Adding my views to the mix

Standing up for Ron Paul

2011-12-26T16:08:00.000-05:00

Neocon misinfo about Ron Paul put to rest at Foreign Policy Journal sad that so many accept Neo Con trash as truth http://tinyurl.com/7eusbc2

Frustrating that so many think that Ron Paul is nuts on Foreign Policy when the reality is that he has been speaking truth for years. While I am no fan of Iran's repressive government and think their persecution of so many is evil, I can appreciate their fear of the United States.

I am glad that there are writers like Jeremy Hammond who are willing to expose misinformation and write truth.

Beagle Property Laws

2011-11-30T21:59:00.001-05:00

This is classic...Beagle Property Laws.

2011-11-25T05:47:00.001-05:00

If I may editorialize on the link...This tells me that Ficano should be removed and that the County of Wayne along with the City of Detroit should go into receivership, http://tinyurl.com/7qhwwcz, I cannot fathom the selfishness of the Wayne County leadership in pocketing hundreds of thousands in fee's when so many in the City of Detroit are suffering. The only thing missing in these stories are the Kwame Kilpatrick link...

9/11 Song

2011-09-11T09:08:00.004-05:00

Here is an appropriate 9/11 Song from Peter Gabriel called I Grieve http://youtu.be/bbItz_NAIEs

Thomas Sowell on legalizing drugs

2011-09-11T07:08:00.001-05:00

Interesting thoughts by Thomas Sowell on legalizing drugs Video . He and Ron Paul make convincing arguments when one considers the tremendous cost to society such as those associated with incarceration, and damage to innocent people.

Song Bird Sings

2011-06-29T06:34:00.000-05:00

My lovely wife is back blogging at Song Bird Sings...

Keynes and Hayek

2011-04-30T13:33:00.002-05:00

Creative way to get the message out... Fight of the Century: Keynes vs. Hayek Round Two see link

GIfted Hands: The Ben Carson Story

2011-02-20T20:24:00.004-05:00

My family and I just finished watching Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story. I think it is safe to say that we have all been inspired by this great man and the faith of his mother.

Wrapping the story around the Binder Twins was brilliant!

Daily Devotions

2011-02-15T06:53:00.003-05:00

Daily Devotions can be a struggle to persevere in but there are helps available to encourage us. One that I have found and use on occasion is the Daily Office. I have been greatly encouraged by this ministry and recommend its use.

MLK on Vietnam

2011-01-18T07:21:00.001-05:00

He was so correct...

The Lion's Share

2011-01-09T00:32:00.003-05:00

I really enjoy The Lion's Share by 10,000 Maniacs

The lyric -"Until the lamb is king of the beasts we live so one sided." really sticks with me. Because it reminds me that our Lord Jesus is going to rule over this earth one day - and He is the Lamb of God! He will bring justice to this earth!

Eating an orange to the Glory of God

2011-01-09T00:16:00.003-05:00

Yesterday and today, young as it is, have not seen me consume much food since Saturday morning. I don't feel sick yet I feel sick - strange, eh? Anyway, my body craved an orange so I sliced on up and I really savored it! That orange seems to be just what the doctor, the Great Physician, ordered. I really praise God for that orange!

I am reminded of John Piper's note on the topic of drinking orange juice to the glory of God.

Surprise!

2011-01-09T00:08:00.003-05:00

It is nice to be surprised by God!

Detroit Public Schools

2011-01-04T06:46:00.003-05:00

Two headlines in the Free Press Today
40,000 kids to get laptop's from stimulus money -
DPS to layoff school bus attendants who help special needs kids -

My wife had previously worked in the Dearborn Schools as a bus driver and would come home talking of the blessing that these attendants were to the handicapped kids and the bus drivers. I would think that the same is true in Detroit.

I cannot tell from the articles if the stimulus money could not be directed to personnel which seems strange but it is the government that we're talking about, right?

Decision Points

2010-12-26T04:40:00.003-05:00

The Daily Mail is reporting that President Bush's Bio Decision Points is selling more in one month than President Clinton's did in 6 years. A number of potential reasons leap to mind, such as, interest in his reasoning for plunging America into Iraq and the War on Terror or his personal popularity with the American People. One, in my opinion, cannot deny his personal integrity and yet not be frustrated with his decision making process. His administration was one of contradictions - espousing conservatism while at the same time building government at an outrageous rate. He came into office promoting a humble foreign policy and no nation building, yet, billions were poured in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. Granted the 9/11 terrorist attacks were the worst since Pearl Harbor but one might have expected his governing principles to takeover yet he threw them away and embarked on a nation building initiative unrivaled in American History. His administration weak handling of the Fannie Mae/Freddie Mac crisis is, to me, another issue. More than whining about the mismanagement he should have went to the American People and used the bully pulpit rather than going along with Democrats and allowing Fannie and Freddie to spiral out of control. I would have expected more from a Conservative with a Harvard MBA - The first President to hold office with such a degree! I must say that with this in mind I do have much interest in finding out if and how he addresses these problems in his book!

When temptation strikes...

2010-10-24T15:36:00.003-05:00

Amongst the books that I am currently reading is When Temptation Strikes" by Larry Dixon. Larry will be speaking at Dunning Park in January 2011. I found this quote from his book particularly striking (Pun intended!)...

"If we were brought to trial for the crimes we have committed against ourselves, few would escape the gallows." The author of the quote is anonymous.

We are truly our own worst enemies. We can try to blame the devil but per Romans 6 his power over us is broken. We can try to blame the world but as Christians we overwhelmingly conquer the world in Romans 8. No one can force us to sin but too often we choose to sin and that with little encouragement. No wonder Paul is so forceful in his his letters to the churches to not give into temptation. If we would only take his exhortations to heart how much better would we feel?

Keith Green

2010-09-05T21:51:00.003-05:00

One of my all time favorites Keith Green's Prodigal Son Suite.

Arrested in Dearborn? Not! Sharia Love in Dearborn 2010

2010-09-05T14:22:00.002-05:00

Video from Josh McDowell Ministries on their time in Dearborn at the Arab-American Festival.

Steve Martin: Atheist Song - First Hymnal for Atheists

2010-08-29T15:57:00.002-05:00

Steve Martin helping atheists write a hymnal - pretty funny

From Beirut to Jerusalem

2010-08-28T08:27:00.003-05:00

I am reading "From Beirut to Jerusalem" by Tom Friedman, this books adds perspective to my understanding of the Middle East and its problems, as I read it is so sad to realize that the Middle East Governments live by The Hama Rules. Little wonder there is no peace there...

This book may have its weaknesses but it all makes me realize that real peace will only come when The Lord Jesus Christ Reigns in Jerusalem.

Read Daniel Pipes review of this book from 1989.

Francis Chan: Crazy Love

2010-08-23T18:53:00.003-05:00

Picked up Francis Chan's book Crazy Love from the library. Have you read it? What do you think?

Strange Partnership!

2010-08-18T06:04:00.003-05:00

Ron Paul and Barney Frank working on an effort to cut military spending. Both emphasize they they are not seeking to reduce resources to the troops in the field but rather cut unnecessary expenditures like US Troops et.al in Europe and Japan.

This argument while perhaps proper for Europe may cause some unrest in places like Taiwan where the threat of Chinese takeover is a real fear. But should American blood be shed to rescue Taiwan from China?

What about the movement of American Military in a timely manner from one part of the world to the next? Delays may be very costly not only strategically but in terms of life.

All agree that fat needs to be cut out but not muscle!

Let's see what comes of their proposal

Ron Paul on the bloated Intelligence Bureaucracy

2010-07-27T05:58:00.001-05:00

From his Texas Straight Talk...

Liberals hide their money...

2010-07-24T13:58:00.003-05:00

More hypocrisy on the left - John Kerry parks yacht in Rhode Island to save $5ooK in taxes! Shameful!

Dog receiving communion?

2010-07-24T10:06:00.005-05:00

Albert Mohler linked to a story in which an Anglican Church allowed a dog to take communion. I suppose with the lack of biblical conviction that exists in the Anglican Church, especially on major social issues, there should be no surprise that this incident would cause confusion in the Pastor's mind, thus, allowing this sad spectacle.

Matthew 7:6 "Do not give what is holy to the dogs...

News Conference with Abby's parents

2010-06-12T11:24:00.001-05:00

News Conference with Abby's parents....

Abby is rescued

2010-06-12T06:04:00.002-05:00

According to the LA Times and Abby's Team Twitter account she was rescued by the French Fishing Vessel Ile De La Reunion the decision of where she goes next is with the Master of the Vessel according to the Australian Herald Sun.

So happy to read that she has been rescued - many prayers by many people are being answered. Great coordination work, too, between Australia, French Fishing Vessel and Abby's Family!

Abby is Fine!

2010-06-11T06:07:00.006-05:00

So reads the post on Abby Sunderland's blog by her parents. Fox News reports that Abby is fine but her boat is damaged. It seems that the high winds and seas broke the mast which ended her satellite communication. She was found by the Australian Maritime Sea Authority which chartered a Qantas Airbus A330 search plane. The French regional Authority in Madagascar sent three ships in her direction. The closest ship to her is a French fishing vessel and that ship has been diverted to help her. I am amazed that it only took 10 minutes to find her once in range! A definite answer to the prayers of many!

Here is a Perth article on the crew that found her in the South Indian Ocean.

This link contains a picture of Wild Eyes dismasted in the Indian Ocean.

I cannot imagine the sense of relief that the family has now but certainly will be tense until Abby is on the ship. I wonder what happens to Wild Eyes? Will it be abandoned or towed to port?

Abby Sunderland

2010-06-10T18:12:00.005-05:00

Like everyone who follows Abby Sunderland I was was stunned to hear that she had been lost at sea. Both of the major AM stations in Detroit had picked up the news story and were repeating it every half hour. Needless to say this quickly became a topic for prayer. Once I got home I went to Abby's blog and got the latest update from the family. Our prayers are with Abby and her family as we trust that she is still in Wild Eyes and that help arrives quickly. Over the past months we as a family have really taken an interest in Abby and hope and pray that this turns out for the best and that she is returned home quickly.

The L.A. Times blog is carrying the opinion of her engineer who believes that she is alive but in the water.

P.S. It was good to hear Aria pray, without prompting, for Abby at dinner tonight!

Breakfast at Gingers

2010-06-04T20:57:00.001-05:00

HT Maggies Farm

Another opinion on the Flotilla attack by Israel

2010-06-04T04:42:00.003-05:00

I happened upon this link, Glenn Greenwald - Salon.com, on Twitter and it somewhat reflects my views on Israel and the attack on the flotilla. I realize that Israel is only 65 years removed from the Holocaust and is concerned with rocket attacks from the Palestinians and is taking, what it feels to be, necessary measures for self-protection but this action seems to be beyond the pale. Time will tell if there was true provocation but the evidence does not seem to exist at this point in time. Israel would do well to look back into the Prophets and the Law and examine its self and its treatment of aliens and neighbors.

Jennifer Knapp

2010-06-03T19:42:00.000-05:00

I cannot say that I own any of Jennifer Knapp's music but I am aware that she was popular and has won awards. I wonder if marketing strategy is a contributor to her revelation? Anyway to claim Christ and participate in a homosexual lifestyle is too much for me to grasp, see story here. How can one profess to be born of the Spirit, indwelled by the Spirit of God, yet not understand and obey the Bible's teaching on this issue? I suppose these types of events are what caused the writers of the Manhattan Declaration to compose their statement (which I have signed)

Let me quote... "The impulse to redefine marriage in order to recognize same-sex and multiple partner relationships is a symptom, rather than the cause, of the erosion of the marriage culture. It reflects a loss of understanding of the meaning of marriage as embodied in our civil and religious law and in the philosophical tradition that contributed to shaping the law. Yet it is critical that the impulse be resisted, for yielding to it would mean abandoning the possibility of restoring a sound understanding of marriage and, with it, the hope of rebuilding a healthy marriage culture. It would lock into place the false and destructive belief that marriage is all about romance and other adult satisfactions, and not, in any intrinsic way, about procreation and the unique character and value of acts and relationships whose meaning is shaped by their aptness for the generation, promotion and protection of life. In spousal communion and the rearing of children (who, as gifts of God, are the fruit of their parents' marital love), we discover the profound reasons for and benefits of the marriage covenant. We acknowledge that there are those who are disposed towards homosexual and polyamorous conduct and relationships, just as there are those who are disposed towards other forms of immoral conduct. We have compassion for those so disposed; we respect them as human beings possessing profound, inherent, and equal dignity; and we pay tribute to the men and women who strive, often with little assistance, to resist the temptation to yield to desires that they, no less than we, regard as wayward. We stand with them, even when they falter. We, no less than they, are sinners who have fallen short of God's intention for our lives. We, no less than they, are in constant need of God's patience, love and forgiveness. We call on the entire Christian community to resist sexual immorality, and at the same time refrain from disdainful condemnation of those who yield to it. Our rejection of sin, though resolute, must never become the rejection of sinners. For every sinner, regardless of the sin, is loved by God, who seeks not our destruction but rather the conversion of our hearts. Jesus calls all who wander from the path of virtue to "a more excellent way." As his disciples we will reach out in love to assist all who hear the call and wish to answer it.

I really appreciate the loving nature of the Declaration and the firm conviction in the rightness of the Word of God. Sadly, I realize that these words alone will not change her so I pray for Jennifer Knapp and trust that she will come to understand God’s design clearly, repent and follow that design so as to maximize true Joy in her life.

CNN Interview with Abby Sunderland's Mother

2010-05-20T18:21:00.005-05:00

I like the point that Abby's mother makes concerning the exploits of young adults in history. I doubt though that circumnavigation would be possible for young people without technology and communication. This is take nothing away from Abby and her accomplishments...I'm just saying.

Jessica Watson finishes!

2010-05-15T11:48:00.003-05:00

I really hoped that I would be able to watch Jessica Watson finish her circumnavigation. I had the time right but could find a live feed so I waited till morning and watched some of the video's that were posted on Australia's Ten and One. It was really quite exciting to watch those video's and the joy of Australia.

L.T. and Teen Sex Trafficking

2010-05-07T11:34:00.002-05:00

Interesting post by Walt Mueller at Center for Parent/Youth Understanding.

Video of Abby Sunderland arriving in South Africa

2010-05-06T17:51:00.002-05:00

GM goes to Church in search of new customers

2010-04-30T01:55:00.000-05:00

I had meant to post this earlier so this event has come and gone, yet it is testament to well meaning but clueless behavior....

This does not strike me as advantageous to the people of Detroit. How can it be that inside of the City of Detroit - one of the poorest cities in the United States - at a Church that hopefully preaches the Gospel of Jesus Christ- a message that should include no debt, except, perhaps, a home mortgage, is allowing GM to sell cars on its grounds! I wonder what the financial benefit to the church will be?

I wonder If if Churches in more affluent area's offer the same service?

More American Expatriates Give Up Citizenship

2010-04-30T01:47:00.002-05:00

More American Expatriates Give Up Citizenship - NYTimes.com

I had no idea that expatriates were having such problems as double taxation, and the closing of accounts because of government angst over security. Obviously taxation will become more of a problem here on the mainland, as it were, as America socializes its medical care and borrows more money to cover debt payments.

Detroit Public Schools using Credit to pay bills?

2010-04-16T23:31:00.003-05:00

This from the Detroit News - The school system is broke and they are borrowing more money? From the article... For some month's 80% of Detroit's aid from the Government will go to paying this debt. Wow, someone needs to get a clue in Detroit and call Dave Ramsey!

Resurrection: Rob Bell

2010-04-10T01:19:00.000-05:00

YouTube - Resurrection: Rob Bell

Here is an interesting short from Rob Bell on the Resurrection. It is very easy to pick up the NT Wright influence on Rob Bell as he presents the Resurrection as hope for the world to come. This perspective seems lost on many in our evangelical world so I really appreciate Rob Bell's emphasis on this aspect of the hope that Christ's Resurrection brings!

How rich are you?

2010-04-05T12:52:00.001-05:00

Global Rich List

This was pointed out to me over the weekend...what a great challenge to be a better steward of the resources that God has entrusted to us!

Clueless!

2010-04-03T07:14:00.000-05:00

Vatican priest likens criticism of church on abuse to anti-Semitism - washingtonpost.com

What goes through the mind of someone who speaks with such ignorance? The RCC has been hiding abuse of children and its rampanat sexual immorality for years and now the tendrils of this cover up are reaching to the very summit of the institution. Now it has been exposed and the response is to compare the investigation to the persecution of the Jews? Ugh, how do they make that connection! Justice may soon arrive for these who have been abused but the cost to the RCC will be very high!

The RCC has to get a clue and clean its ranks by allowing married men and woman to take the reins and who knows, perhaps, the soteriological errors may get fixed too!

Who was Jesus?

2010-04-02T07:37:00.000-05:00

Who was Jesus?
He began His ministry by being hungry, yet He is the Bread of Life.
Jesus ended His earthly ministry by being thirsty, yet He is the Living Water.
Jesus was weary, yet He is our rest.
Jesus paid tribute, yet He is the King.
Jesus was accused of having a demon, yet He cast out demons.
Jesus wept, yet He wipes away our tears.
Jesus was sold for thirty pieces of silver, yet He redeemed the world.
Jesus was brought as a lamb to the slaughter, yet He is the Good Shepherd.
Jesus died, yet by His death He destroyed the power of death.
--Attributed to Gregory of Nazianzus (329-389)(HT TitusOneNineblog)

Abby's Blog: Cape Horn at Last

2010-04-01T06:03:00.001-05:00

Abby's Blog: Cape Horn at Last and the LA Times picked up this story as well...sorta makes you want to jump in a sailboat and navigate mighty Lake St.Clair! Congratulations Abby!

Abby Sunderland approaching treacherous Cape Horn

2010-03-29T04:38:00.001-05:00

A rather interesting story on Teenage sailor Abby Sunderland approaching treacherous Cape Horn, by Pete Thomas ...her determination has been a real inspiration to me

Oilfield Math

2010-03-27T06:26:00.003-05:00

I received this from a friend of mine...pay special attention to the last line!

Subject: OILFIELD MATH

A 15 mpg clunker that travels 12,000 miles a year uses 800 gallons of gas a year.
A 25 mpg vehicle that travels 12,000 miles a year uses 480 gallons a year.

So, the average Cash for Clunkers transaction will reduce US gasoline consumption by 320 gallons per year.

They claim 700,000 clunkers were turned-in, so that's 224 million gallons saved per year.

That equates to a bit over 5 million barrels of oil.

5 million barrels is about 5 hours worth of US consumption.

More importantly, 5 million barrels of oil at $70 per barrel costs about $350 million dollars

So, the government paid $3 billion of our tax dollars to save $350 million.

We spent $8.57 for every dollar we saved.

I'm pretty sure they will do a great job with our health care, though.

Great Quote

2010-03-26T19:23:00.001-05:00

"Giving money and power to government is like giving whiskey and car keys to teenage boys." – P.J. O'Rourke

Dog's vs. Patrol Car

2010-03-26T05:02:00.002-05:00

HT Phil Johnson...these officers are way too sensitive toward these dogs...I suppose it may be an allegory for what the Democrats are doing to the Constitution...

Stupak: From Prolife Groups' Hero to Villain 'In a Nanosecond' | Christianity Today

2010-03-24T17:45:00.001-05:00

Stupak: From Prolife Groups' Hero to Villain

I must admit to being a little surprised at the vilification of Bart Stupak. He is a Democrat who has always supported the President's Health Care Reform save for his fear of abortion's inclusion in any bill. The President did keep his promise and signed the PResidential Order exluding abortion. I would think for Pro-Life Democrats that he would be a hero not a villain? Don't get me wrong - I am no fan of the Health Care Bill signed into law but Stupak did get what he asked for, right?

It's always the kids who suffer

2010-03-20T21:02:00.001-05:00

HT Maggies Farm

Benny Hinn calls out Joel Osteen

2010-03-18T06:14:00.003-05:00

Who would have thought that Benny Hinn would be calling out someone for not preaching the gospel? HT Evangel Blog

Last known Wolverine in MIchigan Dies

2010-03-16T02:12:00.003-05:00

A rather sad story from the Detroit News - The Last Known Live Wolverine in Michigan has died. No, this has nothing to do with the demise of Michigan Football under Rich Rodriquez!

Smart Penguin

2010-03-14T20:43:00.002-05:00

Smart Penguin evades three killer whales...

Linchpin

2010-03-11T06:53:00.003-05:00

I've been reading Sean Godin's Linchpin (amongst other books) and am fascinated by the possible connection between what he calls the Lizard Brain/Resistance and what Christians call the flesh or "old man" and wonder if there may be a connection. My understanding is that Seth Godin comes from a non-Christian perspective so I do not think that he intended a relationship. Certainly he is not referring to "sin" as I see it so far. He is really referring to that part of the brain that controls our self-preservation function and when untrained keeps us from taking risks or steps of faith. Thus we never reach our full potential. A podcast at 43 Folders is worth a listen as it is Seth Godin answering questions about his book.

I chose this book because of the recommendation from Dave Ramsey.

I've been reading a number of business books recently in the hope of gaining more insight into the world of business and its possible effect on me and my family.

Dogs and Cats

2010-03-11T06:30:00.001-05:00

A bit of animal humor over at Amy Deardon's site

Funny image

2010-03-10T23:16:00.002-05:00

Reminds me of that begging beagle of ours - CoCo May...

Will they ever learn?

2010-03-07T04:11:00.002-05:00

News Headline: Vatican backs German efforts on sex scandal , When will the Roman Catholic Church get a clue and let these people get married! Why can't they understand that enforced celibacy has, does and will continue to lead the priesthood et.al into many types of sexual sin, ugh!!!

MIchael Vick look out!

2010-03-04T21:27:00.003-05:00

This seems to be another California Legislature innovation...in Time Magazine - should there be an animal abuser list? I suppose there are some cases where this may be a useful...

Frostie the Dancing Cockatoo

2010-03-03T18:40:00.001-05:00

The family thought this was great...

Very sad...

2010-03-01T20:50:00.004-05:00

Argentine husband and wife commit suicide taking their kids with them save the baby who miraculously survives. The cause for their suicide? Global Warming! I'll grant that these people were greatly disturbed but nonethess the purveyors of Global Warming need to be more responsible. I wish more people would read Michael Crichton's State of Fear.

Abby and Tsunami

2010-02-28T19:22:00.004-05:00

Like many I was concerned for the intrepid 16 year old who is attempting to sail non-stop around the world. The issue was the tsunami that resulted from the earthquake in Chile. It was interesting to learn that the depth of water in the Pacific where she is currently sailing is such that she would be unaffected by the tsunami effect and yes this was indeed the case, read it here. She included some pictures in her last update. While I have never met her, I do pray for her success and safety.

Dog Dinner

2010-02-27T09:22:00.001-05:00

HT Maggies Farm...

Killer Whale kills...

2010-02-26T06:08:00.004-05:00

Sad story out of Sea World where a killer whale drowned his trainer. This is the third time that this orca has been involved in a death. I am reminded of a former co-worker of mine who called zoo's, circus's et.al - Animal Prisons so I suppose it is little wonder that a proud mammal would sometimes respond violently if it is imprisoned for the entertainment of humans.

This animal should be released into the wild...

Granny gives robber a beatdown!

2010-02-20T17:57:00.002-05:00

A Massachusetts grandmother broke up a robbery and its captured on video! Quite an expression of bravery and honor...HT Phil Johnson

As only a child would say...

2010-02-18T20:14:00.000-05:00

Our 1st grade daughter,Aria, informed us that her friend had his utensils taken out...tonsils lol!

Sam Riddle

2010-02-18T06:30:00.004-05:00

I see that the first trial for Sam Riddle ended in a mistrial due to a single juror who refused to go along with her co-jurors. I figured that the case was pretty much open and closed and that a conviction would be forthcoming. It seems difficult to believe that Monica Conyers* was convicted of bribery in the Synergo bribery investigation and that Sam Riddle is somehow innocent. Mildred Gaddis made the point this morning that perhaps in this one juror's mind the Fed's botched the case. Could be but I wonder if the magnetism of Sam Riddle so captivated this juror that she could not bring herself to convict him. I suppose time will tell and regardless the next trial will prove as entertaining as the first. In the meantime one can keep up with Sam Riddle by following his Twitter account.

*I wonder what her husband John Conyers knew and/or benefited from his wife's activities?

Can "Greece" happen to the US?

2010-02-13T12:28:00.004-05:00

Interesting article in Spiegel Online concerning the Greek Economic Crisis. Der Spiegel is interviewing Jürgen Stark , a Member of the Executive Board of the European Central Bank, I found this exchange disconcerting...

SPIEGEL: In the United States, the Fed is doing plenty of rescuing. It simply prints money and buys treasury bonds.

Stark: We cannot take that approach. And I am glad that we are not permitted to do so. Our mission is price stability.

I have to wonder that if the the United States continues to print money and maintain low interest rates is a "Greece" is in our future?

Miss me yet...

2010-02-10T00:56:00.002-05:00

Don't know if it is true but I had to smile at this billboard

Kerry Livgren and his stroke

2010-02-08T21:48:00.003-05:00

Latest update on Kerry Livgren (formerly with the Rock Group Kansas) and his recovery from a stroke. Kerry Livgren and Dave Hope have been to this point the only popular musicians (on a grand scale) that I have ever met. The story is that a couple friends of mine had heard that Kerry and Dave were Christians and they made up their mind to meet them and they did. In 1982 after a concert I had went with my friends to a Kansas concert and met them as well. Kerry's biography, Seeds of Change, was an inspiration to me as a young Christian.

A Classic!!!

2010-02-08T18:11:00.001-05:00

You gotta view this classic from Uncle Jay Explains the News...

Bible Reading

2010-02-08T07:03:00.002-05:00

Well five or so weeks into 2010 and so far so good with the "reading the Bible through in a year plan." Here is my plan...which one do you follow?

Back at sea

2010-02-08T07:01:00.001-05:00

I read that Abby Sunderland is back out to sea. She is one brave young woman! I will enjoy following her progress throughout the next six or so months.

Half time shows

2010-02-07T20:55:00.003-05:00

Came across this list of Half-time shows at the Super Bowl. Can't say that i've been a big fan of any of the shows but I did enjoy seeing McCartney though I tend to think that all of the post Jackson-Timberlake shows looked tired in some ways. The Who wasn't so bad, though, they did look old. Well, they are in their mid 60's, hah!

A 16 year olds journey around the world

2010-02-05T20:13:00.005-05:00

I've been following the travels of 16 year old, Abby Sunderland, who is striving to become the worlds youngest circumnavigator. Her brother Zac has already accomplished a solo trip around the world so it must be in their genetic code. Currently she is having some repairs made to her boat at Cabo San Lucas Mexico from where she will begin again. Here are some photo's of her arrival.

Toyota and Steve Wozniak

2010-02-04T06:49:00.004-05:00

A rather interesting spin on Toyota's acceleration problems - Steve Wozniak, who co-founded Apple with Steve Jobs. It seems that he encountered the acceleration problem while the car was under cruise control and has found has an opinion for Toyota - the acceleration is software related. Toyota will take the car back for a week to analyze it. Seems strange that Steve Wozniak would think the problem to be software, eh? Not!

4:00AM Sunday January 31, 2010

2010-01-31T04:03:00.008-05:00

What on earth am I doing up at 4:00AM Sunday January 31, 2010? Well early in the morning is a good time to read, surf the internet without ignoring daily responsibilities, right? So far I have...
* Reflected that today would have been my Father's 79th Birthday. It is hard to believe that 10 years have passed since he died. It is sad that 3 of my 4 kids never had the chance to meet him. We miss him alot...
*Read a bit of Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace Revisited. Time for us to get serious about finances...
* Track the course of Amy Sunderland the 16 year old whose goal is to sail around the world in her yacht.
* Checked out my Facebook and Twitter account. Twitter is just for fun since so I spend very little time with it but I'm quite serious about Facebook. I find Facebook faster and more efficient than blogger so it gets more of my time than Blogger. Besides so many of friends use Facebook that it is the better medium for communicating. If you have Facebook then please "friend me!"
* Updated myself on the news... hoping and praying that the President's do good-ism does not destroy our Republic. Between President Bush's do good-ism and President Obama it is shocking that the USA is not worse off! Perhaps instead of stimulating the economy the President should challenge all American's to dump their debt using a good program like Dave Ramsey's Total Money Make Over! Our goal is to be debt free save for the House in a couple of years. Alas, if I had only listened two years ago to a friend who challenged me to follow the program! Well, no time better than the present!!!
* Of course my Nine year old son get's up and wants a little snack! Fine for him since he's thin as a rail!

How time flies...

Flight 253

2009-12-26T16:29:00.009-05:00

Looks like we have a new hero in the battle against terrorism - Jasper Schuringa. This man according to eyewitness and his own personal account stopped Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab from detonating his explosives that may have killed many of the passengers on Northwest Flight 253 at Detroit Metropolitan Airport. It is good to know that there are people who can overcome fear and sacrifice themselves for the benefit of others.

Here are some links to commentary on these events.

Juan Cole Informed Comment

Robert Spencer Jihad Watch

News Release from the Detroit FBI Office

It looks like activity has been ratcheted up by the terrorists over the last few months, no doubt this is due to success in both Afghanistan, Iraq and other parts of the world. Violent activity seems to be their usual response to defeat.

Man sees doctor for first time in 65 years...last visit Dr. Mengele

2009-12-12T10:59:00.004-05:00

Fascinating story from Spiegel online of Yitzhak Ganon, an 85 year old man, and his first visit to a doctor since Nazi Doctor Mengele removed his kidney with no anesthesia. Again such evil is incomprehensible...if there was any doubt that the Nazi's were agents of Satan...

The Last Enemy

2009-12-04T18:20:00.005-05:00

Updated:

The observation of one watching the last days of a brilliant atheist over at Tribalogue...sad but a necessary read as we consider the lost condition of those without Christ.

It is amazing to me that a man could be so gifted to explore and understand the creative work of God as related to his expertise and apply principles that God graciously revealed to him and yet reject Him! It is sad that this man's name and final days experience is now a sign post that says - "how shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation? After it was at the first spoken through the Lord, it was confirmed to us by those who heard," Hebrews 2:3

Be filled with the Holy Spirit

2009-12-03T06:59:00.004-05:00

A site , that I recently found, has regular quotes and topics addressed by that great servant of the Lord - J.C. Ryle

The Manhattan Declaration

2009-12-03T04:06:00.000-05:00

Christian leaders across a broad spectrum of tradition united to create a document called Manhattan Declaration . This document strives to reinvigorate Christians to stand firm for Biblical Morality relating to Sanctity of Human Life, religious liberty and Marriage. The declaration has much to commend its self to the Body of Christ and the Nation as a whole. 1. The placing of each tenant on a Biblical Foundation and, 2, commitment to obey God rather than man. The Manhattan Declaration seems to be necessary document for Christians to unite especially as power brokers in our culture seek to redefine institutions that have been encoded in our being since creation.

FYI, here are some thoughts going through the `net concerning the Declaration that I found interesting...

John Stackhouse, is an advisory editor at CT. He seems neo-Mark Noll when it comes to the Christian Nation argument.

John MacArthur always thinks gospel first.

Brian McLaren's view is certainly "creative". Yet as always it seems to me that McLaren is more interested in being accepted by the world rather than by the church.

Trevin Wax, whose blog I enjoy, has given his endorsement to the document.

Scot McKnight has also given an endorsement.

Albert Mohler has also signed. I especially like the last couple of lines from Dr. Mohler: "I want my name on that list. I surrendered no conviction or confessional integrity to sign that statement. No one asked me to compromise in any manner. I was encouraged that we could stand together to make clear that to come for one of us on these issues is to come for all. At the end of the day, I did not want my name missing from that list when folks look to see just who was willing to be listed."

I hear the complaints from men like John MacArthur and take these seriously but one document cannot contain all truth and therefore must be understood to be limited in scope. I think the task for us is to share Christ in light of our commitment to the principles of the Word of God (in which the declaration fits, imho)...the gospel should be the natural introduction as one wonder how to live in the light of God's word.

Oh, yeah, there is an option for you and I to sign the document as well...if you are curious - I did.

The Bishop and the Kennedy

2009-11-24T08:05:00.002-05:00

Looks like the Catholic Bishop is forcing Patrick Kennedy to "consider the cost" by barring him from Communion due to his stand on abortion. It all seems fundamental to me (You Shall Not Murder) so why do Christians differ on the subject of abortion when God commands that life shall not be taken? Note the divergence of opinion amongst Christians at the Scot McKnight blog post on this subject.

On Imitation of Christ

2009-11-23T06:19:00.005-05:00

Sometime ago I came across an Evangelical Version of Thomas A`Kempis, "On Imitation of Christ" This version came out in 1863. Essentially the authors removed the references praying to Mary and the Saints and other overt disagreements that Protestants have with the Roman Catholic Church. This particular section caught my attention this morning...

" The highest and most profitable learning is the knowledge and contempt of ourselves; and to have no opinion of our merit; and always to think well and highly of others, is an evidence of great wisdom and maturity.Therefore, though you see another openly offend, or even commit some enormous sin, yet you must not from there take occasion to value yourself for your superior goodness; for you cannot tell how long you will be able to persevere in the narrow path of virtue. All men are frail, but you should reckon none so frail as yourself."

This thought in mind would have saved me from much foolish pride that has wounded me greatly!

Coffee Education

2009-11-14T19:11:00.004-05:00

I happened upon this interesting comic on Coffee Education. HT - Paper Thin Vault

Big Spender

2009-11-14T08:15:00.003-05:00

According Politico President Obama has spent more in 9 months on new programs than President Clinton did in eight years pushing the annual deficit to 1.4 trillion dollars!

Michael Horton’s Review of N.T. Wright’s “Justification”

2009-10-31T20:06:00.002-05:00

Michael Horton’s Review of N.T. Wright’s “Justification”

This is really an evenhanded review of Tom Wright's Book on Justification. The advantage of Michael Horton's comments is that he is really immersed in the writings of Calvin and is familiar with Vos and Ridderbos (I do not say that I am, other than the recognition that these represent the Continental Reformers)

I have not finished Wright's book (I plan to but got side tracked) Wright's Justification is much different than some of my belief's on the topic. I am really closer to Piper with, of course, a PB take on imputation. I am challenged to review the topic by trying to understand more throughly the Covenants and the continuity that Wright seems to speak of in his writings.

Harming Religion by limiting freedom of speech?

2009-10-21T21:15:00.003-05:00

In another strange move by the Obama administration, the President has signed on to a Muslim Nation sponsored anti-blasphemy law being promulgated by the UN - see here. Those familiar with the plight of God's people in Muslim nations will immediately see the inherent danger with such legislation. Be sure to observe the second from last section in the USA Today blog post entitled blasphemy incidents for a taste as to how other nations handle such legislation. To me it is clear to see that in the end the freedom to minister the Gospel of Jesus Christ will be severely hindered, why? The Lord Jesus claims to be the Only Way to the Father and hence to eternal life. I fear that our President's naivety is more than just economic blindness....

Health Care

2009-10-19T09:22:00.003-05:00

I received an email this morning with the below embedded link of a John Stossel report on Health Care Debate. After watching I can say that it again confirms that in a fallen world Capitalism, as expensive as it is, is the best choice on the block...

Old News

2009-10-17T13:17:00.002-05:00

Ty Cobb arrested...when will people forget?

A renewable resource

2009-10-15T20:54:00.003-05:00

A rather bizarre example of a renewable resource utilization in Sweden...this is not the impression that I would conjure in mind of Swedes but I suppose that there is something to learn each day. I wonder what would happen if this occurred in America?

George Washington's Dentures

2009-10-15T15:16:00.003-05:00

Did you know that George Washington's dentures were made of ...

Dog saves Dog

2009-10-12T19:31:00.003-05:00

Dog saves dog on freeway - I've never seen such an act by one dog for another dog...

Uncle Jay Explains the News

2009-10-12T05:09:00.005-05:00

This weeks installment. The word is acronym - The actions of NASA and President Obama make for interesting acronyms!

BTW even Mitch Albom seems incredulous at the President winning the Nobel Peace Prize.

Uncle Jay Explains the News

2009-09-21T20:10:00.003-05:00

I've come to enjoy this little ditty that shows up every Monday. Jay Gilbert seems to have a good common sense approach to this crazy world that we live and move and have our being in....

The Confederacy

2009-09-20T19:10:00.003-05:00

Interesting article at Reason Online on the Confederacy...it seems that many believe the old Confederacy to be the champion of State and Individual Rights - well this doesn't seem to be the case. For just a couple of their infractions... Conscription and Government ownership of Key Industries. Ah, so much history to learn...

Jedi silliness

2009-09-19T06:22:00.006-05:00

It is amazing to me that 500,000 people claim allegiance to the Jedi Church which also has a "scripture" and a "ceremony" This seems to basically be a "self-improvement" society that started as the result of so many claiming Jedi as their religious affiliation during a 2001 census.

What caught my attention today is that Wales leader was escorted out of a local store because he would not remove the hood from his head. Imagine grocery store personnel worried about hooded men in their stores? This man is saying that he is suffering humiliation as the result of his experience. I wonder if he has ever worked in a retail store or bank and been robbed by hooded masked men?

I have to wonder too...are George Lucas and Steven Spielberg and the cast of thousands who made the movies and books possible their "god's" since they created Star Wars and made it "reality." Very strange...

Facebook friends to the rescue

2009-09-08T18:05:00.004-05:00

While I am truly a Facebook fan, I have to think that the line is crossed when trapped kids in Australia post their plea for help on Facebook rather than calling the equivalent of 911...see article here

Lockerbie

2009-09-01T18:41:00.004-05:00

Bishop NT Wright has weighed in on the recent release of a man convicted of a horrific crime. Like many I am very surprised by the release of Abdelbaset Ali Mohmed Al Megrahi, the man convicted of involvement of the destruction of Pan AM Flight 103 on December 21, 1988. I do not claim to be in the position to judge whether or not this man was guilty or not but to release someone who was convicted of such a crime on humanitarian grounds because he is dying does not make sense to me. 270 people were killed and how many thousands were affected negatively for the rest of their lives? This man and his cohorts had no concern for the families and friends effected by this murder so why should he be granted something he denied to so many unless a court of law exonerate him?

Staying Faithful through the years

2009-09-01T06:32:00.003-05:00

A valuable article by Jerry Bridges over at Navigators...Too often we feel that the Spiritual Growth light will flash on once we reach a certain age but the sad reality is that we will be the same person tomorrow that we are today. Jerry Bridges is saying that real change happens through daily commitment and continues only as long as we follow through - just like a marathon runner! The race stops when we do...

The Wonderful Cross

2009-08-29T19:58:00.002-05:00

Good to hear the words of a great hymn tied to modern music by talented and godly people- all of which makes When I survey the wonderful Cross more accessible to a new generation!