Saturday, February 21, 2009
Friday, February 20, 2009
Does Obama Need to Oppose the Fairness Doctrine?
“As the President stated during the campaign, he does not believe the Fairness Doctrine should be reinstated," White House spokesman Ben LaBolt. The White House recently issued a statement that President Obama does not believe the Fairness Doctrine should be reinstated. However, my question is; “Does it really matter?” This may be a layman’s understanding concerning this; but I don’t think it matters if President Obama opposes the Fairness Doctrine or not. From what I gather the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) can impose this doctrine (and others) as a regulation with or without Obama’s support or opposition.
According to the FCC, it is directed by five Commissioners appointed by the President. The President can designate one Commissioner to serve as Chairperson. And Obama has chosen Henry Rivera, a Democrat who vocally supports reinstating the Fairness Doctrine. These board members are selected from both the Republican Party and the Democratic Party. Only three Commissioners may be members of the same political party. And doctrines or policies can be drafted, reinstated and/or imposed simply by majority vote. This means, that doctrines, like the Fairness Doctrine can be imposed as FCC Regulation without the approval of Congress or the President’s Office. And there have been many Democrats who have strongly voiced their support for reinstating the Fairness Doctrine. In June 2009 the balance will shift to a Democrat majority.
The Museum of Broadcast Communications (MBC) states; “The policy of the United States Federal Communications Commission that became known as the "Fairness Doctrine" is an attempt to ensure that all coverage of controversial issues by a broadcast station be balanced and fair. The FCC took the view, in 1949, that station licensees were "public trustees," and as such had an obligation to afford reasonable opportunity for discussion of contrasting points of view on controversial issues of public importance. The Commission later held that stations were also obligated to actively seek out issues of importance to their community and air programming that addressed those issues. With the deregulation sweep of the Reagan Administration during the 1980s, the Commission dissolved the fairness doctrine.”
The Fairness Doctrine does not provide for “fairness,” but instead censorship. Could the imposing of the Fairness Doctrine be part of an overall ploy to centralize the Government in order to control the people of this Nation?
In an October interview Senator Jeff Bingaman of New Mexico stated; “The airwaves are owned by private companies at this point, there is a license given to private companies to operate broadcast stations and that’s the way it should be. All I’m saying is for many, many years (airwaves) were operated under a Fairness Doctrine in this country. I think the country was well-served. I think the public discussion was at a higher level and more intelligent in those days that it has become since.” Was this country well-served? Not according to the reasons for the dissolution of the Fairness Doctrine:
“By 1985, the FCC issued its Fairness Report, asserting that the doctrine was no longer having its intended effect, might actually have a "chilling effect" and might be in violation of the First Amendment. In a 1987 case, Meredith Corp. v. FCC, the courts declared that the doctrine was not mandated by Congress and the FCC did not have to continue to enforce it. The FCC dissolved the doctrine in August of that year.”
In my humble opinion I don’t think it really matters whether or not Obama opposes the Fairness Doctrine. He doesn’t have to. There are others in his administration that can impose these sorts of policies and regulations for him. And it seems to me that this won’t be the only imposition that will be placed upon the American people. And really…, is imposing “fairness” fair? No it’s censorship and the slow suppression of freedoms that should concern every American.
“First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of G-d our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth” – 1 Timothy 2:1-4 (NASB).
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Live the Life
A few days ago my family and I visited a Christian bookstore in a neighboring city. There are no Christian bookstores or libraries where we live. So, when we visit a larger city we usually stop by one or two. While looking at the various sections throughout the store, I noticed one called, “Christian Living.” It was a fairly large section with many books, covering a variety of subjects. However, it wasn’t what was in this section that caught my attention but, what was missing.
There must have been hundreds of books by different “Christian” authors, pastors and evangelists. From the floor to the ceiling every area concerning “Christian Living” was covered; finances, health, prayer, personal care; even “Biblical” dieting and exercise. Yet, out of all these books about “Christian Life,” there was not a single Bible (unless you consider the “Message Bible” a Bible). Sadly, the Bibles were actually located towards the rear of the store, and were somewhat hard to find. The clerk however, was able to point me in the right direction.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I am not against books written by Christian authors in any way. I read many commentaries, and other books on subjects like; Biblical history, prophecy, cults, and government written by Christian authors. However, I do not consider these books to be final authorities when it comes to matters of life and faith. Call me old-fashioned, but I prefer the Bible concerning those issues. And, I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve been given books to read that will “change my life.” This isn’t to say that there aren’t any books, which haven’t greatly affected my life as a believer. In fact, there are two; “Foxe’s Book of Martyrs” by John Foxe and “Tortured for Christ” by Richard Wurmbrand. Yet, I don’t consider these books final authorities either. Nor, do I consider them to be equated with Scripture.
Sometime ago, I met two wonderful brothers in the faith from China. In addition to being blessed, speaking with them was truly encouraging and eye-opening. During our conversation I asked one of them, “What is the difference between Christianity here in America and Christianity in China?” Without hesitation he responded, “Here in America, you have too many books. You have books telling you how to live, how to eat, how to pray, and how to get rich. In China we only have the Bible and the Holy Spirit. And sometimes it’s only a page or two. But here, you have many books and many holy spirits.” “What do mean…, many holy spirits?” I asked him. He said, “In China when we have a need, (like healing or even a miracle), we seek G-d. It is hard for us to go out and find a book telling us how to seek G-d; we use the Bible and the Holy Spirit for that. It doesn’t seem that way here in America.” “Simple but effective,” I thought to myself.
During our conversation we covered many subjects, concerning the lives of believers in China and America. I eventually asked him if they ever feared the persecution of the Secret Police; having their Churches raided or being put in jail. He said, “Well, that’s life in China.” I then asked him, “What do you pray for when you pray for believers in America?” “Persecution,” he said. “Persecution?” I asked. “Yes, persecution. That’s the only way the Body of Christ will grow and flourish.” He said. “In China, the Body of Christ grows and grows, but it seems that here in America, it does not. So, we pray for persecution.” “What will happen when those prayers are answered? What will become of many of us here in America? How many will be left standing in the faith?” I thought to myself.
Many in the United States (including me) do not truly understand what it is to be persecuted. Yet, many in persecuted countries like China willingly give up their lives daily for the cause of Messiah. There is only one book for them to read concerning persecution; the Bible. And only One Spirit to rely upon for strength; the Holy Spirit. And all they ask for is prayer. Please pray for the Persecuted Church. Live the life of a believer and pray.
“Remember the prisoners, as though in prison with them, and those who are ill-treated, since you yourselves also are in the body” – Hebrews 13:3.
Shalom.
There must have been hundreds of books by different “Christian” authors, pastors and evangelists. From the floor to the ceiling every area concerning “Christian Living” was covered; finances, health, prayer, personal care; even “Biblical” dieting and exercise. Yet, out of all these books about “Christian Life,” there was not a single Bible (unless you consider the “Message Bible” a Bible). Sadly, the Bibles were actually located towards the rear of the store, and were somewhat hard to find. The clerk however, was able to point me in the right direction.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I am not against books written by Christian authors in any way. I read many commentaries, and other books on subjects like; Biblical history, prophecy, cults, and government written by Christian authors. However, I do not consider these books to be final authorities when it comes to matters of life and faith. Call me old-fashioned, but I prefer the Bible concerning those issues. And, I can’t even begin to tell you how many times I’ve been given books to read that will “change my life.” This isn’t to say that there aren’t any books, which haven’t greatly affected my life as a believer. In fact, there are two; “Foxe’s Book of Martyrs” by John Foxe and “Tortured for Christ” by Richard Wurmbrand. Yet, I don’t consider these books final authorities either. Nor, do I consider them to be equated with Scripture.
Sometime ago, I met two wonderful brothers in the faith from China. In addition to being blessed, speaking with them was truly encouraging and eye-opening. During our conversation I asked one of them, “What is the difference between Christianity here in America and Christianity in China?” Without hesitation he responded, “Here in America, you have too many books. You have books telling you how to live, how to eat, how to pray, and how to get rich. In China we only have the Bible and the Holy Spirit. And sometimes it’s only a page or two. But here, you have many books and many holy spirits.” “What do mean…, many holy spirits?” I asked him. He said, “In China when we have a need, (like healing or even a miracle), we seek G-d. It is hard for us to go out and find a book telling us how to seek G-d; we use the Bible and the Holy Spirit for that. It doesn’t seem that way here in America.” “Simple but effective,” I thought to myself.
During our conversation we covered many subjects, concerning the lives of believers in China and America. I eventually asked him if they ever feared the persecution of the Secret Police; having their Churches raided or being put in jail. He said, “Well, that’s life in China.” I then asked him, “What do you pray for when you pray for believers in America?” “Persecution,” he said. “Persecution?” I asked. “Yes, persecution. That’s the only way the Body of Christ will grow and flourish.” He said. “In China, the Body of Christ grows and grows, but it seems that here in America, it does not. So, we pray for persecution.” “What will happen when those prayers are answered? What will become of many of us here in America? How many will be left standing in the faith?” I thought to myself.
Many in the United States (including me) do not truly understand what it is to be persecuted. Yet, many in persecuted countries like China willingly give up their lives daily for the cause of Messiah. There is only one book for them to read concerning persecution; the Bible. And only One Spirit to rely upon for strength; the Holy Spirit. And all they ask for is prayer. Please pray for the Persecuted Church. Live the life of a believer and pray.
“Remember the prisoners, as though in prison with them, and those who are ill-treated, since you yourselves also are in the body” – Hebrews 13:3.
Shalom.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Stimulus Package a Patronage System?
Today the blogoshperes are teeming with reports concerning the Stimulus Package and the Obama Administration’s desire to push it through as quickly as possible. Many are reporting that the new Stimulus Package is not an Economy Recovery Plan, but instead a front for a Democratic Party Patronage System. It is a plan to stop the two-party system, which in turn will ultimately affect free elections.
A recent video posted on the internet records a man called “Chicago Bob” who called into the Mike Savage radio show claiming to know the real purpose of the Stimulus Package; “It's not a stimulus package, it's not pork! It's a job patronage system.” “Chicago Bob” states:
"I really feel that what I'm gonna give you here is a smoking gun.
I'm a conservative Democrat and I'm from Chicago... and I, I feel that I was betrayed.
I was in a meeting after Obama got elected and I was told by the Democratic officials in that meeting that we were gonna give billions of dollars that was gonna come down the pike, our way, and what we were to do with it was we were supposed to do with it...
We are gonna build an army of Democratic patronage jobs.... gonna completely freeze up the Republicans forever and ever...
It's a job-capturing system, the same one they have in Chicago... everyone's asking 'why isn't that money being released until 2011 and 2012?'
Because it needs to be released at a time that's close to the election, so that they don't go blow the money and spend it. So they're gonna hold some back and that's where... the real bucks will be spent, right up close to the election.
...It's not a stimulus package, it's not pork! It's a job patronage system... there's gonna be more [people] working for the Democrats in a patronage system than the United States Army...
And the jobs are gonna be camouflaged in a million different ways, whether you're workin' for the city, or workin' for the state, but when the election comes around, you're gonna be obligated to go out and get that vote... ...like ACORN, except the jobs will be larger scale. I just wanted to say that, because I was really depressed when they told me, because I really thought they'd be different.
If I've done nothing else in my life, I've informed what that bill really is... it's a job patronage system."
I’m not sure as of yet, what to make of “Chicago Bob.” But, his claims seem to reveal to me that he is one of many in this nation who fear the days to come. Now, I believe every one should have a little fear. For instance, fear of going into unknown places; or, fear of trying dangerous things. That type of fear keeps one vigilant and alert. However, we (believers) are not to fear man, or the things that man can do; that type of fear is not good for us. Our trust should always be in the L-RD; He is our strength. And He is our shield. The L-RD is our hope and He is our refuge. A preacher once told me; “Son, there is no refuge from G-d, only refuge in G-d…, fear G-d! There is nothing that man (or this world) can do to me to make me fear it, more than I fear G-d.” Amen!
“For G-d has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and love and discipline” – 2 Timothy 1:7
Shalom.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Is Obama in You?
It has been said that no President has affected people like Barack Obama. During his campaign (and now his presidency) he has been hailed as a new hope for this nation; he’s been labeled as a champion of change; a superhero of sorts – the One. Some have even gone as far to call him the “Messiah.” And he has also been referred to as “The President to the World.” However, it now seems that his sphere of influence is no longer restricted to the physical realm. Obama has not only touched the hearts of people throughout this nation, he has also invaded their very souls. And the question of today is, “Is Obama in you?”
Recently, the Detroit Free Press has dared to ask that very question, “Is Obama in you?” And if so, “What part of Obama is in you?” Evidently, calling Obama the “Messiah” wasn’t enough. Now, all people have become Obama and Obama has become all people. And now you have the ability to see Obama in yourself – “You are Obama and Obama is you!” It seems that Obama has reached the status of icon. It is only a matter of time before his image is placed above every mantle and prayers said in his name at the dinner tables of America. And don’t think that it can’t happen. Just ask those who lived through Nazi Germany.
I am under the belief that we are truly reaching the final days before the Return of Messiah. I truly believe that we are in the days that Messiah spoke of and the apostle Paul described. We have gone beyond the “Last Days” and into the “End of Days” (acharit hayamim); the days just before Messiah’s (the Real Messiah) Return.
The Last Days began with the ascension of Messiah Yeshua; and the Hope of His Return had begun; "Men of Galilee, why do you stand looking into the sky? This Yeshua, who has been taken up from you into Heaven, will come in just the same way as you have watched Him go into Heaven” – Acts 1:11 (NASB). The Bible is very clear concerning what is to take place during the End of Days leading up to Messiah’s Return. And I believe that they are taking place right before our very eyes.
Along with all of the wars, rumors of wars, famines and pestilence that are currently taking place in this world we mustn’t forget “The Great Falling Away;” also called “The Great Apostasy” that will also come (which in my opinion is already here) before Messiah Returns. Nor, can we neglect the great one world religious system that the world will embrace under the man of lawlessness, which I believe is secular humanism. I am not quite sold on the idea that “traditional” cults are the greatest threat to the body of Messiah. Instead I believe it is secular humanism that will ultimately invade the Body and lead many astray; “For men will be lovers of self, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, revilers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy” – 2 Timothy 3:2.
Although, secular humanism is the greatest threat to the Body, it is not that much different from the “traditional” cults that plague Christianity today. Nor is the message any different either. The main difference between the cults and secular humanism is that one promotes their message Name of G-d, while the other promotes its message in the name of man. In essence, secular humanism is Satanism.
How can secular humanism be considered Satanism? In short, Satanism is not really the worship of Satan, but instead the worship of self; doing that which Satan himself had done (Ezekiel 28:1-19). And the common message that the traditional cults, such as Mormonism, Jehovah’s Witnesses, and even the Word of Faith Movement and secular humanism have is; “…you shall be as gods” – Genesis 3:5. This is the “lie” that was told in the Garden of Eden and it is this same lie that many are falling for today; including many in the Body.
Clearly, all one has to do today is look around and see for themselves that we are living in some very interesting times (to say the least).
Shalom.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Are You Serious?
A Simulacrum of Hope: Simulation of the Triumphal Entry of the Christ from matthew j clark on Vimeo.
One word; blasphemy!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Is All Hardship from the Devil?
First of all, I want to make it clear that I believe in the power of prayer; I believe in the power of the Holy Spirit and I believe that G-d blesses those who are called by His Name. I believe that G-d heals and I believe that G-d provides for His children. And I do believe that there are demonic forces at work in this world. But, I also believe that we can’t attribute every conflict or hardship in the life of a believer to the devil.
Although, there is the reality of spiritual hardships, physical conflicts and personal trials; many believers seem to attribute all of these to the devil. It seems that many have a hard time understanding that the devil isn’t responsible for every trial or tribulation that one experiences here in this world; especially concerning matters of sin. Now, don’t think I’m defending the devil in any way but, we are very good at finding sin all on our own; without his help (James 1:15). Some even assume that if you experience any type of conflict or hardship in life it is proof that you are following G-d. This is why the devil is “attacking” you. “If you’re being attacked, then you must be doing something right?” However, this isn’t always so. Some (especially those in the “Word of Faith” movement) even go as far to say that sickness and poverty are the result of sin in your life (usually identified as secret sin) or lack of faith.
Many of the hardships that we experience as believers are not attacks of Satan but instead a part of living life in this world. The simple fact is that we live in a sinful and dying world. We live in finite bodies, which have been affected by sin and death. People get sick, people suffer hardship and people die. And believers in Messiah are no exception. This is why Salvation is so important. A believer is no better than the sinner, just better off eternally. Even so, we are not to boast about this but instead, extend the message of hope to those who have none (1 Corinthians 5:6; James 4:15-17).
Yes, the devil continually prowls around as a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8). And yes, we do encounter spiritual struggles (Eph 6:12). But, these things primarily have to do with temptation and our service unto G-d. Trial and tribulation are a part of living in this world. And according to the Bible, the believer actually learns and matures because of them (Hebrews 10:36). We learn how to be more attentive concerning matters of faith and our reliance upon G-d deepens. We may be tested in spiritual matters but this doesn’t preclude us from the trials that may accompany those tests (Luke 22:31-33).
Sin and death are in the world. We all are affected by both, but not all are saved from both (Romans 6:23); except those who have repented of their sins and put their faith in Messiah Yeshua. And we mustn’t forget; the devil is a created being. He is not omniscient, he is not omnipresent and he is not omnipotent. The devil is a being that has an end who is awaiting his final judgment from the Throne (Revelation 20:10).
In Luke 13 Messiah is asked about some Galileans who were killed at the Temple; and about some who were killed when a tower in Siloam fell on them. The questions posed to Him were to imply that some were worse deserving of death than others because of their sins. Instead of saying that these events were attacks of the devil or judgments from G-d, Yeshua simply said; “I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish” – Luke 13:5. Death comes to us all. But eternal life is only promised to those who believe in Messiah.
Through repentance and faith in Messiah you are saved from the wages of sin and the judgment of death. This is the grace of G-d in Messiah. But because you have been saved from judgment doesn’t mean that you won’t experience hardship and conflict in this world. The fact of the matter is, you have and you will. But concerning this truth Messiah said; "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” – John 16:33.
Shalom.
Although, there is the reality of spiritual hardships, physical conflicts and personal trials; many believers seem to attribute all of these to the devil. It seems that many have a hard time understanding that the devil isn’t responsible for every trial or tribulation that one experiences here in this world; especially concerning matters of sin. Now, don’t think I’m defending the devil in any way but, we are very good at finding sin all on our own; without his help (James 1:15). Some even assume that if you experience any type of conflict or hardship in life it is proof that you are following G-d. This is why the devil is “attacking” you. “If you’re being attacked, then you must be doing something right?” However, this isn’t always so. Some (especially those in the “Word of Faith” movement) even go as far to say that sickness and poverty are the result of sin in your life (usually identified as secret sin) or lack of faith.
Many of the hardships that we experience as believers are not attacks of Satan but instead a part of living life in this world. The simple fact is that we live in a sinful and dying world. We live in finite bodies, which have been affected by sin and death. People get sick, people suffer hardship and people die. And believers in Messiah are no exception. This is why Salvation is so important. A believer is no better than the sinner, just better off eternally. Even so, we are not to boast about this but instead, extend the message of hope to those who have none (1 Corinthians 5:6; James 4:15-17).
Yes, the devil continually prowls around as a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8). And yes, we do encounter spiritual struggles (Eph 6:12). But, these things primarily have to do with temptation and our service unto G-d. Trial and tribulation are a part of living in this world. And according to the Bible, the believer actually learns and matures because of them (Hebrews 10:36). We learn how to be more attentive concerning matters of faith and our reliance upon G-d deepens. We may be tested in spiritual matters but this doesn’t preclude us from the trials that may accompany those tests (Luke 22:31-33).
Sin and death are in the world. We all are affected by both, but not all are saved from both (Romans 6:23); except those who have repented of their sins and put their faith in Messiah Yeshua. And we mustn’t forget; the devil is a created being. He is not omniscient, he is not omnipresent and he is not omnipotent. The devil is a being that has an end who is awaiting his final judgment from the Throne (Revelation 20:10).
In Luke 13 Messiah is asked about some Galileans who were killed at the Temple; and about some who were killed when a tower in Siloam fell on them. The questions posed to Him were to imply that some were worse deserving of death than others because of their sins. Instead of saying that these events were attacks of the devil or judgments from G-d, Yeshua simply said; “I tell you, no, but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish” – Luke 13:5. Death comes to us all. But eternal life is only promised to those who believe in Messiah.
Through repentance and faith in Messiah you are saved from the wages of sin and the judgment of death. This is the grace of G-d in Messiah. But because you have been saved from judgment doesn’t mean that you won’t experience hardship and conflict in this world. The fact of the matter is, you have and you will. But concerning this truth Messiah said; "These things I have spoken to you, so that in Me you may have peace. In the world you have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world” – John 16:33.
Shalom.
Monday, February 2, 2009
Encroachment of Freedom Afoot?
Please don’t call me a conspiracy theorist, but…, could there be (as James Madison said) a “silent encroachment” of freedom afoot in this nation?
Since the Obama administration has been in the White House it has proposed a stimulus package, which will be used to ensure nationalized healthcare. It has signed a recent executive order repealing the “Mexico City Policy,” which will force American taxpayers to support groups internationally who promote and perform abortions for the purposes of population control. And it is looking to pass a hate-crimes bill that will extend hate-crime violations to speech, which will make it possible to prosecute people for simply voicing critical opinions about certain lifestyles.
And now this…,
Representative Alcee L. Hastings, D-Fla., has just introduced bill H.R. 645 to the House of Representatives, which calls for the Director of Homeland Security to establish national “emergency” centers on military installations.
This bill (aka the “National Emergency Centers Establishment Act) states:
a) In General – In accordance with the requirements of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall establish not fewer than 6 national emergency centers on military installations.
b) Purpose of National Emergency Centers – The purpose of a national emergency center shall be to use existing infrastructure:
1) to provide temporary housing, medical and humanitarian assistance to individual and families due to an emergency or major disaster;
2) to provide centralized locations for the purposes of training and ensuring the coordination of Federal, State and local first responders.
3) to provide centralized locations to improve the coordination of preparedness, response and recovery efforts of government, private and not-for-profit entities and faith-based organizations; and
4) to meet other appropriate needs, as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security.
The term “emergency” defined in this bill is “any occasion or instance for which, in the determination of the President, Federal assistance is needed to supplement State and local efforts and capabilities to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, or to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in any part of the United States.” This means that the President can declare an emergency (as he defines it) and take over all Federal, State and local governments without the approval of Congress. However, why establish “emergency centers” when these things stated in the above purposes are already being accomplished at military installations and are included in local emergency operation plans? And, who exactly will be placed in these camps? Civilians? Unfortunately, these “emergency centers” sound more like detention camps than anything else.
FEMA is already able to provide emergency housing for people in case of emergency or disaster. Organizations such as the Red Cross can provide first-responder training. And most communities have established areas that are designated for emergency response and training. Also, most (if not all) communities have emergency preparedness joint control centers that provide for recovery efforts, which include not-for-profit entities and faith-based organizations. All one has to do is contact their local emergency response coordinator to find out this information (usually the sheriff or local fire chief).
Again, I am not implying that there is some vast conspiracy taking place in our government. Yet, all of this does seem very interesting (to say the least).
James Madison said, “Since the general civilization of mankind, I believe there are more instances of the abridgement of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachment of those in power, than by violent and sudden usurpations.”
Does all of this mean that we are to live our lives in fear and paranoia? No, this simply means that we continue to have faith in our L-RD Yeshua. Our trust in G-d must remain steadfast; for He is the One with all authority. And we are to continue to reach the world with the gospel; this is our Biblical mandate;
“And Yeshua came up and spoke to them saying, “All authority has been given to Me in Heaven and on earth. Go therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father and the Son and Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I AM with you always, even to the end of the age” – Mt 28:18-20 (NASB).
Shalom.
Since the Obama administration has been in the White House it has proposed a stimulus package, which will be used to ensure nationalized healthcare. It has signed a recent executive order repealing the “Mexico City Policy,” which will force American taxpayers to support groups internationally who promote and perform abortions for the purposes of population control. And it is looking to pass a hate-crimes bill that will extend hate-crime violations to speech, which will make it possible to prosecute people for simply voicing critical opinions about certain lifestyles.
And now this…,
Representative Alcee L. Hastings, D-Fla., has just introduced bill H.R. 645 to the House of Representatives, which calls for the Director of Homeland Security to establish national “emergency” centers on military installations.
This bill (aka the “National Emergency Centers Establishment Act) states:
a) In General – In accordance with the requirements of this Act, the Secretary of Homeland Security shall establish not fewer than 6 national emergency centers on military installations.
b) Purpose of National Emergency Centers – The purpose of a national emergency center shall be to use existing infrastructure:
1) to provide temporary housing, medical and humanitarian assistance to individual and families due to an emergency or major disaster;
2) to provide centralized locations for the purposes of training and ensuring the coordination of Federal, State and local first responders.
3) to provide centralized locations to improve the coordination of preparedness, response and recovery efforts of government, private and not-for-profit entities and faith-based organizations; and
4) to meet other appropriate needs, as determined by the Secretary of Homeland Security.
The term “emergency” defined in this bill is “any occasion or instance for which, in the determination of the President, Federal assistance is needed to supplement State and local efforts and capabilities to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, or to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in any part of the United States.” This means that the President can declare an emergency (as he defines it) and take over all Federal, State and local governments without the approval of Congress. However, why establish “emergency centers” when these things stated in the above purposes are already being accomplished at military installations and are included in local emergency operation plans? And, who exactly will be placed in these camps? Civilians? Unfortunately, these “emergency centers” sound more like detention camps than anything else.
FEMA is already able to provide emergency housing for people in case of emergency or disaster. Organizations such as the Red Cross can provide first-responder training. And most communities have established areas that are designated for emergency response and training. Also, most (if not all) communities have emergency preparedness joint control centers that provide for recovery efforts, which include not-for-profit entities and faith-based organizations. All one has to do is contact their local emergency response coordinator to find out this information (usually the sheriff or local fire chief).
Again, I am not implying that there is some vast conspiracy taking place in our government. Yet, all of this does seem very interesting (to say the least).
James Madison said, “Since the general civilization of mankind, I believe there are more instances of the abridgement of the freedom of the people by gradual and silent encroachment of those in power, than by violent and sudden usurpations.”
Does all of this mean that we are to live our lives in fear and paranoia? No, this simply means that we continue to have faith in our L-RD Yeshua. Our trust in G-d must remain steadfast; for He is the One with all authority. And we are to continue to reach the world with the gospel; this is our Biblical mandate;
“And Yeshua came up and spoke to them saying, “All authority has been given to Me in Heaven and on earth. Go therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the Name of the Father and the Son and Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I AM with you always, even to the end of the age” – Mt 28:18-20 (NASB).
Shalom.
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