! His voice calls to everyone in Jerusalem: "The armies of destruction are coming; the LORD is sending them.*
10 What shall I say about the homes of the wicked filled with treasures gained by cheating? What about the disgusting practice of measuring out grain with dishonest measures?*
11 How can I tolerate your merchants who use dishonest scales and weights?
12 The rich among you have become wealthy through extortion and violence. Your citizens are so used to lying that their tongues can no longer tell the truth.
13 "Therefore, I will wound you! I will bring you to ruin for all your sins.
14 You will eat but never have enough. Your hunger pangs and emptiness will remain. And though you try to save your money, it will come to nothing in the end. You will save a little, but I will give it to those who conquer you.
15 You will plant crops but not harvest them. You will press your olives but not get enough oil to anoint yourselves. You will trample the grapes but get no juice to make your wine.
16 You keep only the laws of evil King Omri; you follow only the example of wicked King Ahab! Therefore, I will make an example of you, bringing you to complete ruin. You will be treated with contempt, mocked by all who see you."
8 No, O people, the LORD has told you what is good, and this is what he requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.
9 Fear the LORD if you are wise! His voice calls to everyone in Jerusalem: "The armies of destruction are coming; the LORD is sending them.*
10 What shall I say about the homes of the wicked filled with treasures gained by cheating? What about the disgusting practice of measuring out grain with dishonest measures?*
11 How can I tolerate your merchants who use dishonest scales and weights?
12 The rich among you have become wealthy through extortion and violence. Your citizens are so used to lying that their tongues can no longer tell the truth.
13 "Therefore, I will wound you! I will bring you to ruin for all your sins.
14 You will eat but never have enough. Your hunger pangs and emptiness will remain. And though you try to save your money, it will come to nothing in the end. You will save a little, but I will give it to those who conquer you.
15 You will plant crops but not harvest them. You will press your olives but not get enough oil to anoint yourselves. You will trample the grapes but get no juice to make your wine.
16 You keep only the laws of evil King Omri; you follow only the example of wicked King Ahab! Therefore, I will make an example of you, bringing you to complete ruin. You will be treated with contempt, mocked by all who see you."
Thursday, November 15, 2012
to my (far left wing) liberal neighbors
I am trying to understand your logic, but, so far as I understand, it defies understanding.
You call me a "hater" because of my belief system. You take an alternate point of view than my own, and then label me with derogatory, demeaning, hateful labels. You call me a "hater" because we disagree, but you are the person displaying hatred, toward me and toward others who believe different than you. The intolerant and hate filled person here, clearly, is not me.
You label me as a "homophobe", "a person who fears or hates homosexuals and homosexuality"*, with absolutely no indication, realistic inclination or justification that I fit that description, simply because I choose to believe and follow (try to follow) God's Word, The Holy Bible, which does not preach hatred toward anyone.
You label me as a "racist" because I don't like or agree with President Obama's political ideology, when no evidence exists to show that my dislike of the President has anything to do with his skin color. The obvious person making this a racial issue is you, not me.
Are there ignorant, bigoted, racist, idiots who vote Republican? Sure; just as there are ignorant, bigoted, racist, idiots who vote Democratic!
Are there folks who label themselves "Christian" (on all sides of the political spectrum) who display a totally un-Christian, un-Biblical attitude toward others? Sure, and I don't care for them any more than you do, but I don't hate them.
Reason and logic dictate that there are various of demeanors, attitudes, perspectives and views on every side of the political spectrum. No one label fits all; so how about backing up, slowing down the hate speech and showing just a bit more tolerance yourself?
Thanks,
Steve
* http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/homophobe
You call me a "hater" because of my belief system. You take an alternate point of view than my own, and then label me with derogatory, demeaning, hateful labels. You call me a "hater" because we disagree, but you are the person displaying hatred, toward me and toward others who believe different than you. The intolerant and hate filled person here, clearly, is not me.
You label me as a "homophobe", "a person who fears or hates homosexuals and homosexuality"*, with absolutely no indication, realistic inclination or justification that I fit that description, simply because I choose to believe and follow (try to follow) God's Word, The Holy Bible, which does not preach hatred toward anyone.
You label me as a "racist" because I don't like or agree with President Obama's political ideology, when no evidence exists to show that my dislike of the President has anything to do with his skin color. The obvious person making this a racial issue is you, not me.
Are there ignorant, bigoted, racist, idiots who vote Republican? Sure; just as there are ignorant, bigoted, racist, idiots who vote Democratic!
Are there folks who label themselves "Christian" (on all sides of the political spectrum) who display a totally un-Christian, un-Biblical attitude toward others? Sure, and I don't care for them any more than you do, but I don't hate them.
Reason and logic dictate that there are various of demeanors, attitudes, perspectives and views on every side of the political spectrum. No one label fits all; so how about backing up, slowing down the hate speech and showing just a bit more tolerance yourself?
Thanks,
Steve
* http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/homophobe
Friday, November 09, 2012
"I met those of our society who had votes in the ensuing
election, and advised them: 1. To vote, without fee or reward, for the
person they judged most worthy; 2. To speak no evil of the person they
voted against; And, 3. To take care their spirits were not sharpened
against those that voted on the other side." ~ John Wesley, October 6, 1774
Monday, September 03, 2012
desiderata
Desiderata
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be critical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.
© Max Ehrmann 1927
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons. Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story. Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans. Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time. Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery. But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals; and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself. Especially, do not feign affection. Neither be critical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth. Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings. Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness.
Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself. You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars; you have a right to be here. And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be, and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.
© Max Ehrmann 1927
Sunday, September 02, 2012
looking and finding answers
As "Christians", we sometimes stay in too small circles and allow our world view to be penetrated by thoughts, ideas and perceptions that fly in the face of our stated beliefs in God's Word and our disposition to follow Jesus.
Lately, in particular, I have been humbled and reminded of two important (Oh, so important) tenants of the Christian faith by my currently unbelieving daughter.
Gen 1:26 Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness;
1Co 13:4-7 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
We all would do well to remember and practice loving all the Image Bearers of God.
Lately, in particular, I have been humbled and reminded of two important (Oh, so important) tenants of the Christian faith by my currently unbelieving daughter.
Gen 1:26 Then God said, "Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness;
1Co 13:4-7 Love is patient, love is kind and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
We all would do well to remember and practice loving all the Image Bearers of God.
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
todd akin
RE: Congressman Todd Akin's remarks about "Legitimate Rape": There are two kinds of misinformed candidates for re-education in the world; those who agree with Mr. Akin's unique view on women's reproductive organs and those who believe his brand of stupidity represents the Republican Party as a whole.
elections are about freedom.
It is not about abortion, or homosexual
marriage or even gun control. It is not about taxes, immigration, the
economy or the jobs forecast.
The November Presidential and Congressional elections are about freedom.
Do we, as a nation wish to retain the freedoms and citizen rights guaranteed us by the Constitution of the United States of America, as was a designed by the framers of that document, our Forefathers; or, do we, as a nation desire to throw the Constitution "under the Bus" and start over, as a new and different unknown entity.
The Choices are clear.
Vote Democrat and begin building a new nation, ruled by a King, shaped and formed by the laws of foreign nations from around the globe.
Vote Republican and begin restoring the country to American Constitutional law and begin rebuilding the American Dream.
The November Presidential and Congressional elections are about freedom.
Do we, as a nation wish to retain the freedoms and citizen rights guaranteed us by the Constitution of the United States of America, as was a designed by the framers of that document, our Forefathers; or, do we, as a nation desire to throw the Constitution "under the Bus" and start over, as a new and different unknown entity.
The Choices are clear.
Vote Democrat and begin building a new nation, ruled by a King, shaped and formed by the laws of foreign nations from around the globe.
Vote Republican and begin restoring the country to American Constitutional law and begin rebuilding the American Dream.
Sunday, July 22, 2012
tragedies and reactions
The horror committed by one twisted individual in Aurora, CO, will remain in our minds for ages. This man, for whatever inclination possessed him, committed an act so heinous that our minds struggle to comprehend the scope and madness of it. We pray for the wounded who are suffering, the families of those killed, wounded or in any way affected; we grieve for them.
Last night and today, my daughter goes to work at a movie theater showing the Batman flick on multiple screens and I am not concerned in the slightest amount. She is as safe as if she was going to Wal-Mart, church this morning, or any other place where two or more person congregate.
At all times in the history of mankind, heinous acts have been committed by heinous men and women. This is a fact of life in a world of men. Madness and evil exist. No laws, no protests, no screaming or ranting will fully stop these acts.
Fear and isolation are not options, We go on, we live our lives, we go to work in crowded buildings, we go to school, we go to movies, we go to malls and we go to churches. For some of us, we ask our God to watch over us and protect us, knowing that He will not stop all atrocities, not stop all accidents, not stop all sickness and not stop all death and injury.
We remember the schools, the churches, the offices, the parking garages, the several places where these monstrous acts were committed in our country and we move on.
Our hearts ache and we go on.
Father, watch over us and keep us safe, we pray, in Jesus name.
Last night and today, my daughter goes to work at a movie theater showing the Batman flick on multiple screens and I am not concerned in the slightest amount. She is as safe as if she was going to Wal-Mart, church this morning, or any other place where two or more person congregate.
At all times in the history of mankind, heinous acts have been committed by heinous men and women. This is a fact of life in a world of men. Madness and evil exist. No laws, no protests, no screaming or ranting will fully stop these acts.
Fear and isolation are not options, We go on, we live our lives, we go to work in crowded buildings, we go to school, we go to movies, we go to malls and we go to churches. For some of us, we ask our God to watch over us and protect us, knowing that He will not stop all atrocities, not stop all accidents, not stop all sickness and not stop all death and injury.
We remember the schools, the churches, the offices, the parking garages, the several places where these monstrous acts were committed in our country and we move on.
Our hearts ache and we go on.
Father, watch over us and keep us safe, we pray, in Jesus name.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
follow the money
A question worth asking, and an answer worth pondering, is "Why would someone spend $1,000,000.00 to win an office that only pays $135,000.00?"
Obviously, this is an old and out of date query.
Buyers Remorse' Leaves Obama Campaign Struggling for Campaign Funds
"Conservatives just two years ago feared Obama would raise and spend a billion dollars in the 2012 campaign. Now, there is a real possibility that Romney and his official partners at the Republican National Committee could overtake Obama in total spending."
A billion dollars; $1,000,000,000.00. Each.
The obscenity of this just floors me. In this race to achieve ultimate power, two campaigns are ready to spend a billion dollars or more, each, to try to convinvce us that they have the best man for the job of President of The United States.
I wonder what George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Patrick Henry, Benjamin Franklin and other Founders might have thought of this?
I wonder what you think of this.
Obviously, this is an old and out of date query.
Buyers Remorse' Leaves Obama Campaign Struggling for Campaign Funds
"Conservatives just two years ago feared Obama would raise and spend a billion dollars in the 2012 campaign. Now, there is a real possibility that Romney and his official partners at the Republican National Committee could overtake Obama in total spending."
A billion dollars; $1,000,000,000.00. Each.
The obscenity of this just floors me. In this race to achieve ultimate power, two campaigns are ready to spend a billion dollars or more, each, to try to convinvce us that they have the best man for the job of President of The United States.
I wonder what George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Patrick Henry, Benjamin Franklin and other Founders might have thought of this?
I wonder what you think of this.
Monday, July 16, 2012
A.G. Holder speaks for the President, not for the people or for the law
(author is George H. Rodriguez)
July 11, 2012
Dear Editor:
We need to set the record straight for the media after A.G. Holder’s comments at the NAACP convention in Houston, yesterday.
First, the law is not a “proposed” law as he stated. It is a law, signed by the Governor of the state of Texas. Holder may contest the law, but it is a law.
Second, Holder claims it will cost people to acquire a state issued identification and compares it to a “poll tax”. Not true, again. People who do not have a current ID will not have to pay to get one.
Third, he claimed the law is aimed at discouraging minority voters. Not, true. The law is aimed at preventing voter fraud. The law does not single out any racial or ethnic group to prevent their participation. It is for everyone. Furthermore, in states like Georgia where similar laws have been passed, the minority participation in elections has not been adversely affected.
Fourth, Holders and other claim voter fraud is a rare problem. However, if there is one illegible person who is voting, that is one person too many. Why should we ignore voter fraud simple because some think it is rare? Votes are the precious expressions of citizens’ public opinions, and they should be protected from fraud.
Finally, there is the irony in yesterday’s event because to enter the Holder press conference one had to show a photo ID. Why wasn’t he worried about the impact on minority journalists?
The Texas Voter ID law is justice and should be upheld by the Supreme Court. I am a Hispanic and I support it.
George H. Rodriguez
PresidentSouth Texas Political Alliance
July 11, 2012
Dear Editor:
We need to set the record straight for the media after A.G. Holder’s comments at the NAACP convention in Houston, yesterday.
First, the law is not a “proposed” law as he stated. It is a law, signed by the Governor of the state of Texas. Holder may contest the law, but it is a law.
Second, Holder claims it will cost people to acquire a state issued identification and compares it to a “poll tax”. Not true, again. People who do not have a current ID will not have to pay to get one.
Third, he claimed the law is aimed at discouraging minority voters. Not, true. The law is aimed at preventing voter fraud. The law does not single out any racial or ethnic group to prevent their participation. It is for everyone. Furthermore, in states like Georgia where similar laws have been passed, the minority participation in elections has not been adversely affected.
Fourth, Holders and other claim voter fraud is a rare problem. However, if there is one illegible person who is voting, that is one person too many. Why should we ignore voter fraud simple because some think it is rare? Votes are the precious expressions of citizens’ public opinions, and they should be protected from fraud.
Finally, there is the irony in yesterday’s event because to enter the Holder press conference one had to show a photo ID. Why wasn’t he worried about the impact on minority journalists?
The Texas Voter ID law is justice and should be upheld by the Supreme Court. I am a Hispanic and I support it.
George H. Rodriguez
PresidentSouth Texas Political Alliance
Friday, June 29, 2012
the road to oligarchy
Today's Supreme Court decision marks the end of a constitutional United States of America and the end of personal freedom in this once great nation; the experiment is over.
oligarchy
Definition
| ol·i·gar·chies | Plural |
NOUN
1. small governing
group: a small group of people who together govern a
nation or control an organization, often for their own
purposes
2. entity ruled by
oligarchy: a nation governed or an organization
controlled by an oligarchy
3. government by small
group: government or control by a small group of
people
Saturday, June 09, 2012
intelligent evolution
For over six thousand years, mankind has worshiped God; for roughly 153 years "intelligent" mankind has marched away from God and worshiped at the altar of "theory".
And we call ourselves the evolved species?
And we call ourselves the evolved species?
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Paul's letter to the Roman believers, Chapter 13
Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God. Therefore whoever resists authority has opposed the ordinance of God; and they who have opposed will receive condemnation upon themselves.
For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing.
Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law.
For this, "YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, YOU SHALL NOT MURDER, YOU SHALL NOT STEAL, YOU SHALL NOT COVET," and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF."
Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. Do this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we believed. The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.
Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.
Romans 13:1-14 (NASB)
For rulers are not a cause of fear for good behavior, but for evil. Do you want to have no fear of authority? Do what is good and you will have praise from the same; for it is a minister of God to you for good. But if you do what is evil, be afraid; for it does not bear the sword for nothing; for it is a minister of God, an avenger who brings wrath on the one who practices evil. Therefore it is necessary to be in subjection, not only because of wrath, but also for conscience' sake. For because of this you also pay taxes, for rulers are servants of God, devoting themselves to this very thing.
Render to all what is due them: tax to whom tax is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honor to whom honor. Owe nothing to anyone except to love one another; for he who loves his neighbor has fulfilled the law.
For this, "YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY, YOU SHALL NOT MURDER, YOU SHALL NOT STEAL, YOU SHALL NOT COVET," and if there is any other commandment, it is summed up in this saying, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF."
Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfillment of the law. Do this, knowing the time, that it is already the hour for you to awaken from sleep; for now salvation is nearer to us than when we believed. The night is almost gone, and the day is near. Therefore let us lay aside the deeds of darkness and put on the armor of light.
Let us behave properly as in the day, not in carousing and drunkenness, not in sexual promiscuity and sensuality, not in strife and jealousy. But put on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the flesh in regard to its lusts.
Romans 13:1-14 (NASB)
Friday, May 11, 2012
time for a change
Our country is a mess. A stagnated Congress, an anti-Constitutional President, a Presidential contender who doesn't see the characteristic horror inherent in his "hijinks and pranks " (I am disgusted by his flippant explanation and pitiful apology), and a U.S. Supreme Court Justice who admires the Constitution of South Africa more than the Constitution of the United States.
Comedienne Maria Bamford quipped, "My mom is very religious and she said, 'Whatever you think about all the time, that's what you worship.' If that's the case I'd like everyone to pop open their Diet Coke cans and turn to page 37 of their People Magazines. In this holy scripture, we read the parable of Ms. Valerie Bertinelli."
Exactly. The self indulgent distraction and willful ignorance of the American public brings our country to the brink of manic self destruction. What has happened to our country, our society, our culture, our "way of life"? I think the following excerpt from a Wiki on "The American Way" aptly illustrates the twists and bends that our jointly followed path of freedom has taken:
"The comic book superhero Superman fights for "truth, justice and the American way." In some modern comic books it has been changed to "truth, justice and hope" (after the events of the Infinite Crisis miniseries), and in the 2006 film Superman Returns the phrase was recited by the character Perry White as "truth, justice, all that stuff." The "Up, Up and Away" comic book story arc firmly re-established the slogan as "truth, justice and the American way." .In the Christopher Reeve movies, the phrase is used semi-ironically. In Superman the Movie, Lois Lane (Margot Kidder) responds to the phrase by laughing and remarking "You're going to end up fighting every elected official in this country." (The film was conceived shortly after the Vietnam War and the Watergate Scandal). In Episode 1 of the 1948 Columbia Pictures serial Superman entitled "Superman Comes to Earth", Clark Kent's adoptive father John Kent tells Clark that he must use his powers to fight for "truth, tolerance and justice"."
The election of Barak Obama points to our collective dis-function; we elected a man to lead us to promised "change" without his once defining what that change would look like. As a distracted nation we collectively ran blindly off a cliff of "hope" and see now that Obama's idea of change is to change personal freedom for slavery to government.
There are two things I know.
Pray for the elected leaders of our nation, that they will learn, know and follow the will of our God.
This is the only hope left for our nation.
I have made a decision to vote, or to not vote, in the following manner:
I can see that this will leave me with few choices to make; I will trust God to make up the difference.
"Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end." ~ Revelation 22:12-13
Comedienne Maria Bamford quipped, "My mom is very religious and she said, 'Whatever you think about all the time, that's what you worship.' If that's the case I'd like everyone to pop open their Diet Coke cans and turn to page 37 of their People Magazines. In this holy scripture, we read the parable of Ms. Valerie Bertinelli."
Exactly. The self indulgent distraction and willful ignorance of the American public brings our country to the brink of manic self destruction. What has happened to our country, our society, our culture, our "way of life"? I think the following excerpt from a Wiki on "The American Way" aptly illustrates the twists and bends that our jointly followed path of freedom has taken:
"The comic book superhero Superman fights for "truth, justice and the American way." In some modern comic books it has been changed to "truth, justice and hope" (after the events of the Infinite Crisis miniseries), and in the 2006 film Superman Returns the phrase was recited by the character Perry White as "truth, justice, all that stuff." The "Up, Up and Away" comic book story arc firmly re-established the slogan as "truth, justice and the American way." .In the Christopher Reeve movies, the phrase is used semi-ironically. In Superman the Movie, Lois Lane (Margot Kidder) responds to the phrase by laughing and remarking "You're going to end up fighting every elected official in this country." (The film was conceived shortly after the Vietnam War and the Watergate Scandal). In Episode 1 of the 1948 Columbia Pictures serial Superman entitled "Superman Comes to Earth", Clark Kent's adoptive father John Kent tells Clark that he must use his powers to fight for "truth, tolerance and justice"."
The election of Barak Obama points to our collective dis-function; we elected a man to lead us to promised "change" without his once defining what that change would look like. As a distracted nation we collectively ran blindly off a cliff of "hope" and see now that Obama's idea of change is to change personal freedom for slavery to government.
There are two things I know.
- We cannot legislate morality, but that does not mean we shall be tolerant of, or indifferent to, those things we know to be wrong.
- God defines "wrong" and "right"; He is still in charge and will remain so past the end of human existence.
Stand for what is right and moral. Follow God.
Pray for the elected leaders of our nation, that they will learn, know and follow the will of our God.
This is the only hope left for our nation.
I have made a decision to vote, or to not vote, in the following manner:
- I will not cast a ballot for an incumbent politician in any office.
- I will not vote for any politician or party who advocates immoral or destructive behavior.
- If the above two choices are all that remain on the ballot, I will not vote for that office.
I can see that this will leave me with few choices to make; I will trust God to make up the difference.
"Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end." ~ Revelation 22:12-13
Monday, May 07, 2012
our failing civilization
Jack Curtis provides a chilling insight to our failing civilization in an American Thinker offering.
The Big Picture: Our Curiously Failing Civilization
Thursday, May 03, 2012
National Day of Prayer
Greg Laurie Comments on the National Day of Prayer
"and My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land." ~ 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NASB)
"and My people who are called by My name humble themselves and pray and seek My face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, will forgive their sin and will heal their land." ~ 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NASB)
Saturday, April 28, 2012
work
“But we urge you, brethren, to excel still more, and to make it your ambition to lead a quiet life and attend to your own business and work with your hands, just as we commanded you, so that you will behave properly toward outsiders and not be in any need.” ~ 1 Thessalonians4:10b-12
“Slaves, in all things obey those who are your masters on earth, not with external service, as those who merely please men, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.” ~ Colossians 3:22-24
“Slaves, in all things obey those who are your masters on earth, not with external service, as those who merely please men, but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord. Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.” ~ Colossians 3:22-24
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
war in the heavens and on earth
If it wasn't for spiritual warfare, we wouldn't have any war at all.
Keep this in mind, through all you troubles, real or imagined, and continue to thank our God who loves you and is mindful of all you endure.
Pray without ceasing and praise, praise, praise Him!
236 years is nothing to God and we have a hard road ahead, America.
Sin, slavery, supplication, salvation, silence. Repeat. The story of Israel. (Thanks Pastor Roger, for the lesson!)
"Jerusalem, once so crowded, lies deserted and lonely. This city that was known all over the world is now like a widow. This queen of the nations has been made a slave." ~ Lamentations 1:1 (CEV)
Stay mindful,
Steve
Keep this in mind, through all you troubles, real or imagined, and continue to thank our God who loves you and is mindful of all you endure.
Pray without ceasing and praise, praise, praise Him!
236 years is nothing to God and we have a hard road ahead, America.
Sin, slavery, supplication, salvation, silence. Repeat. The story of Israel. (Thanks Pastor Roger, for the lesson!)
"Jerusalem, once so crowded, lies deserted and lonely. This city that was known all over the world is now like a widow. This queen of the nations has been made a slave." ~ Lamentations 1:1 (CEV)
Stay mindful,
Steve
Wednesday, April 18, 2012
peace to America
The Trayvon Martin case is a tragedy, but it is a local case, to be tried in the local courts by a local judge and jury. Our President, our Federal and State officials need to keep their noses out of it, the media are just using it to engender "Gun Control" support and Sharpton and Jackson are just milking it for personal and political gain. And for the last time, I hope, HE WAS NOT KILLED BY A POLICE OFFICER, on duty or off!
I grieve for the Martin family and friends and I pray that the senseless deaths in this country would stop; ALL of them, not just black men killed by White/Hispanic men, but all senseless deaths, of every type, shootings, stabbings, road rage, beatings, all of them and the color of the victim or of the perpetrator should never be an issue to anyone.
We'll find out during the legal proceedings the real story of what happened that night, not just the current media exploited versions or the "Death to Zimmerman" racist hater versions, but the truth and, hopefully, justice will be served.
I know that many folks in this country have forgotten (or never learned) the tenants of the Constitution of the United States of America and that we are (supposedly) considered to be innocent until PROVEN guilty in a Court of Law. We want and hope for justice and we hope and pray that the jury will consider the evidence presented and not be swayed by the "Trial by Media". This case may not go to trial or it might. In either case, hysteria, media generated hate and hype and racist taunting should never rule the day.
I will never forget the L.A. riots and how racist hatred burned a city. I pray we will not see a similar reprisal.
Trayvon Martin was not killed by a gun, he was killed by a man. The complete why and the complete how have not yet come to light; I hope they do soon and, whatever the outcome, I pray that, as a nation, we will allow the Martin family the time to grieve in peace and that this death will not beget other deaths, for any reason.
I grieve for the Martin family and friends and I pray that the senseless deaths in this country would stop; ALL of them, not just black men killed by White/Hispanic men, but all senseless deaths, of every type, shootings, stabbings, road rage, beatings, all of them and the color of the victim or of the perpetrator should never be an issue to anyone.
We'll find out during the legal proceedings the real story of what happened that night, not just the current media exploited versions or the "Death to Zimmerman" racist hater versions, but the truth and, hopefully, justice will be served.
I know that many folks in this country have forgotten (or never learned) the tenants of the Constitution of the United States of America and that we are (supposedly) considered to be innocent until PROVEN guilty in a Court of Law. We want and hope for justice and we hope and pray that the jury will consider the evidence presented and not be swayed by the "Trial by Media". This case may not go to trial or it might. In either case, hysteria, media generated hate and hype and racist taunting should never rule the day.
I will never forget the L.A. riots and how racist hatred burned a city. I pray we will not see a similar reprisal.
Trayvon Martin was not killed by a gun, he was killed by a man. The complete why and the complete how have not yet come to light; I hope they do soon and, whatever the outcome, I pray that, as a nation, we will allow the Martin family the time to grieve in peace and that this death will not beget other deaths, for any reason.
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Robert Knight reviews Obama's attempt to misappropriate Reagan's values.
KNIGHT: Titanic misappropriation of Reagan
Friday, April 13, 2012
"545 People"
Charley Reese has been a journalist for 49 years. 
545 PEOPLE
By Charlie Reese
" Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them.
Have you ever wondered, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, WHY do we have deficits?
Have you ever wondered, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, WHY do we have inflation and high taxes?
You and I don't propose a federal budget. The president does.
You and I don't have the Constitutional authority to vote on appropriations. The House of Representatives does.
You and I don't write the tax code, Congress does.
You and I don't set fiscal policy, Congress does.
You and I don't control monetary policy, the Federal Reserve Bank does.
One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president, and nine Supreme Court justices equates to 545 human beings out of the 300 million are directly, legally, morally, and individually responsible for the domestic problems that plague this country.
I excluded the members of the Federal Reserve Board because that problem was created by the Congress. In 1913, Congress delegated its Constitutional duty to provide a sound currency to a federally chartered, but private, central bank.
I excluded all the special interests and lobbyists for a sound reason.. They have no legal authority. They have no ability to coerce a senator, a congressman, or a president to do one cotton-picking thing. I don't care if they offer a politician $1 million dollars in cash. The politician has the power to accept or reject it. No matter what the lobbyist promises, it is the legislator's responsibility to determine how he votes.
Those 545 human beings spend much of their energy convincing you that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common con regardless of party.
What separates a politician from a normal human being is an excessive amount of gall. No normal human being would have the gall of a Speaker, who stood up and criticized the President for creating deficits.. The president can only propose a budget. He cannot force the Congress to accept it.
The Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, gives sole responsibility to the House of Representatives for originating and approving appropriations and taxes. Who is the speaker of the House? Nancy Pelosi. She is the leader of the majority party. She and fellow House members, not the president, can approve any budget they want. If the president vetoes it, they can pass it over his veto if they agree to.
It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300 million cannot replace 545 people who stand convicted -- by present facts -- of incompetence and irresponsibility. I can't think of a single domestic problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people. When you fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they want to exist.
If the tax code is unfair, it's because they want it unfair.
If the budget is in the red, it's because they want it in the red ..
If the Army &Marines are in IRAQ , it's because they want them in IRAQ
If they do not receive social security but are on an elite retirement plan not ava ila ble to the people, it's because they want it that way.
There are no insoluble government problems.
Do not let these 545 people shift the blame to bureaucrats, whom they hire and whose jobs they can abolish; to lobbyists, whose gifts and advice they can reject; to regulators, to whom they give the power to regulate and from whom they can take this power. Above all, do not let them con you into the belief that there exists disembodied mystical forces like "the economy," "inflation," or "politics" that prevent them from doing what they take an oath to do.
Those 545 people, and they alone, are responsible.
They, and they alone, have the power.
They, and they alone, should be held accountable by the people who are their bosses.
Provided the voters have the gumption to manage their own employees.
We should vote all of them out of office and clean up their mess!"
Charlie Reese is a former columnist of the Orlando Sentinel Newspaper.
545 PEOPLE
By Charlie Reese
" Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them.
Have you ever wondered, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, WHY do we have deficits?
Have you ever wondered, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, WHY do we have inflation and high taxes?
You and I don't propose a federal budget. The president does.
You and I don't have the Constitutional authority to vote on appropriations. The House of Representatives does.
You and I don't write the tax code, Congress does.
You and I don't set fiscal policy, Congress does.
You and I don't control monetary policy, the Federal Reserve Bank does.
One hundred senators, 435 congressmen, one president, and nine Supreme Court justices equates to 545 human beings out of the 300 million are directly, legally, morally, and individually responsible for the domestic problems that plague this country.
I excluded the members of the Federal Reserve Board because that problem was created by the Congress. In 1913, Congress delegated its Constitutional duty to provide a sound currency to a federally chartered, but private, central bank.
I excluded all the special interests and lobbyists for a sound reason.. They have no legal authority. They have no ability to coerce a senator, a congressman, or a president to do one cotton-picking thing. I don't care if they offer a politician $1 million dollars in cash. The politician has the power to accept or reject it. No matter what the lobbyist promises, it is the legislator's responsibility to determine how he votes.
Those 545 human beings spend much of their energy convincing you that what they did is not their fault. They cooperate in this common con regardless of party.
What separates a politician from a normal human being is an excessive amount of gall. No normal human being would have the gall of a Speaker, who stood up and criticized the President for creating deficits.. The president can only propose a budget. He cannot force the Congress to accept it.
The Constitution, which is the supreme law of the land, gives sole responsibility to the House of Representatives for originating and approving appropriations and taxes. Who is the speaker of the House? Nancy Pelosi. She is the leader of the majority party. She and fellow House members, not the president, can approve any budget they want. If the president vetoes it, they can pass it over his veto if they agree to.
It seems inconceivable to me that a nation of 300 million cannot replace 545 people who stand convicted -- by present facts -- of incompetence and irresponsibility. I can't think of a single domestic problem that is not traceable directly to those 545 people. When you fully grasp the plain truth that 545 people exercise the power of the federal government, then it must follow that what exists is what they want to exist.
If the tax code is unfair, it's because they want it unfair.
If the budget is in the red, it's because they want it in the red ..
If the Army &Marines are in IRAQ , it's because they want them in IRAQ
If they do not receive social security but are on an elite retirement plan not ava ila ble to the people, it's because they want it that way.
There are no insoluble government problems.
Do not let these 545 people shift the blame to bureaucrats, whom they hire and whose jobs they can abolish; to lobbyists, whose gifts and advice they can reject; to regulators, to whom they give the power to regulate and from whom they can take this power. Above all, do not let them con you into the belief that there exists disembodied mystical forces like "the economy," "inflation," or "politics" that prevent them from doing what they take an oath to do.
Those 545 people, and they alone, are responsible.
They, and they alone, have the power.
They, and they alone, should be held accountable by the people who are their bosses.
Provided the voters have the gumption to manage their own employees.
We should vote all of them out of office and clean up their mess!"
Charlie Reese is a former columnist of the Orlando Sentinel Newspaper.
Wednesday, April 04, 2012
curmudgeon
cur·mudg·eon
[ker-muhj-uhn] Show IPA
noun
a bad-tempered, difficult, cantankerous person.
When I looked in the mirror this morning, I thought I saw an old curmudgeon looking back at me, but I was wrong. Or maybe, I wasn't, Some days are better than others and the same can be said for my temper, be it bad or good.
In all of us lies a dormancy of one nature or another; today, I think I'd like to be "the friendly old guy across the street".
I'll work on that.
8-0)
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
obamacare vs supreme court
Posted on the ACLJ site, view Fox news report on today's proceedings:
Skepticism from Justice Kennedy on ObamaCare Mandate
Saturday, March 03, 2012
a clean life
"Our LORD, you bless everyone who lives right and obeys your Law. You bless all of those who follow your commands from deep in their hearts and who never do wrong or turn from you. You have ordered us always to obey your teachings; I don't ever want to stray from your laws. Thinking about your commands will keep me from doing some foolish thing. I will do right and praise you by learning to respect your perfect laws. I will obey all of them! Don't turn your back on me. Young people can live a clean life by obeying your word." ~ Psalm 119:1-9 (CEV)
"Young people can live a clean life by obeying your word."
I have many times contemplated how my life would have been different if I had captured and managed this single concept when I was young. How might my life have ventured differently, how much would it have wavered, how much pain missed and how much real life enjoyed?
My fleshly thoughts, of course, turn to all the "fun" I would have missed, the hedonistic pursuit of pleasure that drove, and wasted, much of my life.
I would trade all that now for the simple ability to love and live with abandon to the Lord. I long for the peace that would have come from pure motives and the knowledge that each of my steps was orchestrated by Him and not by my headlong rush to "feel" the next experience of the flesh.
"Young people can live a clean life by obeying your word."
I wonder what "a clean life" might have felt like for 20, 30, 40, 50 years.
I have to think my heart would be light, my regrets few and my smile genuine.
Friday, March 02, 2012
God, can I ask you something?
Me (in a tizzy) : God, can I ask you something?
GOD: Sure.
Me: Promise you won't get mad?
GOD: I promise.
Me (frustrated): Why did you let so much stuff happen to me today?
GOD: What do you mean?
Me: Well I woke up late,
GOD: Yes
Me: My car took forever to start,
GOD: Okay....
Me (growling): At lunch, they made my sandwich wrong and I had to wait
GOD: Hmmmm..
Me: On the way home, my phone went dead, just as I picked up a call
GOD: All right
Me (loudly): And to top it all off, when I got home, I just wanted to soak my feet in my foot massager and relax, but it wouldn't work. Nothing went right today! Why did you do that?
GOD: Well let me see..... The death angel was at your bed this morning and I had to send one of the other angels to battle him for your life. I let you sleep through that.
Me (humbled): Oh...
GOD: I didn't let your car start because there was a drunk driver on your route that might have hit you if you were on the road
Me (ashamed): ............
GOD: The first person who made your sandwich today was sick and I didn't want you to catch what they have, I knew you couldn't afford to miss work
Me (embarrassed): Oh.....
GOD: Your phone went dead because the person that was calling was going to give a false witness about what you said on that call, I didn't even let you talk to them so you would be covered
Me (softly): I see God
GOD: Oh and that foot massager, it had a short that was going to throw out all of the power in your house tonight. I didn't think you wanted to be in the dark.
Me: I'm sorry God.
GOD: Don't be sorry, just learn to trust me.........in all things, the good and the bad
Me: I WILL trust you God
GOD: And don't doubt that my plan for your day is always better than your plan
Me: I won't God. And let me just tell you God, thank you for everything today.
GOD: You're welcome child. It was just another day being your God and I love looking after my children.
GOD: Sure.
Me: Promise you won't get mad?
GOD: I promise.
Me (frustrated): Why did you let so much stuff happen to me today?
GOD: What do you mean?
Me: Well I woke up late,
GOD: Yes
Me: My car took forever to start,
GOD: Okay....
Me (growling): At lunch, they made my sandwich wrong and I had to wait
GOD: Hmmmm..
Me: On the way home, my phone went dead, just as I picked up a call
GOD: All right
Me (loudly): And to top it all off, when I got home, I just wanted to soak my feet in my foot massager and relax, but it wouldn't work. Nothing went right today! Why did you do that?
GOD: Well let me see..... The death angel was at your bed this morning and I had to send one of the other angels to battle him for your life. I let you sleep through that.
Me (humbled): Oh...
GOD: I didn't let your car start because there was a drunk driver on your route that might have hit you if you were on the road
Me (ashamed): ............
GOD: The first person who made your sandwich today was sick and I didn't want you to catch what they have, I knew you couldn't afford to miss work
Me (embarrassed): Oh.....
GOD: Your phone went dead because the person that was calling was going to give a false witness about what you said on that call, I didn't even let you talk to them so you would be covered
Me (softly): I see God
GOD: Oh and that foot massager, it had a short that was going to throw out all of the power in your house tonight. I didn't think you wanted to be in the dark.
Me: I'm sorry God.
GOD: Don't be sorry, just learn to trust me.........in all things, the good and the bad
Me: I WILL trust you God
GOD: And don't doubt that my plan for your day is always better than your plan
Me: I won't God. And let me just tell you God, thank you for everything today.
GOD: You're welcome child. It was just another day being your God and I love looking after my children.
Scriptural References: II Samuel 22:31, Proverbs 3:5, Hebrews 2:13
Thursday, March 01, 2012
"Then Moses said unto Aaron, This is it that the LORD spake, saying, I will be sanctified in them that come nigh me, and before all the people I will be glorified. And Aaron held his peace." ~ Leviticus 10:3 (NASB)
"Then Moses told Aaron that this was exactly what the LORD had meant when he said: "I demand respect from my priests, and I will be praised by everyone!" Aaron was speechless." ~ Leviticus 10:3 (CEV)
All too often, those of us who call ourselves by the Name of our Lord, act and speak in manners contrary to biblical teaching. We have a sacred responsibility to act in a manner that reflects a Holy God, not in a manner that detracts from Him, both for us and for those who watch us.
As Aaron seemed to be in the passage noted, we should be ashamed of ourselves and seek His forgiveness for current transgressions and His help to prevent future failures of the flesh.
"Then Moses told Aaron that this was exactly what the LORD had meant when he said: "I demand respect from my priests, and I will be praised by everyone!" Aaron was speechless." ~ Leviticus 10:3 (CEV)
All too often, those of us who call ourselves by the Name of our Lord, act and speak in manners contrary to biblical teaching. We have a sacred responsibility to act in a manner that reflects a Holy God, not in a manner that detracts from Him, both for us and for those who watch us.
As Aaron seemed to be in the passage noted, we should be ashamed of ourselves and seek His forgiveness for current transgressions and His help to prevent future failures of the flesh.
Tuesday, February 28, 2012
does the Blood of Jesus not wash away sin?
author unknown
THE BLOOD
One night in a church service a young woman felt the tug of God at her heart. She responded to God's call and accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior.
The young woman had a very rough past, involving alcohol, drugs, and prostitution. But, the change in her was evident. As time went on she became a faithful member of the church. She eventually became involved in the ministry, teaching young children.
It was not very long until this faithful young woman had caught the eye and heart of the pastor's son. The relationship grew and they began to make wedding plans. This is when the problems began.
You see, about one half of the church did not think that a woman with a past such as hers was suitable for a pastor's son. The church began to argue and fight about the matter. So they decided to have a meeting.
As the people made their arguments and tensions increased, the meeting was getting completely out of hand. The young woman became very upset about all the things being brought up about her past. As she began to cry the pastor's son stood to speak.
He could not bear the pain it was causing his wife to be. He began to speak and his statement was this:
"My fiancee's past is not what is on trial here. What you are questioning is the ability of the blood of Jesus to wash away sin. Today you have put the blood of Jesus on trial. So, does it wash away sin or not?"
The whole church began to weep as they realized that they had been slandering the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Too often, even as Christians, we bring up the past and use it as a weapon against our brothers and sisters. Forgiveness is a very foundational part of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
If the blood of Jesus does not cleanse the other person completely then it cannot cleanse us completely. If that is the case, then we are all in a lot of trouble.
What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus! End of case!!!!
"Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."
Psalm 55:23
author unknown
THE BLOOD
One night in a church service a young woman felt the tug of God at her heart. She responded to God's call and accepted Jesus as her Lord and Savior.
The young woman had a very rough past, involving alcohol, drugs, and prostitution. But, the change in her was evident. As time went on she became a faithful member of the church. She eventually became involved in the ministry, teaching young children.
It was not very long until this faithful young woman had caught the eye and heart of the pastor's son. The relationship grew and they began to make wedding plans. This is when the problems began.
You see, about one half of the church did not think that a woman with a past such as hers was suitable for a pastor's son. The church began to argue and fight about the matter. So they decided to have a meeting.
As the people made their arguments and tensions increased, the meeting was getting completely out of hand. The young woman became very upset about all the things being brought up about her past. As she began to cry the pastor's son stood to speak.
He could not bear the pain it was causing his wife to be. He began to speak and his statement was this:
"My fiancee's past is not what is on trial here. What you are questioning is the ability of the blood of Jesus to wash away sin. Today you have put the blood of Jesus on trial. So, does it wash away sin or not?"
The whole church began to weep as they realized that they had been slandering the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ. Too often, even as Christians, we bring up the past and use it as a weapon against our brothers and sisters. Forgiveness is a very foundational part of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
If the blood of Jesus does not cleanse the other person completely then it cannot cleanse us completely. If that is the case, then we are all in a lot of trouble.
What can wash away my sins? Nothing but the blood of Jesus! End of case!!!!
"Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved."
Psalm 55:23
author unknown
Thursday, February 23, 2012
billy gibbons says,
How should a man handle growing older?
"Grow a beard and make friends with a a good hat. It will be a companion that doesn't let you down." ~ Billy Gibbons, published in Men's Journal, Dec. 2011/Jan. 2012
I've got a great hat and I think I'll re-grow my beard. I don't know if it'll ever be as long as Billy's but at least it won't scratch my girls' faces!
"Grow a beard and make friends ..." David knew that living together in peaceful fellowship, "in unity", was a blessing of purpose designed by God. It's not always easy, but it will always end up as the better way to live.
"A Song of degrees of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore." ~ Psalm 133
"Grow a beard and make friends with a a good hat. It will be a companion that doesn't let you down." ~ Billy Gibbons, published in Men's Journal, Dec. 2011/Jan. 2012
I've got a great hat and I think I'll re-grow my beard. I don't know if it'll ever be as long as Billy's but at least it won't scratch my girls' faces!
"Grow a beard and make friends ..." David knew that living together in peaceful fellowship, "in unity", was a blessing of purpose designed by God. It's not always easy, but it will always end up as the better way to live.
"A Song of degrees of David. Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron's beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore." ~ Psalm 133
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Saturday, February 04, 2012
Tenth Amendment to The Constitution of the United States of America
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people. ~ Ratified December 15, 1791
Friday, February 03, 2012
"Made, Marred and Made Again"
"And, notice, God did not make man haphazardly, but with an infinite plan and purpose. He made him in His own image and likeness: a creature with which He could commune and fellowship. You were made for God’s fellowship, and to fulfill any other purpose is to fail to fulfill your destiny.
That heart of yours, which, despite its evil and waywardness, in its serious moments cries out for fellowship with the infinite God. That mind of yours, so fraught with evil imaginations, sensual images and earthly aspirations, longs for communion with the divine Potter."
Made, Marred and Made Again
BGEA exists to support and extend the evangelistic calling and ministries of Billy and Franklin Graham by proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all we can by every effective means available and by equipping others to do the same.
That heart of yours, which, despite its evil and waywardness, in its serious moments cries out for fellowship with the infinite God. That mind of yours, so fraught with evil imaginations, sensual images and earthly aspirations, longs for communion with the divine Potter."
Made, Marred and Made Again
BGEA exists to support and extend the evangelistic calling and ministries of Billy and Franklin Graham by proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ to all we can by every effective means available and by equipping others to do the same.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
politics making strange bedfellows
Its interesting, and sad, to watch several individuals making attempts to destroy each other, in the name of "party unity". As the GOP contenders for the throne of "King of The World" move forward, their virtues shed and malevolence unmasked against each other, I must shake my head in forlorn sadness that I will cast a ballot for one of these, come November, no other sane choice apparent.
Yes, Obama must go and America must have a chance to regain her footing, but I mourn for a more gracious time, if ever there was one, in America.
Aaaah, to have been a cowboy on the plains during the westward expansion, or a farmer, alone on the prairie with my family ...
Yes, Obama must go and America must have a chance to regain her footing, but I mourn for a more gracious time, if ever there was one, in America.
Aaaah, to have been a cowboy on the plains during the westward expansion, or a farmer, alone on the prairie with my family ...
the first time you hear
"Papua New Guinea (MNN) ― Providing God's Word in the heart language of a people group is a key to evangelism, discipleship and church planting. Without it, people hear the words, but sometimes those words get lost in translation. That's exactly what happened to the Siar People of Papua New Guinea."
The Gospel is proclaimed for the first time among the Siar
"How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher? How will they preach unless they are sent? Just as it is written, “HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS”. However, they did not all heed the good news; for Isaiah says, “LORD, WHO HAS BELIEVED OUR REPORT" So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ." ~ Romans 10:14-17
The Gospel is proclaimed for the first time among the Siar
"How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed? How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard? And how will they hear without a preacher? How will they preach unless they are sent? Just as it is written, “HOW BEAUTIFUL ARE THE FEET OF THOSE WHO BRING GOOD NEWS OF GOOD THINGS”. However, they did not all heed the good news; for Isaiah says, “LORD, WHO HAS BELIEVED OUR REPORT" So faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ." ~ Romans 10:14-17
Saturday, January 28, 2012
just a thought
I had recently acknowledged that I suffer from impetuousness and impatience in virtually every area of my waking life; maybe even in sleep as I do toss and turn through the night. Today's devotion from Daily Disciples hits the spot.
Patience - Daily Disciples - January 28
Sunday, January 22, 2012
How do I vote thee? Let me count the ways ....
My wife reminded me of a different view toward casting that important decision in November 2012.
It's not about the candidate, its about what he represents; its about what his party represents. We must set aside our like or dislike of the final candidate for whichever party we most closely align ourselves to and vote in that direction.
Do you believe that a woman's right to convenience outweighs the right to an unborn child's life? Do you believe that our nation should be governed by a foreign collective, the UN, instead of by representatives duly elected by the people? Do you believe that homosexuals deserve special treatment; that, contrary to their own vocal demands for "equality", they should be a protected class, given preferential bias in all areas of American society and culture? Do you believe that no one should have to take personal responsibility for their actions and that, instead, the government will protect those who lack or fail to exercise common sense, from themselves and from society? Do you believe that the Federal Government has the intelligence, foresight and capacity to creatively make your life decisions for you? Do you believe that the Federal Government is better equipped to make parental decisions for your children? Do you believe that it is better to keep generations of citizens in poverty, continuing to feed, house, clothe, and minimally educate them so that the vast majority they will never rise above their current living condition. Do you believe that striving for success in America, for any reason other than increasing your ability to give your success away at the mandate of the Federal Government, is wrong?
If you believe all these things, then you should vote for the Democrat candidate, whomever he or she may be.
If, however, you disagree with these concepts, then your vote must logically be cast in another direction.
Do you believe that God created life and holds it to be a precious? Do you believe that the Constitution of The United States of America is, and should continue to be, the sole source of law in America? Do you understand and believe that homosexuals are already protected by exactly the same laws that protect heterosexuals and that they are not deserving of anything special or different solely because they choose to live differently? Do you believe that, according to all existing laws and God's design, that each of us has a free will and that we must be held accountable for the exercise of that will and that we must rightly suffer the just consequences, good and bad, of our decisions and choices? Do you understand that the Federal Government is made up of common men and women and that each of them suffers the same flaws and weaknesses that each and every other one of us do; that they are not "super wise and intelligent" people that we should blindly follow? Do you believe that the parent is best equipped to raise their own children in the manner of each family's personal views and beliefs and that the Government has no place in that decision making process, other than in the exercise of common law?
These beliefs best represent a vote for a Republican candidate, whomever that candidate may be.
Somewhere between these two views are the Libertarians and you might discover your vote properly belongs there.
In any case, please, don't throw away your vote, and your country, by voting for or against a face, a name, a suit, a hair style, an accent, a spouse or a skin color. Don 't diminish yourself by voting for an attitude. Vote for the party that best represents your views; and then pray that God will guide the individual who comes out in the lead.
BTW, exercise common sense; just because one party claims to be the ONLY party that represents a particular view, keep in mind that politics is primarily a popularity contest and telling you what you want to hear is the most employed tactic.
I remember being in McAllen, TX on the eve of the Clinton/Bush election and hearing Bill Clinton tell a crowd of 10,000+ on the airport tarmac that, if he was elected, he would guarantee a free college education to all their children. This was a ridiculous promise, but the crowd roared its approval, and I'm sure that Governor Clinton chuckled all the way back to his plane seat, certain that more than a few would vote for him just because of that one farcical bit of last minute grandstanding. Politicians have always known, and counted on, what P.T. Barnum reportedly said, "There's a sucker born every minute."; some parties count on them more than others.
Democrat Party Platforms
Libertarian Party Platforms
Republican Party Platforms
It's not about the candidate, its about what he represents; its about what his party represents. We must set aside our like or dislike of the final candidate for whichever party we most closely align ourselves to and vote in that direction.
Do you believe that a woman's right to convenience outweighs the right to an unborn child's life? Do you believe that our nation should be governed by a foreign collective, the UN, instead of by representatives duly elected by the people? Do you believe that homosexuals deserve special treatment; that, contrary to their own vocal demands for "equality", they should be a protected class, given preferential bias in all areas of American society and culture? Do you believe that no one should have to take personal responsibility for their actions and that, instead, the government will protect those who lack or fail to exercise common sense, from themselves and from society? Do you believe that the Federal Government has the intelligence, foresight and capacity to creatively make your life decisions for you? Do you believe that the Federal Government is better equipped to make parental decisions for your children? Do you believe that it is better to keep generations of citizens in poverty, continuing to feed, house, clothe, and minimally educate them so that the vast majority they will never rise above their current living condition. Do you believe that striving for success in America, for any reason other than increasing your ability to give your success away at the mandate of the Federal Government, is wrong?
If you believe all these things, then you should vote for the Democrat candidate, whomever he or she may be.
If, however, you disagree with these concepts, then your vote must logically be cast in another direction.
Do you believe that God created life and holds it to be a precious? Do you believe that the Constitution of The United States of America is, and should continue to be, the sole source of law in America? Do you understand and believe that homosexuals are already protected by exactly the same laws that protect heterosexuals and that they are not deserving of anything special or different solely because they choose to live differently? Do you believe that, according to all existing laws and God's design, that each of us has a free will and that we must be held accountable for the exercise of that will and that we must rightly suffer the just consequences, good and bad, of our decisions and choices? Do you understand that the Federal Government is made up of common men and women and that each of them suffers the same flaws and weaknesses that each and every other one of us do; that they are not "super wise and intelligent" people that we should blindly follow? Do you believe that the parent is best equipped to raise their own children in the manner of each family's personal views and beliefs and that the Government has no place in that decision making process, other than in the exercise of common law?
These beliefs best represent a vote for a Republican candidate, whomever that candidate may be.
Somewhere between these two views are the Libertarians and you might discover your vote properly belongs there.
In any case, please, don't throw away your vote, and your country, by voting for or against a face, a name, a suit, a hair style, an accent, a spouse or a skin color. Don 't diminish yourself by voting for an attitude. Vote for the party that best represents your views; and then pray that God will guide the individual who comes out in the lead.
BTW, exercise common sense; just because one party claims to be the ONLY party that represents a particular view, keep in mind that politics is primarily a popularity contest and telling you what you want to hear is the most employed tactic.
I remember being in McAllen, TX on the eve of the Clinton/Bush election and hearing Bill Clinton tell a crowd of 10,000+ on the airport tarmac that, if he was elected, he would guarantee a free college education to all their children. This was a ridiculous promise, but the crowd roared its approval, and I'm sure that Governor Clinton chuckled all the way back to his plane seat, certain that more than a few would vote for him just because of that one farcical bit of last minute grandstanding. Politicians have always known, and counted on, what P.T. Barnum reportedly said, "There's a sucker born every minute."; some parties count on them more than others.
Democrat Party Platforms
Libertarian Party Platforms
Republican Party Platforms
Am I? Are you?
"First of all, then, I urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all those who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good, and it pleases God our Savior, who wants everyone to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth." 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (HCSB)
"Everyone must submit to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are instituted by God. So then, the one who resists the authority is opposing God's command, and those who oppose it will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do good and you will have its approval. For government is God's servant to you for good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, because it does not carry the sword for no reason. For government is God's servant, an avenger that brings wrath on the one who does wrong. Therefore, you must submit, not only because of wrath, but also because of your conscience. And for this reason you pay taxes, since the authorities are God's public servants, continually attending to these tasks. Pay your obligations to everyone: taxes to those you owe taxes, tolls to those you owe tolls, respect to those you owe respect, and honor to those you owe honor." Romans 13:1-7 (HCSB)
"Everyone must submit to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist are instituted by God. So then, the one who resists the authority is opposing God's command, and those who oppose it will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good conduct, but to bad. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do good and you will have its approval. For government is God's servant to you for good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, because it does not carry the sword for no reason. For government is God's servant, an avenger that brings wrath on the one who does wrong. Therefore, you must submit, not only because of wrath, but also because of your conscience. And for this reason you pay taxes, since the authorities are God's public servants, continually attending to these tasks. Pay your obligations to everyone: taxes to those you owe taxes, tolls to those you owe tolls, respect to those you owe respect, and honor to those you owe honor." Romans 13:1-7 (HCSB)
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Right To Life news
Exciting news from Texas Right To Life:
Breaking News: Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals upholds Texas Sonogram Law
Huge victory for women's health and the unborn!
Abortion providers across Texas filed a class-action lawsuit last summer to keep the new Texas Sonogram Law from taking effect. Abortion advocates claimed that the law violated their First Amendment rights by forcing them to disclose certain information -- information about the unborn children they are about to kill -- to their abortion patients. The lawsuit was filed in pro-choice Judge Sam Sparks’ court, and Sparks ruled that the law would not go into effect while he examined the constitutionality of the law.
This morning, the United States Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans upheld the Sonogram Law, and lifted Sparks’ injunction. The opposition desperately fought to keep the window to the womb closed since 70 to 80% of women will choose life after seeing the child on the screen.
Texas Right to Life Legislative Director John Seago commented on the ruling:
Yours for Life,
Elizabeth Graham
Director
This morning, the United States Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans upheld the Sonogram Law, and lifted Sparks’ injunction. The opposition desperately fought to keep the window to the womb closed since 70 to 80% of women will choose life after seeing the child on the screen.
Texas Right to Life Legislative Director John Seago commented on the ruling:
This ruling marks the turning point in this long court battle over the strongest and most effective sonogram law in the nation, empowering pregnant women with, accurate informed consent information before finalizing any decision about their pregnancy. This law will protect pregnant women from the routine deception practiced at abortion clinics, and women deserve the truth about the life in their womb.Texas Right to Life’s directors attended the hearing at the Fifth Circuit Court in New Orleans last week when the three-judge panel artfully challenged opposing counsel about their push for reversal of the law. The panel ruled against the Center for Reproductive Rights, confirming that they “failed to demonstrate constitutional flaws in H.B. 15.” Furthermore, the panel said that the preliminary injunction set by Judge Sparks was based on two erroneous arguments: (1) vagueness and (2) unconstitutionality, and the judges recognized that the sonogram law is indeed an appropriate way to strengthen informed consent before an abortion:
To belabor the obvious and conceded point, the required disclosures of a sonogram, the fetal heartbeat, and their medical descriptions are the epitome of truthful, non-misleading information. They are not different in kind, although more graphic and scientifically up-to-date, than the disclosures discussed in Casey -- probable gestational age of the fetus and printed material showing a baby’s general prenatal development stages.Extra bonus: Court costs were assessed to the plaintiffs!!!
Yours for Life,
Elizabeth Graham
Director
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