The type of “Christianity” that is practiced in many small towns and small churches in America is dying. This type of Independant-Fundie-Pre-trib-Pre-Mill, America as God’s nation type of faith is dying. This fact is clear and undeniable. However, this morning as we are approaching memorial day weekend I went to one of these mentioned churches. I sat there as America was promoted and the gospel put aside. A video was shown of how great America’s soilders were and are. Statistics were given about how many Americans died in the wars, including WWII which all of the Jewish, Russian, Polish, etc casualities were neglected. Then the “worship” leader led in the song “America the Beautiful.” (I’m sick at my stomach by this point) Then he began to preach out of Exodus 14 in a passage that mentions the word memorial. He then equated this memorial for Israel for her passover feast with that of our memorial day. What kind of hermeneutic is that? He is saying that the principal being taught here is that we should remember? Where is weeping for the children starving in Africa? Well, this morning the church did not care, because they are free to worship as they wish and remember the sacrifices people have made for that. Idolatry is what is is. They have made it safe for us to go to church so I know longer care about anyone else. I wish it would die.
God’s Politics
Jim Wallis posted a very helpful article on his website concerning the great moral issues of our time. He is responding to a letter written by James Dobson. This is a timely and vitally important conversation which deserves our attention.
Obama in Selma
Here’s an excerpt of Obama’s speech in Selma.
“So I just want to talk a little about Moses and Aaron and Joshua, because we are in the presence today of a lot of Moseses. We’re in the presence today of giants whose shoulders we stand on, people who battled, not just on behalf of African Americans but on behalf of all of America; that battled for America’s soul, that shed blood , that endured taunts and formant and in some cases gave — torment and in some cases gave the full measure of their devotion”
It is important to realize the great accomplishments of the last 50 years by the giants who have pressed forward to equality. The world is a better place because men and women had the audacity to stand up for the rights of all people–black or white. We should hasten to become too comfortable with the status quo that we don’t see injustice. Let us never forget those who have gone before us. Thank God for those who have throughout history have fought injustice and today regardless of one’s political leanings, everyone can rejoice that a man of african descent can be a valid candidate for president.
Called to Preach
Hello friends,
This past weekend I had the opportunity to preach to the youth group at my church back in Detriot. It was such a blessing, I shared on the authority of scripture, and the story within. I love the chance, every opportunity I get, to preach. Ever since I was a Sophomore in High School I knew that is what I wanted to do (whether I was that good at it or not). I don’t consider myself to be a great preacher, or even good. But I do know that it is what the Lord has called me to do. It is my passion, my desire, there is nothing else in the world that I want to do more than Pastor a church and shepherd a flock.
So here is my encouragment brothers, even if it is hard for you, even if you are not that good now, don’t worry. God has used some pretty whacky people in this story and he can sure use you.
God Bless you all as you continue to grow in the Grace and Knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ
- A Log
Maintaining a proper perspective at the inaugeration of the academic semester
Well kids,
School is back in session here at Boyce College, and I just wanted to try and give everyone an uplifting word as we finish up our first week of classes. There are books to be read, papers to be written, Chapels to attend and sleep to be missed. Lets us not forget the fun that will be had, but with that in mind we also need to remember why we are here. As Dr. Chip reminded us on Monday night at dorm meeting we are here to train for full time ministry, and while we are here this is our ministry. God has placed us all here for a reason, for such a time as this if you will. And it would do us well to remember that.
We should all have a good time, but let us not forget that whatever we do, whether it be study, work, eat or sleep it needs to be done to the Glory of God. it is the only reason we are here, we were created for his glory. Happy Spring 2007!
In the sincerest form,
– A. Loginow
“I’m in and I’m in to win”
Hillary Clinton is officially in the 2008 presidential race. Here’s an excerpt from her website.
“I’m not just starting a campaign, though, I’m beginning a conversation with you, with America,” she said. “Let’s talk. Let’s chat. The conversation in Washington has been just a little one-sided lately, don’t you think?”
As we appproach this upcoming election, we are beginning to see the campaigning begin. As Christians we should see this as a great time and opportunity to promote a wholistic Christian perspective on different political issues. What are some of the issues you guys care about?
False Advertising: Christian Bumper Stickers
Have you ever been driving along and see a Christian with one of those clever bumper stickers? It makes me wondered what this does for the furthering or hindering of the Kingdom of God. Over at Relevant, there is an interesting article on this topic.
Merry Christmas
To the other three Sojourners, and anyone else who reads this, Merry Christmas.
I celebrated Christmas with my family last night, and this morning. It was a good time; alot of fun. Let us all just keep in mind the “reason for the season.” This is the time of year when the world takes a closer look at what we celebrate all year long.
Hope you guys have a blessed day…Happy Birthday Jesus!
(I still don’t know how we figured out he was born on Friday)
-Alex
Indecision 2008
Well folks, 2006 is about over which means it is 2007, which is practically 2008: let us talk “election.” This will be the first Presidential election I am able to participate in, and I am excited! But we have a lot to think about, as of right now, in my opinion, there are no decent Republican canidates. To be honest I’ll start by saying I have been raised, and in the past have believed that abortion is what drives your vote. But what if all of the canidates are pro-choice? The only GOP canidate that have been talked about are McCain, Giuliani, and Romney (who is pro life, but a mormon). We may have to do the unthinkable: vote Democrat (laugh Brady it’s a joke) The canidates for the left, at least in theory are Obama, Clinton, and Vilsack. We as christians may have to look past abortion and think deeper into other issues (believe me i cant believe i am saying this). So tell me what you think, who do we vote for, what are the issues?
-Alex
Historic Tragedy?
Vs. 
It is indeed an interesting time in which we live. Have ideological motives gone so far as to rewrite history? It certainly seems so as of late. The Boston Herald recently ran an article saying “Iranian president Ahmadinejad has used anti-Israeli rhetoric and cast doubt on the Holocaust to rally anti-Western supporters at home and abroad, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. Several times he has referred to the Holocaust as a “myth” used to impose the state of Israel on the Arab world.” Also, on a recent CNN exclusive titled “After Jesus”, it was clear that much effort was taken to not render the Jews responsible for the death of Christ. Granted that the cause for Christ’ death was as a propitiation for the elect and isaiah 53 says that it was Gods will to crush him; but there is no reason, in my mind, to disregard history and say that the Jews were not responsible (or indirectly say that) (the program will re-air on Saturday as well as Monday). Albert Mohler also devoted his radio program to discussing it as well as a long blog entry found at albertmohler.com. I wonder how far political correctness is willing to go to remain unoffensive, and how far Ahmadinejad is willing to go to be offensive? It is indeed a strange time in which we live. Here you have two opposite sides essentially promoting a similar view- truth has no place in our culture. Very interesting times, very interesting times.
-Josiah
