From My Perspective - - -

Austerity means (according to Webster’s Revised Unabridged dictionary): “…Severity of manners or life; extreme rigor or strictness; harsh discipline….severe simplicity…” This is interesting in light of a statement made by the co-chair of Barack Obama's Transition Team, Valerie Jarrett, when she appeared on Meet the Press this weekend…Ms. Jarret told Tom Brokaw that "given the daunting challenges that we face, it's important that president elect Obama is prepared to really take power/control and begin to rule day one." It is the use of the words “power…control…rule” that are of interest. We have never spoken of an American President in those terms previously. The History and Heritage has been that the newly elected President will assume Leadership and Govern. That is a significant difference in philosophy and governing.

A MONARCH is defined as one who is: “A sole or supreme ruler; a sovereign; the highest ruler; an emperor, king, queen, prince, or chief.” That is, one who would control and rule for as long as the citizenry would permit. A DICTATOR is one who is: “a person exercising absolute power, esp. a ruler who has absolute, unrestricted control in a government without hereditary succession…one who authoritatively prescribes conduct, usage, etc” If control, power, rule is the dynamic of the Transition Team, that describes the direction for this nation in the foreseeable future. Just one area for illustration of where this can lead. The concept of “redistribution of wealth” is a new phrase and sound for the way we think in this country. However, one is led to believe it will pertain to the wealthiest 5% in the nation to allow for the other 95% to receive tax cuts or financial subsidies. Lest we be tempted to think this represents a tax increase of less than 5% on the wealthiest Americans, there is another issue looming in the background.

Many Americans have scrimped and saved so they could have a private retirement account – IRA, 401K, or some other private pension plan. In the Congress of the United States, the chairman of the House Committee on Education and Labor Rep. George Miller said that sweeping changes are coming to the 401(k) system. Those changes could include confiscating workers' personal retirement accounts and converting them into accounts managed by the Social Security Administration (GRA – Government Retirement Accounts). There’s another word that fits in with the scheme of “control, power, rule” – namely “confiscating”! This means the Federal Government would seize and begin to control over $4 Trillion Dollars. Would they invest your money? Have they invested what was taken from wages for Social Security? The answer is: NO!

Leadership is ultimately about getting things done - that Drive to Take Action - and get results and improve performance. It’s the ability to influence, motivate and provide the tools and environment to others so that they can best contribute towards the successful attainment of the goals of their community or organization. True Leadership does not need nor want “control, power, rule, confiscation” in order to govern. It is usually the areas of positive influence; motivation to action; and sacrificial example that produce the greatest result and achieves the highest goals.

Consider these things with me - - - A Good Leader is one who has himself learned by Following. Perhaps this is why when Jesus was training disciples to prepare them for leadership, in Matthew 16:24 He gave them two basic choices – if one wanted to be identified with Him: (a) he must deny himself (of personal rights and desires); (b) he must take up his cross (the symbol of dying to self interests and pride) – then he will be able to follow Jesus Christ. Dictatorship is always marked by self-interests and personal accruement. Monarchs are usually marked by self-aggrandizement and wealth accumulation. The President-elect; the Transition Team he has formed; and those he chooses to head the various agencies of Government all need a substantial dose of and commitment to Micah 6:8, “He has showed you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Is it impossible for this to occur? Only if you allow negative thinking and surrender to the inevitable – that neutralizes any positive influence you could be. Always remember – NOTHING is Impossible with our God!

From My Perspective - - -

There area many suggestions regarding “Change” – what it really means and what can be accomplished as this “Change” is implemented. One area for special guardedness is the presence of the “herd instinct” – a mentality that will go along with almost anything just because it represents “Change”! It is interesting that an aging Cold War participant - Former Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev – offers his concept of “Change”, along with “Why” he thinks it is necessary. It should be remembered that Perestroika, meaning restructuring, was used by Gorbachev in the late 1980s to describe a series of reforms that ultimately led to the demise of the Soviet Union.

With that in mind, Gorbachev offers his ideas to the United States as a “Change” Mandate: “President-elect Barack Obama needs to fundamentally change the misguided course followed by President George W. Bush over the past eight years… the world is waiting for Obama to act, and the White House needs to restore trust in cooperation with the United States among the Russians…This is a man of our times, he is capable of restarting dialogue, all the more since the circumstances will allow him to get out of a dead-end situation…” He went on to say, “… that after transforming his country in the late 1980s, he had told the Americans that it was their turn to act, but that Washington, celebrating its Cold War victory, was not interested in a new model of a society, where politics, economics and morals went hand in hand." A fellow Russian compatriot, Former Russian oligarch Mikhail Khodorkovsky, founder of now defunct Yukos oil giant, who is in prison on fraud and tax evasion charges, also used the word "Perestroika" in discussing the future course of the Obama administration...He said that, "being a liberal himself, he thinks that the world will take a left turn, and that a global Perestroika would be a logical response to the global crisis. The paradigm of global development is about to change. The era inaugurated by Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher 30 years ago is over."

What does all of this mean on the world’s stage? What does this mean for the United States during and after the transition of power? The morning news suggests the transitional plans as President-elect Obama assumes the responsibilities of office, and among the first acts/actions he is planning to take. “President-elect Obama plans to use his executive powers to make an immediate impact when he takes office, perhaps reversing Bush administration policies on stem cell research and domestic drilling for oil and natural gas…Obama is reviewing President Bush's executive orders on those issues and others as he works to undo policies enacted during eight years of Republican rule.” John Podesta, Obama's transition chief said, “…the President can use such orders to move quickly on his own…There's a lot that the president can do using his executive authority without waiting for congressional action, and I think we'll see the president do that…I think that he feels like he has a real mandate for change. We need to get off the course that the Bush administration has set..."

From My Perspective - - -

The Lottery has become one of those promotions that attract people to “take a chance”! Just spend a couple of dollars and one may be the next Jackpot (or Powerball) Winner. There’s a sad story connected to the man who won the largest lottery in 2002. The ABC News Report states: “On Christmas morning in 2002, Jack Whittaker woke up to perhaps the biggest gift imaginable. Whittaker had won the Powerball lottery jackpot -- a whopping $315 million.” When asked how he was doing and what had happened since his winning such a large amount, the report indicates: “Whittaker now says that he regrets winning the lottery. Since I won the lottery, I think there is no control for greed. I think if you have something, there's always someone else that wants it. I wish I'd torn that ticket up. Whittaker had the very best of intentions: He truly wanted to share his good fortune and help people. I wanted to build churches, he said. I wanted to get people food that didn't have food. I wanted to provide clothing for children that needed clothing. Within months, Whittaker was making good on his promise. He handed over $15 million for the construction of two churches alone.

The initial blitz of publicity meant that everyone knew about Whittaker's record-breaking win, and he was besieged by requests for help. In order to deal with these requests, he formed the Jack Whittaker Foundation...There were so many letters that they wouldn't even deliver the mail. It was nothing for us to sit for 10 hours just opening envelopes…” The bottom line to this story is stated: “Whittaker believes that money isn't what makes people happy -- family is -- Family is what is dear…I don't know where it'll end. But you know, I just don't like Jack Whittaker. I don't like the hard heart I've got. I don't like what I've become."

Read about eight other lottery winners who realized sudden wealth was not the answer for their personal happiness - http://articles.moneycentral.msn.com/SavingandDebt/SaveMoney/8lotteryWinnersWhoLostTheirMillions.aspx

At a National level, it seems as though the Lottery Mentality is operating at fever pitch. Banks need assistance; Financial Investment Institutions need a bailout; A large Insurance/Investment Company needs a $105 Billion loan; The Automotive Industry is seeking a $50 Billion Loan; Mortgage Holders are facing almost certain foreclosure unless the government steps in; the growing number of unemployed want assistance and benefits; people want health insurance provided; many are anticipating additional monies through a stimulus package amounting to near $150 Billion… The nation itself is racing toward Bankruptcy – but – no one seems ready to say, “We must stop handouts and spending!” Where will this money come from? Who will pay all the dollars in outlays? Can we afford to spend beyond our means? The answer to all of this is to increase Taxes for the top 5% in our country, and to assess the Oil Companies a Surtax (Windfall Profit Tax) on their earnings. But curtail spending? Never! Exercise thrift? Why! Work hard and save before spending? No way! Just - Give Me More!

From My Perspective - - -

The basic hew and cry of Senator Obama has been constant – we Need “Change”! Wherever he went, and whenever he spoke, he was always on message. The people were stirred to respond to his rhetoric. We he stated: “We Can Change!” – the crowds would chant “Yes, We Can!” The New York Times Online had an article by US Editor Gerard Baker that stated: “In electing Barack Obama president by a solid margin, accompanied by a congress with the biggest Democratic majority since the 1970s, Americans have signaled a dramatic change in the direction of the world’s sole superpower. The country regarded…by many Europeans as hopelessly racist and irredeemably right wing has voted to be ruled by a black man, at the head of a party committed to economic redistribution and a foreign policy rooted in peaceful diplomatic engagement. Two years ago Mr. Obama correctly identified that the overwhelming sentiment in this presidential election would be a desire for change.” Obviously, a candidacy of “Change” will be allowed the latitude to effect some changes – and – some change is sorely needed (if it is done correctly).

A large percentage of the citizenry indicate they are “Christian”, and Evangelical, and Conservative. This will be a difficult time for a group that has more or less “had its way” in terms of political influence, and who have always wanted “Change” their way. In the midst of “political change”, there are certain things that will Never Change! A relative has sent the following Prayer shared with him by a friend - - - “Praise you Lord. You have given me the chance to remember:

• You are the same yesterday, today and forever.
• You are King of kings, Lord of lords, The Mighty One - there is no changing with You!
• You have given Jesus a name that is above every name so that one day every knee shall bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ Is Lord, to the glory of the Father
• None of your promises have changed.
• You are still with me always.
• Your steadfast love endures forever.
• I will spend eternity with You in a perfect place.
• I should cloth myself with humility under your mighty hand.
• I may cast all my anxieties on You because You care for me.
• I can still know Christ and the power of his resurrection and may share in his sufferings and become like Him in his death.”

From My Perspective - - -

We have arrived at the morning after and what does that mean? Most of the Ballots have been counted! Approximately 115 million people are recorded to have voted! Millions of dollars have been spent to promote one candidate over another – one issue over another! Almost half the country will be disappointed by the result. Many accusations of “how they won” will be echoed across our land. But – what does all of this mean? Is Almighty God any less Sovereign today than He was yesterday (Colossians 1:16-18)? Is He any less powerful? Is He any less in control? Is faith no longer viable?

There are particular truths that are worthy of our remembering. (1) Proverbs 21:1-3, “The king's heart is in the hand of the Lord; he directs it like a watercourse wherever he pleases. All a man's ways seem right to him, but the Lord weighs the heart. To do what is right and just is more acceptable to the Lord than sacrifice.” (2) Hosea 8:4-7, “They set up kings without my consent; they choose princes without my approval. With their silver and gold they make idols for themselves to their own destruction…My anger burns against them. How long will they be incapable of purity? They sow the wind and reap the whirlwind. The stalk has no head; it will produce no flour. Were it to yield grain, foreigners would swallow it up.” The affairs of man and state are important to God. When a nation proceeds without Almighty God as the sole focal point, He will allow them their choices. It is reminiscent of the words in Psalm 106:13-15, “ But they soon forgot what he (The Lord) had done and did not wait for his counsel.  In the desert they gave in to their craving; in the wasteland they put God to the test. So he gave them what they asked for, but sent a wasting disease upon them.” Basically, there are always consequences for one’s actions.

It would be interesting to know what Almighty God thinks the candidates and election, and if His physical presence was a reality in our nation – what would He say?  What would He ask? More importantly, would we be interested in what He was saying or asking? Would we have time for Him? Or, would we be absorbed in ourselves and ignore Him, His Voice and His Word? Henry & Richard Blackaby have written in: “Hearing God’s Voice” the following: “When God speaks, neutrality is not an option. A response is unavoidable, and the condition of people’s hearts is revealed in that response.” Could it be that the “Change” proclaimed and enunciated so often and so clearly is a change from being blest to being cursed; from being free to being enslaved; from being victorious to being defeated; from being among the wealthiest of nations to being the poorest; from being an influence in the world to being totally ignored by it?

Consider these things with me - - - and remember the cries of the Prophet to God’s people (Jeremiah 6:9-15): “This is what the Lord Almighty says…To whom can I speak and give warning? Who will listen to me? Their ears are closed so they cannot hear. The word of the Lord is offensive to them; they find no pleasure in it…Their houses will be turned over to others, together with their fields and their wives, when I stretch out my hand against those who live in the land," declares the Lord. From the least to the greatest, all are greedy for gain; prophets and priests alike, all practice deceit. They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious. 'Peace, peace,' they say, when there is no peace. Are they ashamed of their loathsome conduct? No, they have no shame at all; they do not even know how to blush. So they will fall among the fallen; they will be brought down when I punish them," says the Lord.” And, Jeremiah 6:19-21, “Hear, O earth: I am bringing disaster on this people, the fruit of their schemes, because they have not listened to my words and have rejected my law…Therefore this is what the Lord says: I will put obstacles before this people. Fathers and sons alike will stumble over them; neighbors and friends will perish.” And lastly, Jeremiah 13:15-17, “Hear and pay attention, do not be arrogant, for the Lord has spoken. Give glory to the Lord your God before he brings the darkness, before your feet stumble on the darkening hills. You hope for light, but he will turn it to thick darkness and change it to deep gloom. But if you do not listen, I will weep in secret because of your pride; my eyes will weep bitterly, overflowing with tears, because the Lord's flock will be taken captive.”  Let us give heed and hear His voice today!

From My Perspective - - -

The time of Celebration finally comes to an end – the last balloon has floated down; the last bit of confetti is brushed from ones clothing; the Band packs its instruments to leave – the festivities are over! But then – The Morning After comes – along with the weariness of celebration; the hangovers and headaches; a reality that you’re in a strange room with unknown people; gazing and wonderment are also realities - - Then what? As in most “Morning After” experiences – time will tell us the “then what” in terms of what took place amid the celebration and euphoria.

When one is elected who responds to a challenge regarding “redistribution of wealth” with a scoffing and a scathing comment that the opponent believes “selfishness is a virtue” – that is a morning after reality. When Wal-Mart is unionized and “low prices” are just a part of a fading memory – that is a morning after reality. When the coal industry that accounts for 40% of our energy is taxed into oblivion and the “we will shut them down” and “put them out of business” – that is a morning after reality! When all taxes increase to cover the cost of checks for $1,000.00 being sent to the more than 40% who pay no taxes – that is a morning after reality. When Military Spending is reduced by 25% and troops are no longer supplied with armaments and supplies as they risk their lives for liberty and freedom – that is a morning after reality. When the swelling rhetoric and the manifold promises become just emptiness and more “government-speak” – that is a morning after reality.

The Minor Prophets addressed all kinds of situations. They had heard the swelling rhetoric and many promises (along with threats) from the leaders of their day. They had seen the emptiness of the promises and the harshness of political power. They addressed the people who were striving to survive the oppression, occupation of hostile forces, the loss of everything they prized and cherished. Micah was one of God’s spokesmen who prophesied throughout the reigns of Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, roughly 777–717 BC. His message was clear in Micah 2:1-4, “Woe to those who plan iniquity, to those who plot evil on their beds! At morning's light they carry it out because it is in their power to do it. They covet fields and seize them, and houses, and take them. They defraud a man of his home, a fellowman of his inheritance. Therefore, the Lord says: I am planning disaster against this people, from which you cannot save yourselves. You will no longer walk proudly, for it will be a time of calamity. In that day men will ridicule you; they will taunt you with this mournful song: We are utterly ruined; my people's possession is divided up. He takes it from me! He assigns our fields to traitors." Our “Morning After” will soon reveal the extent to which there will be reality in place of revelry, and consequence in place of celebration. What can one do on “The Morning After” as the reality of it all unfolds?

Consider these things with me - and remember that the Eternal God is Always Sovereign; He is Always in Control; He Always Accomplishes His Perfect Will. When a nation has chosen to Abort its babies; remove Prayer and Bible Reading from the Public Education system; legalize same gender unions and marriages; allow for Evolution to be taught and disallow Creation from being mentioned; to redefine our Foundations that we are a “Christian” nation so that now it embraces – Jews, Christians, Muslims, Buddhists, etc. – can the Eternal God be pleased? Will He condone what He condemns? Will He bless what He rejects and will judge? In the midst of the transition through which this nation has already begun to pass, we must remember that God is in control of judgment for the consequences of ones actions and choices. In Romans 9:15 through 18 (Exodus 33), the Lord speaks to Moses: "I will have mercy on whom I have mercy, and I will have compassion on whom I have compassion.  It does not, therefore, depend on man's desire or effort, but on God's mercy. For the Scripture says to Pharaoh (Exodus 9:16): I raised you up for this very purpose, that I might display my power in you and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth. Therefore God has mercy on whom he wants to have mercy, and he hardens whom he wants to harden.” Do not lose your hope and confidence – we are still in the hand of our God Who is Always in Control and will do all His Holy Will.

From My Perspective - - -

The Troika comes from the Russian Language and History and means: “a threesome; a collection of three of any kind (except the Holy Trinity)…" In particular, the word and concept had particular relevance during the years of Joseph Stalin who had a Commission of Three to carry out the rapid prosecution and persecution of dissidents or anybody accused of political crimes in the Soviet Union. This gave rise to the Triumvirate Concept of rule by three powerful leaders. The History of Triumvirate Rule is Ancient. For instance, what modern scholars call the First Triumvirate was an informal political alliance of two rival generals, Julius Caesar and Pompey the Great representing the popular viz. senatorial party, with the extremely wealthy businessman Marcus Licinius Crassus. This fell apart after the death of Crassus, and the two other triumvirs fought a civil war, during which Pompey was killed and Caesar established his sole rule as perpetual dictator. The Second Triumvirate was a formal governing body, consisting of Octavian and Mark Antony, the rivals for real power, and third wheel Marcus Aemilius Lepidus. Lepidus was sidelined early on in the triumvirate, and Antony was eliminated in a civil war, leaving Octavian as the sole leader.

In Russia, the beginnings of modern Troika Rule was seen in 1917. The Bolsheviks, a network of communists headed by Vladimir Ilyich Lenin and inspired by the writings of Karl Marx and Fredrick Engels, are opposed to the Provisional Government's plan to establish a bourgeois democracy in Russia. They seize government in a coup d'état staged on 6 November, the so-called 'Bolshevik Revolution'. Later a notable step was taken in July 1937 – NKVD Order # 00447 – regarding repression of former criminals, and other anti-Soviet elements. Troikas were established and investigations were done by operative groups in a speedy and simplified way with the results delivered to Troikas for trials. The Troika usually consisted of The People’s Commissar, The Chief Prosecutor of the Republic, and The Communist Party Secretary….

A greater concern is the future of the United States of America. If the prognosticators are correct, and the predictions come to pass, this nation will have a powerful ruling body (Democratic) all from one persuasion and with the same agenda. The Triumvirate-Troika would be (1) The President, (2) The House Speaker, and (3) The Senate Majority Leader. If the projected “landslide” occurs and the House and Senate gain filibuster-proof majorities, The Agenda of Change will proceed at break-neck speed. During the years of 2004-2006, we had this same type of one-party rule (Republican) and the hew and cry then by the now House Speaker was it had allowed for a “Culture of Corruption”… Sadly, it did. The promise of restricted government and rolling back the Bureaucracy was a dismal failure. Instead, the Republican Control an absolute Republican majority did nothing. No egregious legislation was repealed. The welfare state was not rolled back an inch. No federal programs or departments were eliminated. No budgets were cut. In fact, legislation got worse (the USA PATRIOT Act), the welfare state was strengthened (a new prescription drug plan), and a new federal department was created (Homeland Security). Change of Party will not eliminate the “Culture of Corruption”!

Consider these things with me - - - and remember the needed spiritual dimension that the Russians so tragically removed as an Atheistic choice. The Holy Trinity – Father, Son, Holy Spirit – are vital in terms of the whole individual – spirit, soul, body. In I Thessalonians 5:23, the prayer offered was: “Now may the God of peace make you holy in every way, and may your whole spirit and soul and body be kept blameless until that day when our Lord Jesus Christ comes again.” This is vital regardless of who becomes the governing authority. The words of Jeremiah 17:8-9 must also be noted: “The human heart is most deceitful and desperately wicked. Who really knows how bad it is? But I know! I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve." We need to seek the most significant triumvirate – The Triune God – and as a nation immediately implement II Chronicles 7:14, “Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land.”

From My Perspective - - -

While the culture is enthralled and involved with Halloween Costumes and Parties, October 31^st has a significant and important meaning for people all over the world. It was on this date in 1517 AD that Martin Luther made known his 95 Theses (Contentions-Protests) by nailing them to the door of All-Saints Church in Wittenberg, Saxony (in present day Germany). These were points of/for debate that criticized the Church and the Pope. The most controversial points centering on the practice of selling Indulgences, the Church’s policy on Purgatory, and the requirements for Penance. It also pointed out the high degree of corruption within the Church that reached to the highest levels of leadership.

As important as that date and posting of the 95 Theses was, there was other preliminary work that had been done earlier by other men of faith and conviction. Some of them were - - -

JOHN WYCLIFFE (1320-1384) was a theologian and early proponent of reform in the Roman Catholic Church during the 14th century. The first hand-written English language Bible manuscripts were produced in 1380's AD by Wycliffe, an Oxford professor, scholar, and theologian. He was well-known throughout Europe for his opposition to the teaching of the organized Church, which he believed to be contrary to the Bible. With the help of his followers, called THE LOLLARDS, and his assistant Purvey, and many other faithful scribes, Wycliffe produced dozens of English language manuscript copies of the Scriptures.

JOHN HUS (1369-1415) was one of Wycliffe’s followers…He actively promoted Wycliffe’s ideas that people should be permitted to read the Bible in their own language, and they should oppose the tyranny of the Roman church that threatened anyone possessing a non-Latin Bible with execution. Hus was burned at the stake in 1415, with Wycliffe’s manuscript Bibles used as kindling for the fire. The last words of John Hus were that, “in 100 years, God will raise up a man whose calls for reform cannot be suppressed.”

MARTIN LUTHER (1483-1546) was a Christian theologian and Augustinian monk whose teachings inspired the Protestant Reformation. Almost exactly 100 years after Hus’ death and prophecy - in 1517 - Martin Luther nailed his famous 95 Theses of Contention onto the church door at Wittenberg.

WILLIAM TYNDALE - (1494-1536) a Biblical translator who overlapped Martin Luther, He was viewed as “the Captain of the Army of Reformers”, and was their spiritual leader. He holds the distinction of being the first man to ever print the New Testament in the English language. He was so fluent in eight languages that it was said one would think any one of them to be his native tongue. He is frequently referred to as the “Architect of the English Language”, as so many of the phrases he coined are still in our language today.

THE GENEVA BIBLE - printed in England in 1575 was a Protestant translation of the Bible into English. It was read by William Shakespeare, John Knox, and John Bunyan, author of Pilgrim's Progress. It was one of the Bibles taken to America on the Mayflower, It was used by many English Dissenters, and by Oliver Cromwell's soldiers at the time of the English Civil War.

The King James Version is an English translation of the Bible begun in 1604 and first published in 1611 AD by The Church of England.

Consider these things with me - - - and remember that we are to perpetuate this heritage as well. Take heart from the words of Isaiah 54:16-17 and heed them as well: “See - it is I – the Lord - who created the blacksmith who fans the coals into flame and forges a weapon fit for its work. And it is I who have created the destroyer to work havoc; no weapon forged against you will prevail, and you will refute every tongue that accuses you. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord, and this is their vindication from me, declares the Lord.” Be filled with hope and courage as you implement this heritage from the Lord!

From My Perspective - - -

There are many different philosophies for life and government embraced by people in this world. For anyone over the age of 50, there are too many remembrances of Nazism, Communism, Socialism, and Fascism (and too many “isms” to list them all). For those who fought in, and who still remember the horrors of World War II, Americanism (democracy) – with all of its quirks and foibles – is to be preferred over any alternative.

One should be wary when the possibility of “Change” is offered. It has a nice ring to it – but – what does it mean? “Change” from what – to what? One of the subtle possibilities that is submerged below the surface of political ambitions being seen today is Radicalism. This philosophy for a life and/or nation has been around since the early 1970s. It was popularized in the writings of Saul Alinsky and has been embraced by some well-known politicians in the United States and elsewhere. They do not trumpet their embrace of and their allegiance to this philosophy – they just follow many of the Tactics to subtly achieve certain objectives and goals. Saul Alinsky’s biographer, Sanford B. Horwitt, writes: “Alinsky believed in the radical American idea that democracy is for ordinary people…(and that) his spirit and importance live on is no small comfort amidst the decay of democracy…” You can read about this background and political philosophy at the website: http://www.itvs.org/democraticpromise/alinsky.html...

Another website that states the Alinsky principle more boldly lists the 13 TACTICS that Radicals must embrace and implement. Go to: http://www.crossroad.to/Quotes/communism/alinsky.htm... Some of these Tactics are: “1. Power is not only what you have, but what the enemy thinks you have….4. Make the enemy live up to its own book of rules… 5. Ridicule is man's most potent weapon. It is almost impossible to counteract ridicule. Also it infuriates the opposition, which then reacts to your advantage….13. Pick the target, freeze it, personalize it, and polarize it. In conflict tactics there are certain rules that [should be regarded] as universalities. One is that the opposition must be singled out as the target and ‘frozen.’... When you 'freeze the target,' you disregard these [rational but distracting] arguments and carry out your attack.... One acts decisively only in the conviction that all the angels are on one side and all the devils on the other." These principles were selected to highlight the particular operative words: “Power… Ridicule… Pressure (on opposition to follow own rules)… Pressure… Conflict… Polarization (freeze the target)… Obviously, the idea is assertive on the one hand and encourages polarization and conflict (confusion) on the other. If a careful and honest analysis is done regarding where we are headed politically today, Radicalism (along with Socialism) are standing on the threshold of this nation – and – thousands and millions of people are rallying to this cause and around this banner. The underlying and unasked question is – Why? How can intelligent people develop a “herd instinct” and embrace the unknown and undefined, and head full speed toward the precipice?

Consider these things with me - - - ponder and ask – what has happened to Christianity and the Church that has left people with a diminished interest and lack of involvement? Why is the approach of Jesus Christ becoming increasingly passé, whereas the Alinsky approach is revived and energized? Jesus Christ offered a radical choice and a decisive commitment for one to be His disciple. Why is that no longer a focus? Whatever happened to the consideration of: Luke 14:26-27, 33 [NLT] – “If you want to be my follower you must love me more than your own father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters – yes, more than your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. And you cannot be my disciple if you do not carry your own cross and follow me…no one can become my disciple without giving up everything for me.” Have we become so enamored with materialism and power potential, that personal “stuff” and temporal is allowed to dwarf the eternal; and the true significance in terms of the soul and commitment to Jesus Christ is jettisoned for the rhetoric of the moment that may very easily crush the spirit and enslave the mind and neutralize the will? Don’t miss the only change of significance, namely, yielding to Jesus Christ – His will and His plan and His cause. He’s ready and waiting to be followed! He will lead you on a positive journey!

From My Perspective - - -

For almost 235 years, the United States of America has existed as a Republic – for many of those years -  the envy of the world. We had representative government; regular and orderly elections; prosperity beyond comparison; ingenuity and creativity that allowed for great advancement; and freedom for which people sacrificed so they could become part of the “new world” with the new opportunities.

The earliest documents of this nation indicate the desire to both promote and preserve the freedom of all. The Mayflower Compact was a written agreement composed by a consensus of the new Settlers arriving at New Plymouth in November of 1620. All 41 of the adult male members on the Mayflower signed the Compact. Being the first written laws for the new land, the Compact determined authority within the settlement and was the observed as such until 1691. It is simple and forthright in its assertion. The Mayflower Compact reads: "In the name of God, Amen. We, whose names are underwritten, the Loyal Subjects of our dread Sovereign Lord, King James, by the Grace of God, of England, France and Ireland, King, Defender of the Faith, e&. Having undertaken for the Glory of God, and Advancement of the Christian Faith, and the Honour of our King and Country, a voyage to plant the first colony in the northern parts of Virginia; do by these presents, solemnly and mutually in the Presence of God and one of another, covenant and combine ourselves together into a civil Body Politick, for our better Ordering and Preservation, and Furtherance of the Ends aforesaid; And by Virtue hereof to enact, constitute, and frame, such just and equal Laws, Ordinances, Acts, Constitutions and Offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most meet and convenient for the General good of the Colony; unto which we promise all due submission and obedience. In Witness whereof we have hereunto subscribed our names at Cape Cod the eleventh of November, in the Reign of our Sovereign Lord, King James of England, France and Ireland, the eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth. Anno Domini, 1620." Some of those affixing their signatures to this document were: John Carver, William Bradford, Edward Winslow, William Brewster, Isaac Allerton, Myles Standish, and John Alden. Among some the earliest settlers and observers of this new nation stated:

EDMUND BURKE (1729-1794), "There is but one law for all, namely, that law which governs all law, the law of our Creator."

PATRICK HENRY (1736-1799), "It cannot be emphasized too strongly, nor too often that this great nation was founded, not by religionists, but by Christians; not on religions, but on the Gospel of Jesus Christ…"

THOMAS JEFFERSON (1743-1826), third U.S. President, chosen to write the Declaration of Independence, said: "I have little doubt that the whole country will soon be rallied to the unity of our Creator, and, I hope, to the pure doctrines of Jesus also." In his 1805 inaugural address, he stated: "I shall need, too, the favor of that Being in whose hands we are, who led our forefathers, as Israel of old, from their native land and planted them in this country."

Consider these things with me - - - and remember that the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights are only valid when the elected Government is committed to maintaining and defending these principles of freedom. We are approaching a dangerous threshold that might allow for many of these rights and freedoms to be jeopardized. Egalitarianism means: “Affirming, promoting, or characterized by belief in equal political, economic, social, and civil rights for all people.” While we are to pray for and show respect for our elected leaders, we must not jettison the work ethic and championing the individual’s responsibility to work, earn, utilize thrift, sacrifice to achieve purposes and goals worthy of seeking. The Holy Scriptures emphasize the beauty, reality and necessity for freedom. In Galatians 5:1, “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.” Freedom from religious legalisms, and freedom from governmental intrusion in personal matters of life. When one allows himself to benefit from largess from the treasury of the Government – “Liberality in bestowing gifts, especially in a lofty or condescending manner” – it always comes with an eventual personal cost, namely – bondage and slavery! You can be free in Jesus Christ! He said: “Know the truth – it will make you free indeed!”

From My Perspective - - - In 2001 while Barrack Obama was a state senator in Illinois, the following Public Radio Interview with Obama was recorded: “Tragedy that 'redistribution of wealth' not pursued by the Supreme Court…The Constitution 'Reflected Fundamental Flaw Of This Country That Continues To This Day'...” The entire interview can be heard by going to: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iivL4c_3pck If one carries this concept to an extreme, there could be the Redefinition of the US Constitution from “We The People…” to the changing philosophy of “Wean The People…”

The entire concept of “Spreading the Wealth Around” can have some interesting eventualities if and as the concept is applied. A friend shared the following Theoretical Vignette: “Today on my way to lunch I passed a homeless guy with a sign that read "Vote Obama, I Need The Money." I laughed. Once in the restaurant my server had on a "Obama 08" necktie. Again, I laughed as he had given away his political preference. Just imagine the coincidence! When the bill came I decided not to tip the server and explained to him that I was exploring the Obama Redistribution of Wealth concept. He stood there in disbelief while I told him that I was going to redistribute his tip to someone who I deemed more in need--the homeless guy outside. The server angrily stormed from my sight. I went outside, gave the homeless guy $10 and told him to thank the server inside as I've decided he could use the money more. The homeless guy was grateful. At the end of my rather unscientific redistribution experiment I realized the homeless guy was grateful for the money he did not earn, but the waiter was pretty angry that I gave away the money he did earn even though the actual recipient deserved money more. I guess redistribution of wealth is an easier thing to swallow in concept than in practical application."

A couple of things are inherent in the overall Redistribution Concept: (1) The core belief is that we belong not to ourselves, but to government. We are tools that the government is free to use to bring about "economic justice." The fruits of our labor belong to government...and government can do with them what it pleases; and (2) At the root, Redistribution and Redefinition is a Marxist/Communist tenant…Increasing taxes is not because the government needs the money, but because the people who do have the money don't actually deserve it and there are other people who need it more – so it is Redistributed… Karl Marx's Statement Of The Creed in the 'Critique of the Gotha Program' is as follows: “In a higher phase of communist society, after the enslaving subordination of the individual to the division of labor, and therewith also the antithesis between mental and physical labor, has vanished; after labor has become not only a means of life but life's prime want; after the productive forces have also increased with the all-around development of the individual, and all the springs of co-operative wealth flow more abundantly—only then can the narrow horizon of bourgeois right be crossed in its entirety and society inscribe on its banners: FROM EACH ACCORDING TO HIS ABILITY, TO EACH ACCORDING TO HIS NEEDS!”

From My Perspective - - -

From My Perspective - - -

As one views life in general and our nation in particular, it would be easy to be apprehensive in terms of where our country may be headed. Apprehension and Worry are not too far removed from each other. To be “Apprehensive” means to be: “uneasy or fearful about something that might happen…anxious or fearful about the future…”

Should one be concerned about the immediate and future? Absolutely! As the citizenry is voting now (Absentee Ballots) and collectively on November 4^th, is it being done with discernment of where we are headed and how precipitous the slope is that we are descending? With the issue of taxes and re-distribution of wealth (“spread the wealth around”), is there an awareness of how quickly we will become a socialist nation? With all the disinformation and misrepresentation regarding taxes and the tax structure, the Georgia Public Policy Foundation came up with a chart that shows the effect of high marginal tax rates. In 1980 the highest tax rate was 70%, but the top 5% of income earners were only paying 35% of all income taxes. Now the highest rate is 35%, and the top 5% are paying 60% of all income taxes. Here's your chart :

The oft-repeated talking-point statement that there will be “a tax cut for 95% of the people” is disingenuous at best and flat out deceptive at worst, inasmuch as greater than 40% of the people pay no taxes at all. Also, some in Congress have such a sense that there will be change in the power structure of Government, we are beginning to hear the “plans” for the future – (a) The Chairman of the House Finance Committee stating yesterday that he wants to see a 25% cut in military spending; (b) The House Speaker expressing the immediate need for a $150 Billion stimulus package that would cover a wide range of social benefits; etc.

The Biblical mandate continues for us regardless of who is elected and whoever has the rule over us: “ I urge…that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone--for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.”

Consider these things with me - - - and remember that the overall context of the Bible speaks to and about a people who knew captivity, oppression, persecution and hardship. In the most bleak moment, God had strategically placed Joseph in the government of Egypt and he was able to intervene. In like manner, Moses was sent to Pharaoh with the simple demand – “let my people go!” There was Esther who had “come to the kingdom for such a time as this”! There was Elijah who was not inclined to bow his knee to Baal, and led the revolt against such a despotic regime and time. There was Daniel and his companions in the midst of Babylonian tyranny who refused to compromise. The New Testament also speaks of the persecutions and the hostility as evidenced in the death of Jesus Christ; the martyrdom of Stephen in Acts 6; the imprisonments of Peter and Paul because of the Gospel they proclaimed. They were fearless before Pilate, Festus, Agrippa, and showed no reluctance to proclaim the Gospel when Nero came to power. Our direction remains constant: “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be people of courage; be strong” (I Corinthians 16:13). Be a person of faith, hope, strength, good character – God is still on His Throne and is always in control!

From My Perspective - - -

Our Culture has always demonstrated an ability to have objects of special attention and to be thought of in different ways. When I was a child, part of the great competition vying for a “fan-base” in music was in terms of who the best “crooner” was – Frank Sinatra or Bing Crosby. It was said that young women would “swoon” when they heard Frankie “croon”… It was a form of “Veneration”! According to Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, Veneration means: “…the highest degree of respect and reverence; respect mingled with awe; a feeling or sentimental excited by the dignity, wisdom, or superiority of a person, by sacredness of character, by consecration to sacred services, or by hallowed associations…”

How does this translate into the political scene leading up to the National Election on November 4^th? Has the Media Coverage in any way amplified “veneration” in its coverage of any candidate? Has the media displayed an approach that is objective versus one that is subjective? In other words, has the Media Coverage been fair and balanced and equal? As you answer the questions, consider the cover of news magazines that have pictured one candidate with lighting placed so it appeared his head was shrouded with a halo! Most recently in San Francisco, Votive Candles have appeared displaying one candidate as a “saint”.

Consider also that the long-time leader of the Nation of Islam addressing a large crowd behind a podium February 24th with a Nation of Islam Savior's Day 2008 sign, Louis Farrakhan proclaims: "You are the instruments that God is going to use to bring about universal change, and that is why Barack has captured the youth. And he has involved young people in a political process that they didn't care anything about. That's a sign. When the Messiah speaks, the youth will hear, and the Messiah is absolutely speaking…” Farrakhan points out that the man Nation of Islam followers refer to as "the Savior," Fard Muhammad, had a black father and a white mother, just as Obama did. A black man with a white mother became a savior to us," he said. "A black man with a white mother could turn out to be one who can lift America from her fall. Would God allow Barack to be president of a country that has been so racist, so evil in its treatment of Hispanics, Native Americans, blacks?" he asked. "Would God do something like that? Yeah. Of course he would. That's to show you that the stone that the builders rejected has become the headstone of the corner. This is a sign to you. It's the time of our rise. It's the time that we should take our place. The future is all about you."

What threshold is this approaching (or has it already crossed it)? What is the danger sign to what has been allowed to unfold before us over this past year? Where is the voice of “The Church” decrying such activity and display? Where is “The Prophet” today proclaiming the error and folly of this veneration? Why does “fear” seem to grip so many? Will it be important for the uniformed or fearful to cast their vote inappropriately? Could we be living in the description stated by the Apostle Paul in II Thessalonians 2:1 through 12?

From My Perspective - - - -

One of the cruelest forms of insult is disparagement. It’s a word that means: “To speak of in a slighting or disrespectful way; belittle. To reduce in esteem or rank….the act of speaking contemptuously of…” There are sundry illustrations of this type of verbalization and/or body language. Most recently, it began occurring when a man named Joe 'the Plumber' Wurzelbacher attended a Senator Obama Rally. He asked a question of The Senator regarding his plan to tax those with income exceeding $250,000.00, and how that would affect whether or not he could aspire to and develop his own small plumbing company.

How does a Campaign and a sympathetic Media respond when a challenge is presented to the Plan of The Candidate? The criticisms (and disparagement) were almost immediate: “He’s a registered Republican; He isn’t a Licensed Plumber; He owes back taxes in excess of $1,000.00; No plumber earns $250,000.00 a year; etc.” Others stated: “Bill Maher says that Joe is "living in a Republican fantasy world" where he is going to get rich and have over $250,000. Joy Beyhar said pretty much the same thing on The View.” Why the vitriolic commentary? Why the disparaging remarks? Simply because “Joe, The Plumber” elicited the answer from The Senator, “we’ll spread the wealth around…”  There you have it – the admission of re-distribution of wealth! “Take from the rich and give to the poor!” That will be the Tax Policy of that Candidate IF he is elected (and the momentum appears to indicate that he will).

On the other hand, a Battle Tested Military retiree decided to endorse a non-battle tested candidate for the Presidency. While Colin Powell was hailed for his wisdom in making such an endorsement, The Candidates” running mate was sharing the dangerous possibility of what will occur with a non-Battle Tested President within the first six months of his Presidency. Senator Joe Biden is reported by ABC NEWS to have made the following comments on October 20, 2008: Biden to Supporters: "Gird Your Loins", For the Next President "It's Like Cleaning Augean Stables"… Sen. Joe Biden, D-Del. guaranteed that if elected, Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., will be tested by an international crisis within his first six months in power and he will need supporters to stand by him as he makes tough, and possibly unpopular, decisions. "Mark my words," the Democratic vice presidential nominee warned at the second of his two Seattle fundraisers Sunday. "It will not be six months before the world tests Barack Obama like they did John Kennedy. The world is looking. We're about to elect a brilliant 47-year-old senator president of the United States of America. Remember I said it standing here if you don't remember anything else I said. Watch, we're gonna have an international crisis, a generated crisis, to test the mettle of this guy…”

The erudite and elitists who disparage others and who reject any criticism regarding The Candidate have moments of reality checks indicating this man may not be ready for prime time; the Presidency is not a place for the untested and inexperienced; that he may be getting into something that is clearly above his pay-grade. But – don’t dare to be heard saying that or you may be the next “Joe, the Plumber” who is berated and disparaged because of a contrary point of view.

Consider these things with me - - - and remember that Disparagement is nothing new. Noah was Disparaged as he built the Ark. Nehemiah and the people of God were Disparaged when they rebuilt a wall from the rubble they found. Nehemiah 4:1 through 4 gives one the sense of the Berating and Disparagement: “Now when Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, he was angry and greatly enraged, and he jeered at the Jews. And he said in the presence of his brothers and of the army of Samaria, What are these feeble Jews doing? Will they restore it for themselves? Will they sacrifice? Will they finish up in a day? Will they revive the stones out of the heaps of rubbish, and burned ones at that? Tobiah the Ammonite was beside him, and he said, Yes, what they are building if a fox goes up on it he will break down their stone wall!” At the end of the day, the Disparaged were Victorious. Don’t despair! Keep your focus on the Goal! God is still in control!