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Showing posts from September, 2015

A Christian Response to Immigration

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One of the most contested political issues today is immigration. It’s estimated there are now at least 11 million illegal aliens in the United States. Many Americans want to see them deported. What makes the situation more complex is anchor babies born to aliens are recognized as American citizens. Recently two minister friends who are immigrants themselves posted comments on Facebook suggesting we shouldn’t have any border controls. One of them claimed, “...restricting immigration is part of Marxist Socialism and is totally contrary to Biblical Christianity.” Yet when the Scriptures were written, cities had massive walls to keep certain people out . Even the New Jerusalem in Revelation 21 will have a wall around it. While Native Americans have contributed to our society, the United States was predominately founded and built by immigrants and their descendants. The Statue of Liberty has a plaque on its base with this inscription: “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddle

Set Your House in Order

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Photo by Marchand Meffre Occasionally when I’m about to get a ride somewhere, my driver will apologize for having extra junk in the car. Usually, I reply in jest, “I’m not from Good Carkeeping and so your secret is safe with me.” I’ll make similar comments if I walk into a house and my host is apologetic for it not being spotless. Certainly, I’m not a neat freak but do recognize the importance of being organized. Sometimes I’ve allowed my bedroom to become messy but always feel good inside after things are put in their proper place. Contrary to popular belief, the phrase “cleanliness is next to godliness” is not in the Bible. Nevertheless, there is some truth to that statement. 1 Corinthians 14:40 says, “Let all things be done decently and in order.” This verse can apply to other areas of life besides church meetings. I heard one pastor point out the condition of our home is often a reflection of our spiritual life. It reminds me of the time I was invited to stay in a

Dumping (and Misquoting) Starbucks

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I’ve always thought Starbucks Coffee was overrated. Usually, I go to Caribou Coffee. One reason I prefer Caribou is they provide free refills of their “coffee of the day” while you remain in the store. Nevertheless, I occasionally enjoyed Starbucks’ cold drinks such as their frappuccinos. That changed in March 2013 after reading about Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz affirming his support for same-sex marriage. I decided then to avoid Starbucks products altogether. Not long afterward, I went evangelizing one night in downtown Minneapolis with three other soul-winners from a local church. The leader of our group directed us into Starbucks and offered to buy us each a drink. I didn’t have peace in my heart and declined his offer. When I later told him the reason, my fellow evangelist totally understood for he wouldn’t do business with Home Depot because of their supporting homosexual groups and pride celebrations (which they have since discontinued). To be fair to Howard Schultz,