God Loves The Poor More Than The Rich?

Father Tim Jones, 41, broke off from his traditional annual sermon yesterday to tell his flock that stealing from large chains is sometimes the best option for vulnerable people.

It is far better for people desperate during the recession to shoplift than turn to 'prostitution, mugging or burglary', he said.

The married father-of-two insisted his unusual advice did not break the Bible commandment 'Thou shalt not steal' - because God's love for the poor outweighs his love for the rich.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-Biblically does his advice have any foothold?
-Biblically is it ever okay to steal?
-How should this shepherd lead his people in regards to handling hard times? Perhaps this? Or this? Maybe even this?
-Is his argument even a logical argument for not breaking the commandment?
-Does God love the poor more? If so, why?

US Senator Boxer On Abortion & The Health Care Bill

"Why are women being singled out here? It's so unfair," Boxer said on the Senate floor Tuesday. "We don't tell men that if they want to ... buy insurance coverage through their pharmaceutical plan for Viagra that they can't do it."
Boxer was weighing in against an amendment offered by Sen. Ben Nelson, D-Neb., that would greatly restrict abortion services for women buying individual insurance through a new health care insurance exchange. Although the amendment was rejected in a 54-45 vote, it was not the last word on the issue.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-Is this a legitimate argument?
-Is abortion really a woman's right?

-Does the child/embroyo/fetus have rights? If so, who is to defend them?
-How do you define abortion?
-Is this an abortion, or is this? ***GRAPHIC WARNING***

-Why do you think she changed her position after years on the other side?

When Scientist Stop Being Scientific

Hundreds of private emails and documents allegedly exchanged between some of the world's leading climate scientists during the past 13 years have been stolen by hackers and leaked online, it emerged today.

The computer files were apparently accessed earlier this week from servers at the University of East Anglia's Climate Research Unit, a world-renowned centre focused on the study of natural and anthropogenic climate change.

Climate change sceptics who have studied the emails allege they provide "smoking gun" evidence that some of the climatologists colluded in manipulating data to support the widely held view that climate change is real, and is being largely caused by the actions of mankind.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-Do you think it was okay to steal these emails if they result in the truth being exposed?
-Do you think "global warming" is caused by humans or a natural cycle of the earth/sun?
-Does this information cause you to rethink your current view?
-Are all scientists biased? If so, can anything be trusted in the realm of science?

Pro Choice Turned Pro Life

The director of a Planned Parenthood clinic in southeast Texas quit her job and is supporting a pro-life organization after watching an ultrasound of an abortion.

Abby Johnson, 29, worked at the abortion clinic for eight years and told FoxNews.com she had been "extremely pro-choice" during that time. That all changed in September when she watched an ultrasound of an unborn baby being vacuumed out of a woman's uterus. She quit in early October.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-What would it take to change your stance on abortion (either way)?
-If you are pro choice, how is abortion justifiable in your mind?
-Do you think protesting outside abortion clinics is an effective means to stop abortions?

Punishment Fitting For The Crime?

A Saudi court of cassation upheld a ruling to behead and crucify a 22-year-old man convicted of raping five children and leaving one of them to die in the desert, newspapers reported on Tuesday.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-Do you think this punishment is fitting for the crimes committed?
-Do you think such punishment deters others from such crimes?
-Statistically, does harsher punishment produce a desired end goal?

Friends Don't Let Friends Fat Talk

Some questions:
-Does being a size 0 carry the same stigma as being obese? If not, why?
-Do you think obesity is a cultural problem systemic in America?
-How do we battle obesity? Should we?
-Should obesity impact our health insurance rates? Should anorexia?
-Do you think pledges like this video promote actually help change cultural norms?

Brain Tumors Linked To Mobile Phone Usage

Preliminary results of the inquiry, which is looking at whether mobile phone exposure is linked to three types of brain tumour and a tumour of the salivary gland, have been sent to a scientific journal.
The findings are expected to put pressure on the Government – which has insisted that mobile phones are safe – to issue stronger warnings to users.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-If this report is valid, will it change your view of using mobile phones?
-Will you limit your child's usage of your mobile phone (or ban it completely)?
-Do you think the cell phone industry- Sprint, Verizon, T Mobile, AT&T, etc. will counter this forthcoming report?

Stone Studded Gold Grill

In the market for a set of used grills once worn by a perp? Well, Tennessee cops may have some gold for your cash. The Nashville Police Department is auctioning a confiscated "set of custom made teeth grills,"

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-Would you ever wear a grill?
-Would you buy a used grill?
-Why do they call it grill?

Because She's White At An All Black School?

 

You can read on this here.

Some questions:
-Do you think her race plays a part in the issue?
-What is the issue with her writing a letter to President Obama?
-If you attend an all black school including Hampton University, would this offend you?
-What is legitimately offensive about her winning the pageant?

Russian Cloud Anomaly?

"Theories range from it being an alien mothership, proof of Russian weather modification technology - a weather weapon - or even a sign of the end of the world."

But meteorologists rejected theories of the supernatural calling it an optical effect.
The Moscow's weather bureau said several weather fronts had passed through Moscow as the sun shined from the west to cause the effect.
A spokesman for the bureau said: "This is purely an optical effect, although it does look impressive.
"If you look closer, you can see sun rays coming through that cloud. Most likely, the sun was setting when the video was being made."


You can read more here.

Some questions:
-Do you buy the UFO theory?
-Do you buy the "sunray's from the west" theory?
-What would you pose for a theory?
-At the end of the day, does this really matter?

Why Christianity Is Culturally Marganalized (generally speaking)

I got nothing.

Awareness Test

Mirror Mirror...

EMBED-Absolutely Hilarious Bathroom Mirror Prank - Watch more free videos

Montauk Monster Killed By Kids

A slimy, glob-like creature dubbed Gollum has terrified children after it slithered out of a lake and clambered over the rocks towards them.

The young teenagers were playing by the waterfront in a Panama lake near Cerro Azul when the bald beast emerged from a cave behind a waterfall. They started screaming as it shuffled out "as if to attack them".


You can read more here.

Some questions:
-Do you think this is real?
-Do you think this thing was a mutation of a sloth?
-Do you think there are more?

Health Officials Ready Themselves For H1N1 Vaccine Concerns

One million heart attacks, 700,000 strokes and 900,000 miscarriages -- U.S. public health officials want Americans to know these will happen every single year with or without a swine flu vaccine campaign.

Yet this year, they know a significant number will be blamed on the H1N1 vaccine, which will roll out within weeks, and they are struggling to be ready.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-Will you be getting the vaccine?
-Is H1N1 any more of a threat than the "common" flu?

Civility & Good Advice From the Past

A couple of questions:
-Were people just more civil and discerning in the past?
-Why can't we have politicians that have this type of character?

The Jesus Story Book Bible

We have been purchasing several books in an attempt to build a library for our son (and future children God willing). We don't want to feed him just any stories, but good stories that promote godly character and that focuses on things that are good, things that are honorable and praiseworthy. We wanted to find books that will help us to steer him in the way he should go so that he won't depart from it.

In light of that, we use the Big Picture Story Bible in our children's Sunday School curriculum so we know that he will be getting exposed to that once he is old enough to attend.

We have also recently purchased for him Fool Moon Rising and The Chronicles of Narnia Pop-Up Book.

I then read about The Jesus Story Book Bible on Timmy Brister's blog and after reading some reviews thought it would be yet another good fit for our family. When I went to their website I found out that a deluxe edition is in the works and will be out soon. Not only that, but if you post about the book on your blog, they will enter you into a drawing to win several free copies of the deluxe version for yourself and to whoever you want to give them to. I am looking forward to either winning or purchasing one so that our family can benefit from the blessings of reading books together as a family. Give it a look and if you are anything like me and my family, I am sure you will not be dissappointed.

Right To Life Denied Under State Run Health Care

She said: 'When he was born, he put out his arms and legs and pushed himself over.
A midwife said he was breathing and had a strong heartbeat, and described him as a "little fighter".
I kept asking for the doctors but the midwife said, "They won't come and help, sweetie. Make the best of the time you have with him".'
She cuddled her child and took precious photos of him, but he died in her arms less than two hours after his birth.
Miss Capewell, who has a five-year-old daughter Jodie, went into labour in October last year at 21 weeks and four days after suffering problems during her pregnancy.
She said she was told that because she had not reached 22 weeks, she was not allowed injections to try to stop the labour, or a steroid injection to help to strengthen her baby's lungs.
Instead, doctors told her to treat the labour as a miscarriage, not a birth, and to expect her baby to be born with serious deformities or even to be still-born.
She told how she begged one paediatrician, 'You have got to help', only for the man to respond: 'No we don't.'
As her contractions continued, a chaplain arrived at her bedside to discuss bereavement and planning a funeral, she claims.
She said: 'I was sitting there, reading this leaflet about planning a funeral and thinking, this is my baby, he isn't even born yet, let alone dead.'
After his death she even had to argue with hospital officials for her right to receive birth and death certificates, which meant she could give her son a proper funeral.

You can read more here.

You can read Jayden's story here.

Some questions:
-Should an arbitrary date be the determiner of who is treated and who is not?
-Do you agree with the decision made here?
-How should one determine who should get treatment and who should not? Or should the default be that everyone get treatment?
-Thoughts?

Grinding Up Live Hatchlings An Industry Standard

An undercover video shot by an animal rights group at an Iowa egg hatchery shows workers discarding unwanted chicks by sending them alive into a grinder, and other chicks falling through a sorting machine to die on the factory floor.



Here is their video page.

Here is their site with related content.

Some questions:
-Do you think it is okay to eat food that comes from this hatchery?
-Is there a humane way to provide food to the masses that is animal based?
-As a Christian, do you have a responsibility to keep things like this from happening?
-Does this change anything for you?
-Should animals set to be slaughtered be given rights?

Choosing Thomas

Even if you don't have a child, I still think you can appreciate and sympathize with this family. This is a very moving story that brought me to tears thinking about my son.

It seems this is making the rounds, but it is worth watching so I will post it as well.



You can see more here.

HT: Tim

Prayer Tips

Coors Beer + Wood Chips = Cheap Gas

A Buck Ten for gas? Ten years ago I would have said no, but in today's energy economy I'll take it!

The UK Shows Concern Over Swine Flu (H1N1) Vaccine

A warning that the new swine flu jab is linked to a deadly nerve disease has been sent by the Government to senior neurologists in a confidential letter.

The letter from the Health Protection Agency, the official body that oversees public health, has been leaked to The Mail on Sunday, leading to demands to know why the information has not been given to the public before the vaccination of millions of people, including children, begins.

It tells the neurologists that they must be alert for an increase in a brain disorder called Guillain-Barre Syndrome (GBS), which could be triggered by the vaccine.

GBS attacks the lining of the nerves, causing paralysis and inability to breathe, and can be fatal.

The letter, sent to about 600 neurologists on July 29, is the first sign that there is concern at the highest levels that the vaccine itself could cause serious complications.

It refers to the use of a similar swine flu vaccine in the United States in 1976 when:

• More people died from the vaccination than from swine flu.
• 500 cases of GBS were detected.
•  The vaccine may have increased the risk of contracting GBS by eight times.
• The vaccine was withdrawn after just ten weeks when the link with GBS became clear.
• The US Government was forced to pay out millions of dollars to those affected.

You can read more here.

Some questions:
-Does this hold merit or do you think it is just a scare tactic?
-Does this affect your opinion of getting the Swine Flu vaccine?
-If a senior neurologist would not get the vaccine would that affect your decision to get the vaccination?
-Did you know about the vaccination debacle that took place in the U.S. under Gerald Ford's presidency?

***** As a note to my readers, I don't intend on turning this blog into a blog about vaccinations. However, it is a topic that is very real to me and my family at this time and we are trying to work through it in a logical and ethical manner. *****

Obama's Health Care Plan

The bill says that the government agents, "well-trained and competent staff," would "provide parents with knowledge of age-appropriate child development in cognitive, language, social, emotional, and motor domains ... modeling, consulting, and coaching on parenting practices," and "skills to interact with their child to enhance age-appropriate development."

Are you kidding me?! With whose parental principles and values? Their own? Certain experts'? From what field and theory of childhood development? As if there are one-size-fits-all parenting techniques! Do we really believe they would contextualize and personalize every form of parenting in their education, or would they merely universally indoctrinate with their own?

You can read more here.

Some questions:
-Do you support or oppose the current plan?
-Do you even know what is contained in the plan?
-Do you think the government is doing a fair job when it comes to looking out for our best interests?
-If our current healthcare system is corrupt, how do you propose we fix it?

Pennsylvania Gym Shooting

The man who shot up a Pittsburgh-area gym, killing three and injuring as many as 15 others before apparently turning a gun on himself kept an online diary detailing his hatred for his domineering mother and brother, and his lust for other women.

ABC's "Good Morning America" has confirmed that George Sodini, 48, of Scott Township, Pa., was the man who police say Wednesday walked quietly into an aerobics class at LA Fitness in Bridgeville, Pa., where he was a member, turned off the lights and started shooting. Police said they found 52 casings at the scene.

You can read more here.

Wisconsin Man Convicted For Praying

A US jury has found a man guilty of killing his sick 11-year-old daughter by praying for her recovery rather than seeking medical care.
The man, Dale Neumann, told a court in the state of Wisconsin he believed God could heal his daughter.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-Do you think he and his wife were rightly convicted?
-If using modern medicines caused you to violate your conscience (i.e. sin) would you sin to potentially save your child's life?
-If you are a Christian, how do you answer this dilemma to those who are not believers?
-Did he deserve a conviction for this?

Vaccines & Abortions: A Moral Dilemma

Sorry for not posting in a while, my wife and I had our son and I have been enjoying a few weeks at home with them. Being a father is truly a blessing from the Lord.

Now, since having the little guy, we have been trying to do our homework on things we didn't necessarily give much thought to on the front end- namely doctor visits, shots, vaccines, well-baby visits, etc.

I have since read a couple of books (information at the bottom of this post) on the above that are against the established regimen. What I mean is, they do not favor the above. Instead, they promote allowing the immune system to develop as nature intended and to stay away from vaccines, vitamin K shots, etc.

In the process of reading those books, I have grown tremendously in my understanding regarding the vaccines, alternatives and how to interact with my pediatrician and her cohorts at our child's clinic. What is more, I found something very interesting and it poses a dilemma for me... and I believe every Christian.

Here is that dilemma: Would you take something that, in all probability, will do more harm than good that is derived from a voluntarily aborted fetus, and inject that into your child? I cannot. Throw every other reason for not getting vaccinated out of the window (Death, paralysis, autism, brain damage, and a host of other side effects) and let's say there are no side effects. Every person who is vaccinated will be perfectly normal and the vaccine will do exactly as it is marketed to do- vaccinate. Now, the only issue left on the table is that the vaccines are derived from human fetuses that were aborted back in the 60's and 70's... would I be willing to inject the vaccine in my child? For the good of the rest of the children (herd mentality)? No.

Here is a quote in a letter written in response to a concerned parent regarding state law regarding vaccines and the Catholic Church's stance on vaccines being derived from aborted babies: If someone rejects every form of voluntary abortion of human foetuses, would such a person not contradict himself/herself by allowing the use of these vaccines of live attenuated viruses on their children? Would it not be a matter of true (and illicit) cooperation in evil, even though this evil was carried out forty years ago? Citation.

However, later in the letter, it is stated that if there is a great threat to society as a whole, then it is okay to take such vaccines temporarily, for the good of mankind.

From what I have been reading (written by doctors who work in the field and in pediatrics), no vaccine can be accredited for wiping out or drastically diminishing infections. Every disease that there is a vaccination for was already in decline (and most were drastically declining) by the time the vaccinations were put on the market. So, there would appear no moral obligation to take a vaccine derived from human fetuses that were aborted.

It also stands to reason that most outbreaks tend to occur in those that have been vaccinated. One study even showed that there was a population that was 100% vaccinated against measles and they still had an outbreak.

For me, the risks outweigh any perceived or marketed benefit. Now, what do we do about schooling? Homeschooling is one option and another is to reject vaccines based on religious grounds (a sample letter can be found here) and see if we can still place our child(ren) in public/private schools.

There are a lot of responsibilities that come with children- however, the benefits/blessings of having them outweigh the responsibilities and over time we may not always make the right decisions, but we will make informed decisions.


Some questions:
-Have you given any thought to vaccines?
-Does this little bit of information at the very least cause you to want to look into this more?
-Can a Christian knowingly accept vaccinations for themselves or for their children if they are derived from aborted fetuses?
---------------------------------------------------------

One of the books I have read on the subject: How To Raise A Healthy Child... In Spite Of Your Doctor by Robert S. Mendelsohn, M.D. (here is a negative article about him and here is a positive article about him). The book is dated, but I found a lot of thought provoking information contained in its pages. Also, the book answers well the charges brought up against it/him in the negative review- such as why he only saw 6-10 patients a week.

Another book i've read is: Vaccine Alternatives It is written by Ervin Davis, M.D. (A review of the book) This is the only book that I can find he has written, but it is thorough and full of cited material that is not dated. The book was written in 2008 and very current. He cites lots of studies and every stat that he gives, he backs it up with studies. I found this to be a great book that caused me to pause and give more thought to this entire medical issue. He also gives information on how the immune system works and why injecting viruses may not be the best method for building immunity to viruses that are commonly contracted through the air. What is more, he doesn't just leave you with what is wrong, he gives you some information on how to live a healthy lifestyle that will aide you in building your immune system to fight off diseases and viruses naturally.

Here is a link to the CDC and what they have to say about the MMR vaccine. Updated Link as the CDC moved it. They state just a little way down why the vaccine is made from aborted fetal tissue (cell linings) and towards the bottom, risks are discussed in short order. Once on the page, just do a search (CTRL+F) for the word Aborted.

Here are some video discussion between doctors on the issue of mandatory vaccinations. These are very one sided and seem to be overly emotional for the most part.

-------------------------
Part 1

Part 2

It's Friday (And This Post Is Random!

Google Chrome OS

In the second half of 2010 Google will release its first operating system in direct competition with Microsoft Windows. It will be based on the Google Chrome browser and initially released on netbooks. Note, this is not a variation of Android, but a build based off Chrome.

You can read more here.

Some questions:
-If you are a user of other Google products, do you think you would use this?
-Do you think they have a chance of usurping Microsoft Windows?
-Do you think this will effect Mac sales or Linux sales?

Quote From A Michael Jackson Fan

"I'm trying to hold in my emotions," said Hernandez, wearing a wristband to allow her admittance to the service and holding a framed photograph of Jackson. "I know right now he's teaching the angels to dance."

You can read the whole article here.

I really don't know what to say about this. The sad thing is that she really believes this. It is amazing what "coping" opens one up to believe.

Michael Jackson Tribute During Church Service

Some questions:
-What is a church service for?
-What should take place in a church service- biblically?
-Does this have a place in Church?
-Would this be okay in your church? Should it?

Independence Appears To Have Leanings Towards Dependency

Enjoy the 4th my fellow Americans!
Here is a question for you: How do you celebrate Independence Day on July 4th?

Convert An Atheist Game Show

What happens when you put a Muslim imam, a Christian priest, a rabbi and a Buddhist monk in a room with 10 atheists?

Turkish television station Kanal T hopes the answer is a ratings success as it prepares to launch a gameshow where spiritual guides from the four faiths will seek to convert a group of non-believers.

The prize for converts will be a pilgrimage to a holy site of their chosen religion -- Mecca for Muslims, the Vatican for Christians, Jerusalem for Jews and Tibet for Buddhists.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-Do you think that this sort of contest will ever produce a respectable result?
-Would you watch it?
-Would you participate?
-Do you think the network is more concerned with ratings than conversions?
-Do you see this as an effective means to convert atheists to a religion?
-If you are atheist, what are your thoughts about this? Is it laughable to you?

When The System Fails

A New Jersey man whose driver's license has been suspended 78 times has pleaded guilty to his 15th drunken-driving offense.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-How in the world?
-78? Seriously?
-Anybody got a better idea for a system that works?

Billy Mays Dead At 50

Mays, 50, the emphatic and well-known hawker of the OxiClean stain remover, the Zorbeez super chamois, a sticky substance called Mighty Putty and many other items offered for an amazing low price, was found unresponsive in his Tampa, Fla., home Sunday morning. He was declared dead by a fire rescue crew at 7:45 a.m., according to Sgt. Christopher Ugles, a spokesman for the Tampa Police Department.

The cause of his death was unknown, but Mays had told his wife, Deborah, that he didn't feel well after a U.S. Airways flight he was on made a bumpy landing Saturday afternoon. In an interview with a local TV station, Mays said he was struck on the head by a falling object during the landing.

You can read more here.

Some questions:
-Will infomercials ever be the same?
-Three celebrities in a week... is there anything to learn/take away from this?

Michael Jackson Most Wanted Love

"I am going to say something I have never said before and this is the truth. I have no reason to lie to you and God knows I am telling the truth. I think all my success and fame, and I have wanted it, I have wanted it because I wanted to be loved. That's all. That's the real truth. I wanted people to love me, truly love me, because I never really felt loved. I said I know I have an ability. Maybe if I sharpened my craft, maybe people will love me more. I just wanted to be loved because I think it is very important to be loved and to tell people that you love them and to look in their eyes and say it."

-Michael Jackson

One cannot read these words without feeling a tremendous sadness for a soul that was so surrounded with hero-worship but remained so utterly alone.

-Rabbi Shmuley Boteach

This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him. This is love: not that we loved God, but that he loved us and sent his Son as an atoning sacrifice for our sins.

-I John 4.9-10

Michael Jackson penned a song called Morphine. It is very telling of his final years. You can read the lyrics here and watch/hear the video (as long as it stays up) here.

You can read the entire article by the Rabbi here.

Some questions:

-How does this impact you?

-Do you think the lure of money and fame would have caused you to be an enabler to MJ?

-Does this make death a little more of a reality for you?

-Does how we live and what we believe in life really matter?

-If you had 15 minutes with MJ, what would you have told him?

Church Casting Out Homosexual Demons

Some questions:
-Do you think exorcisms are legitimate or even relevant today?
-Are they Biblical?
-Should a church be allowed to perform an exorcism if the person who is seeking it allows them?
-Are any rights being violated? The boy's? The church's?
-Do you think they "murdered his soul"?
-Do you think the "prophetess" handled the interview situation correctly?
-Your thoughts?

A Dollar A Day Keeps The Babies Away?

A buck-a-day -- that's the incentive being offered to young girls to keep them from getting pregnant.
The group College-Bound Sisters was founded at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro by Hazel Brown, a maternity nurse who thought too many teens were having babies.
Brown said she hopes the program, which pays $1 each day to 12-to-18-year-old girls, will keep them from getting pregnant. In addition to remaining pregnancy-free, the girls must also attend weekly meetings.
The program is funded by a four-year grant from the state.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-Money talks yes?
-Would you allow your daughter to participate in this tax-payer funded program?
-How do you feel about giving money to other people's daughters?
-Should men be offered the same incentive for not impregnating a girl/woman to ensure there is no discrimination?

A thought:
It would seem that the logic breaks down. Young boys and girls are being promiscuous. We don't want them to have children. We, as tax payers, will pay them a dollar a day to ensure they do not carry a child full term.

The logic should be: Young boys and girls are being promiscuous. We don't want them to have children. We, as parents, instill within them values that promote respectable behavior. Throwing money at the situation is not the answer. Parents being parents is.

Broadway Baptist Cast Out Of SBC

Messengers (delegates) to the SBC's (Southern Baptist Convention)annual meeting voted overwhelmingly to disassociate from Forth Worth's Broadway Baptist Church, following an executive committee ruling Monday that the congregation "failed to establish its compliance" with the SBC rules that ban churches that "act to affirm, approve or endorse homosexual behavior."

You can read more here.

Some questions:
-Do you think this is right?
-Is it Biblical or just against the SBC's rules?
-Would you allow practicing homosexuals to serve on committees and be members of your church?
-Are there facts that prove the allegations that led to removal or is it simply hearsay?

HT: JOE BLACKMON

Continental Pilot Dies Mid-Flight

A pilot at the controls of Continental Airlines Flight 61 has died during the flight.

Port Authority officials say the plane was en route to Newark Liberty International Airport from Brussels, Belgium.

Currently the co-pilot and a passenger who is a pilot is continuing the flight.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-What do you do with the pilot's body?
-Why does the news outlet go for shock value: "Passenger helping to fly plane" sub headline?

Relativism's True End

A Las Vegas man (Jonathan Weaver) tied up and abandoned his girlfriend's two children so he could watch the NBA Finals at a nearby bar, police said.

The children are 1 and 2 years old.

Police said Weaver didn’t think leaving the children was a big deal “because they have had campouts inside” the garage.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-Why? Why would anyone think this is okay? Really, why? Even if one tried to convince themselves that there is no ultimate truth to which we are subjected, surely something within that person would have to tell them this is "wrong" yes?
-If you are the pregnant girlfriend Amy, what is your next move in this situation?
-What should his punishment be?
-Why do some elevate sports watching to such a level that things like riots happen and people tie up and gag children in their garage?
-If you had 15 minutes with this guy, what would you tell him?

The Mysteries Of Gravity

New Scientist put out an article on the mysteries surrounding gravity on their online site. I have included a snippet below.

SEVEN MYSTERIES OF GRAVITY

It's the force we all know about and think we understand. It keeps our feet firmly on the ground and our world circling the sun.

Yet look a little closer, and the certainties start to float away, revealing gravity as the most puzzling and least understood of the four fundamental forces of nature.

You can read them in detail here.

Questions are included in the article this go round (no reason to reinvent the wheel).

Chuck Norris Can't Be Found

He can't be found... he finds you.

Go to google and type in the search box: "Find Chuck Norris" without the quotes. Click on the "I'm Feeling Lucky" button.

Bring Your Gun to Church Day

"Bringing new meaning to the term "wearing your Sunday best," a pastor in Kentucky is encouraging his parishioners to strap a holster to their church clothes and proudly display their weapons.

Pastor Ken Pagano of the New Bethel Church in Louisville has declared June 27 -- actually a Saturday -- as "Open Carry Celebration" day, to promote responsible gun ownership. Pagano told ABCNews.com:

"As a Christian pastor I believe that without a deep-seeded belief in God and firearms that this country would not be here. I'm not ashamed of that fact. I'm proud of it."

Pagano said no one will be taking out their guns and waving them around. In fact, all guns must be unloaded. Extra security will be on hand to make sure things stay safe. Pagano defends the celebration, saying the congregation voted in favor of it. There will be videos with information about gun safety, patriotic music to celebrate the upcoming Fourth of July holiday, as well as a raffle for a brand new handgun."


Some Questions:
~Is this a good idea?
~Should the right to bare arms be tied to Christian teachings?
~Why or why not?
~Should this message be preached from behind the pulpit?

Martyrdom

As a consequence of professing their faith, early Christians were persecuted mostly during the Roman Empire and were often tortured to death for maintaining his or her religious belief. Many deaths were inspirational for other people and increased the fame of the Catholic religion, although several of these stories are unhistorical and are purely legendary. Meet ten of the most excruciating martyrdoms of early christianity...

1. Saint Hippolytus: torn apart by horses

2. Saint Ignatius Of Antioch: sentenced to be eaten by lions at the Coliseum

3. Saint Lawrence: grilled and toasted alive

4. Saint Agatha of Sicily: had her breasts cut off

You can read the stories and the rest here.

Some questions:
-Would you really, I mean really die for what you say you believe as it relates to your world view?
-If you are not a Christian, how do historical Christian martyrs effect your understanding on Christianity?
-If you are a Christian, how do things such as this effect your faith? Does it strengthen it or cause you to shrink back?
-Why do you think suffering plays an integral part in the Christian faith?
-Is persecution still alive and well today?

EXACTLY! Clients & Vendors

With my videography business I deal with this all the time. Satire is great.

Missing Link: FOUND

Scientists have unveiled a 47-million-year-old fossilised skeleton of a monkey hailed as the missing link in human evolution.

Researchers say proof of this transitional species finally confirms Charles Darwin's theory of evolution, and the then radical, outlandish ideas he came up with during his time aboard the Beagle.

"This little creature is going to show us our connection with the rest of the mammals," he said.
"This is the one that connects us directly with them.
"Now people can say 'okay we are primates, show us the link'.
"The link they would have said up to now is missing - well it's no longer missing."

"When Darwin published his On the Origin of Species in 1859, he said a lot about transitional species," said Prof Hurum
"...and he said that will never be found, a transitional species, and his whole theory will be wrong, so he would be really happy to live today when we publish Ida.
"This fossil is really a part of our history; this is part of our evolution, deep, deep back into the aeons of time, 47 million years ago.
"It's part of our evolution that's been hidden so far, it's been hidden because all the other specimens are so incomplete.
"They are so broken there's almost nothing to study and now this wonderful fossil appears and it makes the story so much easier to tell, so it's really a dream come true."

You can read more here.

Some questions:
-Does the article really say how the fossil is proof?
-Can a fossil that looks to have " human-like nails" and "opposable big toes" really fill the gap(s) that is/are in the fossil record- from species to species?
-Does this affect your beliefs?
-Is macro-evolution compatible with Christianity? (I have discussed this previously- just do a search up top with the keyword "evolution")
-What say you?

Student Suspended for Dancing

Before you watch this, know what the news agency is not telling you; The student and his parents both signed a waiver for the school saying he would obey their rules or except the consequences.



Some Questions:
~Is the School out of line for suspending the student?
~Was the student out of line for going to the dance?
~Should a Christian school be able to govern a child's life outside of school?
~Where do you think God would come down on this issue?

It's Funny To Torture Children

A Salem man was arrested Tuesday for putting an electric dog collar on each of his four children and shocking them.

Todd Marcum, 41, said he did it "because he thought it was funny," Salem Police Lt. Dave Okada said.

You can read the rest here.

Seriously? Because it was funny? I usually hold my opinion for discussion but... well... I will pray for him and his children.

Here are some great free resources on dealing with children that are indeed glorifying to God. (mp3 at the top right)

Session 1. God Centered Bible Teaching to the Glory of God.
Session 2. Raising Bible Saturated Children.
Session 3. Aiming for Application and Response in Teaching Children the Bible.

Seven Part Series Through The Book Of Exodus With Dr. Ray Van Neste

Dr. Ray Van Neste, Director of the R.C. Ryan Center for Biblical Studies and Associate Professor of Christian Studies for Union University as well as one of the pastors at Cornerstone Community Church leads a seven part series on the book of Exodus. Dr. Van Neste handles the text in an expositional manner while making pointed application for the church today. He also carefully draws out insights from the familiar texts we all too often skip over.

This series will be sure to englighten and challenge anyone who is looking to understand scripture better.

This is a series we (my company) filmed back in January and completed about a week ago. It was exceedingly good for me to spend hours working through editing the video as it helped to reinforce the importance of the book of Exodus and how it fits into the storyline of scripture as a whole story.

If you are like me, the book of Exodus is not one that I look to for instruction concerning my every day life- however, after going through this study, it has helped me to realize how important that book (and the rest of the Old Testament) really is to understanding the fullness of the riches given to us by God through the written scriptures.

I would encourage you to visit the link below and watch session seven the series and even pick up the series if you are so inclined to do so. I think it will be worth your while and aide you in your sanctification.

You can purchase the whole series here.

Some questions:
-How does the old testament impact your walk as a Christian- assuming you are a Christian?
-Did you learn anything from watching session seven that challenged you in your faith?
-What do you think causes the lack of focus on the old testament by Christians?

Marriage Between A Man & A Woman Only Sparks Outrage

Miss California, Carrie Prejean, said "We live in a land where you can choose same-sex marriage or opposite. And you know what, I think in my country, in my family, I think that I believe that a marriage should be between a man and a woman. No offense to anybody out there, but that's how I was raised."

"As co-director of the Miss California USA, I am personally saddened and hurt that Miss California believes marriage rights belong only to a man and a woman," said Lewis in a statement. "I believe all religions should be able to ordain what unions they see fit. I do not believe our government should be able to discriminate against anyone and religious beliefs have no politics in the Miss California family."

You can read more here.

Some questions:
-Why do you think that her opinion "saddened" Keith Lewis who runs the pageant?
-Does she have a right to express her opinion?
-What were the alternatives? Lie? Dodge the question like a politician?
-What should she have done when asked the question?
-Is marriage a construct of the state? Should it be?
-Do you think marriage should be broadened to include homosexuals? Why or why not?

OBAMA IS A MACK DADDY

I know this is a little old, but have you seen it? It is of Pastor James David Manning speaking on President Obama, affirmative action, and other things. Thoughts?

**** There is some crude images & crude speech in the video- this was delivered at his church ****

Muslim Argument For Jesus Not Being Crucified

Your thoughts?

Joining The Revolution? Moving To Texas?

Today American taxpayers in more than 300 locations in all 50 states will hold rallies -- dubbed "tea parties" -- to protest higher taxes and out-of-control government spending. There is no political party behind these rallies, no grand right-wing conspiracy, not even a 501(c) group like MoveOn.org. You can read more on this here.



“I believe that our federal government has become oppressive in its size, its intrusion into the lives of our citizens, and its interference with the affairs of our state,” Gov. Perry said. “That is why I am here today to express my unwavering support for efforts all across our country to reaffirm the states’ rights affirmed by the Tenth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution..."
You can read more on this here.

Some questions:
-Are we heading for another civil war- this time people vs. government officials?
-Do you think the politicians are listening?
-Did you participate today in a tea party?
-Do you think what Texas is looking to do really means anything in the grand scheme of things?
-Would you support a revolution? If so, what would be your cause for rallying?

PETA (People for Euthanizing Their Animals)

According to public records from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, PETA killed 2,124 pets last year and placed only seven in adoptive homes. Since 1998, a total of 21,339 dogs and cats have died at the hands of PETA workers.

Despite having a $32 million budget, PETA does not operate an adoption shelter. PETA employees make no discernible effort to find homes for the thousands of pets they kill every year. Last year, the Center for Consumer Freedom petitioned Virginia’s State Veterinarian to reclassify PETA as a slaughterhouse.

The truth hurts sometimes.

You can read the rest here.

Some questions:
-Does this change your view of PETA?
-How does this fit into their mission statement?
-Does this even matter?

Scam Concerning Google

http://scottsmoneyblog.com/index.html (notice where "he's" from- my home town)

http://www.kevinlifeblog.com/index.php?sub=vccpa

Notice any similarities?

They, the company, should be sued.


I typed in some bogus information on the first page of the site they link to (here and here is another) and down at the bottom in small print (on the second page- after you type in the information) it says they will bill you 70+ a month for access to their system- The Google Treasure Chest as they call it. What tipped me off was the disclaimer at the bottom of the blogs. Plus, both links were top results on alexa.com.

Here is their fine print: By submitting this form I authorize Google Treasure Chest to immediately charge my credit card for instant access to the Instant Google kit. I hereby request that Google Treasure Chest activate my account and authorize them to advance funds as indicated. Monthly Service fees will commence seven days from the date of this purchase, and will be billed monthly thereafter. After the seven day trial you will be billed seventy one dollars and twenty one cents USD monthly for the continued access to the software. No refunds will be given for failure to use the requested and provided services. You may cancel at anytime by writing to 2510 Warren Ave Ste. 3363, Cheyenne, WY 82001 or calling 866.951.1406.

Google Treasure Chest is not affiliated with, endorsed by or in any way associated with Google. Results vary. Individuals have been remunerated.
All Content Copyright © 2005-2009, Google Treasure Chest. All Rights Reserved Worldwide.
Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy of Google Treasure Chest

Second Chances Are For The More Deserving

Find more videos like this on www.truveo.com.

"You don't shoot a little boy in the face and find Jesus. People don't find Jesus that are capable of doing things like that."
-Randy Zimmerman (Sister of Murder Victim)

When asked if it is not the Christian thing to do- to give second chances and to take in people with his background, a neighbor responded:

"There are more deserving people to give second chances to."
-Neighbor

A direct link to the video can be found here.

Some questions:
-What is the biblical thing to do?
-Is this a black and white issue or is there some gray to it?
-Who's heart is in the right place?
-What about the children?
-Does Ray's profession of faith remove the consequences of his actions and render safeguards unneccessary?
-What position do you take?

Where The Wild Things Are

This is a book from my childhood that is now being made into a movie. I am looking forward to seeing it. You?

Filed In: Overly Understated

“The young naked man approached her with this poodle, and she immediately realized something peculiar,” Mast said.

Ya think?!

You can read the whole story here.

Some questions:
-I got nothing.

You've Gotta Be Kidding Me!

The new politically correct, culturally sensitive definition of mother: One who throws all moral cautions to the wind and tries to find anyone to sleep with her son in a bid to help him lose his virginity so he can say he has lived a full life!

So, let's say he loses his virginity, then what? Next up he steals something (to add to his fullness of life) and then off to murder a random stranger so as to check another one off the list? Seriously, what makes her, the mother, think that this will help him to live a full life? Really think about it. If sex fulfilled us, then happiness would be rooted in sex. Statistics show that sex does not fulfill or else psych doctors would prescribe it.

'I don't have a problem with any of it,' she said. 'He's going to Las Vegas for a few days to promote himself as an actor so who knows, he might get lucky over there. When he gets back home I've lined up a few dating agencies for him to join. I always encourage him to go to nightclubs and other places where people pick up women.

You can read more here.

The Outrage! Going From Gay To Straight

The title of his song [Luke was gay], implying that some gays can change to heterosexuality, was sufficient to destabilize the Italian gay movement. Gay activists threatened to block the festival, and Europarlimentary member Vittorio Agnoletto asked for a European resolution to stop Povia from peforming the song. Povia, himself, received death threats. The gay association "Everyone" denounced Povia to the Procura of the Republic for alleged "homophobia." These efforts failing, gay activists then asked the Festival organizers to "counterbalance" Povia with a song by a gay singer, about "the perfection of homosexual love." That effort too, failed.

I find it a strange twist in irony when a group of people who long for acceptance, who wish so terribly to move past tolerance and into open acceptance, do the very thing they despise to another group of people as they are seen as a hindrance to their agenda.

Tolerance is a politically correct term; it gets used the same way politicians use our political system: for self gain. It has no usefulness other than it is a way for one group to "progress" to where other groups have already socially/culturally arrived or always been. However, when a group that is contrary to your stance rallies around the banner of tolerance, they are threatened and all that can be done to marginalize them will be done.

This goes to show the true nature of humanity. It goes to show that we are in need of something, someone outside ourselves that can help us to understand and know what true love really is. Once we learn to love, tolerance will no longer be a banner that some will carry. However, I fear that us learning to love will not occur on this side of death.

Ht: Stand to Reason

You can read more here.
You can watch the video here (the quicktime version has subtitles for the lyrics).
***Another interesting story can be read here that shows the irrational lengths that one homosexual person went to enjoy the benefits of a heterosexual marriage.***

Some questions:
-Why would the oppressed turn to oppression- does this not contradict all that they stand for?
-What is a Christian's role in all of this?
-Is homosexuality a sin? Biblically is it a sin?
-In regards to the article, why do you think the crowd hissed at the pro gay speaker after the song was completed?
-

Earth Shattering Event Predicted By Pastor Wilkerson

A respected pastor, best-selling author and founder of a major ministry to teens predicts an imminent "an earth-shattering calamity" centered in New York City that will spread to major urban areas across the country and around the world – part of what he sees as a judgment from God.

David Wilkerson, author of "The Cross and the Switchblade," a book about his ministry to troubled New York street kids that was later made into a movie starring Pat Boone, tells readers of his blog this weekend that he is "compelled by the Holy Spirit to send out an urgent message" about his prediction.

"An earth-shattering calamity is about to happen," he writes. "It is going to be so frightening, we are all going to tremble – even the godliest among us."

What we are experiencing now is not a recession, not even a depression. We are under God’s wrath. In Psalm 11 it is written, "If the foundations are destroyed, what can the righteous do?"

"God is judging the raging sins of America and the nations," claims Wilkerson. "He is destroying the secular foundations." Wilkerson urges everyone to stockpile a 30-day supply of food and other necessities to deal with the catastrophe he foresees.

"I do not know when these things will come to pass, but I know it is not far off," Wilkerson concluded in his message. "I have unburdened my soul to you. Do with the message as you choose."

A past vice president of the Southern Baptist Convention is hoping believers pay attention to Wilkerson's message.

"I have known David Wilkerson for more than 25 years as well as many of his friends and associates," said Pastor Wiley Drake. "He is a godly man and I believe he is listening to God. I encourage each Christian to read and heed what God is saying through our brother."

You can read more here.
Read it first hand here.

Some questions:
-Does God still warn those who will listen?
-Does a God of love judge?
-What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear of things like this? Coming from Wilkerson, does it make a difference?
-Will you stock up on food?
-If you believe the message Wilkerson prescribes to God, what will you do to repent?

The Death Of The Sunday Paper

Final Edition from Matthew Roberts on Vimeo.

Very well done video chronicling the last days of The Rocky Mountain News. I highly recommend you watch it.

Some questions:
-Is paper dead?
-Will the next generation be completely digital?
-Will the Kindle's of tomorrow be the books of our children?
-Looking past nostalgia, would this be a good move for humanity?

Smart Phone Of The Future Is Here Today

Pomegranate Smart Phone

Only available in Canada currently- but maybe other markets will catch on.

Keyes Declares Obama An Usurper

Obama is a radical communist, and I think it is becoming clear. That is what I told people in Illinois and now everybody realizes it's true," said Keyes, who ran unsuccessfully against Obama for the state's open Senate seat in 2004. "He is going to destroy this country, and we are either going to stop him or the United States of America is going to cease to exist.

You can read more here.

Do you agree?

Savior Obama

I don't quite understand the messiah complex that has been bestowed upon President Obama. He seems like a nice guy that has the privilege of holding an office that can do much good or much evil. I pray that he will do much good and that what he does will be of benefit to the people in this country and around the world; but this guy, Julio Osegueda, takes it to an extreme!

Darwin The Disturber

I was doing some reading on Darwin and came across this article by Susan Jacoby. Of course, it is slanted and opinionated but what isn't? I wanted to pull some quotes from it and post them here for you. If you have time, feel free to read the whole article; it is linked at the bottom.

This lasting "disturber effect" is, I would argue, one of the most convincing proofs of Darwin's genius. People don't get all riled up, 150 years after the fact, by bland, small, discredited ideas.

This same logic could be applied to Christianity as well yes?

This logic [evolution is the mechanism by which God chose to set in motion the development of his creatures, ending in man]does not, of course, explain why a supreme being would choose such an inefficient process as evolution to arrive at the human species--or why he would choose to bind us to evolutionary forces--such as our desire to consume large amounts of animal fat--that were once useful for the survival of the species but no longer are. Another element of the religion-science compromise, articulated not only by religious thinkers but by scientists like the late Stephen Jay Gould, argues that science and religion are merely "different ways of knowing." I don't agree with this formulation. Science is not really a way of "knowing" but a method of inquiry seeking knowledge that is never final and always modfiiable by new discoveries. Religion is not a way of knowing but, ultimately, a matter of belief that, at some point--regardless of how much material evidence a particular faith is willing to incorporate--relies on non-evidence of a non-material existence.

There are a lot of presuppositions in the first part of this quote is there not?

...Darwin was a man who--without any of the tools of modern science and technology, without the support of the MacArthur Foundation or the National Institutes of Health, not only got the basic insight of modern science right but had the courage to face up to the philosophical and ethical implications of his own observations.

I didn't know the verdict was in on the evolutionary theory having been proven as fact... but I am also assuming that is what she is referring to by "basic insight of modern science". If that is not what she is referencing, please do offer up a better suggestion as that phrase is rather vague.

Mendelian genetics, the discovery of DNA, the mapping of the human genome: all tell us more about evolution than Darwin could have known, and all confirm the genius of his initial insights. Had Mendel's experiments contradicted the theory of natural selection, we would be having quite a different discussion about evolution today. That, of course, is the difference between scientific exploration and religion.

Does that go for climate change as well? Just curious.

Okay, I will stop there.

You can read the rest here.

If you want to read a shorter article concerning the pitfalls in the evolutionary theory- you can do so here. (It is a pdf that is linked to on Stand to Reason.