The August Colorado Adventures (In Pictures)

Unable to make it out to Colorado for my birthday this year (July 5th), we were delighted to arrange for a later trip for the 2nd week of August -- one that involved another 14er climb, a few other wonderful hikes, pleasant morning coffees and late evening conversations on the condo deck, and a couple of marvelous days shared with dear friends Ron & Linda Scheffler and Mark & Benita Fichter. 

Here are a few photos beginning with a view of the ridge west of Frisco 

taken from Sapphire Point.

On the trail to Rainbow Lake, we took this photo of the wildflowers 

adorning the view looking north.

Next is a photo from Rainbow Lake itself.

Next is a photo of Claire near a lovely, gurgling stream near the River Run condo where we stayed the first 4 nights of the trip.

I was honored to once again hike the Colorado mountains with distinguished Christian brothers Ron and Mark. This photo was taken just west of Hoosier Pass and it shows the dramatic outline of Mt. Quandary in the background.

Oh, if only my camera could truly capture the thrilling beauty of this scene!
It is taken looking west from Hoosier Pass.

Okay, now for a few photos from the Mt. Quandary climb:
First, the mountain as seen from Highway 9 a few miles south of Breckenridge.

Next a serene view taken early in the trek.

Things eventually get a bit steeper and more rugged.

Until, at long last, the summit makes its awesome, ominous shape clear.

But with the great grace of Christ, I managed to make

 the summit of my 5th Colorado 14er.

What a grand experience! Thank You, Lord.

Thoughts on Psalm 140

As I've previously explained here on the blog and on my Facebook page, I have been richly blessed in recent months in reflecting on certain Scriptures along with a few friends. 

Our approach is simple enough – read the selected Bible book or passage, study it in whatever depth one has time for, consider personal applications of the text, and then post a few of one's own reflections on an email thread. Thus, everyone in the group (there have been 8-12 of us invited to that thread) can benefit. Using this method we have so far explored the Book of Esther, then Habakkuk, and now we're looking at three successive Psalms: 139, 140, and 141.

The invitation still stands for others who might want to join in. And with that introduction to the exercise, here's my latest on Psalm 140.

Dear friends,

While awaiting further responses to Psalm 139, Claire and I are also moving on to Psalm 140, one of those imprecatory psalms that unbelievers find so scandalous.  “How can a spiritual person pray for harsh judgment against others?” they ask.  And thus, standing in judgment of the Holy Scriptures, they defend unbelief and spiritual pride.  They assume that these imprecatory psalms and the Bible teachings on judgement, hell, etc., prove that they themselves are more compassionate and just and loving than is God Himself.  And then, having dismissed conviction, they conveniently dismiss all biblical matters and go their own way. Too bad.

Anyway, I’ll make my response to this spiritual exercise by doing two things. First of all, to share a perspective on praying against the wicked, I post a link to a brief essay I originally wrote 2 years ago for the blog. It’s entitled “Praying God’s Arrows Will Fly.” 

And secondly, stemming from this morning’s reading of Psalm 140, I give you 4 quick prayers that are applications for my life today.

1) Lord, as we take our stand against abortion outside Planned Parenthood today, please deliver us from “violent men who devise evil things in their heart.”  Rescue us from abortion zealots who hate us for our winsome witness for You -- whether they are employees, escorts, counter demonstrators, angry passersby, and so on.

2) Father, please protect me from those traps and nets and snares the enemy has set for me.  Guard me and guide my every step.  Keep me in humble dependence upon Your Holy Spirit so that I do only Your will and keep myself pure in heart, firm in the Faith, and obedient to Your every teaching. Don't let the devil steal my confidence, focus, joy, purity, focus, or any other blessing.

3) Father, defeat the schemes of the devil and his minions in our nation.  Let them not succeed but, in fact, let frustration, shame, and scandal be the outcome of their actions against You and Your anointed.

4) Keep ever in my mind, Lord, that You are righteous and just and all-powerful.  You WILL judge the wicked in holiness.  You WILL “maintain the cause” of Your people and reward them in due season.  Let me hold fast to Your promises, Your character, and Your enabling power to live always for You.

Writing Persecuted Christians

In recent days I have posted a few of the letters from the latest Vital Signs Ministries letter-writing party...and I have briefly described in those posts why and how we conduct this important ministry of advocacy and encouragement.

Well, there is another audience that we frequently address in these quarterly meetings and that consists of the persecuted believers listed by Voice of the Martyrs website. We so appreciate VOM's efforts to serve those imprisoned and otherwise persecuted simply because they serve Jesus Christ. And we believe that the wonderful procedure they have created to write letters -- in the prisoner's own language! -- is a blessing beyond measure. 

I post below a sample letter from those we sent out last week. (By the way, our cards and letters to these dear saints are always in cards or on stationary that includes inspirational scenery because we want to add beauty to the blessings of encouraging content.)

Dear -----

When one part of the body suffers the whole body suffers. Many Christians around the world are standing with you. The Lord is your shepherd and He will be with you. I pray you feel the arms of our Lord surrounding you.

John 14:1 "Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in Me."

Romans 8:18 "For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us."

Revelation 21:4 "And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away."

To see how it works (including how the phrases and Scriptures YOU select for the body of your letter are translated), simply follow this link.

Prophets vs Profits: Principled Protests to Businesses

Here's a couple of letters I recently sent to businesses that have completely lost their moral bearings. Why write? Because it's a response decidedly more consistent with Christian sanctification (including the proclamation of God's truths to the world) than is tolerant silence, indifference, or other moral compromise. Indeed, I post these letters in hopes that others (including yours) will be forthcoming. Have at it!

The first letter was directed to Postmates, Burger King, Dr. Pepper, and Cottonelle for recent ads they promoted as part of their "Pride Month" advertising. Those ads included "humorous" references to homosexual acts.

Dear Burger King,

I recently read the details of your recent use of explicit homosexual references in what you considered humorous ads for your products.  We are only two of many who find that particularly crass and mean-spirited. We will be demonstrating our protest through our consumer decisions and will pass along the word to others.

And this next letter was sent to companies whose response to the reversal of the evil Roe v Wade law was to scream loudly against any and all restrictions to abortion and then to go so far as to pledge the financing of an abortion and related expenses to their employees who decided to have an abortionist destroy their babies. Unbelievable.

Those companies? 

* Amazon.com    * Bank of America (The nation's second-largest bank)
* Cigna    * CNN    * Comcast (The parent company of NBC/Universal)
* CVS Health     * Dick's Sporting Goods    * Estee Lauder 
* Hewlett Packard     * Ikea      * Kroger      * Lyft
* MasterCard     * Microsoft 
* Paramount (The media conglomerate which owns CBS News)
* Patagonia     * Paypal     * Procter & Gamble    * Starbucks 
* Target    * Tesla    * Uber     * Walt Disney     * Yahoo

Dear Dick's Sporting Goods,

I write to express my extreme disappointment for your cruel zealotry regarding the dismemberment and poisoning of preborn boys and girls. I refer, of course, to your support of Planned Parenthood, the nation's #1 abortionist, and your support of unlimited abortion without the slightest regard to the little innocent children which will be abortion’s victims. That is so very mean-spirited...and sad. But to then go further in the actual enablement of that horrendous violence by financing the abortions of your employees goes even further beyond the pale.

We are but two of the many Americans who will also express our disappointment with your cold-hearted company by our consumer decisions. And, yes; we will pass the word to others.

Check Out These "Light-Shining" Letters

Following up on my blog post describing a very successful letter-writing party last Tuesday evening (details here). I'll print off a few samples of what was written in that ministry event. 

Perhaps it will encourage you to write a few!

Dear Justice Thomas,

It is with a grateful heart that I write to thank you for voting to overturn Roe v Wade.  This has been a long time coming and is well past time, due to no fault of yours.  Your tireless advocacy for life and for righteousness is very appreciated. The violence that has been directed towards your family and the harassment of your wife over or by the January 6th circus is unconscionable. We pray for your protection and good health and many more good years before you go to receive your great reward for your work.

Regards, JM

Dear Justice Barrett,

Thank you so much for standing for life. I would like to encourage you to stand firm and know that prayers are being said for you and your family. You have one of the most important jobs in our country.  Please continue to work for the best decisions for the people in our great country.

Sincerely, J&JL

Justice Amy Coney Barrett,

As Mordecai said to his cousin/niece Esther, “Who knows but that you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this.”  We have prayed for you and for your family, for healthy, wisdom protection. Congratulations that you are eternally known for voting to overturn Roe v Wade.  It was such an affront to women and such bad law. Thank you for standing in the gap to protect vulnerable women and their children.

Much work still to be done but your work on the bench is great and historic and significant, thank you!!

Regards, JM

Dear Justice Gorsuch,

Just a quick but deeply appreciative note to thank you for your defense of the Constitution, your defense of moral and scientific fact, and your defense of the sanctity of preborn life in voting to reverse Roe v. Wade.  What an opportunity this now represents for America!  We’re praying God will bless, protect, and keep you on course!

D&CH

Justice Kavanaugh,

Praying for you and your wife daily. Be strong, sir; all this temporary.

Bound for Glory, AN

Dear Justice Thomas,

I have written earlier to thank you for your noble service to America, especially in your defense of “original intent” in Constitutional matters.  Your brilliant defense of the sanctity of life over the years has finally bore the most wonderful and amazing of fruits; namely, the reversal of Roe v. Wade and we thank God for helping you stay the course against such extreme (though unjust and even irrational) opposition.  We will be forever grateful to you.

D&CH -- VSM

P.S. Our next Book Brunch deals with "Created Equal" come September, but we’ve started it early.  It's terrific!

Dear Justice Roberts,

Your failure to vote to reverse Roe v. Wade was a grave disappointment.  Of course, you have disappointed so much of America many times before with your lukewarm ethics, your compromised values, and your sloppy decisions.  But to fail to finally get this – of all things – straight…that takes the cake!

DH

This next letter was sent to several companies

that have been pro-abortion zealotry.

Dear Disney, 

Just a quick word of disappointment for your cruel zealotry regarding the dismemberment and poisoning of reborn boys and girls through abortion. Indeed, your company's support of unlimited abortion (without the slightest regard to the little innocent child which will be abortion’s victim)…well, that’s both sad and desperately mean-spirited.  However, for your company to then go further by the active enablement of that horrendous violence is beyond the pale.

We are but two of many who will also express our disappointment with your cold-hearted company in our consumer decisions -- as well as passing the word to others.

Dear Kroger's,

I have been a long-time Bakers shopper.  I have my favorite store.  I know where everything is located.  I use my Bakers Plus card and get money off my fuel.  I have ordered special cakes from the bakery. However, I am so disappointed that you have been so vocal in your support for abortion.  Why?  Do you support the employees that choose life for their babies?  If so, you certainly aren’t vocal about that. The best thing a business should do is be the best business it can and stay out of politics! From today on, I will begin begin shopping elsewhere.

CH

Dear Samaritan's Purse,

I am amazed and delighted to see the work you are doing for hurting people the world over. You send me a prayer booklet which I use every day.  So many lives are being touched and transformed by the work you are doing for Jesus. May God continue to bless the work He has called you to.

DK

Dear Don Bacon,

I was very disappointed to learn that you voted for the Respect for Marriage Act, which affirms and further encourages same-sex marriage. This is a great assault on our Creator’s definition on marriage.  I know you have made statements about being a Christian, but how can a Christian stand for something our God hates? Our culture is falling away from what God calls good and is embracing destructive behavior. Prayerfully you will fear the Lord as you lead.

DK

Dear President Biden,

I was shocked beyond belief when you were defending – by word and policy – those citizens to the lawmakers who were defending Roe v. Wade, in spite of the Supreme Court overturning it.  Shame on you for claiming to be an active member of the Catholic Church and defending the killing of innocent children from abortion when you are fully aware of their stand for pro-life!  As former President Reagan said, “I’ve noticed that everyone who is for abortion has already been born.”

Pope John Paul II, “America, you are beautiful and blessed.  The ultimate test of your greatness is the way you treat every human being, but especially the weakest and most defenseless.  If you want equal justice for all and true freedom and lasting peace, then America, defend life.”

“I call heaven and earth to witness against you today, that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses.  Therefore, choose life, that you and your offspring may live.”  Deuteronomy 30:19

I beg you as President that you seek God’s truth on the abortion issue.

Sincerely, DP

Dear Police Chief Schmaderer,

Vital Signs Ministries is holding a quarterly letter-writing party and, among the other political and moral topics we address in our letters, we like to thank local heroes who risk so much to keep us safe.  We are greatly appreciative of all of you and the “Blue” do!

( Signed by all present)

Dear Fire Chief Olsen,

Vital Signs Ministries is hosting our quarterly letter-writing tonight and, among the political and moral issues we tackle in our letters, we also like to send along our thanks for local heroes who serve us so well…like you guys!  So please know the fire and rescue heroes are dearly appreciated by those signing below.

(Signed by all present)

Dear Attorney General Garland,

Among the most egregious derelictions of your duty has been your failure to actively, effectively protect Supreme Court Justices as stated in U.S. Title 18, Section 1507.  Please, before someone is hurt, do your job!

DH

Dear Franklin Graham,

I want to thank you for the wonderful work you and your ministry are doing.  You inspire me with “love and good deeds.” Thank you also that you always share the Gospel wherever you go.  That is primary.  That is the basic message everyone needs to know.  Being forgiven and knowing Jesus is the starting point for good for us all.  Franklin, you and your ministry are often in our thoughts and prayers.  Thank you for your perseverance.  (I Cor. 15:58)

Sincerely, LS

Keep Those Cards and Letters Coming

Wow, what a letter-writing party last night! While the rain drenched the neighborhood, 13 of us were comfortably situated around tables in both our dining room and living room writing letters of advocacy, courteous protest, encouragement, and thanksgiving. 

As is our pattern at these quarterly events, we conclude the letter writing itself after an hour and 20 minutes. And yet, incredibly enough, we ended the night with 137 cards and letters! Yet that's not the whole of it because two of our "regulars" who couldn't attend because of a leg injury, nevertheless took part in the ministry by writing 14 cards and letters of their own! Way to go, everyone!

Interested in more details? Well, I think the August LifeSharer letter may present more information plus, in the next few days, I will be posting several samples of last night's work on Vital Signs Blog. But for now I'll tell you that among the targets for last night's letters were Supreme Court Justices (24 letters and cards), businesses guilty of pro-abortion zealotry (36), political officials (19), Christian ministry heroes (13), local first responders (5), and Christians imprisoned for their Christian faith in China, Eritrea, and Iran (14). 

The photos, by the way, show the pile as Claire sorted them and then me selecting a representative few for public viewing. Thank you so much to Don, John, Keith, Carol, Jim, Jean, Allen, Cindy, Patrick, Mary, Deb, Lynn, and Dan -- you guys are aces!

The Progressives Stay the Course...And Are Picking Up Speed

* "GOP Leaders to Religious Right: We Don’t Care About Marriage. Even Bill Clinton’s Defense of Marriage Act is too “extreme” for GOP elites to support." (George Neumayr, American Spectator)

* "America’s woke Army is facing a recruiting nightmare" (Glenn H. Reynolds, New York Post)

* "House Democrats Don’t Mind Emptying Out Emergency Oil Reserves To China" (Tristan Justice, Federalist)

* "Michigan AG says 'drag queens make everything better,' suggests 'drag queen for every school'" (Jessica Chasmar, Fox News)

* "Ship of Fools: 62 Percent of Biden Officials Who Handle Economic Policy Have Zero Years Business Experience" (Matthew Boyle, Breitbart)

* "NYC Mayor Eric Adams shares plan to house 3,000 illegal immigrants in hotels after they overwhelmed homeless shelters: Demands taxpayer cash from Biden to help" (Paul Farrell, Daily Mail)

* "Michigan Gov. Whitmer Deletes Pro-Life Programs from State Budget" (Thomas D. Williams, Breitbart)

Lawlessness Unleashed (Part One)

Here are just a few examples of the waves of leftist injustice, hypocrisy, and unmitigated lawlessness which threaten to overwhelm America. Indeed, the moral ground may have already been unalterably eroded. 

* "Biden’s DHS Reveals Nearly 1K Illegal Aliens with Arrest Warrants as ID Allowed to Board U.S. Flights This Year" (John Binder, Breitbart)

* "Climate activists embrace extreme tactics, violence as deadline to 'save the planet' draws near" (Thomas Catenacci, Fox News)

* "Public School Employee Who Advocated for LGBTQIA+ Learning Gets Busted in 'Sex With Minors' Solicitation Sting" (Jim Thompson, Red State)

* "Nancy Pelosi’s Husband Buys Millions In Chip Stocks Right Before Vote On Massive Chip Subsidy" (Gabe Kaminsky, Daily Caller)

* "Climate activists expand tire-slashing operation beyond NYC. Here are the cities they've hit." (Thomas Catenacci, Fox News)

* "50 illegal migrants on terror watch list have been caught at the border so far this year - more than total number apprehended in last five years" (Keith Griffith, Daily Mail)

* "Biden judicial nominee on board of prison 'abolitionist' group" (Houston Keene, Fox News)

4 Thoughts on Psalm 139

As I've previously explained here on the blog and on my Facebook page, I have been richly blessed in recent months in reflecting on certain Scriptures along with a few friends. Our approach is simple enough – read the selected Bible book or passage, study it in whatever depth one has time for, consider personal applications of the text, and then post a few of one's own reflections on an email thread. So it is that everyone in the group (there have been 8-12 of us invited to that thread) can benefit. Using this method we have explored the Book of Esther, then Habakkuk, and now we're looking at three successive Psalms: 139, 140, and 141.

The invitation still stands for others who m might want to join in. 

And here, by the way, is this morning's response to the latest project:

4 thoughts upon the latest reading of Psalm 139:

1) The “cosmic perspective” of God’s omnipresence is, of course, a dramatic theme in this psalm.  We are reminded that God’s holy presence encompasses outer space, the depths of the ocean, the womb of an expectant mother, even the mysteries of the nether world.  And yet the overarching point of verses 1-18 is made in the very beginning; namely, David is amazed and deeply appreciative of God’s omniscience as it affects him personally.  “You have searched me and known me.”  Wow!  The hand of God which threw the stars and planets throughout the universe, and scooped out the Mariana Trench at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, and shaped the unimaginably precise elements of the DNA makeup in every simple person in history, is the hand which is gently, lovingly “laid upon” each believer to guide and protect.  Wow again! 

2) Not only the horror but the sheer blasphemy of abortion couldn’t be made more clear than it is in verses 13-16.  Invading the sanctity of the womb for the “search and destroy” action which is abortion is a monstrous crime against the preborn boy or girl resting there.  But this psalm emphasizes the offense it is to the Creator God as well.  We are not our own; we are the precious work of His love.  Make no mistake then; the promotion and protection of the sanctity of life is a very big deal to our Father.

3) Verses 17 and 18 underscore that alongside David’s wonder and praise and thanksgiving for God’s omnipresence are his same responses to God’s omniscience.  God is everywhere. And God knows everything. And both of those are at work in His care for His children.

4) Verses 19-10 present the same character and purpose as other imprecatory psalms and yet even those verses introduce a very personal application; namely, that David’s awareness of the wickedness in God’s enemies moves him not to compromise or weaken his hatred of God’s enemies, but to also look to his own sanctification.  He affirms, “I hate them with the utmost hatred” and yet he expresses his need for the Lord's work in his own sanctification, “Search me, O God, and know my heart.”

Okay, from my early morning coffee at the West Dodge Panera, that’s it.  I’ll ask Claire to type this up and post it.  

Nothing Stays in the Closet Nowadays.

Remember when Hollywood executives sought to cover up the scandalous activity of their stars in order to avoid severe damage to box office receipts?

Today, anything goes. In fact, the executives now holding those high Hollywood posts actually go out of their way to parade, publicize, and even promote the most brazen immorality of the folks they have under contract. They have concluded (rightly so, obviously) that scandalous behavior actually furthers one's career, so vastly different are the moral standards of the public from days gone by. 

Forget Dorian Gray. Nothing stays in the closet nowadays.

Meanwhile, American Christians continue to drink freely from these polluted waters, desiring hipness over holiness, entertainment over enlightenment, and mindless conformity over the counter-culture lifestyle that Jesus commanded.

It’s a very, very sad state of affairs.

As an ancient seer put it, “Like a trampled spring and a polluted well is a righteous man who gives way before the wicked.” (Proverbs 25:26, NASB)

From "The News the Left Wants Buried" Department (Part One)

* "Biden Admin Flies Illegal Alien Minors out of Texas for Abortions" (John Nolte, Breitbart)

* "How liberal policies have killed black communities" (Clarence Thomas, New York Post)

* "Justice Clarence Thomas is ‘our greatest living American,’ despite constant attacks from the left" (Brian Flood  & Nikolas Lanum, Fox News)

* "Washington state school board director to teach sexual 'pleasure' class to 9-year-olds at sex shop. The classes will be held at a local sex shop called WinkWink." (Emma Colton, Fox News)

* "'A Drag Queen in Every School' Is Modern Left’s 'Chicken in Every Pot'" (Jarrett Stepman, Daily Signal)

* "Postmates, Burger King, Dr Pepper release ads with gay sexual references" (Sean Salai, Washington Times)

* "Nicaragua approves Russian troop access to country, defies US objection" (Peter Aitken, Fox News)

Something's Happening Here...

"Something's happenin' here. What it is ain't exactly clear."

Most of the readers of Vital Signs Blog remember that classic line from the 1966 Buffalo Springfield song, "For What It's Worth." Well, that certainly describes the state of the establishment media of our day. Something is quite clearly happening and yet they are going to do whatever they can to make sure it remains unclear to the public.

But wait! There are still a few honest journalists out there who remember that their job is to search out the truth, ascertain their stories to be accurate, and then report it with clarity and skill. Check out these important examples:

* "Elizabeth Warren Calls to Shut Down Crisis Pregnancy Centers 'All Around the Country'" (Paul Bois, Breitbart)

* "Grooming children for a life of crime" (Sheila Qualls, Alpha News)

* "The Disappearing American?" (Victor Davis Hanson, PJ Media)

* "Does Iran Have Biological Weapons?" (Maya Carlin, 1945)

* "The Discussion of Holocaust Victim Anne Frank's 'White Privilege' Has Begun" (Bonchie, Red State)

* "Treatment of a general and ‘GI Roe’ shows Army’s free-speech double standard" (Andrea Peyser, New York Post)

* "Studies Show The Electric Vehicles Democrats Insist You Buy Are Worse For The Environment And Lower Quality" (Helen Raleigh, Federalist)

Thoughts on Habakkuk

Recently a few friends and I have taken to talking together (through both in-person conversations and email threads) about certain Bible passages. We started with the Old Testament book of Esther then moved on to the 3-chapter book from the Minor Prophets, Habakkuk. Next up (probably) is a few consecutive chapters of Psalms. 

Anyone who wants to join in should contact me.

Here's an example of how this works. It is my third response to the email thread about Habakkuk.

The July letter for Vital Signs Ministries will be send in a couple of days and you’ll see therein a quote from the book (1:4) “Therefore, the law is ignored and justice is never upheld. For the wicked surround the righteous; therefore justice comes out perverted.” as an application of our current situation in America with politicians, bureaucrats, even judges openly defying the rule of law after the recent Supreme Court decisions.  However, I think the book also outlines our responses to that lawlessness; namely, to wait confidently for God’s holy judgment even as we persevere in the expected duties of a prophet of God.

In other words, we wait for God’s holy judgment in His “appointed time” with confident anticipation.  We know His judgment (and the rescue of His people) will be complete. He will achieve all of His purposes.  So, we do not need to worry about the wicked not getting their just desserts; we do not need to fear them or fantasize about our somehow teaching them a lesson; we must not envy them their temporal power and pleasures.  Oh no; God’s full justice is on its way.  As Dylan once put it, “It’s a slow train coming.”

However, for the Lord’s faithful, waiting doesn’t mean twiddling our thumbs and doing nothing.  Nor does it mean hunkering down in as comfortable a shelter as we can find until the storm passes over.  God forbid.  Our duties are still that of prophets which include: 1) Even as we “wait quietly” while God is at work in judging the wicked nations, we also rejoice in God’s faithful, generous, powerful mercies to His people.

“Lord, I have heard the report about You, and I was afraid.
In the midst of the years make it known.
In anger remember mercy.”  (Habakkuk 3:2)

Lord, revive Your work in the midst of the years,
“Yet I will triumph in the Lord,
I will rejoice in the God of my salvation.” (Habakkuk 3:18)

And 2) We stand firm as watchmen on the wall, as ambassadors who courageously warn others of God’s response to sin and who proclaim the glorious, liberating news that God has provided a Savior Who is our eternal refuge and help.  As God told Habakkuk, “Record the vision…that the one who reads it may run.”  We too are to carefully, courageously, and consistently pass along God Word to our culture – even when it involves messages that unbelievers find distasteful and convicting.

One final note arising from my time in Habakkuk.  The uneasiness of America’s current economic condition isn’t simply a matter of bad Democrat policies on energy, spending, over-regulation and so on.  Those things matter, of course.  But the Lord’s message to Habakkuk emphasizes that Judah’s ruin is directly connected to their corruption, shedding of innocent blood, blasphemy, indecency, and false religion.  This is also where America is today.  As another prophet says, “We have sown the wind and are reaping the whirlwind.”  Therefore, our nation’s hope is not in Court decisions or a “red wave” in November, but rather in the miraculous, merciful intervention of Almighty God.  

This doesn’t mean, of course, that we should neglect serving the cause of justice through political action and cultural enlightenment.  As I mentioned earlier, God doesn’t want His prophets “twiddling thumbs” kind of waiting.  Indeed,  we strengthen the things that remain, even as we joyfully proclaim to others the “better country” that is coming for those who receive Jesus as Savior.

Urgent: Lie Detectors Wanted

A little known poem written in the 1920’s by the author of Dr. Zhivago, Boris Pasternak, describes the power of Bolshevik revolutionary and ruthless dictator Vladimir Lenin in a striking stanza. In this poem, “Lofty Melody,” Pasternak emphasizes the connection between Lenin’s comprehensive political power and his propaganda prowess. Writes Pasternak, “He ruled the flow of thought, and that is why he ruled the land.”

Pasternak understood that the prelude to controlling people’s lives was controlling their minds. And as the decline of Western civilization continues its dramatic course, it is critical that you and I take the challenge that Pasternak’s observation implies. After all, ours is an age when the erroneous inventions of Darwin, Freud, and Marx still dominate the academic world – an age when the terms and demographics used in the public debate over abortion are provided by the abortionists themselves – an age when lies of the devil have become the dominant messages in our culture’s music, movies, television programming, fashion, education systems, and the leftist reporting which masquerades as journalism. These godless sources clearly have ruled the flow of thought in our era, thus creating the most horrendous flow of action, including waves of unimaginable violence, sexual perversion, and open defiance of Almighty God.

Jesus warned us that Satan is the father of lies and also that he is a creature committed to fierce action, especially against Christians. Indeed, the devil is never content with the lie itself; he is also a blasphemer, a deceiver, an accuser, a tempter, a murderer. And, in pursuit of these wicked things, he creates alliances with foolish, rebellious human beings. For instance, he uses such voices as a newspaper or magazine article, a film or a television program, a humanistic school curricula or museum exhibit, the allure of cocaine highs or illicit sexual thrills, get-rich-quick pitchmen or false preachers, and so on. Through such voices, the devil seeks to rule the land -- by ruling “the flow of thought.”

The psalmist tells us that those who speak lies go astray. The deception of the mind leads to “actualized” sin...and then more sin. Stressing the same truth, the Lord tells us that as a man thinks, so will he act. As apologist Francis Schaeffer repeatedly emphasized, “Ideas have consequences.” And no more crucial does Dr. Schaeffer’s remark relate to you and I than in this matter of believing lies.

Now this isn’t normally a topic we talk about. The word “liar” is considered too stern, too moralistic, too judgmental for social use…even in church. And certainly being a “lie detector” will not make you very popular nowadays. Nonetheless, those who have trusted Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior have an unmistakable, undeniable calling which requires them to perform that very function. Detecting the lies that confront us throughout the day, refusing their power in our own lives, and then daring even in the public square to expose and refute those – these are critical elements of being a true disciple, a “light of the world.”

I fear for the state of the Church in the West because of the frequency with which everyday Christians succumb to worldliness, forfeiting their rich intellectual heritage for the propaganda doled out by the devil’s minions. Is it any wonder then that believers, “unsalty” and begrimed with the spirit of the age, have lost their power to influence the events around them? Rather than acting as sojourners in this foreign country of the world, we’ve settled in and become quite comfortable. Rather being transformed into the image of Christ Jesus, we have chosen to be poured into the molds made by advertisers, politicians, secular educators, entertainment moguls, and preachers who deny the necessity of both holy living and sacrificial service in behalf of others. It has been a tragic sell-out.

Is there a way back? Certainly. And it begins with the simple refrain, “Out with the bad and in with the good.” Or, put another way, we need much less of the world in us and much more of the Word. The writer of Hebrews tells us that the mature Christian is one who has by practice had his senses trained to discern good and evil. That is a comforting thought as well as a challenge. For despite the enveloping cloud of lies in our era, the Holy Spirit reminds us that the obedient Christian can overcome evil with good. Not only can we escape the tyranny of lies ourselves, we can even beat them back as they try to claim new victims.

It doesn’t come easy, of course. The most difficult reclining chairs to get out of are the ones that feel so good to be in. You have to be a diligent student of the Bible. You must strive for holiness, deny self, be a doer of the Word and not a hearer only. And you have to engage the power of the Holy Spirit as you bring His light to bear upon everything you encounter. If you let down your guard in any area, you become easy prey for the father of lies. He will fool you. He will exploit you. And he will then toss you aside. How infinitely better is it to listen to the voice of the Good Shepherd?

By wisdom a house is built

And by understanding it is established.

And by knowledge the rooms are filled

With all precious and pleasant riches.

A wise man is strong

And a man of knowledge increases power.

For by wise guidance you will wage war,

And in abundance of counselors there is victory.

(Proverbs 24:3-6)

The above passage from Proverbs presents a dramatic contrast to Vladimir Lenin’s ambition to rule over men by dominating the world of ideas. For the wise man, as these verse illustrate, is one who builds his life on the sure foundations of God’s Word. That man can then influence the world of action as he teaches truth, exposes and overcomes the devil’s lies, and guides others towards spiritual freedom, justice, moral purity, and serenity of soul.

Unlike Lenin (and unlike Satan and his henchmen themselves), the wise man has trusted Jesus Christ’s death as payment for his sin. He has been adopted into God’s forever family and given the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit to walk in the newness of life. In obedience to God’s commands for him to be a light-bearing disciple, the wise man will thus celebrate his freedom to know truth, but he will also bravely take on the duty of “lie detection” to help liberate others.

Celebrating Life Is Always In Order

Yes, this clip has been around for a few years but it remains refreshingly inspiring. And it deserves richly deserves being passed along to others. Please do so.

"Dear Future Mom" was created by the large Italian advertising firm Saatchi & Saatchi Italy for CoorDown, Italy’s National Coordination of Associations of People With Down Syndrome, in honor of World Down Syndrome Day on March 21.

The folks in the ad include both children and adults, filmed across Europe and speaking in their native languages. And while most of the responses are positive assurances — he’ll be able to go to school, learn to write, travel, and work, say the subjects — they also include realistic warnings, like “Sometimes it will be difficult,” “Very difficult,” “Almost impossible.” "But," one young man adds, “isn’t it like that for all mothers?” At the end, some moms jump into the frame to hug their children, their proud smiles providing, perhaps, the best reassurance of all.

Superb.

 

Happy Independence Day, U.S.A.

Yesterday a note was sent our way by an old friend, Ken Filbert. We were moved by it and asked his permission to post it on Vital Signs Blog so that others could appreciate it too. Thanks, Ken.

Happy Independence Day, U. S. A.

“The Fate of unborn millions will now depend, under God, on the courage and conduct of this army...We have, therefore, resolved to conquer or die.” (George Washington, addressing the Continental Army, 1776)

Thanks, Mr. Washington, for seeing clearly that the future and freedom of millions was at stake.  Courage and conduct under God seemed to be the deciding factor.  There are now millions that enjoy freedom that don’t know the history behind their freedom.  Not knowing why sometimes causes good things to die.  George Washington also said, “Truth will ultimately prevail where pains are taken to bring it to light.”  The ongoing effort to shroud the truth and eliminate and distort our history has brought a darkness over our nation that only the light of truth will dispel.  Pains must be taken to keep the lamp of liberty aflame, or the death of our liberty is inescapable.

Thomas Jefferson said, “God Who gave us life gave us liberty.  Can the liberty of a nation be secure when we have removed a conviction that these liberties are the gift of God?

The nation that forgets God also forgets His gifts. One of those gifts is freedom.

“Now the Lord is the Spirit; and where the Spirit of Lord is, there is liberty.” (I Corinthians 3:17)

Bible Study Among Friends (Even at a Distance)

Several weeks ago, I invited a few of my friends to join me in studying (and then discussing together) the Old Testament book of Esther.  The method was simple enough – read the book, study it in whatever depth you had time for, consider personal applications of the text, and then post a few of your reflections on an email thread so that everyone in the group (there were 8 of us) could benefit. 

Well, it worked really well. It not only provided stimulation and accountability to study the Bible, but it also helped make our friendships sharper and more purposeful as we related our responses to each other by conversation over coffee or even via email. And anything that helps us meet those goals is an important ministry. 

Perhaps you might consider joining us in future projects of this sort.  If you are in an effectively interactive study right now through home groups or Sunday school classes...that's terrific.  But if you’re not (or if you’d like to add to those studies), then give a thought to taking us up on this offer.  

And, by the way, the next project is just getting underway.  It’s a look at the 3-chapter Old Testament book of Habakkuk, a little book by volume but a very big book in its relevance to our own day.

So, if you’re interested in being a part of this exercise, just us send an email and I’ll include you in the thread.

Being About "Others"

In a conversation yesterday with Ralph Kramper, an old friend, pro-life colleague, and long-time family physician (before he retired), I heard a fascinating and inspiring story about Creighton University Hall of Fame athlete Bob Portman. I then learned that Ralph had written a brief tribute and I asked him if I could post it on Vital Signs Blog. Graciously, he gave me the go-ahead and so I present it here with my highest recommendation.

There’s More to Life Than a Number

by Ralph Kramper, M.D.

On Monday afternoon, while traveling from the graduation of a grandson in Wisconsin, I received a phone call on my wife’s cell phone from my good friend Bob Portman asking me if I knew who would be wearing #33 on the Bluejay basketball team.  We had been out of town for five days (no Omaha World-Herald newspaper) and though my own cell phone was fully charged, it was in my suitcase.  So I had no idea.  He explained the assignment of his long-retired jersey to a current freshman recruit who wore that number while in high school.

Bob and I had become friends during his junior and senior season at Creighton as his girlfriend Patty (now his wife) knew me from college at St. Benedict’s in Atchison, Kansas.  Patty and I would listen together to the away games on the radio (I was of no threat!).  I have been a Jay "backer" and season ticket holder since graduating from med school in 1971.  Bob not being allowed to play varsity as a freshman (and with no 3-point line in his day) makes his career stats even more
amazing.  Drafted by the San Francisco Warriors, he played four seasons with Jeff Mullins and Rick Barry.  After four seasons and with options available, Bob chose to retire from professional basketball to devote more time to his family.  I was present at his induction into the Creighton Hall of Fame (legendary UCLA coach John Wooden spoke) and at his induction into the Missouri Valley Hall of Fame.

So it came as no surprise that a man of God with great faith and humility would say “yes” to Coach McDermott’s request to "un-retire" his jersey number.  Having weathered several health storms, Bob epitomizes a man for others.

Living in a society that is so often egotistical and self-centered, it’s refreshing to see someone who is about others and not self.  That unselfish “other” spirit is what I believe characterized the 2021-2022 Bluejays.  May that continue and may we all look in the mirror and ask ourselves, “Am I about self, or am I about others?”  It’s never too late to change.

Bravely Bear the Lord's Banner

Banners in the Old Testament are military standards. They first appear in Numbers1:52 and 2:2 in the directions God gave to Moses for the arrangement of the Israelite camps in the wilderness. Those banners, specifically and publicly, identified the tribal armies to which each Israelite belonged. Thus the banner represented identity, strategic organization, purpose, and inspiration for battle. And it is these practical elements that provide the foundation for the metaphorical use of banner in later Old Testament Scriptures. Let’s take a few moments to consider these four elements.

1) Identity. The soldier finds fellowship, accountability, and stimulation to strive harder by being part of a solid corps of soldiers. Therefore, the corps flag, as a visual symbol of all its values, is deeply cherished and carefully protected. Psalm 20:5 emphasizes the blessing of identifying with God in His victories by erecting banners. “We will sing for joy over Your victory and, in the name of our God, we will set up our banners.” A similar expression is seen in the exultation over Zion’s new and forever glory in Isaiah 62:10. “Build up the highway, remove the stones, lift up a standard over the peoples.”

But the banner isn’t only displayed after the victory. No, it is also unfurled preliminary to and during the battle itself. Indeed, the banner of God can serve as a prophetic announcement of His holy, conquering purpose. Babylon, for instance, is warned in Isaiah 13:2 and 3, “Lift up a standard on the bare hill… I have even called My mighty warriors, My proudly exulting ones to execute My anger.” Ethiopia and the other nations are also warned of judgment by the appearance of the Lord’s banner in Isaiah 18:3. “All you inhabitants of the world and dwellers on the earth, as soon as a standard is raised on the mountains, you will see it.”

2) Organization. Throughout history, military commanders have used the various banners of their armies to help conduct strategic movement during a battle. Though being a whole and unified army, it is composed of different parts and the skillful coordination of their action is critical to success. The individuals within the corps do not necessarily need to know the overall battle plan, they simply need to stay close to their standard and obey the orders of their immediate commanders.

3) Purpose. In some cases, the military banners of an army represented specialized talents, training, or tasks. For example, an infantry corps played a different role in battle than did pikemen or archers or cavalry. In the same way, the Lord often gives Christians different banners to carry, banners that signify their unique callings and spiritual gifts. Nevertheless, they serve in a common cause, under a common Commander, anticipating a common inheritance.

4) Inspiration. Bonds forged by love and trust and shared ideals are tremendously strong. And those bonds yield courageous, sacrificial devotion. Historical examples abound of the honor involved in carrying the flag in battle. One standard-bearer falls but another picks it up and moves forward. Through the cries and confusion, the smoke and shells, the flag continues to wave, inspiring and guiding soldiers in their advance.

All four of these elements are relevant in the “banner verse” that’s been on my mind lately. It is Psalm 60:4. “You have given a banner to those who fear You that it may be displayed because of the truth.” As a believer, one who fears God with proper reverence and love, I am fully identified with Him…and He with me. Scripture teaches that because I have trusted in Christ as my Savior, I am one of His beloved disciples. And that service carries the responsibility of being a bondservant, a faithful witness, a dedicated soldier. And especially applicable to these tasks is His gift to me of a holy banner -- a banner which needs to be publicly displayed.

My identity isn’t static or platonic, it involves function. I am a standard-bearer, responsible to show forth in the public square (as well, of course, in my private life) His truths concerning righteousness, justice, and the offer of grace through the atoning work of Jesus. I must bear this banner for others to see and do so boldly, consistently, gratefully, and joyfully.

God is working out His will in history. And, amazingly, I am honored to be a part of that. In the spiritual rebirth that comes through receiving Christ, God has not only forgiven my debt of sin, He has redeemed me, transformed me, and (through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit), equipped me for every good work…including bearing His banner in my corner of the battlefield.  

All the banners of the Lord display His character and the glorious truth He offers to men. Like the lights we are given that are not to be hidden under a basket, the banners we are given or not to be stowed away in the trunk of our car to be unloaded only when we attend church. No, the Lord’s banners are for public display. Therefore, if we fail to raise His standard, we are living in flat out disobedience.

“You have given a banner to those who fear You that it may be displayed because of the truth.” So don’t neglect your high calling. Bravely bear His banner.

Thanks, Pro-Life Action League, for the New Signs!

Thanks to talented artist and dedicated pro-life activist, Pat Osborne, Vital Signs Ministries has always had some of the most beautiful and enlightening signs for use in our public pro-life witness over these last 40 years. 

Well, with photos provided by our colleagues at the Pro-Life Action League, we added a couple of new signs this morning for our prayer session outside Omaha's abortion business. And they too are winsome and persuasive. 

The two new signs are shown in this photo at the far right but you can also see a few of Pat's other signs being displayed.

Thank you, Pat. And thank you, Pro-Life Action League.