The World Series has been exciting, especially for those of us in the Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex. Since we became close friends with Josh and Katie Hamilton, Betty has taken a serious interest. She is a real sports fan! I believe she actually thinks she coached the Dallas Mavericks to an NBA championship and now she will manage the Texas Rangers to the World Series victory. It may be hard for some to imagine that quiet, shy Betty is such an all out sports enthusiast, but she is. Our youngest daughter Robin and her family of five have been dedicated St.

In a day when politicians make promises of reform, we must remember one timeless truth: the true hope for America lies in the effective witness and influence of the local church.

Love is the greatest force on earth to resist, limit, and ultimately halt evil’s deadly progression. This is the greatest hour in human history for us to express the power of God’s love “not in word only, but in deed.” Believers can inspire effective action in all areas of influence including making a positive impact on the federal government. Effective government serves the people and protects them from harm.

“Take to heart all the words I have solemnly declared to you this day, so that you may command your children to obey carefully all the words of this law. They are not just idle words for you—they are your life. By them you will live long in the land…”[1]

America has been deceived. This deception has been intentional on the part of some and “the father of lies” is definitely a factor. Much of the deception, however, is unintentional and the result of promoting or accepting a belief system which basically denies absolute truth and the life made possible by knowing the truth – a Person – in a personal relationship. The powerful effect of lives transformed by truth is undeniable for it is magnetically attractive.

If you watch television, listen to talk radio, or read a newspaper, you will constantly hear the claim that “most people think,” followed by some assertion. Most people don’t like what is happening in our country. Most people want change. Most people are concerned about national direction, the economy, and the future. And, of course, most people are angry about the inaction and ineffectiveness of Congress and other leaders.

Jesus never imposed his will, virtues, or ethics on anyone. He presented Himself, along with the offer of abundant life and freedom made possible by abiding in the truth He offers. We have an invitation from Almighty God, our heavenly Father, to live in His shadow and His shelter while following the Lord, who is our Shepherd. Refusing this invitation is like shouting, “Bring on the consequences!”

Ten years ago this weekend the world seemed to stand still in a state of total shock. Terrorists had flown two airliners into both towers of the World Trade Center. It was a direct hit on symbols representing the United States’ economic strength. A third plane slammed into the Pentagon, which represented our military power and security. Another airliner was brought down short of its intended target by truly brave passengers.

I think America has been headed in the wrong direction – straight into the ditch of out-of-control debt, with government agencies enforcing rules that were never passed and had even been rejected by Congress. Much of the media and population continually mock the God of the Bible, diminishing the value of marriage, family and even innocent life itself. Blind leaders have our blind nation headed over a cliff.

This past week when I read the following statement in the gospel of John, I was stunned – even though I had read it before. How could God’s chosen people of faith make such a statement concerning any false god?