Burning the Koran (Quran) – Another Christian Response

A pastor* in Florida has decided to burn the Koran on September 11 as a “protest” against Islam. The talking-heads describe the church as an “evangelical Christian” church. Being one who would describe himself as an evangelical Christian, what do I think? The top three things in my mind:

#1 – He wants publicity. Oops. Too blunt? Not really. Why do I think this? If he was doing it simply and privately as an issue for his church, he wouldn’t have signs on the church property stating “Islam is of the devil.” More copies of the Koran can and will be printed. This is pointless.

#2 – He’s ignoring Scripture. Jesus sought to teach Truth. Even as He was cleaning out the Temple, Jesus was seeking to reform what was wrong with “the Church.” Because there is no account in Scripture of Jesus cleaning out a pagan temple, I believe the focus of a Christian should be to become more Christlike.

#3 – He’s ignoring more Scripture. Romans 13 gives clear instruction to the believer to submit to governing authorities. To be clear, this man has every “right” to burn a Koran. It is granted under free speech in the constitution. However, it is clear that the government is asking him to not make this particular statement. While he is free to pursue his course of action, the possible ramifications around the world would suggest he not do so.

Bottom-line: I personally believe he is doing more harm than good. Consider the Christian missionaries serving overseas in a Muslim country. How are they now to communicate the love of Christ? Consider the soldier fighting to protect the very freedoms this man is enjoying. Will this make his/her job easier?

Imagine if this pastor had put the effort that is going towards burning the Koran (Quran) in another way.

• Could he send Bibles to the Middle East?
• Could he begin an outreach to any and all immigrants in his community?
• Could he teach and train people from his church to go and share the Truth of Christ overseas?

Personally, I think we should spend September 11th in thankfulness for those who have worked for and fought for the freedoms we have in this county. Believers in Jesus Christ can pray for others. Believers in Jesus Christ can seek to demonstrate an act of love to those who don’t know Him. Believers in Jesus Christ can, well, seek to be like Christ.

Just my thoughts…

Yours in Christ,
Marty

* Because of #1, I’m not giving his name or the name of his church. Google it if you want to know.

Whitney R. Harris – Nuremberg Prosecutor

Disclaimer: A lot of people will not like or “get” the Dave Glover Show (www.971talk.com/glover). At times, it sound like you are eavesdropping on a conversation among 5th grade boys discussing bodily functions. There are some innuendos, language, etc… that may give you pause. However, at other times, it is an incredibly on-target and intellectually stimulating program.

How is that possible? Good question so don’t ask me!!!

That said, as I turned on the radio for my drive home after a meeting on Tuesday, March 23rd, I heard some of the worst sound quality radio I’ve heard in some time. I wasn’t sure I had the right station. But, as I continued to listen, I learned Dave was interviewing a man named Whitney R. Harris. Harris was a prosecutor at the Nuremberg trials following World War 2.

It was absolutely incredible.

I almost had to pull over so I could focus. Harris is 97 and was not feeling well. However, as he spoke, I became choked up as I heard this man speak directly from history. When Dave asked Harris how he would respond to a “man” like Ahmadinejad who denies the Holocaust, I almost wept.

Enough said…

If you have time, PLEASE visit the Dave Glover Show (www.971talk.com) and click on the Podcast sidebar. Listen to the 2nd broadcast from March 23rd. As you listen, be patient with Harris. Remember, he’s 97 and wasn’t feeling well. 

And, as an additional warning, the first half of the segment is not the interview and I know many people may not like parts of that discussion. Therefore,  I would suggest you “fast-forward” to 18:00 minutes into the interview.

You’ll be amazed.

Yours in Christ,
Marty

Politics, Health Care, Debt and Stewardship

To be clear, this is not a political blog. This is a faith blog and, to be specific, a Christian blog. To what extent then should politics enter? Good question.

I don’t know…

Others have written much more intelligently than I ever will. It’s an interesting debate (faith and politics) that has great merit. What I want to focus on right now is stewardship as it relates to politics.

Unless you are living in a completely isolated bubble, you know that the majority party (Democrats) in the House and Senate have pushed through a health care bill. The President, also a Democrat, has signed the bill. One of the strangest things about this bill for me is that not one single Republican thought it was worth voting in favor of. Has this happened before in our country’s history? [I’d love to know so if there is a more astute historian, please tell me (and cite sources).]

But I digress…

If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, what is your responsibility with stewardship? God owns the cattle on a thousand hills. He doesn’t need our money. He wants our obedience. He commands us to be good stewards of all that we have. We should use it for HIS glory. (And yes, I believe that includes tithing.)

Personally, I don’t believe we should be in debt. As a family, we have a mortgage, but we are working to pay it off early. There have been times we’ve had to borrow, but we always worked to pay off that debt early.

Why do politicians think our country should be in debt?

In my limited understanding, this health care bill will add to our national debt – which is already astronomical. The bailouts added to our national debt. Overspending has led to our national debt. This isn’t a Republican versus Democrat issue. This is a poor stewardship issue.

As my wife and I are trying to teach our children, they should work hard, spend wisely and be good stewards of everything they have. If they choose to purchase a popsicle from the ice cream truck instead of saving up for a game, that is their decision. Immediate gratification or delayed gratification? Why don’t the “grown-ups” in our nation’s capital practice the same behaviors?

But what does this all have to do with stewardship and politics?

As one who votes in every election (including the “boring” ones), I have to give extremely serious thought to each and every vote I cast. If a politician believes that debt is ok, I don’t think they deserve my vote.

Should that be the only basis of my vote? Probably not. That said, it’s an increasingly major factor for me. Money isn’t free. Stewardship – especially if it is someone else’s money – is important.

Am I the only one who thinks so?

Yours in Christ,
Marty

Party of the Pharisees and the US Tax Code?

Are you having trouble letting go of something? I’m thinking in particular of the “party of the Pharisees” described in Acts 15:5.

The Pharisees were a particular sect of Judaism that believed in strict adherence to the Mosaic Law. They went a bit above the written Law and added some oral tradition to the mix as well. Therefore, kind of like the tax code of the United States, we went from something that could be simple to something that was incredibly complex.

Although there is a lot we could consider from this passage, let’s narrow the focus to the speakers in this verse. Who were they? 

1. They were believers in Jesus.
2. They still clung to the Law.

And, what was the issue they had? Well, Gentiles were coming to faith. While this was not unprecedented, it was different. And the Pharisees viewed these Gentiles as converts to Judaism. Therefore, they must obey the Mosaic Law – which included circumcision as a step of faith.

Did the Gentiles have a problem with this? I know I would have! But personal feelings aside, it does appear to be a bit of a stumbling block that was causing some angst. Therefore, a group of apostles and elders met to consider the question.

After discussion, Peter brought the discussion into focus. To paraphrase: Look, we can’t fully obey the Law, so why try to make them? Salvation is about grace!

AMEN!

Barnabas and Paul echoed the testimony and everyone listened. James (the brother of Jesus) affirmed with Scripture and stated the resolve of the leaders. Circumcision was not required. All they should do is abstain from food polluted by idols, from sexual immorality, meat of strangled animals and from blood.

Wait – why did they put requirements when they just said there shouldn’t be any? Don’t worry – they weren’t adding to the tax code!

This goes back to my original question. Are there things you are having difficulty releasing?

I was raised a Catholic. I was taught certain things – prayers, saints, “holy days,” etc. (Unfortunately, I was taught too much of these things and not enough of the Word itself!) When I accepted the call of God on my heart 20+ years ago, I had a difficult time releasing some of those things. It was what I knew.

However, I am now in love with the Word of God. I still struggle, but I’ve learned to turn to the Word for God’s answers to life’s issues. Whether it is a word of comfort, a conviction of action or clarity in direction, I know God has the answers.

I’m glad there is freedom in Christ. I’m glad God eliminated the burden of Pharisaic obedience.

Now, if only something could be done with the tax code… 

Yours in Christ,
Marty

Coexist Bumper Stick – People want to know…

carryabigsticker.com

I posted my thoughts about the Coexist bumper sticker some time ago but did not explain the symbols. Based on what I’m hearing, many people want to know what those symbols actually mean. So, here goes…

• The “C” is the crescent moon and star – most commonly identified w/Islam. Other older meanings are out there, but that is the one most people “see.”
• The “o” has the peace symbol. 
• The “e” has the symbol for male (Mars) and female (Venus) attached.
• The “x” represents Judaism through the Star (or shield) of David. 
• The “i” is dotted by the pentagram (or pentacle) representing paganism.
• The “s” has been incorporated into the ying/yang symbol of Tao / Confucianism.
• The “t” is a representation of Christianity through the cross. 

I hope that answers the questions about what each thing represents. Of course, it doesn’t address the greater irony of how those symbols – which contradict each other in many ways – are supposed to instruct us to co-exist…

Yours in Christ,
Marty

Random thoughts of the Nobel Peace Prize

I’m not a political blogger. I post on issues of faith and life.

The Nobel Peace Prize is something I’ve been interested in off and on over the years but can’t say that I can typically even name more than a few winners. But the recent award to Barak Obama shocked me.

The Nobel Prize is intended to go to: “to the person who shall have done the most or the best work for fraternity between the nations and the abolition or reduction of standing armies and the formation and spreading of peace congresses.” (Alfred Nobel’s 1895 will)

Nominations were due in February. Obama had barely served in the office at that point. Actually, he STILL hasn’t even served a full year of his this term. How did he win?

Speculation has already started that this is more of a slap at George W Bush than an award for Obama. I really don’t know.

I pray for the best for the United States. I’m proud to be a citizen. I pray for peace.

I don’t think the right choice was made this year only because he hasn’t had a chance to earn the award. If, in a year or two, this country has made strides, great! But personally, I think he is learning how difficult the job actually is.

Here’s an idea: Take the prize money and apply it towards the deficit. That would go a long way in my mind!

Praying for peace,

Marty

Tragedy, Cruelty and Media Messes

John Odom

I was glancing at a magazine yesterday and noticed a story about the life and death of John Odom. For those whom the name does not bring immediate recognition, his story might be a bit more familiar.

In May of 2008, as a minor league baseball player, he was traded to another team for 10 base ball bats. As the story became known, he received the nickname “Batman” – complete with the Batman tune being played when he came onto the field.

At first, he took the attention well. He joked. He granted interviews. He kidded around – trying to keep things light. But then, after a particularly bad outing and incredibly harsh comments from fans, he gave up. He quit the team and left.

[If you read his story, you’ll know that life hadn’t been sunshine and butterflies before he started playing ball. So, in that respect, I don’t think this was the sole cause of his death.]

That said, I think once again the media needs to take a hard look at itself. How much pressure did they put on him with the relentless interviews? How much angst did they put on him for something over which he had no control? The teams involved in the trade did NOT do it as a joke. (Read the details.)

Of course, the fans also need to take a hard look at themselves for the pressure they put on him. How many chanted “Batman!” when he was around? How many put undue pressure on him or regarded him as a joke?

What about me? I never met him. I read his story last year and thought “how strange” and thought it was some sort of publicity stunt. Do I have any responsibility?

No. And yes.

Although I’m not much of a celebrity-watcher, I do listen to the news and follow some accounts. As you probably know, I am a sports fan. I don’t track much in regards to the personal lives of sports figures, but I do read when I see a name. I do have expectations (especially if they profess a Christian faith).

What’s the point?

Consider carefully any people you are making “idols” in your life. Perhaps you watch celebrity, sports or political news a bit too much. Perhaps you put your pastor or a church leader on too much of a pedestal. Maybe it is even a family member.

Who is perfect? Only Jesus Christ.

Rather than sharing an embarrassing email or story about someone else, just delete it. Rather than laughing at someone tripping or stumbling in life, lend a hand. If you see a story on the news, pray for the person.

God’s Word is clear that we are to worship Him and Him alone. Make Him first in all things.

So again, watch whom you are watching. Don’t take part in gossip or media hype. Be a reflection of Christ.

Yours in Christ,
Marty

Two Cups, All-Stars and Praises

Watched the All Star Game last night. Two cups of coffee this morning and moving slowly. Random thoughts:

The National League lost again. Pretty disappointing – especially after the hit batter and error (great screen though!) in the first inning…

In my opinion, the most tragic part was the dud of recognition for Stan Musial. He deserved so much better, but I’ll let Bernie sum it up much more eloquently than I could. (It’s worth reading the link!)

The “First Pitch” was not very good. (How could Fox miss the shot???) Pujols did a great job of covering up…

OTHER STUFF?

• Praising God for an answer to prayer about a children’s coordinator!
• Praising God for His special provision and blessing!
• Praising God for family! I have a great one!

Have a good day!

Once an Arafat Man

I wanted to toss out a quick book recommendation.

I read “Once an Arafat Man” by Tass Saada (and Dean Merrill) this week to prepare for a radio interview with Tass. It’s a fascinating book of his journey as a former Muslim PLO sniper to a believer in Jesus Christ who now speaks to healing and restoration.

The book is written with frank honesty and clarity. You can hear his pain as he regretfully tells the path he once walked but you can also hear his joy as he praises God for his changed life.

There is also a fair amount of Scripture presented that relates the birth of Islam (Hagar and Ishmael in Genesis 16) and the beginnings of the religion.

Well worth reading!

Michael Jackson, Farrah Fawcett, Ed McMahon and Death

In the past week, Ed McMahon, Farrah Fawcett and Michael Jackson have died. As I watched the news and politics channels last night and this morning, it was pretty much a constant droning of updates on Michael and his sad end. I was a bit surprised at the almost complete ignoring of Farrah’s death, but I suppose her’s was a bit more anticipated.

With all of this talk about their lives and legacy, the ultimate question that the media ignores is, of course, “What happens when you die?”

Believers in Jesus Christ, who have confessed their sins and put their faith in His work on the cross, have assurance of their eternal destination. As Jesus said to the thief on the cross who recognize Him as Lord – “Today you will be with me in paradise.”

TWO QUESTIONS FOR YOUR REFLECTION TODAY:

• Life – What will your legacy be? Will you leave behind an eternal impression that others will remember? It’s not about money. It’s not about fame. It’s not about glory. These things fade. What do you want people to remember?
• Eternity – What will your eternal destination be? I know that I will be with my Lord in heaven. If you can’t say the same, would you like to know how you can be sure?

I really want to encourage you to reflect on those things today. You may have lived a long life. You may lived less than two decades.

We don’t know what tomorrow holds.

But I do know Who holds the future.

Yours in Christ,

Marty