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I’m taking on an issue this week that I have addressed many times, but I believe it is important and needs to remain a popular topic because of the progress that is being made for the sanctity of life. Planned Parenthood is being exposed for its business practice of selling baby parts, while receiving annual federal funding of $500 million and performing the largest number of abortions compared to any other organization, at a pace of 300,000 a year.
This has caught the attention of the American public. Those who have not formed a confident opinion on abortion are starting to realize the harmful and inhumane effects, as they understand through the benefit of ultrasound and other medical and technological advancement.
However, abortion supporters are still coming out with arguments to sway public opinion or keep those who lean toward abortion in their camp. These arguments, though, are flawed, very flawed. This week’s DHD will feature six of these flimsy reasons, and I will explain how they are archaic, misinformed or unsound.
Before I begin, let me address another weak attack that could come against me. I am a man. I do not have any children. I am not of a minority race. A foolish response could be made that I am not qualified to address this issue.
As of this fall, I have been a volunteer at a local pregnancy center for nine years. I have experienced numerous cases that have dealt with difficult situations involving economic concerns, social pressures, even immigration issues. I have seen many women or couples facing a possible pregnancy, and I have shared with many clients words of encouragement and support while also praying for God to help the couples be faithful to each other, the single moms have strength and wisdom and all be good influences while caring for their children.
I’m sure there will be some who will still discredit me, but I know a multitude of women who stand with me and would make these same arguments.
1. The “Back Alley” argument
Those who favor abortion and promote abortion clinics, especially Planned Parenthood, continue to use this incredibly weak and outdated viewpoint that without such clinics, women will go to unsafe, inconspicuous locations to have an abortion because they won’t have anywhere else to turn and they don’t want to face the social shame of being pregnant.
Perhaps this argument had a stronger influence in the 1960s, but society has changed. There are an abundance of pregnancy centers throughout the country that would provide greater support and help for such women facing an unexpected pregnancy. The “Back Alley” scenario is obsolete, even in low income communities.
Pregnancy out of wedlock is more common and more accepted today. Yes, young ladies still experience the emotional aspects and possibly the rejection of the father, which is sad and unfortunate, but we are a more accepting culture for these mothers. Shelters and community centers are available. Family members and close friends are now willing to be involved to provide support. It’s not utopia, but society today is not like it was 50 years ago. So when you hear politicians make the “back alley” argument, scoff at their foolishness and be assured they are out of touch.
2. It’s the woman’s body and her choice
This argument is losing its influence as well because of the advancement of medical technology. Those ultrasound photos of unborn babies posted on refrigerators are kryptonite for the “choice” argument.
Randy Alcorn in his book Why Pro-Life? begins Chapter 9 “Do We Have The Right To Choose What We Do With Our Bodies?” with the following paragraph:
“Pro-choice advocates argue, ‘Every woman has the right to choose what she does with her own body.’ Ironically, the choice of abortion assures that at least 650,000 females in the U.S. each year don’t have the right to choose what they do with their bodies. (That number is roughly half of aborted children, the other half being males). A female killed by abortion no longer has a life, a choice, or a body to exercise control over.”
Alcorn’s response used to not hold as much clout because it used to be easier to convince society with the “choice” argument to play on sympathy for the woman, but now more and more people realize the repercussions because it means that tiny image that is shown in a black and white picture that expectant mommies show off to the world will be terminated, killed, aborted.
Using “choice” in this context is misleading too. Those who say they are “pro-choice” emphasize a selective choice. Alcorn also addresses this: “It’s absurd to defend a specific choice on the basis that it’s a choice. The high-sounding ‘right to choose’ ignores the obvious: not all choices are legitimate. In fact – and nearly as many non-Christians as Christians will agree – some choices are downright evil. Some choices are good, others are bad. Therefore, we can’t be uniformly pro-choice or anti-choice. Rather, we should be pro-good and anti-evil.”
Alcorn goes on to say how “choice is a euphemism for abortion, so arguing against abortion appears to be arguing against choice.” He also warns those against abortion to not “argue against choice – it’s a battle that can’t be won and shouldn’t be fought.”
The tide is changing, though, and more of society is becoming enlightened to the fact that those who use the “choice” argument don’t have an answer for the victim’s right to choose. And ultrasound photos reveal who the victims are.
3. Personally opposed to abortion but for “pro-choice” laws
This argument is made by politicians during election years. Here’s what Alcorn says about this perspective in Chapter 16:
“Some imagine that being personally opposed to abortion, while believing others have the right to choose it, is some kind of compromise between the pro-abortion and pro-life position. It isn’t. Pro-choice people vote the same as pro-abortion people. To the baby who dies it makes no difference whether those who refused to protect her were pro-abortion or “merely” pro-choice about abortion.”
This is a cop-out view, a flimsy stance. Those who use this argument think it’s a middle position, but as Alcorn reveals, there’s no support for the unborn.
4. Abortion prevents unwanted children
“The problem of unwantedness is a good argument for wanting children. But it’s a poor argument for killing them,” Alcorn writes in Chapter 14.
Those who support abortion would use the “unwanted” argument when dealing with children who were expected to have birth defects. I have many friends with children who have limitations and challenges. Those who think such circumstances would cause babies to be unwanted is sorely mistaken.
Unfortunately, there are those who feel they can’t afford and parent children no matter the child’s condition. This is a very sad situation, but not one to justify terminating a child’s life.
Adoption is growing in interest and participation. It has a long way to go, but churches and Christian organizations are getting involved in promoting and supporting adoption practices.
My friend James Hunt who also is a writer for Word Slingers has written many pieces about adoption. I encourage you look him up on this website.
5. Rape and incest
These last two reasons used to support abortion are the hardest to address. With the situation of pregnancy due to rape or incest, I respond with sensitivity for such victims.
To be clear, studies show that pregnancies due to rape are rare. Less than one percent of all abortions involve rape. Alcorn addresses this in Chapter 13 and writes, “Pro-choice advocates divert attention from the vast majority of abortions by focusing on rape because of its well-deserved sympathy factor. Their frequent references to it leave the false impression that pregnancy due to rape is common, rather than rare.”
Alcorn also gives an example of his friend who was raped and became pregnant. She decided to have the baby adopted, and Alcorn describes the friend went through much pain. However, the friend periodically has been in contact with the adopted family and “her overwhelming comfort is in knowing her child lives and is loved.”
Rape is horrible, and the one who commits such a heinous crime should be punished decisively. But the child conceived from rape should not face a terminal penalty. Also reports of rape victims who have abortions have proven that abortions compound the trauma, and Alcorn writes that more than 90 percent of sexual violence victims would discourage other victims from having abortions.
6. Threat of the mother’s health
This is the most common exception used by people who oppose abortion. It is also the least cause of abortion. Former Surgeon General C. Everett Koop said in his 36 years as a pediatric surgeon, he was never aware of a situation in which a preborn child’s life had to be taken in order to save the mother’s life.
Like rape, less than one percent of abortions happen because the mother’s life was at risk. In fact, as Alcorn points out in Chapter 12, those in the medical field who have experienced such circumstances said surgeries performed to save the mother’s life were intending the procedure to be “life-saving” not “life-taking.” Such a surgery did not expect to terminate the baby and would not be considered an abortion.
Be very discerning when this argument is made. Some use this argument in such a way that accuses pro-life supporters to not care about the woman’s life. Opposition is on the manipulating argument, not against the woman. Don’t fall victim to the smoke screen.
Greetings! The first day of Fall happened this week, but it did not bring the expected fall weather, not that I’m complaining.
This week also brought some interesting experiences, and I plan to discuss them in this week’s edition of Doyle’s Half Dozen. Let’s get to it!
The Pope pays a visit
Pope Francis has come to America. The leader of the Catholic Church received quite an acceptance in Washington, D.C. and in New York City.
One of the most discussed aspects of the Pope’s visit is his speech in the U.S. House before the many political dignitaries. He covered an array of social issues from environment to family, from immigration to sanctity of life.
There is a lot of selective hearing involved in what the Pope said. People hear what they want to hear. My only wish is there would be more discussion instead of talking over, but who knows if such would occur.
The Donald at the fair
Donald Trump is speaking at the Oklahoma State Fair this evening (Fri., Sept. 25). Thankfully, I have other plans, and even if I didn’t I’m sure I could make some quickly.
Mr. Trump is a polarizing character, but he has caused more people than usual to pay attention to politics, which explains why he is favorable in the polls. My only hope is that those whose ears are bent due to the Donald would be willing to listen to other candidates and take interest when it comes to important issues.
Rubio on the rise
Another reason for Trump’s success is the popular dislike in experienced politicians. People are unhappy with how things are going in the country, so all current elected officials are experiencing the wrath.
One such candidate, though, seems to be taking some favorable nods. Marco Rubio, the junior senator from Florida, gained some success from the two presidential debates and appears to be separating himself from other established campaigners. Though the three “non-politicians” (Trump, Carson, Fiorina) are still leading, Rubio is making traction and is one to watch down the stretch.
Here’s a recent interview where I think Rubio gives a positive dialogue:
Thunder beginning to strike
Talk is growing around OKC about the Thunder returning for preseason training, which starts in less than a week. Thunder G.M. Sam Presti met with the media last week and gave an encouraging report on Kevin Durant, stating he has been cleared to fully participate in all practice sessions and scrimmages.
The Thunder look to be in the best condition from a preseason perspective. The roster is deep with talent and experience. The coaching staff also is looking solid and capable with new head coach Billy Donovan and former head coaches and top assistants Monty Williams and Maurice Cheeks leading the squad.
Two concerns are remaining healthy (a notable hindrance in the past) and the level of competition, especially among the Western Conference foes. Staying healthy is a common burden, but even though teams like San Antonio, Golden State, Los Angeles Clippers and Houston, have made great strides and impressive off-season moves, I still like how the Thunder match up against the field, heading into the season. Many of the Thunder players have played together for almost seven years. That’s a huge advantage many teams don’t have, and chemistry has been a huge factor for the Thunder. Let’s see how that materializes on the court starting Oct. 28.
Praying at the Pole
See You At the Pole observed its 25th annual gathering at schools across the country. I heard many reassuring reports, including one Oklahoma rural school, Empire near Duncan, drawing more than 100 students.
Be encouraged with these reports, knowing that prayer continues to be practiced among young people.
A view on Aerial America
I’ve been watching a show on the Smithsonian Channel called Aerial America. Each episode focuses on a different state while featuring beautiful overview camera shots of landscape. It’s a simple concept with a voiceover sharing historical facts about that state, but I’m fascinated by both the information and the video presentations. So far, I’ve watched New York, Michigan, Vermont, Washington, Washington, D.C. and my homeland. Here’s a snippet from the Oklahoma episode.
I hope your week is finishing well. If you have been reading my DHDs for a while, thank you for your faithfulness. It’s hard to believe I have been doing Doyle’s Half Dozen every week since Dec. 1. I am very blessed to be able to share my weekly “ramblings” with you. Let’s get to this week’s topics!
Republican Presidential Debate – Winners
The second debate of the enormous field of GOP presidential candidates happened this week at the Reagan Presidential Library with a former Air Force One used as a backdrop. I suppose showing the famous presidential plane was to inspire the candidates.
Here’s who I thought was successful in Round 2:
Carly Fiorina – Everybody claims her to be victorious. She was set up to do so. If for no other reason, she moved off the “kiddie table” debate where she appeared in the first round. She made powerful statements against Hilary Clinton and Planned Parenthood, but her biggest slam came against Donald Trump, striking him about his remarks about her face immediately after Trump got on to Jeb Bush about his take-back comment on women’s health. That was best moment of the night.
Marco Rubio – I’m convinced that whoever you liked before the debate you pretty much find likeable or successful in this debate. Sen. Rubio is a personal favorite, but I believe he once again appeared to be the most presidential with his remarks, especially on foreign affairs and environmental issues.
Mike Huckabee – Again, he’s a favorite, but practically everything he said in the debate made sense to me, especially on his philosophy on ending income tax, which people don’t seem to support. He was excellent in his stern remarks on the Iran deal. I got excited when he said he wanted abortion to follow the same path as slavery, to make it no longer a practice. Do I think he will improve his chances? No, but I’ll still enjoy watching him debate while he lasts.
Ted Cruz – I loved his response to not change the $10 bill, showing his respect to Alexander Hamilton, but instead proposed to changing the $20 bill. I’m surprised that didn’t resonate more, especially with civil rights supporters. Perhaps they don’t recall what happened during Andrew Jackson’s presidency.
Jeb Bush – He had the second best moment of the debate when he defended his brother against Trump stating, “There’s one thing I know for sure. He kept us safe.” The audience roared with applause.
Chris Christie – I give the New Jersey governor the “most improved” award. Christie was better this round than he was in the first debate. He tried to be memorable when he wanted the cameras to be off him and on the audience during his opening remarks. It was a little weak, but I will give him an A for effort. He definitely didn’t bomb.
Republican Presidential Debate – Losers
CNN – the news network was the biggest loser of the night. The format was horrible, as it was too long and not structured well for candidates to respond. The network tried too hard to make the GOP field of candidates turn on each other. Practically every question to a candidate was phrased with another candidate’s previous remarks or view on an issue. The moderator was weak and did not do his job controlling the flow of the debate. Nobody stunk more that night than CNN.
Rand Paul – He was the most disagreeable among the candidates. If CNN was smarter in their strategy to pit candidates against each other, the network should have incorporated Paul more because he was playing up the ploy. His comments on marijuana and foreign policy will not win over the GOP base.
Scott Walker – I confess, I liked Walker at the beginning. Now, he has become the most irrelevant candidate of the top tier. None of his remarks in the debate stood out. Once a leader in the polls, he now has fallen way behind.
Ben Carson – The good doctor doesn’t do well in debates. He is much better giving speeches and doing one-on-one interviews. However, I did not agree with his remarks on minimum wage, or on his view on President Bush attacking Afghanistan. There is a lot to like about Dr. Carson, but he does not shine well sparring against other candidates.
John Kasich – I would like to like the Ohio governor. Having him on the ticket would be huge for the Republicans in the main election, since a GOP candidate has never won the presidency without winning Ohio. But I did not like how he kept interrupting the flow of the debate, and I disagree with him on the Iran nuclear deal. He may be the best candidate when discussing fiscal issues, so I will give him some credit there. He was better this round than in the first, but I was still disappointed with him.
Donald Trump – The poll leader was entertaining as expected, but he seemed to have fizzled once Carly smacked him good. I know I am in the minority, but Trump is not who we need as president. He is tickling a lot of ears, but I still believe he will not remain in the lead. There is still a lot of time between now and January for the first primary elections. Let’s see how long his Teflon can work.
Rise up, Elk City!
Earlier this week, a major disaster happened in Western Oklahoma. A fire at the construction site of the new Baptist Village in Elk City burned the entire structure to the ground. It was a total loss, and the senior community was near completion and planning to open in approximately six months.
It sadden me to watch the videos and see the photos of the aftermath. Before I started working at the BGCO, I was a development specialist for Baptist Village Communities, and one of my main duties was to raise community support in Elk City and surrounding areas of the western region. So allow me to provide some encouragement and motivation to those who need it, regarding this great opportunity.
Friends of Elk City and in Western Oklahoma, you have the chance to make a major impact on your fellow “Western Okies.” Baptist Village suffered a setback this week, but today is one day closer to getting back on track and bringing one of the best experiences of serving your elder family members and friends.
I can assure you, there is nothing like Baptist Village in Western Oklahoma. Yes, there are some efficient senior communities, but they do not provide the same level of service and philosophy of living life.
“Service” is a significant term Baptist Village Communities use. Their theme is “Serving God, Serving You, Serving Together.” Serving is empowering. Those who work at a Baptist Village (or Friends Team members) serve Baptist Village residents, but in turn, the residents also have the opportunity to serve Friends Team members and their families. It won’t be in a similar capacity, but BVC residents can and do serve, and it’s an awesome experience to witness.
If you have not been involved yet with this project, now is the perfect time to begin. Support what is happening through financial giving, words of encouragement and prayer. This is not just for Elk City residents, but those who live in Sayre, Clinton, Cheyenne, Leedey, Sentinel, Sweetwater and Erick and throughout the I-40 West corridor. You and your family members need Baptist Village and its significant ministry. As Southern Baptists, you have the chance to provide a visible presence in this part of the state, as there is no such structure of our denomination, in that area, that can work alongside the many great churches.
So let’s help Baptist Village to literally rise up from the ashes and get this needed community back on track to providing the best service to seniors who made an impact on the towns in Western Oklahoma.
A Sunday Morning Servant
This week, I received a photo and a brief letter from a gentleman in Bartlesville. The photo featured him and a young lady posing at their church. The man suffers from Parkinson’s disease, and the young lady, who is 11, meets him every Sunday morning in the church parking lot. She helps carry his Bible and quarterly and escorts him from his car to his Sunday School class and has been doing this faithfully every Sunday for almost a year.
Even now I get emotional thinking about that photo and remembering the sweet words the gentleman said about this precious girl and how he cherishes their friendship. The photo will appear in the Sept. 27 Baptist Messenger on page 10. Consider this a “sneak preview” for subscribers to having your heart stirred.
Bernie Sanders at LU
I’ve gone way long in this week’s DHD, so I will be brief in my final two topics. Check out Andrew Walker’s piece in the National Review about Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders visiting my alma mater, Liberty University.
This is not the first time a public official who holds viewpoints that oppose Liberty’s conservative philosophy. Ted Kennedy and Jessie Jackson are two liberal leaders who have spoken at LU. But Walker’s point of Liberty’s approach to welcoming such political personalities in a gracious manner could be an education for other institutions of higher learning.
Friday Night 5th Quarters
Here’s another preview for next week’s Messenger. I did an article on how churches are using a great outreach opportunity this time of year. If you are not familiar with 5th Quarters, postgame church activities for high school students, these have been great experiences for church leaders connecting with students. I interviewed youth pastors from Guthrie and Lawton and how they have seen the impact their church’s “5th Quarters” have had during high school football season.
If you haven’t been to one and are in a town that is hosting a high school football game, take in the game and then find out what church may be hosting a 5th Quarter, and you will see how the church is remaining relevant today.
Friday is here, after a short work week, at least for those who did not work on Labor Day (as oppose to labor on a work day).
Here’s six more timely topics for this week’s edition of Doyle’s Half Dozen.
Where was I on 9/11?
On Sept. 11, 2001, I was in Hattiesburg, Miss., working at the University of Southern Mississippi in the athletic media relations office. I had a portable radio, listening to the “Rick and Bubba” show. They were the ones to inform me of the first plane crashing into the World Trade Center.
I remember thinking “How on earth does an airline pilot not see that enormous building in New York City?” Then I concluded an extreme rare malfunction with the plane must have happened.
A coworker in the office down the hall had a portable TV and informed me about the second plane crash. People on campus were finding out, and the somber feeling was turning into fear. I was taking grad school classes and had my stats class that afternoon. As I was heading to class, a few friends from my church saw me in a hallway and hugged me. I suppose they didn’t know how else to react.
Thousands of miles away from NYC, Northern Va. and Pa., but as many can recall 14 years ago, the whole country felt the effects. The world changed drastically in a short time following that terrorist attack. Air travel procedures, security measures, our awareness of militant groups in the Middle East were modified, tightened and heightened.
What hasn’t changed is God is still in control. People have questioned why He allowed this heinous attack to happen, and I cannot answer with a definite conclusion. But consider the possibility of other attempts that were prevented under His sovereignty. We are incapable of knowing all the answers to how the universe operates, but my faith has found a resting place, and I’m trusting in the Ever-living One.
We still remember.
Debating on Davis
This time last week, news was beginning to spread about Kim Davis, the county clerk in Ky. being arrested. I addressed this in last week’s DHD “Does it start with Kim Davis?”
This has become a tense topic. I confessed last week I didn’t have a confident viewpoint, whether or not it is best for Davis to resign or observe civil disobedience. I decided either would be appropriate responses, only to find those who firmly believe she should have resigned challenge my conclusion.
People are allowed their opinions, and their responses have caused me to sharpen even more how to view what is happening in Eastern Kentucky. I have two takeaways. First, this divisiveness is not a total surprise. In Feb. last year, I wrote about how we as a society have gone from tolerance to acceptance to approval when it comes to homosexuality – really, sexual liberties. Last October, Al Mohler explained how this progression is “happening at warp speed.” He also referenced British theologian Theo Hobson with the analogy of this current sexual revolution, saying “Something that was nearly universally condemned is now nearly universally celebrated. That which was celebrated is now condemned. Those who refuse to celebrate are condemned.”
Second, I struggle with how those who appear to believe resignation is such an automatic, easy decision. Of course, I don’t struggle with those who totally disagree with Davis’ view on marriage. I know they will be against her with vitriol passion. My struggle is with those who share her view, which is also my view, that marriage is to be observed as a covenant relationship between a man and a woman.
Davis is supposed to resign, currently as an elected official, but from working overall in this county office where she served for 27 years. As far as we know, up until three months ago, she has worked in diligent fashion for a rather long time without any public dissention.
Yes, resigning is appropriate, as I have said and would support. But, why is her longtime service without any opposition or dispute, prior to recent development involving a 5-4 judicial ruling, not allowed more understanding? Why do those who disagree with me, and also support biblical or natural marriage, quickly rebuke without a willingness to see how she views her longstanding career to be of service to her constituents? Finally, do these same objectors see how this plays into the progression that I mentioned? Do they consider the consequences when the next person or people have to face a conflict between religious liberty and sexual rights?
May God provide us with discernment and the proper response when needing to defend our faith (I Pet. 3:14-17).
Gowdy at Planned Parenthood hearing
I went long in my second DHD topic, so I’ll try to make it up with just briefly sharing an interesting exchange between Congressman Trey Gowdy and Yale Professor Priscilla Smith. In the video below, beginning at the 5:33 mark, watch Gowdy pose an intriguing question that could help resolve the issue of supporting women’s health.
Thunder logo found unfavorable
This week, the Grantland.com website voted the Oklahoma City Thunder’s logo as the worst in the NBA. I appreciate Berry Tramel’s take on this issue.
Something that needs to be pointed out is Grantland.com’s editor-in-chief Bill Simmons is considered to be the Thunder’s heaviest critic. He berated the organization when they moved from Seattle. He continues to rant in extreme disagreement on the Harden trade. As far as I know, Simmons does not shed any positive light about anything related to the Thunder. So for one of his writers to rank the Thunder logo last among the NBA teams comes as no surprise.
Like many in the first year of the Thunder, I was not enamored with the logo, but I have grown to accept it. I actually like how the “OKC” appears inside the logo, with the shield and the basketball background.
I agree with Tramel that the logo should not experience a major overhaul and go through changes because of outside critics. Establishing tradition is important, and the Thunder organization is doing that. Many of G.M Sam Presti’s decisions of the organization involve reflections of heritage of the city and state and of strong work ethic.
I would not be opposed to some modifications to the logo, but if change is considered because of anything involving Bill Simmons, I say stay the course.
Former NBC reporter shares his faith
I was going to share a video featuring Russell Moore discussing “How Social Media Turns Truth Into a Video game” I still recommend you viewing it, as it was challenging for me and how I need to do better in communicating through social media.
However, when I went to Moore’s website, he was sharing a link to a Wall Street Journal article by David Gregory “Steadied by Faith After a Humbling Loss” (you may want to go to Moore’s Facebook page to retrieve the full article, if you are not already a WSJ subscriber). What Moore’s video did in challenging me, Gregory’s story encouraged me with his openness in sharing his faith through losing his job as the moderator on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”
I admire his wife’s influence and how Gregory realizes his own weaknesses, but he is willing to grow in his faith in God and be the proper example for his family in regular church attendance. I pray his faith also is drawn from the Gospel and its life-changing impact.
Happy Birthday Karen!
I close with an acknowledgement of my favorite person in the whole world (next to my Lord Jesus Christ). Yesterday was my wife Karen’s birthday, and we celebrated in a simple way, eating at a Korean restaurant in Del City.
We have been married for more than eight years, and being with her has been the most fulfilling time of my life. She challenges me and makes me laugh, regularly. I can’t imagine experiencing life without her and so thankful God brought us together, at the time He knew we needed each other.
Happy Birthday Sweetie! I’ll have an iced tea for you when you get home!
Hope you had a great week and can enjoy an extended weekend. And of course, I hope you enjoy the opening of one of the most exciting seasons of the year. College football kicks off.
I have six timely topics of which to share some thoughts in this week’s DHD. Let’s get to it!
Does it start with Kim Davis?
It has only been a few hours before I began this week’s DHD when the story broke on the federal judge sending Ky. County Clerk Kim Davis to jail under contempt for refusing to issue marriage licenses to same-sex couples.
It fascinates me how an elected official for a county in Eastern Kentucky with a population of 23,000 people is gaining national attention. This isn’t happening in San Francisco or Las Vegas. This is happening to a woman who worked in the Rowen County’s clerk’s office for 27 years and won her election as a Democrat in 2014.
People I respect have differed about how she has chosen her path of observing her conscientious objection. Some applaud her stance of civil disobedience. Others say she should have resigned, not letting this be “the hill to die on.” I see value in both positions, so I can’t give you a firm perspective.
I do appreciate what appears to be spiritual growth in Davis’ life. If you haven’t followed this story closely, much dirty laundry of her past has been tossed in the public streets. But she made a recent statement that encouraged me:
“I owe my life to Jesus Christ who loves me and gave His life for me. Following the death of my godly mother-in-law over four years ago, I went to church to fulfill her dying wish. There I heard a message of grace and forgiveness and surrendered my life to Jesus Christ. I am not perfect. No one is. But I am forgiven and I love my Lord and must be obedient to Him and to the Word of God.”
Whether you support her observance of civil disobedience or not, she is the first to go to jail due to the Supreme Court ruling in June on same-sex marriage.
Al Mohler’s perspective is excellent. I agree with his conclusions, especially this paragraph:
“What this story reveals beyond the headlines is that the moral revolution on marriage and human sexuality will leave nothing as it was before. No area of life will be untouched, and no address will be far removed from the front lines of the revolution. This story comes from Rowan County, Kentucky. A County Clerk is headed for jail. A legion of Christians struggles to be faithful in their own situations, responsibilities, and callings.”
Presidential campaign perusal
It has been almost a month since the GOP presidential campaign in Ohio. I gave my rankings of the candidates after the debate and said Donald Trump bombed. I also said I can’t see how he can keep his lead in the polls. A month later, the Donald is still on top.
Two quick thoughts: 1) So much can happen in the coming months. The Iowa and New Hampshire Caucuses are five months away. The Oklahoma City Thunder will have played almost half of the NBA season by then, and we are currently two months away from the season opener. 2) Trevin Wax provides a great piece for those who are panicked or indifferent about this election cycle. Follow his dad’s advice.
More Ashley Madison mess
I reference another one of my favorite Christian leaders. Russell Moore’s article “Ashley Madison is Just the Beginning” is prophetic and convicting.
As Moore wrote, “Digital technology spawned an entirely different reality. One could seek out pornography with no one knowing, and with the promise that no one would ever know.”
Yet, he wrote, “We must recognize that technology will continue to offer fallen humanity what it thinks it wants—the illusion that we can transgress God and not surely die. Our only hope starts with the kind of vision which sees that, no matter the technology, we are never anonymous to God.”
Let me tell you something else that has happened. Some of those who were caught are on the path of reconciliation. I just heard this week from a church leader who is counseling someone from the Ashley Madison fallout.
Though there is much pain, there can also be healing. Please pray for more outcomes of restoration.
Changes happening at the IMB
It was reported last week that the Southern Baptist Convention’s International Mission Board was having to make some major financial decisions due to the organization’s budget shortfalls which includes six years of debt totaling $210 million.
This was a humbling report from one of the oldest missions organizations (170 years). President David Platt announced the IMB will be offering voluntary retirement for 600 to 800 missionaries and staff members. As painful as this announcement is for those, such as myself, who support SBC causes, with the IMB being an essential piece, this also can be a good “first step” toward “a healthy position for the future,” as Platt stated.
Anthony Jordan, executive director-treasurer of the Baptist General Convention of Oklahoma, presents his perspective of the IMB in the Sept. 10 Baptist Messenger. I can tell you that Dr. Jordan commends Platt and his team for making these difficult decisions.
“Changes are required to weather the storm,” Jordan wrote. “Change is not a lack of faith but a commitment to good stewardship of the resources God gives.”
Christian movies on the rise
Last week, I reiterated my positive review of the newly-released move War Room. I see many took my advice (Ha!) as the faith-based film grossed $11 million last weekend and finished first in box office sales opening night and second overall for the weekend. This is a huge statement, and I’m thrilled the movie is getting recognition.
I’m finding out about another Christian flick that premiers next month titled Woodlawn. The football movie is based on a true story from the ‘70s and has a well-known cast, including Sean Astin from one of my favorite sports movies, Rudy, and Oscar-winner Jon Voight who plays legendary Alabama football coach “Bear” Bryant. The movie debuts nationwide Oct. 16. Find out more about this movie at www.woodlawnmovie.com
And be on the lookout for more Christian-themed and family-friendly films. As disappointed as I have been in the last few years, I am looking forward to seeing better movies.
A Huge Sports Weekend
As you are reading this, it’s possible I am on a trek with my brother and nephew to Kansas City to see the Royals play the White Sox. I grew up a Royals fan, back when George Brett was attempting to bat .400 during the 1980 season, but believe it or not, I have never been to a Royals home game. Friday night will be my first experience.
Then, we will head back early Saturday morning, pick up my wife and head to Norman for our second sporting event in consecutive days to watch the Sooners kick off their season opener. A fun time with family!
