Reformation Heritage

From My Perspective - - -

While the culture is enthralled and involved with Halloween Costumes and Parties, October 31^st has a significant and important meaning for people all over the world. It was on this date in 1517 AD that Martin Luther made known his 95 Theses (Contentions-Protests) by nailing them to the door of All-Saints Church in Wittenberg, Saxony (in present day Germany). These were points of/for debate that criticized the Church and the Pope. The most controversial points centering on the practice of selling Indulgences, the Church’s policy on Purgatory, and the requirements for Penance. It also pointed out the high degree of corruption within the Church that reached to the highest levels of leadership.

As important as that date and posting of the 95 Theses was, there was other preliminary work that had been done earlier by other men of faith and conviction. Some of them were - - -

JOHN WYCLIFFE (1320-1384) was a theologian and early proponent of reform in the Roman Catholic Church during the 14th century. The first hand-written English language Bible manuscripts were produced in 1380's AD by Wycliffe, an Oxford professor, scholar, and theologian. He was well-known throughout Europe for his opposition to the teaching of the organized Church, which he believed to be contrary to the Bible. With the help of his followers, called THE LOLLARDS, and his assistant Purvey, and many other faithful scribes, Wycliffe produced dozens of English language manuscript copies of the Scriptures.

JOHN HUS (1369-1415) was one of Wycliffe’s followers…He actively promoted Wycliffe’s ideas that people should be permitted to read the Bible in their own language, and they should oppose the tyranny of the Roman church that threatened anyone possessing a non-Latin Bible with execution. Hus was burned at the stake in 1415, with Wycliffe’s manuscript Bibles used as kindling for the fire. The last words of John Hus were that, “in 100 years, God will raise up a man whose calls for reform cannot be suppressed.”

MARTIN LUTHER (1483-1546) was a Christian theologian and Augustinian monk whose teachings inspired the Protestant Reformation. Almost exactly 100 years after Hus’ death and prophecy - in 1517 - Martin Luther nailed his famous 95 Theses of Contention onto the church door at Wittenberg.

WILLIAM TYNDALE - (1494-1536) a Biblical translator who overlapped Martin Luther, He was viewed as “the Captain of the Army of Reformers”, and was their spiritual leader. He holds the distinction of being the first man to ever print the New Testament in the English language. He was so fluent in eight languages that it was said one would think any one of them to be his native tongue. He is frequently referred to as the “Architect of the English Language”, as so many of the phrases he coined are still in our language today.

THE GENEVA BIBLE - printed in England in 1575 was a Protestant translation of the Bible into English. It was read by William Shakespeare, John Knox, and John Bunyan, author of Pilgrim's Progress. It was one of the Bibles taken to America on the Mayflower, It was used by many English Dissenters, and by Oliver Cromwell's soldiers at the time of the English Civil War.

KING JAMES VERSION – 1611 is an English translation of the Bible begun in 1604 and first published in 1611 by the Church of England.

Consider these things with me - - - and remember that we are to perpetuate this heritage as well. Take heart from the words of Isaiah 54:16-17 and heed them as well: “See - it is I – the Lord - who created the blacksmith who fans the coals into flame and forges a weapon fit for its work. And it is I who have created the destroyer to work havoc; no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me, declares the Lord.” Be filled with hope and courage as you implement this heritage from the Lord!

RADICALISM

From My Perspective - - -

There are many different philosophies for life and government embraced by people in this world. For anyone over the age of 50, there are too many remembrances of Nazism, Communism, Socialism, and Fascism (and too many “isms” to list them all). For those who fought in, and who still remember the horrors of World War II, Americanism (democracy) – with all of its quirks and foibles – is to be preferred over any alternative.

One should be wary when the possibility of “Change” is offered. It has a nice ring to it – but – what does it mean? “Change” from what – to what? One of the subtle possibilities that is submerged below the surface of political ambitions being seen today is Radicalism. This philosophy for a life and/or nation has been around since the early 1970s. It was popularized in the writings of Saul Alinsky and has been embraced by some well-known politicians in the United States and elsewhere. They do not trumpet their embrace of and their allegiance to this philosophy – they just follow many of the Tactics to subtly achieve certain objectives and goals. Saul Alinsky’s biographer, Sanford B. Horwitt, writes: “Alinsky believed in the radical American idea that democracy is for ordinary people…(and that) his spirit and importance live on is no small comfort amidst the decay of democracy…” You can read about this background and political philosophy at the website: http://www.itvs.org/democraticpromise/alinsky.html...

Another website that states the Alinsky principle more boldly lists the 13 TACTICS that Radicals must embrace and implement. Go to: http://www.crossroad.to/Quotes/communism/alinsky.htm... Some of these Tactics are: “1. Power is not only what you have, but what the enemy thinks you have….4. Make the enemy live up to its own book of rules… 5. Ridicule is man's most potent weapon. It is almost impossible to counteract ridicule. Also it infuriates the opposition, which then reacts to your advantage….13. Pick the target, freeze it, personalize it, and polarize it. In conflict tactics there are certain rules that [should be regarded] as universalities. One is that the opposition must be singled out as the target and ‘frozen.’... When you 'freeze the target,' you disregard these [rational but distracting] arguments and carry out your attack.... One acts decisively only in the conviction that all the angels are on one side and all the devils on the other." These principles were selected to highlight the particular operative words: “Power… Ridicule… Pressure (on opposition to follow own rules)… Pressure… Conflict… Polarization (freeze the target)… Obviously, the idea is assertive on the one hand and encourages polarization and conflict (confusion) on the other. If a careful and honest analysis is done regarding where we are headed politically today, Radicalism (along with Socialism) are standing on the threshold of this nation – and – thousands and millions of people are rallying to this cause and around this banner. The underlying and unasked question is – Why? How can intelligent people develop a “herd instinct” and embrace the unknown and undefined, and head full speed toward the precipice?

Consider these things with me - - - ponder and ask – what has happened to Christianity and the Church that has left people with a diminished interest and lack of involvement? Why is the approach of Jesus Christ becoming increasingly passé, whereas the Alinsky approach is revived and energized? Jesus Christ offered a radical choice and a decisive commitment for one to be His disciple. Why is that no longer a focus? Whatever happened to the consideration of: Luke 14:26-27, 33 [NLT] – “If you want to be my follower you must love me more than your own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters – yes, more than your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. And you cannot be my disciple if you do not carry your own cross and follow me…no one can become my disciple without giving up everything for me.” Have we become so enamored with materialism and power potential, that personal “stuff” and temporal is allowed to dwarf the eternal; and the true significance in terms of the soul and commitment to Jesus Christ is jettisoned for the rhetoric of the moment that may very easily crush the spirit and enslave the mind and neutralize the will? Don’t miss the only change of significance, namely, yielding to Jesus Christ – His will and His plan and His cause. He’s ready and waiting to be followed! He will lead you on a positive journey!

EGALITARIANISM

From My Perspective - - -

For almost 235 years, the United States of America has existed as a Republic – for many of those years - the envy of the world. We had representative government; regular and orderly elections; prosperity beyond comparison; ingenuity and creativity that allowed for great advancement; and freedom for which people sacrificed so they could become part of the “new world” with the new opportunities.

The earliest documents of this nation indicate the desire to both promote and preserve the freedom of all. The Mayflower Compact was a written agreement composed by a consensus of the new Settlers arriving at New Plymouth in November of 1620. All 41 of the adult male members on the Mayflower signed the Compact. Being the first written laws for the new land, the Compact determined authority within the settlement and was the observed as such until 1691. It is simple and forthright in its assertion. The Mayflower Compact reads: "In the name of God, Amen. We, whose names are underwritten, the Loyal Subjects of our dread Sovereign Lord, King James, by the Grace of God, of England, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, e&. Having undertaken for the Glory of God, and Advancement of the Christian Faith, and the Honour of our King and Country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the northern parts of Virginia; do by these presents, solemnly and mutually in the Presence of God and one of another, covenant and combine ourselves together into a civil Body Politick, for our better Ordering and Preservation, and Furtherance of the Ends aforesaid; And by Virtue hereof to enact, constitute, and frame, such just and equal Laws, Ordinances, Acts, Constitutions and Offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the General good of the Colony; unto which we promise all due submission and obedience. In Witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names at Cape Cod the eleventh of November, in the Reign of our Sovereign Lord, King James of England, France and Ireland, the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth. Anno Domini, 1620." Some of those affixing their signatures to this document were: John Carver, William Bradford, Edward Winslow, William Brewster, Isaac Allerton, Myles Standish, and John Alden. Among some the earliest settlers and observers of this new nation stated:

EDMUND BURKE (1729-1794), "There is but one law for all, namely, that law which governs all law, the law of our Creator."

PATRICK HENRY (1736-1799), "It cannot be emphasized too strongly, nor too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ…"

THOMAS JEFFERSON (1743-1826), third U.S. President, chosen to write the Declaration of Independence, said: "I have little doubt that the whole country will soon be rallied to the unity of our Creator, and, I hope, to the pure doctrines of Jesus also." In his 1805 inaugural address, he stated: "I shall need, too, the favor of that Being in whose hands we are, who led our forefathers, as Israel of old, from their native land and planted them in this country."

Consider these things with me - - - and remember that the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights are only valid when the elected Government is committed to maintaining and defending these principles of freedom. We are approaching a dangerous threshold that might allow for many of these rights and freedoms to be jeopardized. Egalitarianism means: “Affirming, promoting, or characterized by belief in equal political, economic, social, and civil rights for all people.” While we are to pray for and show respect for our elected leaders, we must not jettison the work ethic and championing the individual’s responsibility to work, earn, utilize thrift, sacrifice to achieve purposes and goals worthy of seeking. The Holy Scriptures emphasize the beauty, reality and necessity for freedom. In Galatians 5:1, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Freedom from religious legalisms, and freedom from governmental intrusion in personal matters of life. When one allows himself to benefit from largess from the treasury of the Government – “Liberality in bestowing gifts, especially in a lofty or condescending manner” – it always comes with an eventual personal cost, namely – bondage and slavery! You can be free in Jesus Christ! He said: “Know the truth – it will make you free indeed!”

Redistribution and Redefinition

From My Perspective - - - In 2001 while Barrack Obama was a state senator in Illinois, the following Public Radio Interview with Obama was recorded: “Tragedy that 'redistribution of wealth' not pursued by the Supreme Court…The Constitution 'Reflected Fundamental Flaw Of This Country That Continues To This Day'...” The interview can be heard by going to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iivL4c_3pck If one carries this concept to an extreme, there could be the Redefinition of the US Constitution from “We The People…” to the changing philosophy of “Wean The People…”

The concept of “Spreading the Wealth Around” can have some interesting eventualities if and as the concept is applied. A friend shared the following Theoretical Vignette: “Today on my way to lunch I passed a homeless guy with a sign that read "Vote Obama, I Need The Money." I laughed. Once in the restaurant my server had on a "Obama 08" necktie. Again, I laughed as he had given away his political preference. Just imagine the coincidence! When the bill came I decided not to tip the server and explained to him that I was exploring the Obama Redistribution of Wealth concept. He stood there in disbelief while I told him that I was going to redistribute his tip to someone who I deemed more in need--the homeless guy outside. The server angrily stormed from my sight. I went outside, gave the homeless guy $10 and told him to thank the server inside as I've decided he could use the money more. The homeless guy was grateful. At the end of my rather unscientific redistribution experiment I realized the homeless guy was grateful for the money he did not earn, but the waiter was pretty angry that I gave away the money he did earn even though the actual recipient deserved money more. I guess redistribution of wealth is an easier thing to swallow in concept than in practical application."

A couple of things are inherent in the overall Redistribution Concept: (1) The core belief is that we belong not to ourselves, but to government. We are tools that the government is free to use to bring about "economic justice." The fruits of our labor belong to government...and government can do with them what it pleases; and (2) At the root, Redistribution and Redefinition is a Marxist/Communist tenant…Increasing taxes is not because the government needs the money, but because the people who do have the money don't actually deserve it and there are other people who need it more – so it is Redistributed… Karl Marx's Statement Of The Creed in the 'Critique of the Gotha Program' is as follows: “In a higher phase of communist society, after the enslaving subordination of the individual to the division of labor, and therewith also the antithesis between mental and physical labor, has vanished; after labor has become not only a means of life but life's prime want; after the productive forces have also increased with the all-around development of the individual, and all the springs of co-operative wealth flow more abundantly—only then can the narrow horizon of bourgeois right be crossed in its entirety and society inscribe on its banners: FROM EACH ACCORDING TO HIS ABILITY, TO EACH ACCORDING TO HIS NEEDS!”

Consider these things with me - - - but remember that the work ethic should not be blurred or suppressed. It is increasingly difficult to espouse a Biblical Work Ethic within a Post-Christian Culture. We should never forget the teachings of Scripture, such as I Thessalonians 4:11-12, “Make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and TO WORK WITH YOUR HANDS, just as we told you, so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and SO THAT YOU WILL NOT BE DEPENDENT ON ANYBODY.” Also in II Thessalonians 3:10-12, “ For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: If a man will not work, he shall not eat. We hear that some among you are idle. They are not busy; they are busybodies. Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to SETTLE DOWN AND EARN THE BREAD THEY EAT.” There are always clear choices! Marxism and Christianity are stark contrasts. The work ethic is clear and precise. There is a radical difference between Jesus Christ and Karl Marx. We need to move from the apathy and indifference – the lethargy and laziness - of our times, and embrace Biblical principles for life that are free from lofty (and empty) rhetoric. This nation is very near to enslavement to the State and is seemingly complacent regarding the tragedy that comes with that kind of Change! There’s still time to make the right and wise choice! Don’t miss your opportunity to choose Jesus Christ.

BLASE And/Or DUPED

From My Perspective - - -

A long-standing trite comment is: “Don’t confuse me with the facts!” Of late, that seems to be the direction accepted and taken by many within our country and culture. There is a Blasé approach to life in general and facts in particular. The Blasé individual is one who is: “Uninterested because of frequent exposure or indulgence; Unconcerned; nonchalant; indifferent to or bored with life; unimpressed, as or as if from an excess of worldly pleasures…” This approach and attitude can easily allow for one being Duped as well. The one who is duped is said to be: “a person who is easily deceived or fooled; gullible; a person who unquestioningly or unwittingly serves a cause or another person; an easily deceived person; a person who functions as the tool of another person or power…”

An example of this may be the position taken by Retired Gen. Colin L. Powell. He has the right to endorse and vote for his particular choice for President. His rational for doing so is vital. His endorsement statement for the Democratic nominee included these words: “…the election of Obama would electrify the world…I think he is a transformational figure, He is a new generation coming...onto the world stage and on the American stage…” Powell also said: "I would have difficulty with two more conservative appointments to the Supreme Court, but that's what we'd be looking at in a Republican administration." There are grave consequences to this latter reason. The next President will most likely nominate 2 or 3 Supreme Court Justices. The issue for many is to prevent the overturn of Roe V. Wade, and partial-birth abortion.

The Partial-Birth Abortion procedure is frightening at best and hideous at worst. A report done for NPR.org is entitled: “Partial-Birth Abortion:' Separating Fact from Spin - by Julie Rovner.” In that report, she makes these remarks: “The further along a pregnancy is, the more complicated -- and the more controversial -- the procedures are for aborting it. Abortions performed after the 20th week of pregnancy typically require that the fetus be dismembered inside the womb so it can be removed without damaging the pregnant woman's cervix. Some gynecologists consider such methods, known as "dilation and evacuation," less than ideal because they can involve substantial blood loss and may increase the risk of lacerating the cervix, potentially undermining the woman's ability to bear children in the future…Two abortion physicians, one in Ohio and one in California, independently developed variations on the method by extracting the fetus intact. The Ohio physician, Martin Haskell, called his method "dilation and extraction," or D&X. It involved dilating the woman's cervix, then pulling the fetus through it feet first until only the head remained inside. Using scissors or another sharp instrument, the head was then punctured, and the skull compressed, so it, too, could fit through the dilated cervix. Haskell has said that he devised his D&X procedure because he wanted to find a way to perform second-trimester abortions without an overnight hospital stay, because local hospitals did not permit most abortions after 18 weeks…”

Consider these things with me - - - and be cautioned by the words of Dr. James Dobson: “We need a President who will nominate…strict-constructionist judges to the Court. If that doesn't happen, the highest court in the land could become stacked…with justices who will endeavor to legislate from the bench and impose a liberal agenda on the nation. It will likely affect the definition of marriage, religious freedom, and the protection (or lack thereof) of life in the womb.” The problem with being matter-of-fact, blasé and duped about such matters is pointed out in Proverbs 24:11-12, “Rescue those being led away to death; hold back those staggering toward slaughter. If you say, ‘But we knew nothing about this,’ does not he who weighs the heart perceive it? Does not he who guards your life know it? Will he not repay each person according to what he has done?” One cannot dismiss his/her responsibility with a shrug of ones shoulders. It is vital how one votes! We have already destroyed more than 45 million lives by way of abortion – how many more do we want sacrificed? This one vote may change this nation forever! Be careful and prayerful how you cast your vote! This is no time to be either blasé or duped! The Lord is watching and He knows! No one can fake it with Him – and – all will be accountable to Him!

APPREHENSION

From My Perspective - - -

As one views life in general and our nation in particular, it would be easy to be apprehensive in terms of where our country may be headed. Apprehension and Worry are not too far removed from each other. To be “Apprehensive” means to be: “uneasy or fearful about something that might happen…anxious or fearful about the future…”

Should one be concerned about the immediate and future? Absolutely! As the citizenry is voting now (Absentee Ballots) and collectively on November 4^th, is it being done with discernment of where we are headed and how precipitous the slope is that we are descending? With the issue of taxes and re-distribution of wealth (“spread the wealth around”), is there an awareness of how quickly we will become a socialist nation? With all the disinformation and misrepresentation regarding taxes and the tax structure, the Georgia Public Policy Foundation came up with a chart that shows the effect of high marginal tax rates. In 1980 the highest tax rate was 70%, but the top 5% of income earners were only paying 35% of all income taxes. Now the highest rate is 35%, and the top 5% are paying 60% of all income taxes. Here's your chart :

	1980	2006
Highest Federal Income Tax Rate	70%	35%
Share of Taxes Paid by Top 5%	37%	60%
Share of Taxes Paid by Top 25%	73%	86%
Share of Taxes Paid by Bottom 50%	7%	3%

The oft-repeated talking-point statement that there will be “a tax cut for 95% of the people” is disingenuous at best and flat out deceptive at worst, inasmuch as greater than 40% of the people pay no taxes at all. Also, some in Congress have such a sense that there will be change in the power structure of Government, we are beginning to hear the “plans” for the future – (a) The Chairman of the House Finance Committee stating yesterday that he wants to see a 25% cut in military spending; (b) The House Speaker expressing the immediate need for a $150 Billion stimulus package that would cover a wide range of social benefits; etc.

The Biblical mandate continues for us regardless of who is elected and whoever has the rule over us: “ I urge…that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone--for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”

Consider these things with me - - - and remember that the overall context of the Bible speaks to and about a people who knew captivity, oppression, persecution and hardship. In the most bleak moment, God had strategically placed Joseph in the government of Egypt and he was able to intervene. In like manner, Moses was sent to Pharaoh with the simple demand – “let my people go!” There was Esther who had “come to the kingdom for such a time as this”! There was Elijah who was not inclined to bow his knee to Baal, and led the revolt against such a despotic regime and time. There was Daniel and his companions in the midst of Babylonian tyranny who refused to compromise. The New Testament also speaks of the persecutions and the hostility as evidenced in the death of Jesus Christ; the martyrdom of Stephen in Acts 6; the imprisonments of Peter and Paul because of the Gospel they proclaimed. They were fearless before Pilate, Festus, Agrippa, and showed no reluctance to proclaim the Gospel when Nero came to power. Our direction remains constant: “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be people of courage; be strong” (I Corinthians 16:13). Be a person of faith, hope, strength, good character – God is still on His Throne and is always in control!

VENERATION

From My Perspective - - -

Our Culture has always demonstrated an ability to have objects of special attention and to be thought of in different ways. When I was a child, part of the great competition vying for a “fan-base” in music was in terms of who the best “crooner” was – Frank Sinatra or Bing Crosby. It was said that young women would “swoon” when they heard Frankie “croon”… It was a form of “Veneration”! According to Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, Veneration means: “…the highest degree of respect and reverence; respect mingled with awe; a feeling or sentimental excited by the dignity, wisdom, or superiority of a person, by sacredness of character, by consecration to sacred services, or by hallowed associations…”

How does this translate into the political scene leading up to the National Election on November 4^th? Has the Media Coverage in any way amplified “veneration” in its coverage of any candidate? Has the media displayed an approach that is objective versus one that is subjective? In other words, has the Media Coverage been fair and balanced and equal? As you answer the questions, consider the cover of news magazines that have pictured one candidate with lighting placed so it appeared his head was shrouded with a halo! Most recently in San Francisco, Votive Candles have appeared displaying one candidate as a “saint”.

Consider also that the long-time leader of the Nation of Islam addressing a large crowd behind a podium February 24th with a Nation of Islam Savior's Day 2008 sign, Louis Farrakhan proclaims: "You are the instruments that God is going to use to bring about universal change, and that is why Barack has captured the youth. And he has involved young people in a political process that they didn't care anything about. That's a sign. When the Messiah speaks, the youth will hear, and the Messiah is absolutely speaking…” Farrakhan points out that the man Nation of Islam followers refer to as "the Savior," Fard Muhammad, had a black father and a white mother, just as Obama did. A black man with a white mother became a savior to us," he said. "A black man with a white mother could turn out to be one who can lift America from her fall. Would God allow Barack to be president of a country that has been so racist, so evil in its treatment of Hispanics, Native Americans, blacks?" he asked. "Would God do something like that? Yeah. Of course he would. That's to show you that the stone that the builders rejected has become the headstone of the corner. This is a sign to you. It's the time of our rise. It's the time that we should take our place. The future is all about you."

What threshold is this approaching (or has it already crossed it)? What is the danger sign to what has been allowed to unfold before us over this past year? Where is the voice of “The Church” decrying such activity and display? Where is “The Prophet” today proclaiming the error and folly of this veneration? Why does “fear” seem to grip so many? Will it be important for the uniformed or fearful to cast their vote inappropriately? Could we be living in the description stated by the Apostle Paul in II Thessalonians 2:1 through 12?

Consider these things with me - - - and the words of Paul: “Now concerning the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our being gathered together to him, we ask you…not to be quickly shaken in mind or alarmed…that day will not come, unless the rebellion comes first, and the man of lawlessness is revealed, the son of destruction, who opposes and exalts himself against every so-called god or object of worship, so that he takes his seat in the temple of God, proclaiming himself to be God… God sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness…” None of us should face the future with fear. Our hope is not in our nation or in our politicians. Our hope must always be in the Lord Jesus Christ Who holds His own in the hollow of His hand where we are always cared for; always protected; always safe! Look to Him – I know you’ll love Him and be loved by Him!

DISPARAGEMENT

From My Perspective - - - -

One of the cruelest forms of insult is disparagement. It’s a word that means: “To speak of in a slighting or disrespectful way; belittle. To reduce in esteem or rank….the act of speaking contemptuously of…” There are sundry illustrations of this type of verbalization and/or body language. Most recently, it began occurring when a man named Joe 'the Plumber' Wurzelbacher attended a Senator Obama Rally. He asked a question of The Senator regarding his plan to tax those with income exceeding $250,000.00, and how that would affect whether or not he could aspire to and develop his own small plumbing company.

How does a Campaign and a sympathetic Media respond when a challenge is presented to the Plan of The Candidate? The criticisms (and disparagement) were almost immediate: “He’s a registered Republican; He isn’t a Licensed Plumber; He owes back taxes in excess of $1,000.00; No plumber earns $250,000.00 a year; etc.” Others stated: “Bill Maher says that Joe is "living in a Republican fantasy world" where he is going to get rich and have over $250,000. Joy Beyhar said pretty much the same thing on The View.” Why the vitriolic commentary? Why the disparaging remarks? Simply because “Joe, The Plumber” elicited the answer from The Senator, “we’ll spread the wealth around…” There you have it – the admission of re-distribution of wealth! “Take from the rich and give to the poor!” That will be the Tax Policy of that Candidate IF he is elected (and the momentum appears to indicate that he will).

On the other hand, a Battle Tested Military retiree decided to endorse a non-battle tested candidate for the Presidency. While Colin Powell was hailed for his wisdom in making such an endorsement, The Candidates” running mate was sharing the dangerous possibility of what will occur with a non-Battle Tested President within the first six months of his Presidency. Senator Joe Biden is reported by ABC NEWS to have made the following comments on October 20, 2008: Biden to Supporters: "Gird Your Loins", For the Next President "It's Like Cleaning Augean Stables"… Sen. Joe Biden, D-Del. guaranteed that if elected, Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., will be tested by an international crisis within his first six months in power and he will need supporters to stand by him as he makes tough, and possibly unpopular, decisions. "Mark my words," the Democratic vice presidential nominee warned at the second of his two Seattle fundraisers Sunday. "It will not be six months before the world tests Barack Obama like they did John Kennedy. The world is looking. We're about to elect a brilliant 47-year-old senator president of the United States of America. Remember I said it standing here if you don't remember anything else I said. Watch, we're gonna have an international crisis, a generated crisis, to test the mettle of this guy…”

The erudite and elitists who disparage others and who reject any criticism regarding The Candidate have moments of reality checks indicating this man may not be ready for prime time; the Presidency is not a place for the untested and inexperienced; that he may be getting into something that is clearly above his pay-grade. But – don’t dare to be heard saying that or you may be the next “Joe, the Plumber” who is berated and disparaged because of a contrary point of view.

Consider these things with me - - - and remember that Disparagement is nothing new. Noah was Disparaged as he built the Ark. Nehemiah and the people of God were Disparaged when they rebuilt a wall from the rubble they found. Nehemiah 4:1 through 4 gives one the sense of the Berating and Disparagement: “Now when Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, he was angry and greatly enraged, and he jeered at the Jews. And he said in the presence of his brothers and of the army of Samaria, What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore it for themselves? Will they sacrifice? Will they finish up in a day? Will they revive the stones out of the heaps of rubbish, and burned ones at that? Tobiah the Ammonite was beside him, and he said, Yes, what they are building if a fox goes up on it he will break down their stone wall!” At the end of the day, the Disparaged were Victorious. Don’t despair! Keep your focus on the Goal! God is still in control!

LEADERSHIP

From My Perspective - - -

At different times, an important and thought-provoking question is posed: “How many great leaders does one know?” What traits and qualities does one possess and exude that would cause another to both sacrifice and willingly follow? This is far different from the child’s game most have played called: “Follow The Leader.” That exercise would include all kinds of unpredictable and misdirected activity. “Leadership” had little or nothing to do with the course and direction of that activity.

In a recent essay, David Hakala has attempted to describe “The Top Ten Leadership Qualities” that should be present in a Leader. He begins with a definition, “Leadership can be defined as one's ability to get others to willingly follow…A leader with vision has a clear, vivid picture of where to go, as well as a firm grasp on what success looks like and how to achieve it…A leader must be able to communicate his or her vision in terms that cause followers to buy into it. He or she must communicate clearly and passionately, as passion is contagious…”

The Qualities of Leadership include the following:

(1) DISCIPLINE to work toward his or her vision single-mindedly, as well as to direct his or her actions and those of the team toward the goal. Action is the mark of a leader. A leader does not suffer ‘analysis paralysis’ but is always doing something in pursuit of the vision, inspiring others to do the same.

(2) INTEGRITY: the integration of outward actions and inner values…Honest dealings, predictable reactions, well-controlled emotions, and an absence of tantrums and harsh outbursts are all signs of integrity.

(3) DEDICATION: spending whatever time or energy is necessary to accomplish the task at hand. A leader inspires dedication by example, doing whatever it takes to complete the next step toward the vision.

(4) MAGNANIMITY: giving credit where it is due. Conversely, a good leader takes personal responsibility for failures.

(5) HUMILITY: recognize that he is no better or worse than other members of the team. A humble leader is not self-effacing but rather tries to elevate everyone.

(6) OPENNESS: being able to listen to new ideas, even if they do not conform to the usual way of thinking.

(7) CREATIVITY: the ability to think differently, to get outside of the box that constrains solutions. Creativity gives leaders the ability to see things that others have not seen and thus lead followers in new directions. The most important question that a leader can ask is: What if …?

(8) FAIRNESS: dealing with others consistently and justly.

(9) ASSERTIVENESS: the ability to clearly state what one expects so that there will be no misunderstandings. A leader must be assertive to get the desired results.

(10) A SENSE OF HUMOR: is vital to relieve tension and boredom, as well as to defuse hostility.

Consider these things with me - - - and let us remember that the Lord has given a succinct idea of basic Leadership Instincts, Commitments and Qualities in Micah 6:8, “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” In the Paraphrase – The Message – we read: “But he's already made it plain how to live, what to do, what God is looking for in men and women. It's quite simple: Do what is fair and just to your neighbor, be compassionate and loyal in your love, And don't take yourself too seriously - take God seriously.” Let’s try it! It would be such a refreshing interaction and change!

WINNER OR LOSER

From My Perspective - - -

It is getting to a point where the idea of “Winner” or “Loser” becomes a moot point. It appears that the people of our nation are the Losers – regardless of who the political “Winner” may be. There is a smooth-talking and articulate candidate versus a stumbling and inarticulate one. If the merits of a Presidency were determined by rhetorical skill, there would be only one obvious choice. However, the substance of what one states, and the content of one’s character are vital. Even in this instance, the smooth-talking, articulate person will “win” handily. We owe it to ourselves, and our children, and our grand-children to make certain there is substance to both what is stated and in terms of ones character. There’s an interesting Internet Video of Obama declaring exactly and precisely what he intends to do with our military and defense systems. View it at:
http://macsmind.com/wordpress/2008/06/08/obama-wants-to-protect-america/...

What we should be observing with Political Candidates is (a) what they truly believe (if one can ever wade through the spin and rhetoric to sift it out), and (b) what they will do to repair what is broken without raising taxes and/or increasing spending. The smooth-talking, articulate one either can’t or won’t do it, and the stumbling, inarticulate one comes across as unbelievable in his proposals. Before YOU cast YOUR VOTE, are you able to state at least five (5) clear and precise things – free of campaign talking points - about each candidate that you know is reliable and that he will absolutely do? Scary - isn’t it? It isn’t so much in terms of which candidate wins, but how badly the citizens will lose depending on who is elected. You do have a vested and crucial interest in this election and our nation.

It seems as though we are at a precipice as a nation. As dangerous as that can be, we seem totally unaware of the proximity of that danger. The Economic Peril may be more than a cyclical factor or an evidence of greed and deliberate mismanagement. It may be a commentary on the fears people have if the wrong person is elected to be President, and what his background and persuasions will do to our nation. One candidate’s years under the teaching of Jeremiah Wright and exposure to Liberation Theology are important. Liberation theology was predominantly found in the Catholic Church after the Second Vatican Council. It is often cited as a form of Christian socialism, and it has enjoyed widespread influence in Latin America and among the Jesuits, although its influence diminished in the 1980s. If the Liberation Theology Teaching is implemented, we can easily become like any other third-world country. Few have any real democracy. Many have Dictatorships that have proven to be suppressive and harsh regarding people.

The other fear is that one candidate has stated we are no longer a Christian Nation, but one that is Christian, Jewish, Buddhist and Muslim… If we have any sense of Biblical History and Prophecy, there is a sufficient basis for thinking in terms of End-Times! In Romans 16:17-18 (NLT) we read: “Watch out for people who cause divisions and upset people's faith by teaching things that are contrary to what you have been taught. Stay away from them. Such people are not serving Christ our Lord; THEY ARE SERVING THEIR OWN PERSONAL INTERESTS. BY SMOOTH TALK AND GLOWING WORDS THEY DECEIVE INNOCENT PEOPLE.” And then Verse 19 in The Message, “…I want you also to be smart, making sure every good thing is the real thing. Don't be gullible in regard to smooth-talking evil.” In the time and moment when we least expect it (a) the antichrist will appear and wreak havoc in the nations, and (b) The Lord Jesus Christ will descend with a shout, the trumpet-call will sound, and we will be caught up to be with the Lord forever.

Consider these things with me - - - A television ministry loves to use as a mantra – Be A Victor – Not – A Victim! If your faith, trust and hope is in Jesus Christ alone, then you will be The Victor and not the victim regardless of what happens in our nation or world. But while we can – let us be Light and Salt – endeavoring to both be and to make a difference wherever and whenever we can. God is our Refuge and Fortress – let us trust in Him!

BY HOOK OR BY CROOK

From My Perspective - - -

A trite expression that has often been used and heard is: “By hook or by crook!” In the midst of suggested and/or possible meaning, this phrase generally suggests: “By any means possible – fair or foul.” This tactic is becoming more obvious in the current political campaigns. It is an “anything goes” approach from Voter Registration matters, to denigration of one’s family and background, to voter registration fraud, etc. Now we are returning to yesteryear as race issues are once again surfacing in this quest to win an election “by hook or by crook.”

Over this past weekend, Georgia Congressman John Lewis said that the negative tone of the McCain-Palin campaign reminds him of the 1960s when Governor George Wallace fostered a hateful atmosphere in Alabama. Lewis stated that John McCain and Sarah Palin are "sowing the seeds of hatred and division, and there is no need for this hostility in our political discourse." Then the back peddling begins ... later on Saturday night, Lewis tried to say that he did not intend to compare McCain-Palin to George Wallace. But – the “damage” was done and retractions serve to underscore the inaccurate assertion that was part of his original thesis. The theory is that “any time that you can make Barack Obama appear to be the victim of his race, that makes Republicans, John McCain, Sarah Palin racists.”

Patrick J. Buchanan recently wrote a column that fuels the racial tension and flames yet again. He stated: “Barack says we need to have a conversation about race in America. Fair enough. But this time, it has to be a two-way conversation. White America needs to be heard from, not just lectured to… “This time, the Silent Majority needs to have its convictions, grievances and demands heard. And among them are these: First, America has been the best country on earth for black folks. It was here that 600,000 black people, brought from Africa in slave ships, grew into a community of 40 million, were introduced to Christian salvation, and reached the greatest levels of freedom and prosperity blacks have ever known. Second, no people anywhere has done more to lift up blacks than white Americans. Untold trillions have been spent since the '60s on welfare, food stamps, rent supplements, Section 8 housing, Pell grants, student loans, legal services, Medicaid, Earned Income Tax Credits and poverty programs designed to bring the African-American community into the mainstream.

“However, governments, businesses and colleges have engaged in discrimination against whites - with affirmative action, contract set-asides and quotas - to advance black applicants over white applicants. Churches, foundations, civic groups, schools and individuals all over America have donated their time and money to support soup kitchens, adult education, day care, retirement and nursing homes for blacks. We hear the grievances. Where Is The Gratitude?” is the critical question for our times. Even though there is always room for additional improvement, why is that ‘Gratitude’ is never part of the equation?”

Consider these things with me - - - and remember the words found in Acts 17:24 through 28, “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else. From one man he made every nation of men, that they should inhabit the whole earth; and he determined the times set for them and the exact places where they should live. God did this so that men would seek him and perhaps reach out for him and find him, though he is not far from each one of us. For in him we live and move and have our being. As some of your own poets have said, We are his offspring.” It would be refreshing if the “by hook or by crook” approach was not present. It would be so welcomed if “open and above board” was the priority, and giving the electorate clear, precise, honest choices and reasons as the basis for voting for one candidate or another was foundational. As we near the finish line of the election, we are at the starting point of new directions for our nation. May God help us to make the right and wisest choice. It is important! An intelligent vote can and will make a difference!

CHANGE

From My Perspective - - -

In the political climate of our time, “CHANGE” appears in speeches of the candidates, as well as on Posters in their audience, or on the Podium being used. Do most people know what the “CHANGE” is that they are promoting? How do they define the “CHANGE” they are hoping will occur? Is it “change” in the sense that Democrats will replace Republicans? Is it “Change” in terms of who is taxed and who receives re-distribution of wealth as an additional benefit desired? Is “Change” a 21^st Century phenomenon that was promoted first by Barack Obama and has now been seized upon by many others?

“CHANGE” means: “to make the form, nature, content, future course of something different from what it is or from what it would be if left alone… to transform or convert… to transfer from one to another… to become altered or modified…” The dictionary lists 38 different possibilities for the word “change”! It is also interesting to note philosophical thought regarding change. For instance, Hercalitus (540-460 BC) stated: Nothing endures but change,” A more modern day Philosopher-Politician once remarked: “There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find the ways in which you yourself have altered! (Nelson Mandela, 1918- A Long Walk To Freedom).”

When a politician speaks of “change”, one should immediately want to know: What is it you want to change? It is one thing to blame a sitting President and suggest we need to change from that governing style, but the question should persist: What do you plan to do differently? And, how do you expect to achieve it? When a candidate states he will reduce taxes for 95% of the people, why doesn’t someone ask how that’s going to be done with the 40% that do not, and have not, paid taxes for years? Isn’t that just a semantic “change” that sounds and looks good in campaign rhetoric and appearance? Does “change” mean there will be a down-sizing once again of the Military? Does “change” mean there will be more of a ‘tax and spend” agenda than not? The election hasn’t even transpired but the Democratic Leaders are so persuaded in terms of how they believe it will go that they are going to call Congress back into session to approve more spending bills and a stimulus bill. Is that the “change” that will benefit the entire nation and improve our image and impact in a dangerous world?

Spending and Give-Away Programs may be a form of therapy for some, but it surely doesn’t lend itself to Stability for troubled times. A return to Normalcy could be an immeasurable benefit to this nation. Learning to live within our means and the curtailing of expenditures is a discipline that is lacking and much needed. We have got to Stop Spending What We Don’t Have to Get What We Don’t Need!! We need to return to the fundamental foundations that birthed our nation and review what it is that we believe must “Change”! A basic premise and principle is: “Foundations Are Forever!” When one tampers with the foundations, the superstructure becomes very unstable and collapse is not far away.

Consider these things with me - - - and remember words from the Holy Scripture: “God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it? (Numbers 23:19).” And in Malachi 3:6, “For I the Lord do not change; therefore you, O children of Jacob, are not consumed.” We should also note Hebrews 13:8-9, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Do not be led away by diverse and strange teachings, for it is good for the heart to be strengthened by grace, not by foods, which have not benefited those devoted to them.” Perhaps the time has come for this nation to return to the Lord while He may be found! We have “changed” from prayer, Bible Reading, Moral Principles and Standards, Worship of God, foundational truths – and to what end? It has served to erode us as a nation, and we find ourselves out of focus and lacking unity of purpose. Divide and Conquer is a formula of an enemy – we have made it an integral part of the body politic. We would be wise to make the correct “Change” before we are irretrievably Changed and ultimately helpless.

BLAME and SHAME

From My Perspective - - -

Charlie Reese, a former columnist of the Orlando Sentinel Newspaper, has written: “Politicians are the only people in the world who create problems and then campaign against them. Have you ever wondered why, if both the Democrats and the Republicans are against deficits, we have deficits?

“Have you ever wondered why, if all the politicians are against inflation and high taxes, 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 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 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? 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 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 available 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!”

Consider these things with me - - - Remember another duty we have, namely, to PRAY for those who have the rule and authority over us, so that we can lead a quiet and peaceable life (I Timothy 2:1 through 4).

CORRUPTION

From My Perspective - - -

CORRUPTION is defined Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary as: “1.The act of corrupting or making putrid…decomposition or disorganization, in the process of putrefaction; 2.The product of corruption; putrid matter. 3.The act of corrupting or of impairing integrity, virtue, or moral principle; the state of being corrupted or debased; loss of purity or integrity; depravity; wickedness; impurity; bribery.”

The FBI (http://www.fbi.gov/hq/cid/pubcorrupt/pubcorrupt.htm) has an entire Division that is assigned to deal with Public Corruption. Their purpose is summed up in these words: “Public corruption is one of the FBI’s top investigative priorities—behind only terrorism, espionage, and cyber crimes. Why? Because of its impact on our democracy and national security. Public corruption can affect everything from how well our borders are secured and our neighborhoods protected…to verdicts handed down in courts…to the quality of our roads and schools. And it takes a significant toll on our pocketbooks, too, siphoning off tax dollars…” Their track record is very good and they are able to report: “We've got a strong national program with agents in place around the nation dedicated to the issue. In our investigations, we use every tool we've got—our cyber capabilities, our surveillance skills, our ability to track financial dealings around the world. Last year, we opened over 900 cases, which led to over 650 convictions or guilty pleas…”

Because of the pervasiveness of Corruption, the FBI has it ranked Number 4 on their list of investigative priorities. Their priorities are: “1. Protect the United States from terrorist attack. 2. Protect the United States against foreign intelligence operations and espionage. 3. Protect the United States against cyber-based attacks and high-technology crimes. 4. Combat public corruption at all levels. 5. Protect civil rights. 6. Combat transnational and national criminal organizations and enterprises. 7. Combat major white-collar crime. 8. Combat significant violent crime. 9. Support federal, state, county, municipal, and international partners. 10. Upgrade technology to successfully perform the FBI's mission.”

Leading up to the 2006 Congressional Election, the mantra employed to remove the Republicans in favor of Democrats was – “There Is A Culture of Corruption in Washington.” That was successful in terms of the election – but then what? The Culture of Corruption is worse than ever. The words are apt that state: “Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” Those who are charged with oversight have failed miserably in their task. We find that the Chairman of the Banking Committee has even been involved in a homosexual relationship with one whose failure in the Housing Market is beginning to be known. In some inexcusable way, those who have been involved in CORRUPTING the system are now charged with investigating the CORRUPTION, as well as having oversight of the distribution of more than $700 Billion Dollar funding to bailout (rescue) the very organizations where they have consistently looked the other way while continuing to receive Campaign Contributions from these same organizations.

The Scriptures have much to say about corruption. To illustrate – Galatians 6:8 states: “For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption…” and in II Peter 2:18-19, “For, speaking loud boasts (such as, “we’ll rid Washington of the Culture of Corruption”)… They promise them freedom, but they themselves are slaves of corruption. For whatever overcomes a person, to that he is enslaved.” That’s it in a nutshell – those enslaved to corruption will investigate corruption! Are you optimistic that anything meaningful and/or beneficial will result? Only the naïve would expect any remedy by the corrupt regarding corruption.

Consider these things with me - - - Remember to follow the words of Scripture – Hebrews 13:18 (NLT): “Pray for us, for our conscience is clear and we want to live honorably in everything we do.” - and – Philippians 4:8-9, “Fix your thoughts on what is true and honorable and right. Think about things that are pure and lovely and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Keep putting into practice all you learned…and heard…and saw me doing, and the God of peace will be with you…”