The Annual New Years Resolution Game Begins

We've all done it. I've done it more than I would like to admit. But we've all to some degree or another made those "new years resolutions" that we aborted sometime in February (maybe earlier, maybe later). Thinking back, I think my most common "resolution" has been to get back into the gym, exercise and lose some weight. All of which has been an up and down, off and on endeavor throughout the years. I'm not sure about the value of making new years resolutions. Most of them go by the wayside and for the others, circumstances change, life ebbs and flows and makes them irrelevant. So I guess a person just needs to live for each day. Live as if today was your last day. Makes sense. Easier some days than others for sure. With that said, it just seems like I'm supposed to make some resolutions. So, I've thought about it for the past few weeks and here they are.

One, I would like to improve on and make my relationship with God better and closer. That comes by practicing spiritual disciplines such as bible reading, daily prayer, solitude, fasting, fellowship, etc. I think a lot of things/issues in life become much clearer and easier to deal with when your relationship with God is somewhat dialed in.

Secondly, I want to drastically improve on or kick up a notch or two my role as the spiritual leader in my family. Praying together as a family has enormous benefits (sadly to say, I'm a big failure here). Putting myself on the back burner, spending more time with the kids training them up in the ways of the Lord and nurturing them to maturity is very important and I feel will be the biggest benchmark to my legacy.

Thirdly, to stay the course and keep plugging away at law school. It's almost routine now, but everyday I want to quit. Work, family and school, it's a pretty daunting task, but one that God will enable me to finish and do well at.

Fourthly, exercise and lose some poundage! Heard that one before? This one is tough for me. I spent a good 20-25 years of my life in a gym hurling weights around, playing college football at Nebraska and later as an amatuer bodybuilder. I'm pretty much done with the gym thing. So I need to find something to keep me active and to help me stay in shape. Something a little more strenuous than mowing the lawn once a week is OK by me.

So there it is. The key to making and keeping resolutions I've come to learn is, turning these things over to God (He might delete one or two of them and add others) and live in the power of the Holy Spirit. Each day is new (duh) and each day brings it's own issues, problems, ups and downs. Being in tune with God in such a way that whatever happens moment by moment each day, you can face each day and every situation with confidence and boldness.

As for this blog, who knows what will happen. The only thing it does for now is suck up my time from profitable endeavors like work and studying. Nobody really reads it, except you Mom...thanks! (and a few others...thanks to you too!). I've come so close to totally deleting it a few times. Maybe I'll change things and go more personal, maybe more about football, law school, my kids or my spiritual life and what I'm learning. We'll see.

At any rate, Happy New Year to you and may 2006 be the best year ever for you!

Why?

Can anybody tell me why I would continue a dialogue with someone who doesn't want to hear what you have to say, puts words in your mouth, tells me what I think, who thinks they know what my position is, catagorizes me and employs straw man and red herring arguments to keep the conversation going in circles? In my line of work, I've worked on the opposite side of lawyers who do some or all of the above. Most of them are crotchety old nags working in solo practices who find themselves knee deep in needless law and motion proceedings and on the business end of a judges order for sanctions for one reason or another. In the end, you have to feel sorry for them. A little humility, grace and intellectual honesty would do them well. But who am I to say and what do I know...I'm just a squirrel trying to get a nut.

Order Restored...Any Questions?

Nebraska 32
Michigan 28

Awesome game for the Huskers! By far the best bowl game so far this year. Turns out Mark May (ESPN Gameday analyst) was 12 or more points short in his prediction. He and really nobody else gave NU a chance to win this game let alone make a good game of it. May said Michigan would blow out NU and score in the 40's. 14 of Michigan's points came off of turnovers and NU had one touchdown called back. Our running game was juiced up as RB Cory Ross ran for 166 yards, an Alamo Bowl record. Junior QB Zach Taylor, who's body is probably packed in ice right now (he got drilled a good 15 times and spent a good chunk of time on his keister), won the player of the game with three TD passes. Great win against a great Michigan team. The extra practice time and closing the season with three wins just about puts us back where NU football belongs...playing BCS caliber teams on New Years Day. Next up, USC on September 16, 2006 in Los Angeles. Whoaaaaaa Nellie!

Pictures, articles, stats and more here.

Loving God with All Your Mind

Got vacation? Here's some holiday reading for you.

The Faith of Unbelief. Read here.

Dealing with life and theistic evidences for God. Read here.

Postmodernism and the pursuit of truth. Read here.

Are you a morally good person? Does it matter? Read here.

Not follow Christ? Who else did you have in mind? Read here.

How does a disciple live? Read here.

Rethinking our approach to evangelism. Read here.

The Making of a Christian. Read here.

Do proponents of gay marriage have a metaphysical ground for their position? Read here. (Article entitled "Legal Neutrality and Same-Sex Marriage")

Why I'm not a Moral Relativist: In "Why I'm a Christian" Geisler and Hoffman. Read here.

This ought to be enough for you for awhile. Hope these articles are helpful as you "...love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your strength and all your MIND..."
Merry Christmas and Godspeed.

Three More Days and other random thoughts...

Got your Christmas shopping done? Me either. I did most of it online this year. Man, that's the way to go let me tell you. Well, three more days till the traditional ripping open of the presents. Paper and bows will fly! I can't wait for my little guys to open a special present I got them (complete Nebraska Cornhusker football uniforms--helmet, shoulder pads and all)! They are going to lose their minds! We'll be missing my girl this year...she's staying with her mom this year and will be seeing other family members she hasn't seen in a long time. It won't be the same without her. But she'll be in our hearts and our thoughts. By the way, if you haven't recieved your Christmas card from us yet, either I don't know you and you're not getting one or it's on the way! Have a great Christmas wherever you are! Miss you all (you know who you are). May the peace of His presence be with you this Christmas and throughout the year!

Are same sex marriages good for children?

In one word, NO. There is absolutely NO scientific research available indicating that same sex marriages are good for children. Information here.

Does a traditional marriage (one man and one woman) matter for children? Research says it does. Information here.

Who are you to force your morality on me?

This statement generally comes up when one is giving their opinion in one fashion or another about morality. They are saying what they think is right or wrong and how that ought to play out in society. This self refuting statement comes up often when a Christian is expressing their viewpoint that goes against the grain (as it often does in our morally bankrupt society).

This challenge is self refuting. It defeats itself because it is a challenge to you that you ought not force others or ask others to live according to your moral point of view. Yet that challenge itself is a moral point of view that someone else believes in and is asking you to live by. To put it simply, they're forcing their morality on you when they say that you shouldn't force your morality on someone else.

Everybody has a moral point of view that we are seeking to have believed and acted upon in society and we are seeking to do that by some measure. Take the homosexual marriage agenda. They are advocating that their moral point of view (gay marriage) is legitimate and should be accepted. Is that a moral viewpoint that should be "forced" on everyone? How legitimate is it to force that moral viewpoint? I won't enumerate here why that viewpoint is not a legimate viewpoint to be forced on society at large, but I do take exception to how that viewpoint is being implimented on our society, which in essence, is the "rub" that opponents of gay marriage have against gay marriage inter alia.

There are two ways to force your morality. One way is to compel or encourage people to act in a way you think is right and for the common good. Generally we use the force of social approval and disapproval to effectuate this method. Another way, the way of the gay marriage activist is to strong arm society with forceful measures- namely by force of law and/or the courts. This brings up a whole new topic of judicial activism, which can be discussed at another time, but a tactic that gay marriage activists are capitalizing on currently.

But one way another, EVERYONE is forcing a moral view on someone. If you are a moralistic person, shame on you.

To friends and family...

Took little guy for his EEG bright and early this morning. Went over the MRI and all the other tests he's undergone over the past two weeks. Good news is everything came back normal, except the EEG. Little Guy has some extra random synapses firing off in his noggin which is causing his seizures. There are remedies for that and he'll be monitored for quite awhile. As for the autism concerns, that won't be determined but by observation and evaluation over time. Overall, pretty good news. Mommy was pretty worried for awhile, but we're happy to report nothing too serious at this time. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers. Whatever happens we know is in the hands of the Lord and He causes ALL things to work together for good...! We're happy that God saw us fit to be his mom and dad and we're blessed for this opportunity.
Thanks again...see you all soon!

Early Christmas present...

Some folks just think they have everything all figured out. They think they know you when they don't know you at all. They call you names, catagorize you and rip you to shreds with specious ad homenum attacks. The irony is, they have their panties in a wad and are stomping up and down beside themselves when they read or hear something they disagree with. Somewhere in their vitriole they condemn you for "moralizing" or expressing your viewpoint arguing "who are you to shove your beliefs down my throat"? Newsflash...aren't you shoving your belief down my throat that I don't have the right to express my belief/viewpoint? Everybody "moralizes". You don't have to act like a jackass when you express one though.

Learn how to be more consistent in your moral reasoning.

The three elements of tolerance.

Huskers continue bowl preparation

A big day in the "rebuilding" process of one of colleges most storied and successful football programs looms on the horizon for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. By smashing Colorado the day after Thanksgiving, the Huskers earned a trip to the Alamo Bowl in San Antonio, Texas. Not quite Husker Nation standards, but it's progress. Much has been said this year, an up and down year at that, about the "State of the Huskers". Can Bill Callahan coach? Will the west coast offense work at NU? What happened against Kansas and Missouri? We all hope that the Colorado game is a peek at what will become the "norm" for Husker performances. And we can only hope that the game against Michigan in 10 days will go down in similar fashion. Check out the scoop on "Nebraska Football" link on the right or see story here. GO BIG RED!!!

Slouching towards Gomorra and Brokeback Morality

Brokeback Mountain is not your John Wayne western movie that's for sure. I haven't seen it and never will. I suppose that makes me an intolerant, hatemongering, bigoted homophobe to the logically and morally challenged elite homosexual apologists in the world. I'm not, but really, who cares. Being the militant seeker and advocate of tolerence as they are, they won't mind tolerating opposing world views...oh that's right, tolerance is desired only if it lines up with your world view, otherwise you're a $^&$%&^%^&%&*%. You'll recall, having tolerance for something means you tolerate it even if you don't agree. Let the ad hominem attacks begin.

Related articles here, here, and here.

How do we know if the Bible is really from God?

Couldn't have said it better, so go here.

Nine more days to Christmas Daddy!

With a sparkle in his eye and joy splashed all over his face, those are the first words uttered off the lips of my five year old son today. Tomorrow will be "eight more days daddy!" Christmas is fun for kids and we do our best to make it special for our kids every year. It's a special time of year steeped deep in history and tradition. Of course the central figure of Christmas is Christ himself. No matter how you feel about Christ, Christmas is about Christ first and foremost. In our home, we have family traditions that honor the birth and birthday of Christ that help make Christmas special and meaningful. Do you have some family tradition that you and your family do at Christmas to honor Christ? Feel free to share them here. May the peace of His presence be with you this Christmas and always.

Do you have a fabricated opinion about the veracity of Christianity?

In a recent colloquy with another highly esteemed blogger in the hugely opinionated (thank God for that) blogosphere, something came to my mind, mainly, that people can hold whatever belief system they want to cling to, that's their perogative (spelling error I'm sure). However, you better have good reasons for what you believe in. You and I can make whatever claims we want to make, but just making a claim or a belief statement doesn't make it true. Further, basing my life and actions on what other people do just because they claim to hold the same ideological beliefs I do isn't necessarily a highly advisable thing to do. Lots of people say one thing and do another. That's why I say "show me what you believe, then maybe I'll listen to you". Ironic thing for many is, that's exactly what Jesus teaches. "Follow me", not follow that Christian dude over there who's entagled in pornography or any number of other traps and sins.

Therefore, I encourage you to know what you believe, know why you believe it, then actually LIVE your belief system. Don't follow another without knowing them or knowing anything about what they "believe". Neither should you make broad sweeping generalizations about a belief system based on the actions of those obviously not practicing what they allegedly believe. You can't make an intellectually honest assessment of a belief system without reading/studying/investigating that systems truth claims for yourself. And of course, what you believe better be true and worth believing. It would be a damn shame to believe the wrong thing! This "advice" might just serve you well someday.

Nice related article here about "religious pluralism" and truth claims inter alia other things.

Anybody want to run for Governor of California on the GOP side?

I guess Arnold has decided he's done with politics. He just named an openly lesbian Democrat, Susan Kennedy, who is married to her "partner", as his Chief of Staff. Get more here.

The Terminator isn't aware of the agenda of the militant gay activists. If you're not, read this. This article is an eye opener written by attorney Scott Lively. A must read.

Oh, this sends chills down my spine!!!

Listen to this...it's the sound of rabid Cornhusker fans at Boulder, Colorado, after we dismantled the Buffaloes and RESTORED THE ORDER!!!!

Did President Clinton lie???

Well, we all know he lied, probably about many things. Mrs. Clinton can vouch for that. But the radical extremist left is hoping that you forgot that President Clinton and the whole band of modern day cut and runner's voted to use force against Saddam Huessien because he had a cache of squirt guns....no, bottle rockets. No, WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION!!! That's right, WMD's. More info here, including the video of President Clinton's speech.

Separation of Church and State is one big illusion

Great article here.

ALSO...Presence of evil proves God does exist!

Read article here. Thanks Stand To Reason.

Don't look now, but the Secular Taliban is on your tail!!!

The Secular Taliban is trying to redefine the concept of tolerance. Traditionally tolerance has meant that I'll put up with you even though I disagree with you. However the Secular Taliban is now trying to force you to believe that you must hold their values every bit as valid as your own even though they may contradict each other.

There’s a story told by a well-educated woman regarding the two young women missionaries caught in Afghanistan with the Jesus film. She believed that fact that these women were trying to reach out and share their faith with the people of that country was inappropriate. She said, "What right do they have in the first place to be over there trying to influence someone to a different point of view?" After we spoke, this same woman drove out of the parking lot with bumper stickers on her car proclaiming "Ban guns." "Stop logging." It was OK for her to convey her point of view, but she could not tolerate anyone promoting a belief system with which she disagreed. This intolerance of differing opinion is what the Secular Taliban is all about.

Another view the Secular Taliban hold is that truth is relative. There are no absolutes. If that's true, we can't say Hitler was wrong, can we? But soon after disabusing you of the notion that your truths are not absolute, the Secular Taliban will introduce their new set of truths which to them are very absolute.

A professor did a great job of destroying this idea of relative truth. He wanted to demonstrate to his students that there are absolutes. He told his class, "regardless of what you think, I want you to know absolute truths can be demonstrated and if you don't accept that they can, I'm going to flunk you." An angry student got up and said, "But that's not fair!" The professor replied, "See there, you've just proven my point. You have appealed to a higher standard of fairness of my own, or hopefully for you, an absolute, right?"

However, conditioned as we are to embrace tolerance, intolerance can be a positive thing. Let's think for a minute about the positive influence of intolerance. Consider the intolerance of the Christian missionaries who went into China and forbade the cruel practice of binding women's feet. Think of the Christian missionaries who went into India and in 1839 outlawed the practice of Sati, the burning of the widow on the husband's funeral pyre. Remember the intolerance of Rosa Parks, a frail woman who got on that bus in Birmingham Alabama and said, "I will not tolerate you telling me to go to the back of the bus any more." Or the intolerance of Susan B. Anthony and Katie Elizabeth Stanton, suffragettes, who said, "we will not tolerate anyone denying women the right to vote. "

These are examples of the positive political influence of intolerance. Making positive political reform in our society. When is intolerance a positive thing? When it destroys injustice. There are many things today that we should not tolerate. As you and I are sitting here there are twelve and thirteen year old young girls, maybe boys, being forced into prostitution. We should not tolerate that. Sixty-three percent of the babies born in Baltimore are born out of wedlock. We should not tolerate that. Nor should we tolerate the corporate skullduggery that has surfaced in recent months. G. K. Chesterton said, "Tolerance is a virtue for people who have no conscience." To put his words into recent context, just think of the people who were willing to tolerate Saddam Hussein's cruelty towards his own countrymen. People who just stood by passively and tolerated it when Hussein took his political enemies and threw them head­first into a device that grinds up plastic parts like a big trash compactor. People who were complacent when Saddam Hussein watched while Doberman pinchers ate his political opponents alive. Tolerance of injustice is a virtue for people with no conscience, for people who don't care. I hope in some small way you will be intolerant of injustice and intolerant of the Secular Taliban 's eager attempts to eliminate your freedom of religion and freedom of expression.

(Based on article by Foster Friess)

Good job Riverside County...

I just looked at some election data from last Tuesday, the 8th. Regarding Prop 73, which mandated parental notification if one of their daughters was seeking an abortion, was resoundingly favored among Riverside County residents by a 59% to 41% margin. The results were virually the same for San Bernardino and Orange Counties.

Disappointing though was the turnout in Riverside County. Of 776,962 registered voters, only 287,827 bothered to vote. Thats 37%. 37%!!!! You're kidding me! We've got people in Iraq and all over the world fighting for our right to vote and exercise democracy (and spilling their blood in the process) and we can't bother to go vote?

It's just insane to me to think that for my daughter to get an aspirin at school for a headache, she needs my permission. But if she needs an abortion, a procedure that often goes awry, our daughters get all the help they need to abort the baby and keep everything a secret from their parents. How backward is that?

The debate about abortion can be honed down to one issue: "Is the fetus a human being"? If it is, then abortion is murder. If it's not, than the whole debate is meaningless. But scads of scientific data support that life begins at conception. It is our duty to keep this debate in the forefront in the public square. Progress is being made. More and more people are becoming "pro-life". It's our duty to fight for life and stop this holocaust of human life.

There are voluminous resources regarding abortion at Stand To Reason, AbortionNO.org and Abiding Truth. Go to the links on the right. And make sure you participate in the democratic process every chance you get.

ON ANOTHER NOTE, CALIFORNIA TEACHERS ASSOCIATION ENDORSES GAY MARRIAGE

Hey teachers, guess what, part of your hard earned paycheck that you give every month to your union, guess where some of that money is going? It's going to support and cram gay marriage down the throats of every Californian come hell or high water. And what's nice for the union is, they don't have to ask you or get your permission. Your money just became their money to do whatever they want with it. If that ticks you off, hopefully you voted YES on Prop 75. And you better contact your union and opt out. You still have to pay union dues, but you can have some of that go to a charity. CTA's support of gay marriage is shown here in a letter to Assemblyman Mark Leno.

WHY PEANUT SIZZLER???

Well, thanks for naming this blog goes to my beautiful wife Sandi. She commonly refers to my brain as a "peanut" (peanut brain) and I'm constantly "sizzling" on something. I can't sit still, my brain is constantly sizzling. Even if I'm lounging on the couch chilling out, my mind is always somewhere else. Thus, Peanut Sizzler! See, I just stopped typing for a few seconds and my alleged mind thought of three separate and distinct unrelated topics. Is there any help available for me or is it a lost cause?

Ok...you can look now, remodling is complete

I changed the look of things. Seems a bit more user friendly. I've limited the "Links" to a few in four catagories: Religion, Politics, Culture and Miscellaneous. I intend to write/post about current political events and cultural phenomena, interjecting faith with reason. In other words, I'll be writing about important stuff from a Christian worldview. Take some time to click on the links over to the right. You'll learn what's important to me, like developing a deep relationship with God, letting my life and actions speak in favor of having a relationship with Christ. I'm interested in politics to a degree. I'm about standing up for the truth and for Godly principles regarding abortion, homosexuality and gay marriage. And, I'm a rabid Nebraska Cornhusker fan. A former Cornhusker myself, I keep close tabs on the daily happenings around NU football. I'm still a recovering Starbucks addict. I haven't claimed victory over my addiction yet, nor do I want to! Starbucks coffee rules! I'm also a part-time law student by night. My on again, off again travels through the law school experience will one day come to a conclusion, sooner than later I hope, but one day I'll have a bar card and hope to practice law at my current employer and develop a sports law department there. I also intend to use my vocation as a ministry platform to minister to hurting people who need legal help. God willing, all this will one day be real.

Come by regularly and see what I'm writing about. Tell all your friends about this blog. Use this blog as a resource. And feel free to share your thoughts/comments and suggestions. May God richly bless you!

Please Stand by...doing some remodeling!

Thanks for stopping by. I'm doing a bit of remodling. In the days ahead, look for posts regarding Judge Alito's confirmation process; liberal support for the invasion of Iraq who had the same pre-war intelligence as President Bush did. Also, look for posts about the depressing situation regarding the coaching inadequecies at Nebraska. We're 5-4 as of today. Last year we missed a bowl game for the first time in 38 years. We need at least one more win in the two remaining games to qualify for a bowl this year. And I plan to do some "memorandums" designed to be easily accessible "cheat sheets" pontificating the rationality for the "Case for Christianity".

Liberals Attack Strategy for judicial nominees

Originally posted on July 12, 2005:
Liberal extremists have essentially used the same smear strategy to attack Supreme Court nominees since 1987. Very interesting attack strategy blueprint here.

More Alito blogging later.

Ask Arnold to keep his promise to veto AB 849

As you know, AB 849 squeeked by and passed by a few votes, which, if signed by the Governator, would all but legitimize gay marriage in California. Arnold has promised to veto the measure, but the Democratic led legislature is using a rarely used ploy by holding the bill until the last minute while they whip the gay caucus into a frenzy. And as they do, they barrage Arnold with faxes, emails, phone calls and letters hoping to change his mind. The pressure is intense and we can't afford to rest on Arnold's promise to veto the bill once the sneaky Democrats finally submit the bill to him. Anything can happen in politics. Anyway, here is an excellent letter written by SaveCalifornia to the Governator which will give you great talking points as you articulate your views in the public square. Get it and read it here. And contact the Terminator and ask him to stick to his word by vetoing AB 849.

Donate Money to Salvation Army by clicking your mouse!

Go to this link and click the "Soften Trump" button as many times as you like. Every time you click it, All donates $1 to the Salvation Army up to $50,000. No money out of your pocket! Can you take a tax write-off for mouse click donations?

Good Morning!

A WINNING PRO-LIFE STRATEGY

Dr. Kelly Hollowell introduces a strategy for winning the pro-life debate here using the acronym L.I.F.E. A simple yet uncompromising strategy.

THE KEY TO SPIRITUAL GROWTH

One of the foundational principles for spiritual growth is reading, studying and having a love for the Word of God. Duh you say...it's not rocket science, but you would be amazed at the number of professing believers who never pick up their Bible let alone have a clue as to what's in it. Read this article by Greg Laurie for further insight.

It's that time of year...

Are you ready for some football? Round Two, Air Callahan begins Thursday, August 4th in Lincoln, NE. My beloved Huskers get ready to rectify last years debacle. All early indications say that Huskers new QB, Zac Taylor is the man! He threw for 357 yards in the first half of the spring game. And apparently, he knows the playbook so well, coaches sometimes ask him about specific nuances of a certain play. We start the season off with 5 home games in a row, opening up with Maine (yea, I know...but we need a lot of help, cut us some slack this time) on September 3rd. Should be a great year. 'Skers should be back in a bowl game this year, which one? We'll have to wait and see!

What's wrong with seeker sensitive churches?

The purpose of the church is to create disciples, not create an atmosphere that feels good to most anyone coming into the place. Sin is a terrible thing and it separates us from God. People need to know they are sinners and are in rebellion against God and that there are consequences to remaining in such a state. Of course, the love of God is manifest in the heart and tone of the preacher, but "feel good" sermons don't prick the heart with the truth. Greg Koukl addresses the issue further here.

The Seeker Sensitive Movement

Interesting article looking at the church growth seeker-sensitive models by Clay Miller, Associate Pastor at Grace Community Church (John McArthur's church). The focus is on Bill Hybels and Rick Warren. Read the article here. More articles and information on the seeker sensitive model here and here.

What happened to good old biblical exegesis? Isn't the word of God living and powerful enough? I think we're going the wrong direction when we have the culture determining how we "do" church instead of the church defining the culture. It's not surprising though...we are afterall fallen men and women who have itching ears and a bent towards anything but complete 100% submission to God and His will for our lives.

Random Musings...

HOW DO WE DEAL WITH SIN IN THE CHURCH? Interesting post by Stronger Church here.

CHURCH BULLETIN BLOOPERS here. Pretty funny!

COMMENTARY ON THE URGENCY OF PREACHING by doctor and pastor R. Albert Mohler, M.D., Southern Baptist Convention, here. My take: Topical sermons have their place, but nothing can take the place of pure exegetical expository preaching of the bible, line by line, from Genesis to Revelation. That's why I'm in favor of the Calvary Chapel method of "church"- with it's emphasis on solid line by line biblical preaching. You've probably read the surveys- there is just as much sin in the church as there is out of the church. Biblical illiteracy is at an all time high, that's because a huge number of mainstream denominations and churches in America don't feed their sheep with Gods Word. Want true success? Want to stand firm in trials? Read Joshua 1:8 and Psalm 1, then do the obvious- read and meditate on His word and you shall stand firm in the face of trial and experience success.

Liberals attack strategy for judicial nominees

Liberal extremists have essentially used the same smear strategy to attack Supreme Court nominees since 1987. Very interesting attack strategy blueprint here. Stay informed, do your homework, be ready to give a defense with the truth at the water cooler. It's up to us to spread the truth...the liberal MSM isn't going to help us, we have to do the work ourselves.

Choose this day Whom you will serve...

Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things. - Philippians 3:19

Concerning the enemies of the Cross of Christ, the end of their lives will prove to be destruction, or, literally, 'a waste'.
Their god is their belly — they live for their fleshly appetites.
They live for their own glory — they live to make a name for themselves.
And they mind earthly things — they live for that which is temporal.

It is very likely these men were not unlike the prosperity teachers of today — the Name It/Claim It, Health/Wealth boys. 'Deny yourself? No way!' they proclaim. 'God wants everyone to be totally healthy and totally wealthy here and now.'

'What's the key to life?' he said. 'Women!' So he gathered 1,000 concubines — the most beautiful women in the region — only to discover they weren't the answer.
'Partying — that's the key,' he decided. So he imported baboons and peacocks from Africa to entertain his guests, while he kept the wine flowing freely. But after partying for years, he found it empty.
'Power — that's what will satisfy a man,' he surmised. So he expanded the boundaries of his empire farther than those of any other nation of antiquity. But even then he felt unsatisfied.
He studied philosophy and science — and garnered so much gold that silver was rendered worthless in his kingdom. And yet he declared it all empty.
At last he said, 'Power, prosperity, fame, praying, women, wine, education are not the answer. The only key to life is to fear God.' But by then, Solomon's most productive years were lost, wasted because his god was his belly; his glorying was in his own name; he minded earthly things.
Beware of those who try to get you focused on this life, worried about this life, caught up in this life. They're enemies of the Cross, for the Cross says, 'Forget about yourself. Look towards eternity. Live for heaven.' (Taken from Jon Courson's NT Commentary)

Huskers eliminated from chase for the National Championship

Just over, the Huskers were eliminated in a thrilling 8-7, 11 inning loss to Arizona State. I listened to the game at my desk at work and watched bits and pieces on the company plasma screen TV. What an exciting game! I grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, the home of the College World Series, and attended many a game in my youth. If you like baseball, a trip to Omaha in June is well worth it. The Huskers had a shot at winning the game. A 3 run homer in the top of the ninth by Adam Gerch put the Huskers ahead 7-5. But, they weren't able to close the deal and the Sun Devils tied the game up in the bottom of the ninth. Great year for the Huskers, finishing 57-15, ranked 3rd in the nation for most of the year. ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?!!!

Homosexuality and the Bible

Great article by Dr. Al Mohler, President of the Southern Baptist Convention. As Christians, we need to research, find, read and distribute anything and everything we can about truth when it comes to the issue of homosexuality. Biblical Christianity is the final wall of resistence to the homosexual agenda. Get Dr. Mohler's article here. Also, check out some other resources I've linked to below.

Terri Shiavo Autopsy Released

Click here for copy of the autopsy. Appears she had massive brain damage. Her brain was half the size of your average fully functioning human brain. Still doesn't give anyone the right to kill her. The autopsy doesn't diminish the value of her life. Lots of people have half of something, can we go around killing them? Read Stand To Reason's comments here. They also have great some great articles on the topic.

Huskers Headed to College World Series!!!

The University of Nebraska is returning to Omaha for the college world series for the third time in five years! Today, the number two ranked pitching staff in the nation held off the Miami Hurricanes to sweep the Lincoln Super Regional two games to none and earn a trip to Omaha. Check out the story here. There is nothing like college sports!!!

ALSO, LITTLE LEAGUE CUBS FINISH SEASON
Zachary's team, the Cubs, finished their season today. Zach found a new sport he loves and had a pretty decent spring playing mostly 2nd base or center field. He still has some things to work on, oh like, chasing hit balls all over the field, tackling his teammates to get the ball and then running the ball to the pitcher as opposed to throwing it in. But he can hit and he can run fast! The best entertainment money can buy!!!

College World Series On The Line

Are you ready for some college baseball? The 54-13 Cornhuskers, ranked 4th in the nation are set to battle the Miami Hurricanes this weekend in a super regional matchup where the winner earns a trip to the College World Series held in Omaha, Nebraska. The CWS at Rosenblatt Stadium in Omaha is an awesome event if you like baseball. Nothing beats the college sports environment. Huskers.com has the story here. Catch the best of three series this weekend on ESPN.

The Value of Apologetics

Great post over at the A-Team Blog about the value of apologetics. The study and application of apologetics is inextricably linked with evangelism and a deep longing to see souls saved from a Christless eternity. Apologetics doesn't have to be terribly "intellectual." But unsaved people do have legitimate barriers that keep them from crossing that bridge from reason to faith. Once their "intellectual" questions about Christianity are satisfactorily answered, the bridge of faith to eternal salvation through Jesus Christ is wide open. For starters, every Christian should read "Why I Believe" by Paul Little. Go and love God with all your soul, strength and MIND.

Bible Not Literally True?

Interesting poll going on at MSN today. 33% of 227,000 believe the Bible to be literally true in everything. 34% believe some of the details may be inaccurate or exaggerated, but the fundamentals are true. Check it out here. The point I'd like to make is, a lot of folks claim to be experts in the Bible who don't even read it. Remember, when you are talking to someone about the bible and they make a sweeping claim like the bible isn't accurate, it's fable, etc., that's THEIR claim, make THEM back it up, you don't have to try to prove them wrong. Make them prove their assertion. Most people will turn the table on you and say something like, "oh, I guess you think it's all true"! "why don't you prove it to me?" Don't take the bait. They made a claim, you make them prove it. After they fumble around for a while, you'll get your chance to "educate" them. Just be ready, in season and out of season to give a reason for the hope that lies within you.

HOW DID JESUS DIE?

Also, a story here about a possible cause of death for Jesus on the Cross (Israeli researcher thinks He died of a blood clot).

No Gay Marriage in California (for now)

After several tries by Assemblyman Mark Leno, he could not muster up enough votes to pass AB 19, the gender nuetral marriage bill which would have allowed gay couples to legally marry in California. For gay activits, the battle will now move to the courts and the ballot box. Be sure they will not go away quietly. They have a long term strategy that involves lots of patience and persistence. Here's the AP story from the San Diego Union.

GREAT GAY AGENDA RESOURCES TO READ:

Here's an article on the health risks of gay sex.

Here's an article on the social goals of gay/transgender advocacy in Corporate America.

Here's a MUST READ article from attorney Scott Lively entitled "Why and How to Defeat the Homosexual Movement". This white paper is a good primer on the background, history, goals, plans and strategies of the militiant gay activists and what their real agenda is and how to defeat it.

Not Looking Good For AB 19!!!

As of 4:17 p.m., Thursday, June 2, 2005, AB 19, the gender nuetral bill (gay marriage) has been read in House for the third time and passage has been refused. Assemblyman Leno made a motion for reconsideration. 13 Democrats voted NO, and another 16 Democrats abstained. Looks like all the calls, emails and letters made an impact. It doesn't look like Leno will garner enough votes by Friday's deadline to pass AB 19. Good job folks and PRAISE GOD!!! Latest status here.

On the Lighter Side...

If you know me, you know I bleed Husker red blood. From the time I was knee high to a grasshopper, I wanted to play football for Nebraska. I got that chance as a 18 year old high school graduate in 1982. A few weeks after my 18th birthday, I reported to fall camp in Lincoln a huge 188 pounds, dripping wet. By Christmas, I weighed 225 pounds. Can you say training table? Man, my mouth is watering thinking about it! Anyway, read here about Nebraska's five National Championships. Cool stuff!!!

More Depravity

Just when you think you've heard it all, comes this story from the Ukraine. Seems the "beauty" and cosmetic industries are fueling abortion in that area of the world. I guess in their own sick and twisted way, they are saying human life DOES have value.

THE GOOD NEWS!
There is a solution to all the moral depravity in our world. Only the power and love of Jesus Christ can turn our world right-side up. History has repeated itself many times in that wherever there has been revival, wherever people proclaim and extol a true and abiding relationship with Jesus Christ, not only are individual lives changed, but collectively the lives of entire cultures have changed for the greater good. Just like the aborted fetus traders in the story above, we're ALL sinners, we've ALL broken God's laws and are without hope. We can't save ourselves. The penalty for our sin is eternal damnation, sorry but that's God's plan, not mine. The Good News is that God wants to pay your sin debt for you. It's just like if you owed the IRS and they came to your door to either collect the debt or haul you off to jail. And just then, your Uncle Harry comes over and offers to pay your debt for you, saving you jail time. In the same way, Christ died on a Roman cross as a way to pay for your sin debt. There is NO possible way we can pay for our sin debt ourselves. Will you let Jesus pay your debt? That means you confess your sins to God, ask Him to forgive you, recieve Christ as your Lord AND Saviour. and live for Him. Your sin debt will be paid in full. The choice is yours. The ball is in your court.

Life Needs Meaning

The greatest of all human needs is the need to believe our existence has meaning. If our lives have no meaning, then what matters? Nothing. My life, your life, is no more significant than a rock on Mars. The foundation of secularists and the irreligious is that life has no meaning. If you are in this catagory, you find your meaning in politics, career, intellectualism, good works, etc. True, you may "feel" your life has meaning, but that feeling denies one HUGE fact: If there is no God who designed the universe and who cares about His creations, life is ultimately purposeless. Your feeling has no bearing on the question of whether life itself is ultimately meaningful.

Now, suppose, for arguments sake, that the Bible is true and accurate (which it is), then we can be fairly certain that there is a God (there is very credible, sound evidence and reasons to believe this, not just "faith"), then we can deduct that our existence has meaning and purpose beyond just "feeling" that our lives matter by what we engage in. You see, if there is no God then what matters? There is no purpose or meaning because life itself is meaningless.

There is a God, your life has meaning and purpose. If your not sure, then you should investigate the matter rather than deny yourself a more meaningful life. If there is no God, then nothing matters. But you better be right!

(HT: Dennis Prager)

GOP Senate Sellout

As you already know, the US Senate came together to craft a last minute "deal" to avert a showdown of nuclear proportions regarding President Bush's judicial nominees. In thinking about the "deal", it looks more like a sellout by weak kneed Senators than a deal. Republicans always get jello legged when it comes to tough issues like this one. Keep in mind, it's only the Constitution at stake here! We re-elected President Bush and other GOP Senators solely on this issue, we were promised they would address judicial activism and do what they could to stem the tide of rogue judges making new laws antithetical to our Christian worldview. It could still happen, but it's less likely now. The GOP has a majority, it's not rocket science but pretty much everyone knows, the majority rules! We have elections based on the direction we as the body politic want to go. Seven rogue GOP Senators sold out their party, sold out the electorate and cowtowed to the likes of Senator Harry Reid, the most vile and vitriolic Senator in history. As Christians, we need to go back to Plan A, that is fervent prayer for our nation and our leaders. Hope you upgraded your floor padding, our knees are sure to get sore in this endeavor.

RightWing Nuthouse has the best take on this.

Religion of Peace???

With the false Newsweek story about US Military personnel flushing the Koran down the toilet, anti-American sentiments are boiling to a heated frenzy. The religion "of peace" is threatening death to President Bush, more attacks on America and that Islam will rule the world. Hmmmm...sounds peaceful. I can hardly wait. NOT! See story and pictures here.


PEPSI ANTI-AMERICAN?
Did you hear about the CFO of Pepsi Co.'s commencement speech at Columbia University recently? In a calculated analogy, she compared the USA to the "middle finger" of the hand. Her speech was very anti-American. She has issued a couple of surface apologies, but has not retracted anything. PepsiCo is taking huge hits over the flap, but they are not doing anything in hoping the story blows over. Powerline has the story and links here.


JUDICIAL NOMINEE BATTLE HEATS UP
The left, you know, the side that most saddles up with gays, abortion rights, government intrusion, moral relativism, high taxes, etc., is vigorously fighting to keep strict constitutional constructionists off the bench. Why is that important to them? Because their ideas are outside the mainstream of America, and the only way gays, abortion rights and other bad ideas gain space in the public square is through judicial activism. UporDownVote.com has news and info.

ACLU readies assault to legalize gay marriage

(Copy of Memo from Gary Bauer)

From: Gary L. Bauer, Chairman
Campaign for Working Families

Date: Wednesday, May 18, 2005

ACLU Assault

Most Americans know that the ACLU is leading the charge of the radical Left to remake America through the power of unelected judges. Generally, its efforts have focused on suppressing religious expression and bullying the Boy Scouts, but it has also played a major role in expanding homosexual rights through judicial fiat. In the past, the ACLU cherry picked its cases carefully, but that is about to change.

Yesterday, the ACLU announced that it was launching a nationwide campaign to impose same-sex “marriage” through the courts. Its efforts will concentrate on normalizing homosexual adoption and fighting state marriage amendments. According to an ACLU press release, it appears as though an accompanying media barrage will aim to pull at people’s heartstrings by showing how “lesbian and gay couples and their children suffer when their families are not recognized by the law.”

This is why getting strict constructionist jurists on the bench is of upmost importance. The ACLU and the militant gay activists know they can't obtain marrital rights outside of the courts as 70% of Americans and a vast majority of States recognize marriage as a union between one man and one woman, thus, they rely on activist judges. CALL YOUR SENATORS TODAY AND DEMAND AN UP OR DOWN VOTE ON JUDICIAL NOMINEES.

Tell California Legislators To Keep Hands OFF Marriage

AB 19 is sailing through the legislative process with little resistance. If you believe that marriage as it is intended is supposed to be a union between one man and one woman, then check this out, then TAKE ACTION, ASAP!!! Use the BlastMail to send an email to California Legislators and stand up for what is right!

More Proof We Need a Federal Marriage Amendment and an End To Judicial Activism

Nebraska voters passed a state constitutional amendment by a 70-30 margin to keep marriage as it should be, between one man and one woman. Last week, an activist judge deemed the amendment unconstitutional and snubbed his nose at 70% of Nebraskan's. His job is to interpret and apply the law, NOT MAKE IT! The interesting thing is how quiet the main stream media has been on this. As Chuck Colson points out (here), that's because the extreme militant gay activist ilk know that this new ruling proves the point that judges are out of control and they don't want that point brought to light. We need both a Federal Marriage Amendment and for Senator Frist to end the filibuster of judicial appointees thereby getting strict constructionist jurists on the bench. Call your Senator's now and request the same.

Do Christianity and Philosophy Mix?

In some Christian circles, the minute you start talking about or referring to philosophy, you immediately get this quizzical look from the other person which is usually followed by a discussion of Colossians 2:8 wherein Paul says: "Do not be taken captive by vain philosophies, according to the tradition of men instead of according to Christ." Consider this, Christian- Paul is not saying you should not have anything at all to do with philosophy. He's saying you ought to be careful not to become CAPTIVE to vain philosophies. There is a difference between opinions of philosophers on various things, and the tools of philosophy- which are the tools of thought or clear thinking. I submit to you that learning about philosophy helps you think about your faith more clearly. Study church history. Read Irenaeus, Augustine, Anselm, Pascal, Thomas Aquinas. All these people were very rigorous philosphers and made phenomenal contributions to the field of Christian theology and apologetics.

Why do Christians avoid the study of philosophy? Perhaps it's because we're afraid Christianity will not stand up in the marketplace of ideas. If you want to make an impact in the marketplace of ideas with a Christian worldview, you have to understand ideas and the language of ideas. You must learn how to use the tools of philosophy to become clear thinkers. As you do, you'll be more confident sharing your Christian "philosophy" in the marketplace of ideas and you'll potentially point more people to saving faith in Christ. Secondly, learning how to think is hard work and frankly, many of us just don't want to work that hard when it comes to critical thinking about Christianity and competing philosophies. We're happy to know and feel "I've got Jesus, I know I'm saved, end of story." Again, learning philosophy will help you become a more clear thinker, a confident ambassador for Christ and an effective witness in the marketplace of ideas.

Thanks to Greg Koukl for his work at Stand to Reason (link on the left). This post was taken from (this) article written by Greg Koukl. Worth the read, especially if you have kids about to go to college.

Man, the Measure of All Things?

For anyone who knows me, they know that I like politics and that I'm generally active in politics especially when it comes to issues affecting California and broader moral issues affecting society as a whole. Generally, those issues revolve around among other things abortion. I believe, and science has proven, that a human life begins at conception. If this is so, then abortion kills the life of an innocent human being. If this is not so, then the whole debate is useless. If we're not sure, than I think the baby should be given the benefit of the doubt and be allowed to live. I believe that human life- ALL human life, has value. You may disagree. If you do disagree, you are either a secular humanist or a religious humanist (a hedonist that couches their philosophies with religious terms). You value life according to it's contribution to society. For you, the question is not, when is a fetus a viable human being, but rather, when is it a person. For the humanist, the baby in the womb is a person "if you want it to be, or it's not if you don't want it to be". Life has no value to you. It's based on convenience. That is morally wrong. Whether the baby lives or dies depends on the whims of his or her mother. For the Christian, abortion itself would be worth spending much of our lifetimes to fight against, because it is the killing of a human life, but it's only a symtom of the total. What we are facing is Humanism- "Man, the measure of all things".

I'm really interested in Francis Schaeffer right now. This post was inspired by a sermon I read as given by Schaeffer in 1982, two years before his death. The sermon was taken from his book "The Christian Manifesto." The sermon can be found (here). Well worth the read.

"I can breath!"

I spent the better part of eight hours, on Mothers Day no less, solving hypothetical legal problems by writing with much verbosity all the legal rules and theory I spent the last 30 plus weeks arming myself with in great anticipation of such a fun day of exams. Criminal law I did great. Torts, so-so. Contracts, I stunk up the place. What would have made things better? More study/memorization and TONS more practice exams. All in all, the whole process took a lot out of me. I can't imagine spending even MORE time studying! From here I shall reevaluate my "calling" and resolve to continue in such a monumental endeavor. I don't have much time to mull it over though, on June 28th, I have to take the First Year Law Student's Exam or "Baby Bar", unless I decide to pack it in before then. Man, I applaud anyone who has done it, lots have, but being married, with kids, work - law school can suck the life out of you. It's not been in vain though. If nothing else, God opened the doors for me to go to law school to reveal to me who I am and show me my weaknesses and how utterly futile my own efforts are. If I can take those things He has shown me and become a better man for it, that will be worth much more value to me, my wife, my kids, employer, friends than any law degree could be. For what is it if I gain the whole world and lose my life in the process?

OK, I've had it

Exam day is tomorrow. I'm sick of cramming, I know I'm not ready and more cramming isn't going to get me ready so I'm blogging. After exams, I hope to start posting more "substantial" posts. We've got AB 19 in California, the judicial showdown nationally to contend with and I'm considering several topics to write a series on (ie. discipleship, spiritual disciplines, faith and reason, etc.).

Thanks for stopping by. Happy Mothers Day Mom!!! And to you too my Lobster!

Hitting the brick wall...

I'm going on 15 consecutive hours of studying for finals on three hours of sleep. Did I mention how insane exam time is? I worked 32 hours this week, studied about 48 hours and I still feel like I haven't gotten anywhere close to being ready. My stomach cannot take another industrial size espresso. Lack of sleep doesn't bother me. The problem is I've crammed so much stuff into my head now, it's getting all jumbled up like Matthew's alphabet soup! Check out some of my memonics: I need more soap please cause deodorant is rare; Does Tom share excess donuts?; Does public intercourse cause VD? (I didn't make that one up...someone else did and I can't think of anything better for Third Party Beneficiary law). How bout this one: Crazy silly dirty dealing double dog leave now never return ever. I'm going to need a memonic to remember my memonics soon. The good news is A) it's almost over, B) it's never as bad as it seems and C) better me than you right?!! Back to studying...

Thought For The Day

Who is going to cry at your funeral? Why should you and I give ourselves to people, tasks, endeavors, things, etc. that don't love us at the expense of those who do? Why not prioritize everything we do on the basis of who's going to be crying at our funeral? This simple question cuts out time wasters with the accuracy of a laser beam. Prioritizing this way helps us keep focused on our biblical priorities. Blessings to you as you apply this thought to your life.

What is Law School Like, Part II

In part I, I told you about class preparation and what goes on during class. In part II, I want to describe the exam process. First, let me back track a bit. Law school is 180 degrees different than any other kind of schooling one has subjected themselves to. It's hard to explain, but again, the main part is learning to think like a lawyer, I'm not sitting in a classroom listening to lectures taking notes all night. The classroom experience involves a lot of critical thinking, asking questions, asking questions about your questions, doubting the responses, questioning your doubting of the responses...you get the idea. It involves knowing what fact patterns to apply certain rules of law to, figuring out the potential outcomes, creating plan B, plan C....Preparing for exams is a whole other sadistic process. It usually involves dozens of hours of memorizing the blackletter law (rules of law), doing dozens of practice exams (gotta learn how to apply those rules), no sleep (seems traditional that every student at every law school does it this way), gallons of coffee, tons of junk food, a sound proof study chamber and the dim hope that this will soon be over. So then the day comes, you get your exam, at my school it consists of three essay questions, which doesn't sound to bad, but in those three questions you'll have to spew out every cotton pickin rule of law you know and correctly apply it to the facts of the question. So for three questions, I'll write about 30-60 pages in a three hour span. Now you know why lawyers are the way they are...their minds have been imperviously damaged by law school and the sadistic rituals of exams. More on grades later.

Study, study, study...

I'm taking a break right now...I'm at the office studying and the office cleaners are here vaccuming, not the most beneficial study aid. Tonight, I'm cramming my contracts outline into my alleged brain and doing some practice exams. Tomorrow night, Torts (no, that's not a pastry-when someone smashes into your car or beats you with a baseball bat, that is a tort). Maybe I'll go take a peak at what's on TV real quick...no really, just a few minutes, I promise! Help, I'm falling and I can't get up...

Barbara Boxer a Hypocrit? Noooooo way...

That was then...

Barbara Boxer (D-CA): "According To The U.S. Constitution, The President Nominates, And The Senate Shall Provide Advice And Consent. It Is Not The Role Of The Senate To Obstruct The Process And Prevent Numbers Of Highly Qualified Nominees From Even Being Given The Opportunity For A Vote On The Senate Floor." (Sen. Barbara Boxer, Congressional Record, 5/14/97, p. S4420)

This is now...

Boxer: "So We're Saying We Think You Ought To Get Nine Votes Over The 51 Required. That Isn't Too Much To Ask For Such A Super Important Position. There Ought To Be A Super Vote. Don't You Think So?" (Sen. Barbara Boxer, Remarks At MoveOn.org Rally, Washington, D.C., 3/16/05; Byron York, "Right On, MoveOn!," National Review, 3/17/05)

Call Senator Boxer, remind her of what she said on 5/14/97, ask her to support an up or down vote. Her number is: 559-497-5109 (Fresno office). Remind her that obstructing President Bush's judicial nominations is unconstitutional and you will hold her accountable during the next election if she holds to her obstructionist position. While you're at it, call Senator Feinstien as well, her number: (619) 231-9712 (San Diego office).

8 Hours of "Hell" Looms

Exams are just six days away. At my crazy law school, they make the first years take all of their exams on the same day...this year, it just happens to be on Mothers Day. I can't tell you how much my wife appreciates that! My Starbucks consumption has gone up to the 2-3 gallon per day level. I'm getting tremendous support from folks at church and my wife. Notwithstanding the same, I've tried to quit a dozen times. Work 8 hours a day, study 8 hours a day, 2-3 hours of miscellaneous stuff per day, that leaves about 5-6 hours for sleep (yes, this is a weak attempt to elicit sympathy even though I chose to do this to myself- actually, I thought God wanted me to do this, the jury is still out). Did I mention the kids are in a weird "I can't sleep" mode right now? So, really, that means about 2-3 hours of sleep per day. Who said the Christian life is stale and boring?

Check out HughHewitt.com for some good posts on the judicial confirmation showdown. Also, some good stuff at Stand To Reason's blog regarding religious pluralism/tolerance/sharing the gospel with other faiths (Mormons). There are links to both on the left. Can somebody tell me how to insert links in the text of your post instead of creating a link at the bottom of the post? Thanks!

Christian Duty and Political Involvement

Without a doubt, there is a war being waged in America against Christians. We must not settle into our nice, comfortable little Christian bubbles, first we need to actually live how we believe, forsaking all sin, allow God's grace and love to flow through us to touch lives around us, and not be intimidated into sitting on the sidelines while secular humanists drive our culture on a one way trip to hell. Get right, get equipped, go engage. Click link for interesting Op-Ed regarding the religous war we're in.

Man arrested when protesting school teaching his kindergarter about homosexuality

A Boston man gets arrested for just "trying to be a good dad" after protesting the school teaching his kindergartener about homosexuality. Are you starting to feel the importance of standing for rightousness and truth regarding the homosexual agenda? Click the link for the story.

Changing Lives

Many approaches to evangelism and church growth today are impersonal, relying on manipulative formulas and the techniques of mass marketing and consumerism. Many evangelicals think Christianity needs to be dumbed down and made easier to make it attractive to people today. The truth is, Christianity has substance and depth. Christianity is based on truth and sound evidence. This is true for the "down and outer" as well as the "elite and educated." Undiluted, Christianity can change any life. Click the link for a great article on the life of Francis Schaefer. Schaefer specialized in not reaching cultures but individuals. Each individual has his or her own questions, personal struggles, and moral brokenness. Schaefer took them all seriously, addressing people one by one, while giving them-sometimes for the first time- a sense of belonging to a community (brothers and sisters in Christ).

Exam Time

11 days till exams...that means, little sleep, massive amounts of Starbucks and not much posting until the fury is over. Keep checking back, I'm still tweaking my blog here and there. Eventually, I want this blog to be a one stop shop for news/information etc. I hope to write articles on apologetics, theology, Christian involvement in politics, logic/critical thinking/philosophy and of course, the Nebraska Cornhuskers and NASCAR. Thanks for stopping by. Check out some of the links on the left. Wish me well and pray for me on my exams. I need all the help I can get!!!

California AB 19

AB 19 would actually delete "a man and a woman" from the definition of marriage in violation of Proposition 22, the people's vote that said "only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California." What's next? Can I marry my cat? Click the link to download the current Action Flyer containing contact information to voice your disapproval of AB 19. We can't hang our hat on it, but, the Governator has indicated he's not likely to sign such a bill if it gets to his desk. "Not likely" could mean he's willing to sign such a bill if his opponents will compromise on some of his proposed "reform" legislation. Call/write your Assembly person today.

Coming Soon to Your Community: Gay Marriage

The gay marriage train is on track and picking up steam. Yesterday, the California Judiciary Committee approved AB 19 by a 6-3 margin, that would, if enacted, allow gays to legally marry one another in California. Despite the overwhelming support for Prop 22, the radical pro-homosexual agenda legislature is adamant about cramming gay marriage down our throats. For those of you who are Californians and hold to a biblical worldview, it's time to roll up your sleeves and "redeem the time." Check back for articles and resources on this issue. In the mean time, call your state assembly and senate representatives and ask them to arduously oppose AB 19.

Time To Go Nuclear Is Now!

It's time Senator Frist pull the trigger on the Rules change vote and end the minority's radical attempt to fillibuster President Bush's judicial nominees. Be advised, there is a lot of misinformation out there regarding the filibuster and it's use, mostly coming from the radical left (Byrd, Boxer, Kennedy, et al). Here is some good information, a starting point to learning about this issue and it's importance. Something has to be done to put an end to the judicial tyranny we're under right now, and it's only going to get worse. http://www.reclaimamerica.org/download/JudicialFilibusters.pdf

What's Law School Like?

I get this question a lot: "What is law school like?" In a nutshell, it's pretty insane. The insane part for me is balancing work, finding time to spend with my wife, spending time with the kids, work, practicing spiritual disciplines and studying. Most of the time, one or more of these things on the preceding list is short changed.

Practically speaking, law school isn't as much about learning a zillion laws as it is about learning how to become a lawyer. For every class I read about 40-90 pages, which entails reading about 5-10 previously decided cases from jurisdictions all over the United States. As I read these cases, I'm supposed to distill from them the salient facts, determine the issue, identify the rule the court used in making its ruling, synthesize the courts analysis and conclusion. Then in class, the professor asks some fool to brief the case for the class and we discuss it. Most often, the Socratic method is used by the Professor to help us "learn" to think like a lawyer. All the Socratic method is is answering a question with a question. I don't recommend doing this with your spouse! I try not to, but in my law school induced diminished capacity, I do it without thinking about it. Ask my bride what she thinks about it...no, on second thought, don't do that, the back of my head hurts enough already.

The practical part is the easy part. The hard part is the balancing act required to pull it off. Oh I've tried to quit dozens of times. Again, I don't know if I'll make it through to the end, but law school is more about character and professional development than anything, which I guess is worth a lot in the end.

Doctrine Endures

Here is a copy of my Op-Ed letter published in the Riverside Press-Enterprise on 4/22/05:

The liberal editorial boards of many of the mainstream media newspapers are way over the top in regard to the selection of the new Pope. Although, not Catholic, I found this selection process interesting to follow. The disturbing thing about it is how editorial pieces in theU.S. newspapers are dripping with postmodern intolerance over the selection. It's almost as if secular commentators envision the Roman Catholic Church as a modern university where the tenured professors can say anything they want without accountability. Do they expect a RomanCatholic to not teach Roman Catholic doctrines? Accepting homosexuality, closing an eye towards abortion and euthanasia, legalizing drug use and the plethora of other radical postmodern ideas does not comport with the never changing, time tested, tried and true biblical worldview of Catholocism or Protestant theology. Not all change is good. Just look around. How is your radical postmodern worldview working for you in your life?

I'm on the Blogosphere!

Howdy! This is all new to me, don't know how often I'll be posting but it should be fun when I figure it all out. What will I post about you ask? Well, mostly religious and political musings, I'm a law student, so probably some silly law school stuff and I'm a rabid Nebraska Cornhusker football freak, so lots more on the Huskers to come in the fall. More later...