Harriet Tubman: A True Christian Hero

“The good and the great are only separated by the 

willingness to sacrifice.”   Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

  Remember the commercial, “What have you got in your wallet?” Okay, I’ll confess. The favorite face I like to have inside my wallet is Benjamin Franklin. Unfortunately, he’s not there very often and leaves too quickly. When you hand him over at McDonald’s to be replaced by some of his lesser friends, the clerk will probably give you a look of disdain as she marks him up to make sure he’s for real.

  President Jackson is probably the most common face in my wallet. Having been raised in Atlanta, it’s rare for me to go anywhere without at least one Jackson tucked away. It’s called “mug money.” While I live in small town America where muggings are as common as traffic jams, old habits die hard. Add to that, I’m the only male in my family who’s never been mugged…I’d like to keep it that way.

  Too many of us tend to be resistant to change, especially if we’re conservative and the change smells like “political correctness” to us. Personally, I’m very pleased with the recent choice of Harriet Tubman to grace our $20 bills. I’d surmise many who are having such strong visceral reactions to this change don’t know much about either President Andrew Jackson or Harriet Tubman, other than he’s white and she’s black.

  In a day of growing political correctness and sensitivity, there could hardly be a more politically incorrect choice than Harriet Tubman. While she was a former slave, she could easily be the face for the NRA. She was known as the “Black Moses” because of the many slaves she rescued prior to the Civil War. Her rescue missions were very dangerous, so Tubman wisely demanded strict obedience from her escapees. A slave who returned to his master would likely be forced to reveal information which would compromise her mission. If a slave wanted to quit in the midst of a rescue, she’d hold a revolver to his head and ask him to reconsider. Asked whether she’d actually kill a reluctant escapee, she replied, “Yes, if he was weak enough to give out, he’d be weak enough to betray us all and all who had helped us, and do you think I'd let so many die just for one coward man?”

  While she never had to shoot a slave she helped, she did come close with one: “I told the boys to get their guns ready, and shoot him. They'd have done it in a minute; but when he heard that, he jumped right up and went on as well as anybody.”

  A foolish blunder today with our oversaturation of political correctness is the incessant judgment of yesterday’s choices by today’s standards. For example, do we think Harriet Tubman was right to threaten someone’s life? Personally, I can’t make that call. I’m just thankful she never had to make that choice. Yet, let’s not forget many innocent lives were at stake if her missions was discovered.

  The same is true of Andrew Jackson. One of the arguments made for this change is Jackson was a slave holder. But so was nearly everyone else. Do I believe he was correct or it can ever be rationalized? No, but I do believe there are things culturally accepted that even believers never evaluate in light of God’s Word because they’re so engrafted into the culture. Let me share just one example. Smoking today is a cultural taboo, yet not many years ago nearly everyone smoked, including many pastors like Spurgeon.

  As believers, we need to be biblically wise and cognizant that there are no good people, only a great God. We all have blind spots and chinks in our armor, often cultural ones. We must be cautious in judging others, particularly those from history. Yet, we often need to be better at judging ourselves and so thankful for God’s grace that He loves us in spite of our own spiritual blindness. It’s all of grace!

  Harriet Tubman was a Christian and a heroine. Raised in slavery in Maryland, she escaped in 1849. When she first reached the North, she said later, “I looked at my hands to see if I was de same person now I was free. Dere was such a glory ober eberything, de sun came like gold through de trees and ober de fields, and I felt like I was in heaven.” Yet, she was not satisfied with her own freedom and made 19 return trips to the South, helping to deliver at least 300 fellow slaves, boasting “I never lost a passenger.” Her friends and fellow abolitionists claimed the source of her strength came from her faith in God as deliverer and protector of the weak.

  “I always tole God,” she said, “I'm gwine to hole stiddy on you, an' you've got to see me through.” Incensed slave owners offered a $40,000 reward for her capture but she was never apprehended. “I can't die but once” became the motto of her life. With that philosophy she continued on with her mission of deliverance. For eight years, as America moved toward Civil War, she made many dangerous trips back to Maryland, leading slaves north to freedom. On each rescue mission she relied on God to guide and protect her. She gave all the credit to Him, explaining, “‘Twant me, ‘twas the Lord. I always told him, ‘I trusts to you. I don’t know where to go or what to do, but I expect you to lead me,’ and he always did.” No wonder she was known as Moses. Her faith deeply impressed others. Abolitionist Thomas Garrett said of her, “I never met with any person of any color who had more confidence in the voice of God, as spoken direct to her soul.”

  Later, during the Civil War, she served the Union as a scout, spy, cook, and nurse to wounded and sick soldiers. She even led an armed assault on Southern plantations, during which 750 slaves were rescued. In later years, she donated property to be turned into a home for indigent former slaves.

  Harriet Tubman was someone we all can learn from and emulate. She lived out being salt and light before a wicked world. Today there is even more evil that needs resisting. Each time we see her face on our money, may it remind us, as those who’ve been rescued, we, too, have a mission to rescue slaves…slaves of sin. As we grow weary, let’s remember her unflinching courage and unfailing faith in God’s guidance—renewing our efforts to be a “Moses” to the ones God has called us to rescue.  

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500. 

Not the same old face....

“We don’t grow older, we grow riper.”  

Pablo Picasso

Probably the biggest problem with Facebook is you’re supposed to post pictures of your face…at least periodically. Recently, Jane and I had lunch with her sister, Susan, and husband, Fred Froman. We then posted a picture of the four of us on Facebook. Darlene Gomes, a mutual friend who’d been in both of our youth groups many years ago in Warren, Michigan wrote underneath, “How did you guys get so old when I’ve only aged a little?”

  She was teasing (I hope). Darlene is a few years younger than us, yet she makes a valid point. No one can slow down the aging process. While we can’t keep ourselves from growing old, we have complete control over how we will grow old and what kind of older person we will be. Even if you’re already “older,” it’s not too late to make some needed adjustments.

  Unfortunately, most of us in our twenties or thirties, rarely consider what kind of older person we want to be. We tend to age purposelessly, much like bread grows mold. Habits or attitudes acquired early on often become entrenched in our sundown years. Yet, there’s something wonderful and fulfilling about being someone who’s “grown old in Jesus.” I’ve had the privilege of knowing a few. By God’s grace, I want to be one...don’t you?  

  The first funeral I conducted was for a dear saint, Bess Norum. She was nearly 95 years young when Jesus called her Home. Bess was sweet, yet a bit of a firecracker. When she was younger, she’d sung in Billy Sunday’s choir during one of his revivals. Even at 94, she had a powerful Christlike influence on others. Her closest friends had essentially dropped out of church yet because of Bess’ encouragement, came back. Back then, our church didn’t have air conditioning. For a small church of 40 people, to put it in was a chunk of change. At the information meeting, Bess quipped we could make a lot of lemonade for what it was going to cost. Yet, she was one of the early givers who helped pay for the new air conditioning.

  If we’re not already there, each of us will reach that stage where there’s more of life’s road in the rearview mirror than in the windshield. While there’s no shortage of old men and women, yet if you list out those you want to be like, who you want to emulate, the list will be alarmingly short.

  This is true for a variety of reasons. Too many drift into self-centeredness. Life becomes about “ME.” I remember trying to feign interest on one occasion as a retired couple droned on and on about the wonders of their RV and all the gadgets it had. Life was about travelling for them and all the things THEY were going to do, but nary a word about what they might do for someone else, even their own grandchildren. Many succumb to impatience, which is ironic if you stop and think about it – what pressing matters do they have? Others become critical or petty. Some sour with bitterness. Most live in the past and no longer lean forward into the future.

  You’ll find that those who are examples of quality aging will not attract you because of their achievements or success, as we often define it. What makes for an attractive aged person has much more to do with character, attitude, the fruit of the Spirit and Christlikeness. By God’s grace, all of us can make our twilight years our highlight years. Scripture has many examples of older saints, many who are well worth emulating like Abraham, Caleb, Simeon or Anna. Can I though focus on two elderly Bible saints often overlooked that we can learn so much from?

  One is Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. Scripture gives us just a glimpse of this godly matriarch. I’d encourage you to take time to study her story for yourself in Luke 1. Elizabeth is well up in years but childless. Rather, than allowing that fate to embitter her, Elizabeth chose to be gracious, trusting the Lord. When she miraculously conceives yet learns her younger cousin, Mary, is expecting, though it means her son will play 2^nd fiddle to Mary’s Son, Elizabeth rejoices with her. She completely trusts and submits to God’s sovereign plan. She’s willing to go against the tide when it comes to naming her son. Her commitment is to pleasing the Lord even though it causes tongues to wag and say harsh things about her.

  I meet many older folk who’ve had hard lives. Some, every opportunity they have, let others know how unhappy they are. While others may not know the cause of the bitterness, they know this elderly person has more wrinkles on their soul than their face. They’re miserable to be around. Often they will bemoan, “None of my family or friends call me.” They fail to connect their dark outlook with others’ absence.

  The other one is Jacob. Here’s an individual who truly fits the words of famed Bible commentator, Matthew Henry, “The last days of the saints are sometimes their best days, and their last work is their best work.” Early in his life, Jacob had been a conniving, manipulative, deceitful and sour person. He was a success as far as this world is concerned, but true success came to him in the last two decades of his life.

  Jacob believed his son, Joseph, was dead. But when he learned Joseph was alive and went to Egypt to be taken care of by Joseph, it was then Jacob had a one man revival. He allowed the faith, forgiving spirit and graciousness of Joseph to influence him and re-direct the trajectory of his life. The man who’d lived most of his life in fear became a man of faith and vision. Prior to the Egypt years, Jacob’s children and grandchildren gave him a wide berth, but something happened. Jacob changed and grew a tender heart for God. He became a godly testimony to others. It’s why I love Jacob. His last years demonstrate there’s always hope. With Christ working in your life, anyone can change, no matter how old you are.

  Even if your life hasn’t turned out like you expected, ask yourself a vital question: What kind of old man or woman do I want to be? You can’t undo the past or always control your circumstances. You do have a choice about the life you’re going to live. Many of us have a gut-wrenching choice to make. We can put our lives on autopilot, drifting into becoming a grumpy geezer. Or, by God’s grace, we can do the hard work of reinventing ourselves, reworking the last chapters of life so we truly end “Happily Ever After with Jesus.” Do you need to write a new chapter? It’s never too late!

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500. 

Drink & Drunk: More than a Grammatical Difference

“I’m tired of hearing sin called sickness and alcoholism a disease. It’s the only disease I know of that we’re spending hundreds of millions of dollars a year to spread.”   Vance Havner

  This may get me voted off the island or at least get my official Boy from the South card pulled. Often, when Northerners (also referred to as Yankees), visit the South, they return raving about the friendliness of Southerners. There is some authentic friendliness, yet much of it today is merely cultural. One lie Southerners will say to visitors is, “y’all come see us some time.” Mark it down, it usually means nothing. It’s just something polite to say. Sometimes, as you’re pulling out of their driveway, they’re even mumbling under their breath, “Let’s hope they never come back.”

  Every part of the country has cultural nuances. Until I came to Wisconsin, I thought a brat was the neighbor’s kid, pop was something a weasel did…and bubbler, well, I didn’t have a clue. Things from our culture become so much a part of our lives, we fail to evaluate them from a biblical worldview. As Christians, we’re to be a “Christian Counterculture” (to quote John Stott). Southern Christians need to evaluate their “politeness” to see if it’s sincere, lining up with Scripture. And in Wisconsin need to evaluate parts of our culture which we’ve accepted as normative yet potentially violates what God’s Word teaches or commands.

  You probably heard about a new list of the “Drunkest Cities in America.” It put a very bad spotlight on Wisconsin, home to 12 cities in the top 20, ranked by highest rates of binge drinking in adults. Heavy drinking refers to the number of alcoholic beverages consumed per week (15 or more for men and 8 or more for women). On average, 18% of adults drink unhealthy amounts of alcohol. Wisconsinites consistently imbibe on a grander scale, with more than 25% of adults reporting they binge or drink heavily throughout the week. Drinking is very much a part of Wisconsin culture. Yet, as Southern believers rarely question their own sincerity, Wisconsin believers often fail to evaluate their drinking habits in light of God’s Word and a biblical worldview…but we must. We are no longer just Wisconsinites, we have a new Father and are now “Heavenites.”

  First, let’s be clear: Scripture does not prohibit drinking. Jesus’ first miracle was making wine. The Bible does prohibit intoxication (Ephesians 5:18, Proverbs 23:29-35). And please do not rationalize drunkenness by comparing it to overeating. Here’s the difference: if you go to Texas Roadhouse and eat 5000 calories of saturated fat, you’re not going to be pulled over by the police because of your fat saturation level. You’re not likely to drive into a SUV, killing a whole family because of it. Even a binge smoker is less dangerous than a drunk driver. I’ve never been run off the road by a smoker; I have been though by a drunk. If you’re arrested for drunk driving, you’ll not only be embarrassed, you also hurt your testimony and the cause of Christ.

  Yet, because alcohol is so much a part of Wisconsin culture, one can be a problem drinker or even an alcoholic, and not know it. Please take a few moments and honestly answer these questions. If drinking is a concern, work through them with your spouse or a spiritually mature friend: Does alcohol interfere with your work? Do you sometimes lie about your drinking? Do you constantly use the phrase “I need a drink”? When you start drinking, do you find it hard to stop? Are you often coming up with new ways to control your drinking? Has addiction been a problem in your family history? Have family/friends confronted you about your drinking?  If you answered “Yes” to any or all of these questions, you need to seriously consider whether your alcohol consumption is a sin issue.

  We’re entering into the summer, the family reunion, backyard party and wedding season. Lots of booze will be available. We must remember we’re Christians first and must be a testimony for Christ, though we have the liberty to imbibe. Let me share some concerns a believer should consider.

  I must not be a stumbling block for a younger believer. The Bible is clear, it’s a sin to cause another Christian to stumble into addiction (Romans 14, 1 Corinthians 8). We all have a responsibility for the rest of our spiritual family. If my “rights” are a tripping point for a young believer, I must limit my liberty. Now this is not a warning for believers who walk in grace to be stifled because they’re worried about legalistic Christians criticizing them. It’s a warning to make sure we never harm the work of Christ in another weaker believer’s life by abusing our freedom. 

  What am I modeling about biblically handling problems or stress? What am I saying about God’s grace and His work on my life, when after a hard day, I head to the bar for some “Margarita time”? Doesn’t that sound like self-medication rather than Christ dependency? Most believers who use alcohol to self-medicate are appalled at pot smokers who use pot to relax. But what’s the difference, if it’s pot or alcohol? The purpose is the same. Scripture says, “God’s grace is sufficient for me,” (2 Corinthians 12:9). When I depend on alcohol to help me handle stress, am I not questioning God’s promise to give me grace to handle life?

  Am I sending a message, I want to send? Isn’t Hugh Hefner sending an identity message, when nearly every picture of him has his arms draped about some young woman who’s scantily clad? On the opposite end of the equation, wasn’t Mother Teresa sending a message when picture after picture has her either holding a young child or surrounded by young children? So what message am I sending when picture after picture is of me holding a drink in my hand? Doesn’t it potentially say something about what I value? Is it a message I want to send? Is it a message that makes it easier for me to glorify Jesus and share my faith? I think we also should consider what we’re modeling for our children. Do I want to model that good times, social occasions, fun times with friends only take place when there is alcohol present? 

  It’s not wrong to drink. It’s not wrong to enjoy drinking. Martin Luther, the great Reformer was famous for brewing beer and said, “Beer is made by men, wine by God.” But the Bible is clear drunkenness is always wrong.

  As a believer, my life is no longer mine. I’ve been bought back from the slave market of sin. I have the privilege with what I say and do to bring honor to the One who loved me and died for me. By His grace, let’s do that even while enjoying the liberty we have in Christ (1 Corinthians 10:31). 

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500. 

 

When helping isn't...

“Enabling is a way of helping a person that feeds the dysfunction. Helping is being there in a way that does not support the dysfunction.”  Dr. Noelle Nelson

  

  Sometimes being kind, just isn’t…You may have heard the recent news story of some visitors at Yellowstone National Park. On May 9^th, these well-meaning visitors encountered a bison calf. According to witnesses, they thought the calf was “cold,” so they put it in the back of their SUV, and then drove it to a nearby park facility.

  According to the park service, regulations require visitors to maintain a distance of least 25 yards from all wildlife, including bison, elk and deer, and at least 100 yards from bears and wolves. The National Park Service stated, too, moving the calf was “a dangerous activity.” Adult animals are very protective of their young and act aggressively to defend them. They also noted interference can cause the mother bison to reject her offspring.

  When rangers tried to reunite the calf with its mother, it was ostracized by its herd. Later, because the calf was found wandering among visitors’ cars, making it a danger to itself and others, the park service decided to euthanize it after its own herd refused to accept it back. A statement posted on the park service website stated: “Approaching wild animals can drastically affect their well-being and, in this case, their survival…The safety of these animals, as well as human safety, depends on everyone using good judgment.”

  As believers, it can be difficult for us to watch someone, particularly those we love, suffer…so we interfere. Yet, we forget God is sovereign. Suffering, trials, or pain are not accidental. A loving God is in control of the fire with His sovereign hand on the gauge controlling the temperature.  

  On May 29^th, it will be 46 years since the Lord took my Mom Home. One of her best friends, along with her husband, prayed about taking me into their home to rescue me from my prescription drug addicted father (they’d previously taken in many missionary kids over the years). But God did not give them peace to proceed. I am so thankful they didn’t. Yes, it would have made my life much easier but God would have not been able to prune, mold and shape me as He has, if my formative years had been less difficult.
  As the youngest of five children and with my father’s issues, my Mom was sheltering me and spoiling me. She was very well intentioned, yet, I believe if it had continued, I might have had great difficulty ever coming into a healthy adulthood. Yes, it has brought some burdens in my life which I’ve had to work through, including Who God really is and what my relationship with Him is. But, I would not trade my past for anything. I live in the reality of my Mom’s life verse, “As for God, His way is perfect” (Psalm 18:30). My life verse from the book of Job echoes a similar truth, “Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him” (Job 13:15).

  Please do not conclude I have my life all together or think in any way that I do. I don’t. I struggle on this spiritual journey just like everyone else. My greatest obstacle is often trusting God. I sometimes wonder if I doubt more than I trust. Yet, I do not believe I would be as far along as I am in my walk with the Lord, if I had not first gone through some fiery trials.  

  Some years back Jane and I had a very serious discussion about the future of our children. If you know Jane, you probably know one of her greatest gifts is kindness. If Jane struggles with anything, it’s being too kind. As a result, I felt she was helping our three children too much. I asked her, “What if something happened to us? Would they be ready for life…for a healthy adulthood?” I firmly believe, after a godly inheritance, the best gifts we can give our children are roots and wings.

  But it’s very difficult for a parent to watch their child “suffer.” Yet, in suffering, character and maturity are developed. For example, a parent should never talk to their child’s employer. If they’re old enough to hold a job, they’re old enough to problem-solve for themselves. It’s best when children move into the teen years, to not intervene on their behalf with teachers or coaches. Sure, they’re going to be bruised and battered a bit, yet that’s how you grow and mature.

  Tragically, I know of parents who when their child gets in legal trouble, they bail them out, often over and over again. The same happens with finances. You may know an adult in their forties or fifties who’s still financially dependent on their parents. Wow! Talk about being kept an emotional and fiscal invalid. Obviously, each case is different. The normal pattern though is for those in adulthood to take on adult responsibilities. The transition to that begins in those interim years of adolescence.

  This lack of facing consequences and responsibility is a major source of the perpetual immaturity in our society. It’s morally wrong and foolish for our government to rescue those who refuse to take responsibility for themselves. Sadly, the Great Society has resulted in generational dependency and perpetual adolescence. Scripture commands tough love. Check it out for yourself. “For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10).

  “Scott, are you saying we should let people go hungry?” No, the Bible says that, not me. Please understand there is also a world of difference between working poor and idle poor. We must always be gracious and generous to the disenfranchised, i.e. children, the disabled, widows, etc. Yet, we are being cruel when we enable people who could take care of themselves in the name of “kindness.” It’s unkind and we’re sentencing them to dependence and perpetual adolescence.

  One of my favorite quotes is from an old Southern Baptist evangelist, Vance Havner, “If they had a social gospel in the days of the prodigal son, somebody would have given him a bed and a sandwich and he never would have gone home.” He was right.

  Sadly, we have become a culture of emotional adolescents, screaming for our rights. We give others control over us when we fail to take personal responsibility for our own well-being. The clear biblical pattern is responsibility precedes rights. Oftentimes saying, “No” and not rescuing someone is the kindest act you can do for them and it’s supremely biblical. 

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500. 

R-E-A-D!

“It seems odd that certain who talk so much of what the Holy Spirit reveals to themselves, should think so little of what He has revealed to others.”  Charles Spurgeon

  To many (including me), the thought of curling up by the fire with a good book sounds like an ideal way to while away an evening or a rainy day. Yet, according to recent studies, about one-quarter of American adults would sooner throw a book — or themselves — in the flames than ever crack the cover.

  The words of Pastor Brad Bigney of the Grace Fellowship Church are very insightful. Oftentimes when Pastor Brad is counseling someone, he will encourage them to read some book which he believes will help them with the issue they are having difficulty with and came to see him about. Many times though the counselee will respond, “But I don’t read.” To which Pastor Bigney responds, “You do now. You’re a Christian!”

  It is nearly impossible to grow spiritually and not read. Being a Christian non-reader typically results in one of two extremes. You end up succumbing to worldliness because you have no idea what the Bible and other good Christian books teach, so you’re stuck in spiritual infancy with minimal growth. Unfortunately, much of what you ingest mentally is from a godless worldview. A key part of spiritual growth and maturity is thinking, being stretched. It’s difficult for that to happen to a non-reader.

  Or, you succumb to Legalism. One of the attractions of Islam is rules. Someone tells you the rules, you do them and you’re a good Muslim. It’s no accident that some 40% of Muslims are illiterate. A large percentage of Muslims are dependent on others to do their thinking for them. Yet, a Christian who will not read might as well be illiterate. What is really the difference between not being able to read and refusing to read?

  Sadly, our educational system is the often the source of a distaste of reading by so many. As students in school, they were forced to read many books which were irrelevant and boring. To add to the repugnance, it was often labeled with that four letter word, home “work.” Pleasure, fun and satisfaction was associated with recess and sports, not reading or academia.

  Just an important side note for parents. If you want to help your children be readers, encourage them to read books which are enjoyable to them, not necessarily educational. The same is true for adults who have fallen off the reading wagon. If they would begin reading again by reading something they truly enjoyed, it would help them grow in their love for reading.

  It’s a bit like eating vegetables. At one point in my life, I despised asparagus. Now that I’ve had asparagus cooked tastefully, I actually enjoy it (I’m still working on cauliflower J). We develop a taste for reading. And reading quality Christian books helps us grow more Christlike.

  Yet, many of us feel we are far too busy to read. What can we do to improve our own reading practices and encourage a culture of reading in our church and family?

  Make time for it. If we’re honest with ourselves, we know we always make time to do what we like. If we begin to cultivate a love of reading, we’ll find each day contains some time to read. If you start with easier books and start by reading during times ordinarily spent watching television or “vegging,” you’ll have an easier time making reading a habit.

  Begin with books which are interesting to YOU. Most non-readers are avid TV or movie watchers. There are certain sports, shows or movies they prefer. Consider reading Christian books which fall into categories which already interest you. For example, if you love chick flicks, consider reading something like Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. Is your TV stuck on ESPN? Read a book by Christian coach, Tony Dungy. Do you love documentaries? Read a good Christian biography. Are you starting out in marriage or childrearing? Read a quality book on those concerns. I’d suggest ones by Leslie Vernick or Gary Thomas. Even if you love hunting and fishing, there are interesting Christian books written by committed believers about their own experiences of hunting and fishing. Is there an area where you’d like to grow spiritually? Find a quality book in that area.

  Read good books. All of us have watched a movie and wondered as the end credits roll, “Why did I even watch that? What a waste of my time!” I believe I learned this from famed movie critic, Roger Ebert. If a movie doesn’t catch my attention in the first 15 minutes or so, I walk out or turn it off. The same is true with a book. If you read a chapter or two, and it’s not clicking, find another one. Now I find I rarely go to a movie that turns out to be a “turkey.” Do you know why? I rarely will watch a movie without first reading a review on the movie. And I do the same with books.

  For most books, Amazon.com has reviews of the book. They also let you take a look inside of the book at the table of contents and the first few pages. Because books are expensive, I often request a book from our local library, have them secure it for me on library loan. When it comes in, I peruse it to determine if it’s a book I actually want to read or own. In other words, I often “test drive” a book before I buy it.

  I look for books my friends are reading and recommend. In fact, the book we’re reading for our summer reading, The Gospel by J.D. Greear was first recommended to me by a friend

  Make reading your default setting. Unfortunately, smart phones have become our default setting today. If someone is waiting at the doctor’s office or in a restaurant, they immediately look at their phone. Get disconnected. Always keep a book on hand. I don’t go anywhere without a book. If I’m stuck with a train or waiting for an appointment, I have something to read and stretch my soul.

  A charge made by a lost world of Christians is we’re bunch of ignoramuses. Sadly, sometimes it’s true. We haven’t invested the time to read and think through the issues. If we look at the great world shapers of the past couple of centuries, each of them were readers: Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Gandhi, William Wilberforce, etc. It was said that Theodore Roosevelt read a book a day while serving as president! Of course, if we want to look at the history of Christian thought and influence the list is endless: Augustine, Thomas Aquinas, Martin Luther, John Calvin, John Wesley, or C.S. Lewis. They read the Bible but they went beyond Scripture to read some of the greatest books of history, both fiction and nonfiction. They were avid readers and God used them to impact the Church because of that! Do you want to make a significant difference? You must be a reader! So book it…start today! 

Looking for quality used Christian books and other types of books at prices lower than even Amazon. Check out our family's online used bookstore at resurrectedreads.com or visit our store at the Waterford Unique Antique Market at 209 North Milwaukee Street in Waterford, WI --  262.534.3500. 

Christianity and a Social Revolution for Women

“Earth has nothing more tender than a woman’s heart when it is the abode of piety.”  Martin Luther

  If you say something loud enough and often enough, people will accept it as true. A cultural myth continually made against the Bible, the Church and Christianity is that they are all anti-female and even oppressive to women. It’s the false notion that Jesus and the Bible endorse misogyny. Or, worse, God hates women. It’s not true. History clearly demonstrates Jesus and biblical Christianity revolutionized the role of women in society. 

  Because too often we are ignorant of history, we’re unaware of how horrible life was for many groups prior to Christ’s coming. Jesus’ coming changed everything. Do you want to know what the status of women would be today if Jesus had not come? You don’t need to go back in time, you just need to go across the world. Look at the status of women in most present-day Islamic countries and it will give you a snapshot of what it was like to be a woman before the Incarnation.

  In large segments of our world, women are treated little better than livestock. They are denied most rights. When they go out in public, they must be veiled, and often chaperoned. In many countries, women are not allowed to even drive a car.

  As noted psychoanalyst, Dr. Joan Lachkar, states: “In this ever changing world of multiculturalism, we are continually faced with contrasting dynamics. What is considered abuse in our country is considered ‘normal’ in another. You cannot beat your wife. That is considered abuse in the West and you would get arrested for domestic violence, but in Islamic societies wife beating is permitted when they are disobedient!” Not only does a man have the right to beat his wife, he can desert her, all with the full support of the Quran.

  It’s because of Christianity those of us in Western Civilization value equality for all. Most people do not realize women were among the disciples and traveled with Jesus throughout His ministry. Luke 8:1-3: “Soon afterward [Jesus] went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him, and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.”

  These verses continue a common theme in the New Testament – women whose lives are revolutionized by Jesus. Some had previously been demonized. They’re now filled with gratitude and love, giving of themselves for the cause of Christ. Throughout His ministry, it was women who faithfully followed Jesus to the end from the Cross to the tomb. In a culture that dehumanized women, Jesus gave them significance.

  Our Lord loved women and treated them with great respect and dignity. The remainder of the New Testament’s teaching on women further developed His perspective. The value of women permeating the New Testament isn’t found in Greco-Roman culture or cultures of other societies. Even in Israel, prior to Christ’s coming Jewish women were barred from public speaking or from reading the Torah out loud. Synagogue worship was segregated with women never allowed to be heard.

  Jesus literally revolutionized the role of women in society, overthrowing centuries of Jewish law and custom. He consistently treated women and men as equals. He violated numerous Old Testament regulations which specified gender inequality and refused to follow the behavioral rules established by the three main Jewish religious groups of the day: the Essenes, Pharisees and Sadducees. For example…

  Jesus talked to foreign women. John 4:7-30 describes His conversation with a Samaritan woman. She was doubly ritually unclean since she was both a foreigner and a woman. Men weren’t allowed to talk to women, except within their own families. Jesus also helped a Canaanite woman in Matthew 15:22-28. Although He described non-Jews as “dogs,” He was willing to talk to her and cured her daughter of demon-possession.

  Jesus taught women students. Jewish tradition didn’t allow women to be educated. Rabbi Eliezer wrote in the 1^st century, “Rather should the words of the Torah be burned than entrusted to a woman…Whoever teaches his daughter the Torah is like one who teaches her obscenity.” Jesus overthrew centuries of tradition. In Luke 10:38-42 we find Him teaching Mary, the sister of Martha.

  Jesus accepted women into His inner circle. Luke 8:1-3 describes the inner circle of Jesus' followers, 12 male disciples and an unspecified number female supporters. It appears that about half of His closest followers were women.

  Mostly women were present at Jesus’ execution. Matthew 27:55-56 and Mark 15:40-41 describe many women who followed Jesus from Galilee and were present at His crucifixion. The men had fled from the scene. Only His disciple John stayed with Him to the end.

  Jesus appeared first to women after His resurrection. Matthew 28:9-10 describes how Mary Magdalene and “the other Mary” were the first followers to meet Him after His resurrection.

  Jesus equalized the place of women in marriage. The biblical view of husbands and wives as equal partners brought about dramatic change in marriage. Christian women started marrying later and married men of their own choosing. It eroded the ancient practice of men marrying child brides against their will. Today a Western woman isn’t forced to marry someone she does not want, nor can she legally be married off as a child bride, though the practice continues where Christianity has little or no presence. 

  As a result of Jesus Christ’s coming and His teachings, women in much of the world today, particularly in the West, enjoy more privileges and rights than at any other time in human history. It takes only a cursory trip to an Arab nation or the 3^rd World to see how little freedom women have in cultures where Christianity has little or no presence. Jesus Christ and the birth of Christianity is the best thing that has ever happened to women.

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If you can read this safely, thank a cop!!

“A cop has a calling. It’s not about making money. Being a cop making communities safe, caring for children, and doing what it takes to stop someone from hurting another person.”

  My earliest experiences with law enforcement were ones of mercy, very undeserved mercy. I think I was about eleven. My family lived on the south side of Atlanta. At the back of our home we had a screened in back porch.

  Somehow we had secured some firecrackers and had probably a hundred of them left over. Young boys alone without supervision is not usually a wise thing. Somehow I had the bright idea it would be fun to light off all of those firecrackers. So I started lighting them one after another and throwing them across the porch. I have no idea how many I had set off, probably fifty or so. Between blasts it sounded like a helicopter was hovering nearby so I stepped outside to check it out. There was. It was a police helicopter and one of Atlanta’s finest was walking down my driveway with his gun half drawn. I stepped out where he could see me and he asked me if someone was shooting off guns. Things hadn’t quite clicked yet in my young mind. Then, he asked if I knew what the banging noise was from, so I confessed I’d been shooting off a “few” firecrackers. He got on his radio to give an all clear. Then, he asked if I have any more firecrackers. I handed them over. He briefly lectures me about not doing it again – and then he’s gone. He didn’t ask where my parents were or chew me out. He simply told me not to do it again and gave me a look of “boys will be boys.” His presence really got my attention. I never did that again. He could have made it a big deal but didn’t. He showed mercy to a young boy who never considered what he was doing might be a problem.

  There were a few other run-ins with law enforcement before I became an adult. I’ll spare you more gory details of adolescent stupidity. One occasion they could have arrested me but again – I was shown mercy.

  For the past fifteen years, I’ve had the privilege of being the Chaplain for the Burlington Police Department. I’ve also worked with Racine County Sheriff’s Department on a few occasions. While officers must arrest those who are breaking serious laws, or putting themselves or others in danger, what I have seen over and over again are very committed individuals who are very concerned with public safety and welfare. These dedicated men and women put their lives at risk each time they put on the uniform. Even in a small town like Burlington, they don’t know if the next traffic stop could be their last one.  

  They are often the peacemakers bringing common sense when others are lacking it. I still remember my first ride-along as chaplain. It was a major crime scene of…a barking dog. A man who was irate (and a tad intoxicated) was coming unglued because his neighbor’s dog was barking. Of course, he’d never talked to the neighbor about his concern. So the officer had to go talk to the neighbor. He kindly urged him to please restrain the dog – no muss, no fuss.

  When a small child locked himself in a running car, I was there with the officer on a brutally cold day. The toddler was screaming hysterically on the inside of the car as the officer patiently worked to trip the lock to rescue him. Cops are usually the first on the scene with a suicide or drug overdose. I’ve been there when they’ve had to tell a parent or spouse their loved one has taken his or her own life.

  Though these men and women may seem like they’re made of steel, they’re not. When a child dies or is injured, they’re the ones who must control their emotions, even if inside they’re hurting. They just can’t show it. They’re the ones who search for the Alzheimer’s patient who wandered away from home. They’re the ones called to a volatile domestic disturbance. They’re the ones who must wade into those charged emotions, trying to make certain no one gets hurt and that they also are not hurt themselves in the process.

  The law enforcement profession has always been a tough business. Over the course of a career, an officer will see the best and worst in humanity…and as culture continues to devolve, more of the worst. One moment, they may be thanked for what they do and then be spit upon and called a list of vile names less than an hour later.

  Is it any wonder cops become cynical and confused as to what to expect and how the public they serve feels about them—and consequently, how they feel about the public? Most officers wear Kevlar vests to protect themselves from a criminal’s bullets. Over the years, officers develop an emotional “Kevlar exterior” to protect themselves from the horrible things they see and feel. They work hard to not take it home to their spouses and children, who probably wouldn’t understand anyway. Yet, in spite of well-developed emotional armor, it’s sometimes impossible not to let some of this negativity slip inside and begin to take its toll.

  They are frequently, demeaned, ridiculed and lied to. In more recent times, there’s been a national questioning of their integrity. Yet, still each day, they put the uniform back on. They’re the ones you call if your pet or your child or your grandparent wanders off...and they always come. 

  It’s a privilege for us as the Grace Family to honor them today and to say “Thank you!” I hope our gratitude and support echoes in their ears and minds for days, even months to come. Hopefully because we have put some faces with their badges, when we see them out in public, we’ll whisper a prayer for their welfare and safety. And when we can, at the very least give them a friendly wave or a thumbs up. As opportunities present themselves, tell them “thank you” and you’re glad they’re there and for all they do. It will embarrass them a little and they will probably give you a sheepish look but it’s good for them! They need to be reminded again and again, they’re important, supported and appreciated!