Back in January, I took some time to flip open my Bible, and write a full page in a notebook on what I read. I felt inspired to take a peak back at what I had written, for I couldn't remember, but I thought it might help me, and others, with whatever may be going on with them. So here is my entry from January 26, on Hebrews 2:1-4 (read it before going on!)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
This passage starts out "Therefore, we must attend all the more to what we have heard, so that we may not be carried away." How true this is today for us Christians! We live in a world where it is very easy to be carried away by sin. Our culture has forgotten God, and it tries to make us forget Him too. It tries to distract us from our faith and our God. We are told here though that we must pay attention to what we have heard that combats society's ways! We cannot simply get by, going to Mass once a week...or, worse yet, not at all. No...this is not a spectator's sport! Instead, we need to keep God on our minds, in our hearts, and on our tongues and hands and eyes and feet ALWAYS! In this age, yes, we must attend all the more to what we have heard.
What have we heard though...or do we let the world drown out the voice of our loving Father? In Church, do we pay full attention...or does our mind wander? Do we fret and worry and zone out? I know I have trouble. But do we zone out while watching a movie or playing a game? No...so it CAN be done, especially with God's help. What else do we hear? Do we read the Word of God? Do we pray and talk...not to, but WITH Him? Can we hear His loving voice, guiding us and leading us? As verse 4 says, we not only have what we have heard, but we have signs, wonders, acts of power and the gifts of the Holy Spirit! We need to latch onto these things and hold them dear at all times. We need to pray and read the Bible to HEAR God. And then, by His grace, we need to do what He tells us to do, and attend to His holy will...or else, "how shall we escape if we ignore so great a salvation?"
Showing posts with label Christianity. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Christianity. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Time is short...
It has now been a little over a week since Election Day. Last week, after the election, I blogged about keeping hope in the growing darkness. Keep that blog in mind as I reflect on the events that have occurred since. The purpose of this entry is to help you realize what we are up against in the coming times. I am not really surprised that the events I am about to describe are taking place...but I am surprised that they are happening so fast and so soon. Take a look:
First off, we start in California. Proposition 8, which defined marriage as between one man and one woman, was passed in last week's vote. Gay rights activists have been in an uproar since. Over the weekend, an elderly lady went to one of the protests to show her support of Proposition 8. She carried a cross with her. When a local TV station tried to interview her, this is what happened. The end of the video in particular is disturbing.
One last comment on this story. The news anchor at the end says there was 'a lot of hate on both sides.' What is he talking about?? A little old lady carrying a cross is hate?? If that her actions are on the same level as the actions of her attackers, then America is perhaps in an even darker state that even I realized.
Next, we go to Michigan. Again, the 'tolerant, equality driven' gay agenda lashes out. Instead of me trying to describe the chaos that was created at a Church in Michigan, I will just let you read:
http://www.rightmichigan.com/story/2008/11/10/13335/904
This is not an isolated event either. Churches nationwide have been vandalized for opposing gay marriage.
http://www.onenewsnow.com/Politics/Default.aspx?id=315392
http://spiritdaily.com/whipsawtimes.htm (third paragraph)
No, of course it is not every protester and gay rights activist that is doing this. Of course they are not all full of hate. But, the fact of the matter is, these news stories aren't making headlines in the liberal media. That is just part of how this culture is primed for this kind of persecution. The extreme liberalism that was voted into office and into law last week has only empowered the extreme left and embolden them to act in such ways....and this is just one short week later.
This isn't limited to the gay marriage debate either. High profile Pro-life leaders and priests have begun to receive death threats for their stand against things such as the Freedom of Choice Act, which the US Conference of Catholic Bishops just yesterday said would "deprive the American people in all 50 states of the freedom they now have to enact modest restraints and regulations on the abortion industry.", and "would coerce all Americans into subsidizing and promoting abortion with their tax dollars." Furthermore, they say the FOCA may have a "destructive effect on the freedom of conscience of doctors, nurses and health care workers whose personal convictions do not permit them to cooperate in the private killing of unborn children." They call the Freedom of Choice Act 'evil' and rightly so. Pray hard about this, as well as embryonic stem cell research, an area that is too often overlooked. Obama has indicated that he will overturn restrictions on embryonic stem cell research right away. The Vatican has called ESCR 'worthless' and the simple fact of the matter is a human life is destroyed in the process. Why do we need to have this when there are other stem cells that, unlike embryonic stem cells, actually have yielded results, but do not kill a human in the process? It is an evil practice that should be outlawed...yet our president elect is about to forge full steam ahead with it.
A couple days ago, the phrase 'time is short' jumped out at me and has kinda stuck with me since. The escalation of violence, intolerance and hatred against Christians and the most innocent forms of human life is disturbing and just goes to prove what I was saying last week. War is upon us. Only God knows what the future, both short term, and long term, may hold. But, time may in fact be short before these types of events become much more widespread and dangerous. So prepare yourself for the fight now. Prayer is our best weapon. Pray for this country. Pray for those who are persecuting the Church. Pray for Obama! That is immensely important! And pray that you will have the strength to do God's will. Take a moment and ask yourself, 'What will I give and sacrifice for God'? Will you risk being persecuted as our brothers and sisters already have been? Will you make a stand and fight for the unborn....for the preservation of the family and the sanctity of marriage, knowing full well that it may very well put you at risk as well? How far will you go for your God? We have death threats being made against priests...would you die for your God? After all...He did die for us.
First off, we start in California. Proposition 8, which defined marriage as between one man and one woman, was passed in last week's vote. Gay rights activists have been in an uproar since. Over the weekend, an elderly lady went to one of the protests to show her support of Proposition 8. She carried a cross with her. When a local TV station tried to interview her, this is what happened. The end of the video in particular is disturbing.
One last comment on this story. The news anchor at the end says there was 'a lot of hate on both sides.' What is he talking about?? A little old lady carrying a cross is hate?? If that her actions are on the same level as the actions of her attackers, then America is perhaps in an even darker state that even I realized.
Next, we go to Michigan. Again, the 'tolerant, equality driven' gay agenda lashes out. Instead of me trying to describe the chaos that was created at a Church in Michigan, I will just let you read:
http://www.rightmichigan.com/story/2008/11/10/13335/904
This is not an isolated event either. Churches nationwide have been vandalized for opposing gay marriage.
http://www.onenewsnow.com/Politics/Default.aspx?id=315392
http://spiritdaily.com/whipsawtimes.htm (third paragraph)
No, of course it is not every protester and gay rights activist that is doing this. Of course they are not all full of hate. But, the fact of the matter is, these news stories aren't making headlines in the liberal media. That is just part of how this culture is primed for this kind of persecution. The extreme liberalism that was voted into office and into law last week has only empowered the extreme left and embolden them to act in such ways....and this is just one short week later.
This isn't limited to the gay marriage debate either. High profile Pro-life leaders and priests have begun to receive death threats for their stand against things such as the Freedom of Choice Act, which the US Conference of Catholic Bishops just yesterday said would "deprive the American people in all 50 states of the freedom they now have to enact modest restraints and regulations on the abortion industry.", and "would coerce all Americans into subsidizing and promoting abortion with their tax dollars." Furthermore, they say the FOCA may have a "destructive effect on the freedom of conscience of doctors, nurses and health care workers whose personal convictions do not permit them to cooperate in the private killing of unborn children." They call the Freedom of Choice Act 'evil' and rightly so. Pray hard about this, as well as embryonic stem cell research, an area that is too often overlooked. Obama has indicated that he will overturn restrictions on embryonic stem cell research right away. The Vatican has called ESCR 'worthless' and the simple fact of the matter is a human life is destroyed in the process. Why do we need to have this when there are other stem cells that, unlike embryonic stem cells, actually have yielded results, but do not kill a human in the process? It is an evil practice that should be outlawed...yet our president elect is about to forge full steam ahead with it.
A couple days ago, the phrase 'time is short' jumped out at me and has kinda stuck with me since. The escalation of violence, intolerance and hatred against Christians and the most innocent forms of human life is disturbing and just goes to prove what I was saying last week. War is upon us. Only God knows what the future, both short term, and long term, may hold. But, time may in fact be short before these types of events become much more widespread and dangerous. So prepare yourself for the fight now. Prayer is our best weapon. Pray for this country. Pray for those who are persecuting the Church. Pray for Obama! That is immensely important! And pray that you will have the strength to do God's will. Take a moment and ask yourself, 'What will I give and sacrifice for God'? Will you risk being persecuted as our brothers and sisters already have been? Will you make a stand and fight for the unborn....for the preservation of the family and the sanctity of marriage, knowing full well that it may very well put you at risk as well? How far will you go for your God? We have death threats being made against priests...would you die for your God? After all...He did die for us.
Wednesday, November 5, 2008
The Dark Night
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,
Over the past 24 hours or so, our country has set its course for the coming years. As I am sure you are well aware, the results of Election Day 2008 scarcely could be considered anything short of a near-worst case scenario. Our fellow citizens, and perhaps you, who are reading this now, have helped elect a candidate who threatens the very way of Christian life through his ultra-liberal policies to the highest position in the country, if not the world. Congress and the House of Representatives, the law makers of this country, have become even more liberal with the liberals picking up even more seats. I do not like the term 'Democrats', because today's Democratic leaders are a disgrace to what the Democratic Party once was. Furthermore, the fight for the Right to Life was hampered by failed legislation in South Dakota and Colorado that would have protected thousands of innocent lives. Never before has our country turned its back on God so brashly.
My brothers and sisters, I am writing this evening because of the difficulties of the times to come, but more so because of the hardships many of you are already feeling. Last night was a very stressful, pivotal night, and things did not go well...and I dare say America will pay the consequences of her choices. This has caused a great deal of anxiety, hopelessness, and discouragement among us. We face a great uphill battle now, not only for the unborn and Christian values, but, possibly for our freedoms as well. The coming years will not be easy, and now, more than ever, it is important we heed the words of Ephesians 6:10-20:
The feelings I described many of us having above...hopelessness, despair, even depression, are the beginning of the attack. Satan is using these initial attacks to trick us into surrendering before we even realize we are at war. It is important, therefore, that we first focus on fortifying and strengthening ourselves so that we can face, and survive, this time. How can we do that? First, we must remember two important themes found in Scripture and passed on from age to age: First: be not afraid. We have a God who loves us so much, that He gave us His Son to die for us so that evil will never triumph. In essence, our battle has already been won, and victory is guaranteed. There is nothing that can be done by the enemy to change that if we truly accept this. Secondly, have hope. Again, the victory is ours through the cross and through our God, we can do all things...for "nothing is impossible for God" (Luke 1:37). By holding onto that hope and not being afraid, we can and will see these times pass. Even with all that was evil last night, the sanctity of marriage and the family was upheld in California, Florida and Arizona.
The first step in all of this must occur right now. Not in a couple of days, not in a few hours. This very moment. We have all been tempted by the feelings of despair and distress, myself included. We must let Christ lift us up right now and go about life as if nothing has changed. We must continue to find joy in our Savior and the many blessings He has poured out on us. We must continue to reject feelings of depression and continue our fighting. We must continue to build each other up, strengthening our brothers and sisters where they are weak, and allowing them to do the same for us. We must continue to allow God to do miraculous things for us, because He has blessed us in so many more ways than we can even comprehend. We must, absolutley must, NOT succumb to this. It is tempting to say 'yes...that is all great and right...but not now." But, as much as I tempted by that even as I write this, we can not give into this temptation.
In conclusion, my brothers and sisters, we have a God who loves us more than we can being to imagine. He has not abandoned us, and no matter what happens here on Earth, He never will. We must now humble ourselves and allow Him to lift us up and search for His will in our lives. Time may or may not be very short until great trials like we, young and old alike, have not witnessed before. It is important, then, that you prepare yourself now. Read the Bible. Pray as often as you can. Attend your Church services. Repent for your sins, and resolve to actively strengthen those areas where you are weak. For my Catholic brothers and sisters, this means going to Confession frequently. It can be a daunting thing, yes...but the more you go, the more you find it peaceful and the joy after receiving the Eucharist at Mass right after going to Confession...its simply wonderful...but you must open yourself to God and let Him in.
If you think you do not have time for these things, you do and can make the time. That is something I have been learning this semester, which has been extremely busy for me. It is so amazing what 15 minutes or prayer can do....what reading a couple sections of the Bible can do (there are many reading plans that are very easy to follow)...saying a prayer on the way to class or while driving to work....all of these things can help in ways that may be unforeseen at the moment.
So, my brothers...my sisters...the time is now. Arm yourself and prepare, because like it or not, war is already upon us. Thankfully for us, we have an all powerful Savior fighting with us. The darkest hour is always that right before the dawn.
Be strong. Have hope. And may God bless you always.
Over the past 24 hours or so, our country has set its course for the coming years. As I am sure you are well aware, the results of Election Day 2008 scarcely could be considered anything short of a near-worst case scenario. Our fellow citizens, and perhaps you, who are reading this now, have helped elect a candidate who threatens the very way of Christian life through his ultra-liberal policies to the highest position in the country, if not the world. Congress and the House of Representatives, the law makers of this country, have become even more liberal with the liberals picking up even more seats. I do not like the term 'Democrats', because today's Democratic leaders are a disgrace to what the Democratic Party once was. Furthermore, the fight for the Right to Life was hampered by failed legislation in South Dakota and Colorado that would have protected thousands of innocent lives. Never before has our country turned its back on God so brashly.
My brothers and sisters, I am writing this evening because of the difficulties of the times to come, but more so because of the hardships many of you are already feeling. Last night was a very stressful, pivotal night, and things did not go well...and I dare say America will pay the consequences of her choices. This has caused a great deal of anxiety, hopelessness, and discouragement among us. We face a great uphill battle now, not only for the unborn and Christian values, but, possibly for our freedoms as well. The coming years will not be easy, and now, more than ever, it is important we heed the words of Ephesians 6:10-20:
My brothers and sisters, it is without doubt that we face a time where we will be tested. Verse 12 above in particular stands out. Our battle is not against Obama, the Senate, Congress or any person. Instead, we are faced with a spiritual war. In fact, we have already been attacked.
- 10
- 1 Finally, draw your strength from the Lord and from his mighty power.
- 11
- Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil.
- 12
- For our struggle is not with flesh and blood but with the principalities, with the powers, with the world rulers of this present darkness, with the evil spirits in the heavens.
- 13
- Therefore, put on the armor of God, that you may be able to resist on the evil day and, having done everything, to hold your ground.
- 14
- So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate,
- 15
- and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace.
- 16
- In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all (the) flaming arrows of the evil one.
- 17
- And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
- 18
- With all prayer and supplication, pray at every opportunity in the Spirit. To that end, be watchful with all perseverance and supplication for all the holy ones
- 19
- and also for me, that speech may be given me to open my mouth, to make known with boldness the mystery of the gospel
- 20
- for which I am an ambassador in chains, so that I may have the courage to speak as I must.
The feelings I described many of us having above...hopelessness, despair, even depression, are the beginning of the attack. Satan is using these initial attacks to trick us into surrendering before we even realize we are at war. It is important, therefore, that we first focus on fortifying and strengthening ourselves so that we can face, and survive, this time. How can we do that? First, we must remember two important themes found in Scripture and passed on from age to age: First: be not afraid. We have a God who loves us so much, that He gave us His Son to die for us so that evil will never triumph. In essence, our battle has already been won, and victory is guaranteed. There is nothing that can be done by the enemy to change that if we truly accept this. Secondly, have hope. Again, the victory is ours through the cross and through our God, we can do all things...for "nothing is impossible for God" (Luke 1:37). By holding onto that hope and not being afraid, we can and will see these times pass. Even with all that was evil last night, the sanctity of marriage and the family was upheld in California, Florida and Arizona.
The first step in all of this must occur right now. Not in a couple of days, not in a few hours. This very moment. We have all been tempted by the feelings of despair and distress, myself included. We must let Christ lift us up right now and go about life as if nothing has changed. We must continue to find joy in our Savior and the many blessings He has poured out on us. We must continue to reject feelings of depression and continue our fighting. We must continue to build each other up, strengthening our brothers and sisters where they are weak, and allowing them to do the same for us. We must continue to allow God to do miraculous things for us, because He has blessed us in so many more ways than we can even comprehend. We must, absolutley must, NOT succumb to this. It is tempting to say 'yes...that is all great and right...but not now." But, as much as I tempted by that even as I write this, we can not give into this temptation.
In conclusion, my brothers and sisters, we have a God who loves us more than we can being to imagine. He has not abandoned us, and no matter what happens here on Earth, He never will. We must now humble ourselves and allow Him to lift us up and search for His will in our lives. Time may or may not be very short until great trials like we, young and old alike, have not witnessed before. It is important, then, that you prepare yourself now. Read the Bible. Pray as often as you can. Attend your Church services. Repent for your sins, and resolve to actively strengthen those areas where you are weak. For my Catholic brothers and sisters, this means going to Confession frequently. It can be a daunting thing, yes...but the more you go, the more you find it peaceful and the joy after receiving the Eucharist at Mass right after going to Confession...its simply wonderful...but you must open yourself to God and let Him in.
If you think you do not have time for these things, you do and can make the time. That is something I have been learning this semester, which has been extremely busy for me. It is so amazing what 15 minutes or prayer can do....what reading a couple sections of the Bible can do (there are many reading plans that are very easy to follow)...saying a prayer on the way to class or while driving to work....all of these things can help in ways that may be unforeseen at the moment.
So, my brothers...my sisters...the time is now. Arm yourself and prepare, because like it or not, war is already upon us. Thankfully for us, we have an all powerful Savior fighting with us. The darkest hour is always that right before the dawn.
Be strong. Have hope. And may God bless you always.
Monday, November 3, 2008
Simply a Quote...nothing more
"When the time comes as it surely will, when we face that awesome moment, the final judgment, I’ve often thought, as Fulton Sheen wrote, that it is a terrible moment of loneliness. You have no advocates, you are there alone standing before God - and a terror will rip through your soul like nothing you can imagine. But I really think that those in the pro-life movement will not be alone. I think there will be a chorus of voices that have never been heard in this world but are heard beautifully and clearly in the next world - and they will plead for everyone who has been in this movement. They will say to God, ‘Spare him because he loved us,’ - and God will look at you and say not, ‘Did you succeed?’ but ‘Did you try?’"
~ Illinois Rep. Henry Hyde who passed away in November 2007
~ Illinois Rep. Henry Hyde who passed away in November 2007
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Election Novena
First off, this semester has been too busy for me to post. That doesn't mean I haven't had a lot of thoughts, but just no time to share them.
However, with what we face in just over a week, time needs to be made to post at least something. And so, for my fellow Catholic brothers and sisters, I bring you this, which was passed along to me by a friend.
This is a novena for the election. The link is just one page of text, explaining why this is vital. The priest who initiated this movement does not sugar coat this, and nor should he. Things that have been going on, such as the economy, are NOT coincidence.
Read this...and act how the Holy Spirit directs you.
http://www.fathercorapi.com/PDF/ElectionNovena.pdf
However, with what we face in just over a week, time needs to be made to post at least something. And so, for my fellow Catholic brothers and sisters, I bring you this, which was passed along to me by a friend.
This is a novena for the election. The link is just one page of text, explaining why this is vital. The priest who initiated this movement does not sugar coat this, and nor should he. Things that have been going on, such as the economy, are NOT coincidence.
Read this...and act how the Holy Spirit directs you.
http://www.fathercorapi.com/PDF/ElectionNovena.pdf
Monday, May 12, 2008
"Catholic" Democrats?
I just read an article on some comments Catholic League President Bill Donahue made on Obama and his Catholic supporters. It brought up to mind something that has really bothered me over the past few months. I simply do not see how Catholics....or ANY Christians...can support Obama or the democratic party in general! It really gets on my nerves to see articles on how the Democratic nominees are "fighting" for the "Catholic" vote. There shouldn't be ANY Catholic vote for the Democrats!
How can these "Catholic" democrats vote for and support candidates who have such a blatant disregard for human life and basic Christian morals? One of the Democratic Parties staunchest platforms is to allow abortions and stem-cell research. The Catholic Church teaches these as intrinsically evil! Would someone please explain to me then how someone can call themselves Catholic, yet support the Democrats?
I think a lot of it has to do with long standing voting traditions. Back in the day, it was the Democrats who were more closely aligned to Catholic teaching....so many people today just vote Democrat because that is what their parents and grandparents did. If that is the case, these people need to wake up and actually look at the issues. And this isn't just for Catholics either...I don't see how any Christian can support this party.
A vote for the Democrats is a vote for the Culture of Death. Which are you going to support come November?
Bill Donahue Article: http://www.lifenews.com/nat3921.html
How can these "Catholic" democrats vote for and support candidates who have such a blatant disregard for human life and basic Christian morals? One of the Democratic Parties staunchest platforms is to allow abortions and stem-cell research. The Catholic Church teaches these as intrinsically evil! Would someone please explain to me then how someone can call themselves Catholic, yet support the Democrats?
I think a lot of it has to do with long standing voting traditions. Back in the day, it was the Democrats who were more closely aligned to Catholic teaching....so many people today just vote Democrat because that is what their parents and grandparents did. If that is the case, these people need to wake up and actually look at the issues. And this isn't just for Catholics either...I don't see how any Christian can support this party.
A vote for the Democrats is a vote for the Culture of Death. Which are you going to support come November?
Bill Donahue Article: http://www.lifenews.com/nat3921.html
Monday, March 17, 2008
In Response to "Concerning homosexuality and extremists in the Church.."
This blog entry is in response to a blog that was written Saturday by a fellow member of the Newman Club. First, some background information. The
When I came to college last September, I quickly got heavily involved in the
Because this kind of dissenting attitude toward the Catholic Church was not what I was looking for and was not helpful to my spiritual growth, I have been gradually distancing myself, feeling that this was better than a confrontation, which would inevitably lead to a painful and likely unchristian situation.
However, when I was asked last week by another member of the Newman Club why it seemed like I was avoiding them, I simply told him why. I told him that I didn’t agree with a lot of the things they were doing and why I didn’t feel comfortable with them. That was March 11th and everything was more or less quiet until Saturday, when this blog was written. The link to the blog is http://bernstein09.blogspot.com/ and I would encourage you to read it before going on since I will be addressing the content of the blog itself.
First, a quick word about the tone and word choice of this blog. Ironically, the author of the blog calls for open-mindedness but then calls and/or implies that people who disagree with her on this issue as bigot, terrorist, hateful person, etc. Is this open-minded?
How many people, even among Catholics, actually know what the Church teaches about homosexuality? Here is what the Catechism of the Catholic Church (1997) says:
Homosexuality refers to relations between men or between women who experience an exclusive or predominant sexual attraction toward persons of the same sex. It has taken a great variety of forms through the centuries and in different cultures. Its psychological genesis remains largely unexplained. Basing itself on Sacred Scripture . . . tradition has always declared that “homosexual acts are intrinsically disordered.” They are contrary to the natural law. They close the sex act to the gift of life. They do not proceed from a genuine affective and sexual complementarity. Under no circumstances can they be approved.
The number of men and women who have deep-seated homosexual tendencies is not negligible. This inclination . . . constitutes for most of them a trial. They must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided. These persons are called to fulfill God’s will in their lives, and, if they are Christians, to unite to the sacrifice of the Lord’s Cross the difficulties they may encounter from their condition. Homosexual persons are called to chastity.
The Catholic Church’s teaching on this matter is consistent with Biblical condemnations of homosexual behavior (check your Bible, Leviticus 18:22-30, Romans 1:26-27, 1 Corinthians 6:9 and Jude 7). Catholic teaching on this issue is also shared by most religions, including most Protestant Christians, Muslims, and orthodox Jews. All of these faiths teach that sex belongs in marriage and that marriage must be between a man and a woman because the two purposes of sex—the expression of faithful, complementary love and the procreation of children—can be fulfilled only in heterosexual marriage. This is not a “prejudice” but a belief about God’s purposes for sex.
In saying that the Catholic Church is wrong to condemn homosexual behavior, the author of the blog is also saying that the Church is wrong on a matter of faith and morals. According to Catholic belief, this is not possible. Catholics believe that Jesus promised the Church that he would send the Holy Spirit to ensure the truth of its teachings. If you’d like more information about the Biblical backing of this, I would be happy to discuss it with you.
Lastly, the blog states that we must allow homosexual behavior in order to love them. This is not true at all. Jesus loved every person more than we are capable of, but he wasn’t afraid to tell them they were wrong and that they needed to repent and take control of their sinful desires. Being loving does not mean allowing sinful behavior to continue. I by no means support those who abuse homosexuals and discriminate against them. However, to let them do what they want is to stand by while they fall deeper into sin. That is not loving, in fact, I can think of no way to be more unloving. The true Catholic teaching on homosexuals, as shown in the Catechism, is that we are called to love and encourage these people to place God at the center of their lives and take control of their desires. We are to pray for them and help them, not allow them to do whatever they wish.
You might think, “How can you ask people to suppress their natural desires?” Let me give you just one example of a person who is living a chaste lifestyle even though she has homosexual inclinations. She is part of a Catholic support group, Courage, that helps persons experiencing same-sex attraction to lead a chaste life. She says:
A homosexual tendency is not who you are; it’s a tendency in a person. There is a whole deeper reality to who you are. The more you grow internally, the more you can know yourself as you are known by God. The deepest peace you can have is when you are living the way God intended you to live.
Of course, you don’t have to agree with Catholic teaching or any other religious view of this or any other issue. That is your right of conscience, just as it is a right of conscience for other persons to hold the above-quoted beliefs.
Thank you for reading these thoughts with an open mind. I have tried my best to explain my views. I pray that we may all know the truth as God wants us to know it, I don’t wish to debate the issue further, especially not during the holiest week of the year. God bless you all.
Further Reading: Please leave a comment and I will give you some documents that I was not able to upload for furthered reading!
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Atlanta Storm Damages CNN, Georgia Dome
A storm, possibly a tornado, ripped through downtown Atlanta last night, damaging the CNN studios and the Georgia Dome during the SEC basketball tournament.
Story: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,338078,00.html
Pictures: http://www.foxnews.com/photoessay/0,4644,3558,00.html
Earlier this week, one of my fellow Christian meteorology majors showed me a passage in the Gospel of Matthew that is probably overlooked by most people. But, the Bible is the Word of God, so every single verse has worth.
When I heard about the storm in Atlanta last night and the two biggest stories surrounding it, this verse came to mind. What might God be trying to say to us through this storm. Maybe nothing, but the fact that a couple things immediately came to mind makes me really wonder. I am not saying this is for certain, but I find it very interesting.
CNN's studios were damaged. Now, I consider CNN to be one of the pillars of the liberal, leftish media in America. Their slanted news most certainly doesn't build up or support the kingdom of God. Could this storm have been a bit of a warning sign?
As for the basketball game, no God isn't upset at the teams that were playing when the storm hit. God isn't condemning sports or anything like that. However, I find the timing of the storm key. This game was part of the SEC College Basketball tournament. If you aren't familiar with "March Madness," let me explain. Basically, every major basketball conference holds a tournament at the end of the year. These tournaments help set the field for a larger, 65 team tournament. Tomorrow is 'Selection Sunday," when the tournament field is set.
Here is my thought linking the storm to the tournament. The NCAA tournament is a HUGE betting event...probably one of, if not the largest of each year. There will be a lot of excess money thrown around once the field is set tomorrow and the betting will continue for the duration of the tournament, which goes into April. Think of all the good that could be done with that money if it was spent on feeding the poor, clothing the naked, building homes, etc etc! Perhaps God is trying to get us to turn back to His word and have us spend our money on better things?
Story: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,338078,00.html
Pictures: http://www.foxnews.com/photoessay/0,4644,3558,00.html
Earlier this week, one of my fellow Christian meteorology majors showed me a passage in the Gospel of Matthew that is probably overlooked by most people. But, the Bible is the Word of God, so every single verse has worth.
- He said to them in reply, "In the evening you say, 'Tomorrow will be fair, for the sky is red'
- and, in the morning, 'Today will be stormy, for the sky is red and threatening.' You know how to judge the appearance of the sky, but you cannot judge the signs of the times. ~Matthew 16:2-3
When I heard about the storm in Atlanta last night and the two biggest stories surrounding it, this verse came to mind. What might God be trying to say to us through this storm. Maybe nothing, but the fact that a couple things immediately came to mind makes me really wonder. I am not saying this is for certain, but I find it very interesting.
CNN's studios were damaged. Now, I consider CNN to be one of the pillars of the liberal, leftish media in America. Their slanted news most certainly doesn't build up or support the kingdom of God. Could this storm have been a bit of a warning sign?
As for the basketball game, no God isn't upset at the teams that were playing when the storm hit. God isn't condemning sports or anything like that. However, I find the timing of the storm key. This game was part of the SEC College Basketball tournament. If you aren't familiar with "March Madness," let me explain. Basically, every major basketball conference holds a tournament at the end of the year. These tournaments help set the field for a larger, 65 team tournament. Tomorrow is 'Selection Sunday," when the tournament field is set.
Here is my thought linking the storm to the tournament. The NCAA tournament is a HUGE betting event...probably one of, if not the largest of each year. There will be a lot of excess money thrown around once the field is set tomorrow and the betting will continue for the duration of the tournament, which goes into April. Think of all the good that could be done with that money if it was spent on feeding the poor, clothing the naked, building homes, etc etc! Perhaps God is trying to get us to turn back to His word and have us spend our money on better things?
Friday, March 14, 2008
Barack Obama's Pastor
Now I have heard some things in the past about the pastor of the church that Obama goes to. However, it wasn't until this afternoon that some details finally came out.
Now, when you stick with a church for 20 years, get married in that church, have your children baptized in that church, when you are very close to your pastor...chances are pretty high you are satisfied and supportive of this church. From my own personal experience, my family just left one Catholic parish for another because we became very dissatisfied and uncomfortable (to say the least) with the direction of that parish. Likewise, here at my college, it is becoming clear to me that the Catholic chapel on campus is very liberal and does what they want...which I do not support and makes me uncomfortable. So, this semester, I have been to Mass there once and doubt I will be going there often if ever again, favoring the more traditional churches in town.
Now my whole point here is this. You pick your church and you pick your pastor based on what you like and what you are comfortable with. If you don't like it, you find another one. When you stay with the church for 20 years, you must like it.
Now...I have embedded video from Fox News that analyzes some of the sermons given by the Rev. Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright, Jr that are downright HATEFUL of America! Wait a second...Obama is buddy-buddy with a person who hates America...sits in the pews and listens to this guy spew anti-American lies...and he is running for PRESIDENT? Maybe its just me...but something doesn't seem right.
Take a look for yourself:
WARNING: THIS VIDEO CONTAINS OFFENSIVE MATERIAL AND LANGUAGE!!!
For further reading: http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/03/14/obamas-spiritual-adviser....
Another video: http://www.foxnews.com/video2/launchPage.html?031308/....
Obama's Church Website: http://www.tucc.org/home.htm
UPDATE: Apparently Obama has just released a statement regarding this very issue. That can be found by clicking here. You be the judge...I personally find it hard to believe that Obama never heard these sermons or didn't even know about them until the start of his campaign.
Now, when you stick with a church for 20 years, get married in that church, have your children baptized in that church, when you are very close to your pastor...chances are pretty high you are satisfied and supportive of this church. From my own personal experience, my family just left one Catholic parish for another because we became very dissatisfied and uncomfortable (to say the least) with the direction of that parish. Likewise, here at my college, it is becoming clear to me that the Catholic chapel on campus is very liberal and does what they want...which I do not support and makes me uncomfortable. So, this semester, I have been to Mass there once and doubt I will be going there often if ever again, favoring the more traditional churches in town.
Now my whole point here is this. You pick your church and you pick your pastor based on what you like and what you are comfortable with. If you don't like it, you find another one. When you stay with the church for 20 years, you must like it.
Now...I have embedded video from Fox News that analyzes some of the sermons given by the Rev. Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright, Jr that are downright HATEFUL of America! Wait a second...Obama is buddy-buddy with a person who hates America...sits in the pews and listens to this guy spew anti-American lies...and he is running for PRESIDENT? Maybe its just me...but something doesn't seem right.
Take a look for yourself:
WARNING: THIS VIDEO CONTAINS OFFENSIVE MATERIAL AND LANGUAGE!!!
For further reading: http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/03/14/obamas-spiritual-adviser....
Another video: http://www.foxnews.com/video2/launchPage.html?031308/....
Obama's Church Website: http://www.tucc.org/home.htm
UPDATE: Apparently Obama has just released a statement regarding this very issue. That can be found by clicking here. You be the judge...I personally find it hard to believe that Obama never heard these sermons or didn't even know about them until the start of his campaign.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Introduction
Greetings all! I'd like to use this first post to introduce myself and let you know what I am going to be doing here.
First off, my name is Todd. Well...actually it isn't, but that is the name I have been using as my online alias for quite some time now, so when I thought of creating this blog, I thought why not use it here too! Anyways, I am a college freshman at an Upstate New York college majoring in meteorology. I have been interested in the weather as long as I can remember and truly enjoy meteorology, especially the forecasting aspect of it.
I was raised in a strong Roman Catholic family that has shaped my deep sense of faith that has gotten me to where I am today. I love the Catholic faith, but that does not mean I do not enjoy talking and communing with other religions. In fact, my best friends, who are more like brothers and sisters to me than simply friends, are not even Catholic.
I am a republican and conservative, with my main political interests being the Right to Life, preservation of marriage and the family, foreign policy, particularly in dealing with Islamic terrorists, and debunking the Global Warming hoax.
Right now, I am one and a half semesters into college and I see that the college environment is tough place for Christians to be. I also see how being a Christian in today's world is tough. Satan is trying so hard to distract us from what is good and right in this world. I felt that I have been called to share my thoughts and beliefs with anyone who would want to read them, which has lead me to create this blog. Furthermore, I am planning to posting a lot of links to current event stories and saying briefly what I think of them...that will probably make up the majority of my posts since I don't always have a lot of time to go into long articles. Please feel free to comment and debate me if you wish...I only ask you keep it respectful!
Thank you for taking time to read this and I hope you will keep coming back (or even subscribe to this). God bless!
First off, my name is Todd. Well...actually it isn't, but that is the name I have been using as my online alias for quite some time now, so when I thought of creating this blog, I thought why not use it here too! Anyways, I am a college freshman at an Upstate New York college majoring in meteorology. I have been interested in the weather as long as I can remember and truly enjoy meteorology, especially the forecasting aspect of it.
I was raised in a strong Roman Catholic family that has shaped my deep sense of faith that has gotten me to where I am today. I love the Catholic faith, but that does not mean I do not enjoy talking and communing with other religions. In fact, my best friends, who are more like brothers and sisters to me than simply friends, are not even Catholic.
I am a republican and conservative, with my main political interests being the Right to Life, preservation of marriage and the family, foreign policy, particularly in dealing with Islamic terrorists, and debunking the Global Warming hoax.
Right now, I am one and a half semesters into college and I see that the college environment is tough place for Christians to be. I also see how being a Christian in today's world is tough. Satan is trying so hard to distract us from what is good and right in this world. I felt that I have been called to share my thoughts and beliefs with anyone who would want to read them, which has lead me to create this blog. Furthermore, I am planning to posting a lot of links to current event stories and saying briefly what I think of them...that will probably make up the majority of my posts since I don't always have a lot of time to go into long articles. Please feel free to comment and debate me if you wish...I only ask you keep it respectful!
Thank you for taking time to read this and I hope you will keep coming back (or even subscribe to this). God bless!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
