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For quite a while I'd been looking for a brown tealight holder to represent the element of earth when I cast a circle, but without success.
Many witches like to use tealights in coloured glass tealight holders to indicate the elements. They often use yellow or blue for the east and the element of air, to represent either the blue sky or the rising sun; red or yellow for the south, to represent fire; blue or green to represent the west and the element of water and either black or brown in the north, for the element of earth.
Tealight holders in the primary colours of red, green, blue and yellow are pretty easy to get hold of, but brown or black ones aren't.
But when I was washing out an empty Marmite jar to put in the recycling I got inspired. Marmite jars are made of sturdy, brown glass and would make ideal holders for small candles.
So, instead of putting it in the glass recycling bin, I carefully scrubbed the label off, painted a five-pointed star (called a pentagram) on it with a glass-painting pen and made a little handle to hang it by from some pretty gold-coloured wire that had once decorated a cheap bottle of red wine.
All I had to do then was pop a tealight in it and, hey presto, one earth light.
OK, I do admit I'm not the greatest of artists and my drawing of a pentagram is a bit amateur - but I do feel that when you make your own ritual tools they can help your magic work better than if you just buy something from a shop.
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In Bali, the main duty of the scarecrows is to scare away the sparrows that eat the rice paddy seeds. But for specific supernatural reasons, the magic scarecrow - on which spells have been placed complete with offerings - is designed to counter any black magic attacks on the field or its owner.
Lelakut bertuah are few and far between in Bali nowadays, as farmers no longer know how to imbue scarecrows with the right spells or to assemble the required offerings. The artistically decorated scarecrows are now the most common, although they are made only to counter attacks from small birds.
Making the lelakut bertuah requires specific materials and processes. The basic material is a single branch from a coconut tree (papah nyuh nunggal). Such branches are usually found hanging alone far from other branches.
The papah nyuh nunggal is believed to carry a potent supernatural power that can ward off attacks from both black magic and birds.
After getting a branch, the farmers must consider on which certain special day they might create and place the enchanted scarecrow in the field. For the Balinese, kajeng kliwon is a magically sacred and, therefore, perfect day to learn mysticism, or cast spells or charms by chanting a mantra, including "summoning" a sorcerer scarecrow.
To ensure the presence of magical powers, a farmer must cast the spells and serve offerings consisting of two canang (simple offering of flowers, leaves and fragrances) and a satuh snack to the scarecrow. After placing the scarecrow in a paddy field on kajeng kliwon, the farmer will chew onion and jangu (a type of medicinal grass) three times before spitting the concoction at the scarecrow.
Similar offerings must be made every 15 days and on kajeng kliwon days.
If the sorcerer scarecrow succeeds in keeping the birds away, then during the harvest ceremony, the farmers must also make other offerings to Sang Hyang Sepuh and Sang Hyang Pemunah Sakti, the guardian gods of rice paddies and fields, as a token of their gratitude.
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Every religion has its creation myth and atheism is no different. It goes something like this.
Once upon a time, people believed that the world was flat and new, that God made everything in six manic days, but that for some inscrutable reason he was still easily angered and liked to throw lightning bolts around when he got in a bad mood. Into this sorry state of affairs, there emerged a thing called "science" which, in the teeth of opposition from ignorant, self-serving clerics, proved that none of the above was true. Gradually, wonderfully, the human race matured, every confident scientific step pushing our infantile notions and ideas of the divine closer to oblivion.
Unlike the one found in the beginning of Genesis, this creation myth is not particularly ancient but it has gained a faithful following in the last century or so. Unfortunately, although true enough to be believable, it is not true enough to be true. The history of atheism has a bit to do with science but rather more do with politics. Much the same can be said for its present and future.
France and Britain show how. Back in the 'Enlightenment', both countries had their sceptics. Indeed, Britain's were arguable more sceptical, with the great deists of the early 18th (John Toland, Thomas Woolston, Antony Collins, Matthew Tindal) paving the way for better known figures like Edward Gibbon and David Hume. It was France, however, that developed Europe's first tradition of public atheists, most of whom could be found enjoying the lavish hospitality of the man his friends dubbed the "personal enemy of God", Baron d'Holbach. By contrast, Britain did not develop a tradition of public atheism for another century and even then it wasn't a particularly intellectual affair.
The reason lay not in 'science' but in respective political settlements. Eighteenth century France was politically (and intellectually) asphyxiated - an absolute monarch backed by an absolute church which monitored, and often punished, all forms of religious and political dissent. Early scepticism found deep wells of political indignation on which to draw and transformed into full-fledged atheism.
The British, by contrast, were no less scientifically sophisticated than their Gallic neighbours but were notably more intellectually and politically tolerant, with - importantly - that tolerance being grounded and justified by the nation's Christianity. Robert Boyle and Isaac Newton led the charge for scientific progress in the name of God, and John Locke for biblically-grounded toleration and political accountability. The result was that the swamps of bad political religion were, if not exactly drained, at least tamed.
America and Russia offer a similar, more modern story. Christianity was in the American bloodstream from the earliest days. Many clergy supported the revolution, thereby associating the faith with political emancipation in the way it was only partially in Britain, and not at all in France. A sense of Providentialism (difficult to sustain without some sense of the transcendent) was also an important player. Perhaps crucially, however, the new nation's Constitution and, in particular its first amendment, prevented the clergy from ever falling into the same error it did in Europe. American atheism never developed the same kind of deep, martyr-strewn, theo-political swamps that so fed atheism in the Old World.
Russia completes the quartet. Atheism's greatest public success came on the back of rigid, often brutal, political autocracy allied to rigid Christian Orthodoxy. While other European nations slowly liberalised through the 19th century, Russia did not, or least did so only very reluctantly and partially. The result was an explosion of impassioned godlessness in 1917, a triumph for atheism that turned, over the next few decades, into its greatest tragedy.
This analysis helps explain the recent spasm of anti-theism, usually known as New Atheism. The emergence of God as a political actor was not anticipated by the many who had bought into the secularisation thesis - the idea that as nations modernise they necessarily secularise. Wherever political religion emerged it upset the narrative, but in places where it emerged angrily or violently, it gave atheists something to get their teeth into. If this was religion, who needed it?
Of course, many of the religious agreed, but that was hardly the point. After decades in which Anglicanism (in England), chastened, politically quiescent evangelicalism (in America), and Vatican II flavoured Catholicism (everywhere) gave atheists precious little to get indignant about, the Religious Right, a more conservative-styled papacy under John Paul II, and violent political Islam - not movements that have much in common with one another - changed the debate. New Atheists got upset.
The eccentrically-religious philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein once wrote of "doubting and non-doubting behaviour", "there is only the first if there is the second." Atheism is not doubt (indeed some atheists seem to be less capable of doubt than the fundamentalists they criticise). But Wittgenstein's point stands. For political, rather than scientific reasons, we can expect to hear a lot more of atheism in the 21st century but only for the pleasingly paradoxical reason that God is back.
"Atheists: the Origin of the Species" is published by Bloomsbury.
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According to Chris Pinto:
The word "conspiracy" is mentioned many times in the Old Testament Scriptures,
and comes from the Hebrew word qesher (keh'-sher) meaning "an (unlawful) alliance: - confederacy, conspiracy, treason" (Strong's 7195). We only find the word once in the New Testament when certain Jews conspire to kill the apostle Paul (Acts 23:13). Nevertheless, the New Testament writings abound with warnings and prophecies about deception and delusion in the last days. From false gospels to wolves in sheep's clothing, the exhortations to stay on the alert and "take heed that no man deceive you" permeate the teachings of Christ and the apostles.
I learned about a popular documentary via END GAME NOW. It's called "The Antichrist Conspiracy" by CHRIS EVERARD OF ENIGMA MOTION PICTURES, and it's supposedly an end times documentary out of Europe. Even though it's roughly 1 year old, there's been a buzz about it for quite some time now, and so I finally decided to make the time to watch it myself and form my own opinions.
I was really interested to see the European perspective on everything and how it might differ from my own. I was especially intrigued given what I was told was a sharp focus on the so-called "secret societies" like the Freemasons and Illuminati. I thought now might be as good a time as any to research this with Dan Brown's latest book on the Masons selling millions of copies already.
Before we take a look, let's read what Daphne Golling of New Spirit Christian Radio had to say about it first:
"... As anyone will tell you, I do not give much space to wild conspiracy theories on my radio show... But I was forced by a friend to watch THE ANTICHRIST CONSPIRACY which has been made in England... I was shocked to see Bill Clinton most obviously under some sort of mind control, a Chinese government minister also caught on the BBC showing definite signs that someone had messed with his brain. Then, a wicked state department official from Washington DC, smart as a new toilet brush and all dandy in his suit - he all of a sudden freezes in mid sentence, as if some invisible puppeteer had cut his strings... The historical part of this film, showing the atrocities in Tibet, mind control surgery financed by the CIA and the amazing information about secret societies and their part in shaping the "speak-think' Orwellian dogma found on Capitol Hill is impressive.
A great deal of documents and photographic evidence are presented and delivered with a British accent narration which is dramatic and chilling. Do I believe secret societies are influencing government policy? Do I think that a secret plan to bombard a human embryo with radiation as part of a Satanic ritual was carried out by the military? Well, after watching this film, my mind was opened and I have to admit that truth is often much stranger than fiction. THE ANTICHRIST CONSPIRACY certainly explains why there is so much bloodshed and sorrow in the world. It's well made, running for nearly 120 minutes... you finish the film with your mind reeling from so much demonic, political, ritual and religious imagery... I recommend it to anyone who wants to research the root of the policies which have ensnared our world into war and chaos for centuries."
Pretty provocative, eh? I'm not familiar with Ms. Golling, but I decided to take her words at face value in the beginning. At just under 2 hours, this is the type of documentary that demands close scrutiny and the time necessary to perform such a task. So, pull up a chair and have a look and listen.
The Antichrist Conspiracy
(WARNING: Graphic Content - Certain Images In The Beginning And At The End)
"IS THERE A LINK BETWEEN THE CIA, LSD, TERRORISM AND U.S. PRESIDENTS?". Have a look when you get a chance and please tell me what you think about all of it.
> Say what you will about DAVID ICKE, but I think the guy's pretty smart (about many things). Be sure to catch his comments about the Public Education System around the 37-minute mark because he's dead on.
> KABBALAH, huh? I always wondered where the phrase, "He's giving you the evil eye!" came from. I wonder if Madonna's aware of that.
> About 1.5 hours in, the Narrator said that "Magog" is the spirit that will lead an army of demons against Jesus during the Apocalypse and the Battle of Armageddon. That's not true. Interestingly, in my quest to look into this to make sure my current understanding was sound, I came across something that surprised me. We commonly believe that the Gog-Magog War prophesied in Ezekiel will happen "before the Tribulation", or at least during the beginning of Daniel's 70th Week. However, how do we reconcile that with what we find in REVELATION 20:7-8 where we're told that Gog and Magog do not attack until "after the Millennial reign of Christ" is completed!?! So, if Gog and Magog are going to be part of this end time battle, which brings Christ's return, then those who believe it must believe that the Millennium is occurring now and is a spiritual, not physical event, right? What I'm saying is that if we take Revelation at face value, then "the Battle of Armageddon has nothing to do with Gog and Magog" like the Narrator asserts. But what about our commonly held position that it will occur near the beginning of those final 7 years? Is this inconsistent with Scripture too? Is this a misinterpretation on my part, or is the text simply stating that those same regions (and the spirit ruling the political leaders and the people there) will be involved once more in "another" battle? Very interesting discovery and maybe a topic we'll explore in greater detail later.
> One of the final segments on JACK PARSONS and his role with NASA (as well as his cozy relationship to L. RON HUBBARD) is an important one for us because it seamlessly ties together so much of what's on the horizon.
> Admittedly, some of the assertions and claims made in this film appear "over-the-top" at first blush, but isn't that how it's supposed come across to people of faith like us? It's difficult to comprehend the sheer depravity of evil in its most vile forms because we don't involve ourselves with those social circles, but that's also why I don't immediately discount many of these seemingly "absurd" facts as they're presented here in this film because this is what those loyal to our Common Enemy believe and practice.
I should note that you can find a paper trail for just about every assertion that's made in this expose, which certainly lends credibility to the filmmaker's stance although I would've like to have seen more evidence about former President Bill Clinton being the victim of mind control.
One final note, for those who get squeamish every time the word "conspiracy" is used in Christian communities, may I present you with the only truth you need to know regarding the above journey that was really more like EPHESIANS 5:11 in action. God tells us "plainly" in the Scriptures that kings and rulers would be conspiring against Him and against the Lord Jesus Christ at the end of the age. In the Old Testament, we read in the Psalms:
PSALM 2:1-2 (KJV) "Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed, saying,"
Since I opened with a Pinto quote please allow me to end with one as well:
There have always been conspiracies among the governments of men. Just think about how men like Nebuchadnezzar II, Cyrus the Persian, or Alexander the Great were able to overthrow so many kingdoms and bring them under their power. These men had to conspire and plan the takeover of other countries. Sometimes people were aware of the conspiracies, sometimes they weren't. Regardless, God makes it clear that such things should not trouble His servants. Our fear should be to fear God, and then we will not fear what man can do to us. If we fear the Lord, He will be our sanctuary; He will be our strong tower of defense. Then we can say with the saints, I will not fear what man can do to me; if God be for us, who can be against us? (Hebrews 13:6, Romans 8:31).
The purpose of sharing a documentary like this with you today, and of exposing the evil deceptions of wicked men, is not to make others fearful, and it's certainly not to stop the New World Order - One World Government system.
As we have studied together lately, these things will come to pass because God has declared them. Nowhere are we instructed to prevent these things from happening, but instead we are told, "these things must come to pass" (Matthew 24:6).
The intent is to show you, as always, that the Bible can be trusted because its prophecies (about conspiracies) are happening before our very eyes just as predicted thousands of years ago. What further proof do you need that God and His Word can be trusted?
In the final analysis, some of the things shown in this film (i.e. official government file footage) are disturbing even to the most hardened student of Bible prophecy. We know that after World War II it was "Operation Paperclip" that removed hundreds of Nazi doctors and scientists from Europe and transplanted them in our own country. Many of the things shown in this documentary are the fruits of those mad scientists who conspire with Satan.
Even so, have no fear! Fight fear with faith in the One who is more powerful than Satan, his loyal subjects, and all their evil schemes. We know what's in store for them:
REVELATION 6:15-17 (KJV) "AND THE KINGS OF THE EARTH, AND THE GREAT MEN, AND THE RICH MEN, AND THE CHIEF CAPTAINS, AND THE MIGHTY MEN, AND EVERY BONDMAN, AND EVERY FREE MAN, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains; And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb: For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand? "(emphasis mine)
Credit: http://mysteryvoodoo.blogspot.com
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It is believed that there seem to be the invisible threads that bind all of us together. We all desire to be safe, healthy, vital and ensure that our beloved kids are cared for and protected. Of course, we yearn to feel loved. However, for thousands of the people all over the world, regardless of the country of residence, language, religion or chosen vocation, the fears often make them miss many great and wonderful chances to discover more about themselves, their love lives, and surroundings. Now, leave our fears away, and then make the slow steps into the spiritual world where we can explore many unknown mysteries about the globe from the gifted and experienced Psychics. This sounds fantastic, right?
WAYS TO RECOGNIZE A GENUINE PSYCHIC
If a Psychic is real and skilled, she will immediately tell us anything secretive and powerful relating to our life at the beginning of our divine process. This may be something we are immediately able to identify as our own, and then know what is going on in our life at the present time. Nevertheless, as an authentic occultist, she needs to say something specific about our current situation. Does a Psychic ask us some personal inquiries about our life? Try to bear in mind that she will not inquire many things about our dilemmas. Instead, just with a few inquiries, combined with her EXTRASENSORY PERCEPTION (ESP), she will perceive our difficulties easily. Is her interpretation detailed and meaningful? This actually truly defines her power.
The following are four basis rules that help us realize whether our chosen Psychic is real or fake:
* A reader should be detached, impartial and not" inject her personal opinion" into our Psychic reading. Yes, this is our life, and she is not our mother or decision-maker.
* She needs to be honest, reliable and does not hold or hedge any information. Obviously, it is not her information.
* A "paranormal consultation" needs to be specific and accurate. If it is very vague, this means that she is making statements which might fit anyone's life; thus, she is not truly a genuine advisor. Before we go ahead with a Psychic reading, a reader should provide us with some predictions about something that we might identify in our life!
* Let her - our selected reader - do the conversation. We don't need to impart a lot of the information because that is her major job.
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The Egyptian Pharoah was a person of both Heaven and Earth,
possessing earthly wealth in great abundance and believed to return to the Gods within the afterlife. This athame has been built in imitation of the sturdy, straight daggers perhaps used in ritual and life by the Pharoahs of ancient Egypt.
Crafted of stainless steel, the 7 3/4" blade is a stout 1 1/2" wide at its base, tapering slowly to a fine point. Behind this is, crafted of
metal and accented by molded plastic decoration, is a hefty hilt that fits comfortably in the hand with a largely smooth grip and detailed ornamental designs upon the crossguard and pommel. The result is an athame that appears as though it were born of an ancient Egypt
influenced by Rome; perhaps appearing in the days of Cleopatra herself.
The Pharoah Athame also comes with an ornate sheath, bound in ornate metal design and bodied in plastic so as to keep the entire piece from being too heavy on the hip even as it possesses a reassuring heft. The whole piece measures approximately 14" in length.
Source: http://magical-poetry.blogspot.com
FORTUNE TELLING SECRETS BROKENCONTROLLERS.COM
This page provides information about '
> Fortune Telling Secrets' on Broken Controllers.
FORTUNE TELLING SECRETS GYPSY FORTUNETELLING SECRETS
tarot book, fortune telling secrets with mirabella tarot, tarot card, tarot FORTUNE TELLING, MATCHMAKING AND MUMMERY: WILLIAM SIDNEY MOUNT'S
Fortune Telling, Matchmaking and Mummery: Secrets of Life Unveiled covers a variety of fortune telling methods, including phrenology and palmistry.
THE FORTUNE TELLER'S SECRET (NANCY DREW MYSTERY STORIES, BOOK 121
The Fortune Teller's Secret (Nancy Drew Mystery Stories, book 121) by Unknown - book cover, description, publication history.
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Like the witch craft of any other region, the Egyptian witch craft is based upon the country's tradition, myth, legend, rituals, drama, poetry, song, dance, worship, magic and living in harmony with the earth. Egyptian Zodiac Wheel
The practitioners of Egyptian witch craft honor the ancient Egyptian gods and goddesses including the Triple goddess of the waxing, full and waning moon and the horned god of the sun, death and animal life.
Since moon has an important place in Egyptian witch craft, therefore both men and women in city apartments, suburban backyards and country glades meet on full moons and on festival occasions to raise their energy levels and harmonize themselves with the natural forces.
Congregations in Egyptian witch craft are called temples and covens where the seekers are initiated into learning the witch craft. The repeated patterns of changing seasons have great importance in the Egyptian witch craft. ritual and festivals evolved to celebrate these seasonal cycles more especially during the sowing and harvesting seasons.
Egyptian witch craft, therefore, has an image of the 'Wheel of the Year' with its eight spokes which symbolize the four agricultural and pastoral festivals and the four solar festivals commemorating seasonal solstices and equinoxes. Like the ancient Pagans and witches, Egyptian witches consider the day as beginning at sundown and ending at sundown the following day.
Egyptian witches hone their divinatory skills in the increasing starlight and moon light and as winter begins, they work with the positive aspects of the dark tides. Therefore October 31-November eve is the most auspicious period for the Egyptian witches as this, according to them, is the time when the veil that separates our world from the next is the thinnest. This period allows the dead to return to the world of living when their kith and kin welcome and feast them.
Egyptian witches perform magic at gatherings called Moon Celebrations or Esbats which coincide with the phases of the moon. Witches practice healing magic, protection, retaliation and channeling of energy to develop themselves spiritually. They create circles to work magic. The primary tool that they use to work magic is a ritual knife called a Sacred Blade or Athame. The sacred blade gets charged with energy of the owner and is used to define space such as drawing a sacred circle where the owner's will and energy work. A bowl of water is used to symbolize the element of water and its properties: cleansing, regeneration, and emotion.
Other important tools denote the elements earth, air, fire, and water. A pentacle (a pentagram traced upon a disk, like a small dish) is often used to symbolize earth and its properties, stability, material wealth and practical affairs. Alternatively, a small dish of salt or soil can be used to symbolize the earth element.
Source: http://wiccalessons.blogspot.com
What if it truly doesn't matter what you do but how you do whatever you do?
How would this change what you choose to do with your life?
What if you could be more present and open hearted with each person you met if you were working as a cashier in a corner store, or as a parking lot attendant, than you could if you were doing a job you think is more important?
How would this change how you want to spend your precious time on this earth?
What if your contribution to the world and the fulfillment of your own happiness is not dependent upon discovering a better method of prayer or technique of meditation, not dependent upon reading the right book or attending the right seminar, but upon really seeing and deeply appreciating yourself and the world as they are right now?
How would this affect your search for spiritual development?
What if there is no need to change, no need to try to transform yourself into someone who is more compassionate, more present, more loving or wise?
How would this affect all the places in your life where you are endlessly trying to be better?
What if the task is simply to unfold, to become who you already are in your essential nature - gentle, compassionate, and capable of living fully and passionately present?
How would this affect how you feel when you wake up in the morning?
What if who you essentially are right now is all that you are ever going to be?
How would this affect how you feel about your future?
What if the essence of who you are and always have been is enough?
How would this affect how you see and feel about your past?
What if the question is not why am I so infrequently the person I really want to be, but why do I so infrequently want to be the person I really am?
How would this change what you think you have to learn?
What if becoming who and what we truly are happens not through striving and trying, but by recognizing and receiving the people and places and practices that offer us the warmth of encouragement we need to unfold?
How would this shape the choices you make about how to spend today?
What if you knew that the impulse to move in a way that creates beauty in the world will arise from deep within and guide you every time you simply pay attention and wait?
How would this shape your stillness, your movement, your willingness to follow this impulse, to just let go and dance?
How would this affect how you see and feel about your past?
from The Invitation
by Oriah Mountain Dreamer art by Katherine Dunn"
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When it comes to sacrificing something of ourselves out of love for Christ, we believers have two major problems. "First", we are so detached from spiritual realities that Christian sacrifice doesn't seem to be worth the effort. We are simply unwilling to exert ourselves for the Savior.
And "second", many of the sacrifices we make for the Lord are so badly motivated and unwise that we may come to regret them in the end. The New Testament laments the state of individuals who "have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge" (Rom. 10:2) and who are worried and "troubled about many things" (Luke 10:41)-the "wrong "things-in their religious endeavors.
As for the first problem, let's be clear that sacrifices made out of love for our Lord are always "worth it." It will always be "reasonable" (Romans 12:1) to present ourselves to God all day, every day, and in every way as "living sacrifices"-to the death! This is because all such sacrifices are repaid by God "a hundredfold" in "this time" and "in the world to come" (Mark 10:30). No Christian has ever come to his deathbed with regrets over sacrificing too much for the glory of God.
But this problem is addressed, at least on an intellectual level, much more easily and frequently than that other question that must be raised on the topic of Christian sacrifice-the issue of exactly "what "I should be sacrificing for Christ in my life.We are comforted to know that anything offered to the Savior out of love is sure to be appreciated and rewarded, but Christianity is a faith that prizes wisdom as well. In fact, wisdom is actually commanded of us who follow Jesus (Ephesians 5:15).
Surely Martha's sacrifice and zeal to extend hospitality to Jesus was "right" on any number of levels, but Jesus did not encourage the sort of effort she was expending (Luke 10:41-42). What a shame to work so feverishly, and to sacrifice so greatly over an unnecessary and unhelpful cause.
And good King Josiah made the fatal mistake (literally) of not choosing the right battles in his life (2 Chronicles 35:20-24), failing even to recognize the guidance of the Lord when it was sent (v.22). So he actually made the "ultimate sacrifice," but he did so needlessly, even foolishly, and a very fine king was lost to his nation.
Then there is the sad case of the person in Romans 14:1-2 who has decided to become a vegetarian-to sacrifice some of the pleasures and conveniences of a well-rounded diet out of love for Christ. His case is sad because he thought his sacrifice was necessary in order to "really please the Lord." In this, however, he was mistaken, and the apostle Paul explains to all of us that he made this sacrifice needlessly, because he was "weak" (v.2). If he had been a little more mature in his Christian thinking, a little further along in his walk with the Spirit, he would not have offered this legalistic and unnecessary sacrifice.
We are warned by passages such as these to make sure that our sacrifices in the Christian life are God-appointed rather than self-appointed. Let us never refuse any sacrifice God directs us to make, but let us never offer "strange fire" to God because we presume that our ideas of a good sacrifice are on a par with His (Leviticus 10:1-2). We can only cringe when we contemplate how many Christian sacrifices must be in the process of being needlessly offered, at this very moment, on the altars of humanitarian "missions," political activism and war, ecological activism, fund-raising events for properties and projects, etc. We are compelled to admit that all sacrifices are "not "equal.
The author of "The Irresistible Revolution" (2006) seeks to persuade Christians to sacrifice all their wealth in the service of Christ. He approves of his friend's words, "We do need to be born again, since Jesus said that to a guy named Nicodemus. But if you tell me I had to be born again to enter the kingdom of God, I can tell you that you have to sell everything you have and give it to the poor, because Jesus said that to one guy too...but I guess that's why God invented highlighters, so we can highlight the parts we like and ignore the rest." (p.98) The author's commentary on this is that "Jesus doesn't exclude rich people; he just lets them know their rebirth will cost them everything they have" (p.104), and "rich people can release their riches and enter the Kingdom of God." (p.181)
Similarly, a speaker at the very influential Lausanne Congress of World Evangelization (1989) suggested that the Muslim world has not converted to Christianity because too few Christians have sacrificed their lives in attempting an open and public witness for Christ. "Is it conceivable that Christianity's failure to thrive in the Muslim world is due to the notable absence of Christian martyrs? And can the Muslim community take seriously the claims of a Church in hiding? (The many recent accounts of Muslims coming to repentance through rather supernatural means should remind us that God does not require our martyrdom to bring conviction to Muslim individuals.)"
In both of these examples we find an appeal for radical sacrifice that cannot be easily reconciled with Scripture. Jesus' wealthy friends-Mary, Martha and Lazarus, John-Mark's mother, etc.-did not, as far as we know, redistribute their wealth. And Paul told the wealthy believers in 1 Timothy 6:17-19 not to redistribute their wealth, but to have the right attitude toward "God who "gives us richly all things to enjoy" (v.17).
Even the apostle Paul, who was very "willing "to sacrifice his life in martyrdom, actually fled for his life to avoid martyrdom at Damascus (Acts 9:23), Jerusalem (Acts 9:28), Antioch (Acts 14:6), Thessalonica (Acts 17:10), Berea (Acts 17:14), and Ephesus (Acts 19:30). To have done otherwise would have constituted a "needless" sacrifice.
In Christian warfare, as with any other warfare, some patriots are called to the front lines, others receive orders far removed from the heat of battle, still others are expected to remain at home in factories and on farms. Some who dream of being chosen for special forces end up with desk jobs. Some who hoped to avoid battle end up with medals of valor or with twenty-one gun salutes. But the place of service, and the kind of duty to be carried out is for the King to decide, not the patriot himself.
To volunteer for the hero's role in God's service is noble and appropriate. It is very definitely our "reasonable service." But the Holy Spirit hands down very personalized orders for each of us. His is not a one-size-fits-all calling, and self-prescribed orders in this conflict are foolish and unacceptable.
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Mercury is retrograde May 26th to June 19th, 2008 in the sign of Gemini. Mercury retrograde, which occurs a few times each year, is one of the most talked about astrological events, especially by astrology hobbyists and novices.
Although Mercury doesn't really do a 180 and backtrack during a retrograde, Mercury appears to reverse direction for less than a month. The illusion of Mercury retrograde is due to the orbit of Earth in connection to Mercury's orbit. After retrograde, it goes "direct," when it appears to turn back around and go in the right direction, continuing to progress through the astrological signs (e.g., Aries, Taurus, Gemini, etc.).
Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune all retrograde as well. At least one of these planets are retrograding at any given time and the further the planet from the Sun, the longer it retrogrades (e.g., Neptune for over 155 days).
Astrologically, all planets and the Sun and Moon can be classified as masculine or feminine, nocturnal or diurnal, or challenging or rewarding. But Mercury is an oddity because it can be either in every situation depending on which planet it accompanies, which makes it the hermaphrodite of the solar system.
Depending on Mercury's condition and to which heavenly body or bodies it's connected, it can be Mercury retrogrades are known for being good times to go more deeply into existing projects, re-examine already discovered prospects, re-do things, and finish things already in motion. It's a time to slow down a bit and be more cautious.
Although Mercury retrograde (or any retrograde for that matter) is an affliction, it's only one of many possible indicators.
In our view, too much emphasis is placed on Mercury retrograde and it's often blamed for circumstances when it shouldn't be, where a dozen or more other astrological or numerological considerations are more closely Here's our view on Mercury Retrograde timing based on our observations since the 1980s: up to 17-28 days before Mercury goes retrograde can be "worse" (communication issues, etc.) than the actual retrograde period. Also, the second half of the actual Mercury retrograde period generally runs more smoothly than the first half.
An example of a Mercury retrograde happening is to think of a seemingly great idea during retrograde, but then later you learn of additional information that changes the equation, thus that great idea is altered considerably. We've learned to be patient with new ideas during Mercury retrograde, put them on the back-burner temporarily, and wait a few weeks for a clearer perspective.
We suggest going ahead with anything you have planned during retrogrades and not worrying too much about the phenomenon. Just make sure you're a little more thorough and cautious in your dealings, especially with new or important plans. Assume nothing, take nothing for granted, and be ready for some delays.
Copyright (c) Scott Petullo, Stephen Petullo
By: Mystic Twins
Scott Petullo and Stephen Petullo are identical twins and have been exploring metaphysics since the early 1980's. They are experts in the fields of prediction, personal fate, love life, and past life regression, and are natural psychics and mediums. Get their free report: 13 Spiritual and New Age Myths and 11 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Psychic. www.mystictwins.com www.holisticmakeover.com www.scottpetullo.com
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One of the things I said that I would use this ministry for besides using it to spread the good news of the holy Gospel of Jesus Christ from a prophetic perspective was to use it to alert others about the dark, spiritual forces that truly exist in this world.
These evil forces - - including those men and women who are demonically influenced or possessed by Satan's demons - - are doing all they can and all they're allowed to do in a blatant attempt to control and destroy us before their time here is up.
With that in mind, I want to spend some time looking at a subject that's been taking the Internet by storm in recent weeks. I've held off on reporting about it until now because I wanted to see if it had any legs, and whether or not it took off.
Sure, I've touched upon it before in past columns:
FEMA CAMPS A REALITY
IS YOUR PASTOR ON THE FEMA PAYROLL?
MARTIAL LAW: PLAUSIBLE SCENARIO OR PARANOID DELUSION?
FEMA CAMPS AND PROPHECY
BIRD FLU (H5N1) AND PROPHECY
However, I'm sorry to say that the whispers of concern are increasing by the day, and many fellow Brothers and Sisters in Christ whom I respect have written to ask me when I'm going to finally get around to focusing our attention on this given the very serious implications. Plus, these stories (especially if true) make the issue more urgent than ever before.
Today, we need to consider what is being reported by others across the country regarding the Avian Flu/Bird Flu and FEMA Trains.
Yet, before we take a closer look, I want to be crystal clear that my intention is not to foster a spirit of anxiety and fear. Absolutely not! Don't let this information leave you feeling that way. If it does, seek the Lord, ask Him to forgive you, and then pray that He lifts you up with His courage and strength. Besides, as Christians, we shouldn't be afraid of those who can hurt our body, but only afraid of the One who can hurt our soul. We need to rest in Him and rely on His promises.
So, I present the following not to scare anyone, but to simply alert us all to the very real possibility that this could very well be 100% true, and, therefore, about to spiral out of control all around us. If that's the case then at least we'll all have enough advance warning to seek His face for genuine forgiveness and mercy as we repent of our sins, and ask Him for the shed blood of Jesus Christ to wash over us, protect us, and keep us worthy to escape the things to come.
What do we make of recent reports that indicate that Avian Flu/Bird Flu is being shipped to different parts of the country? What do we make of recent reports that indicate that our government is preparing for some kind of mass casulty event as evidenced by the growing presence of FEMA Camps, FEMA coffins, FEMA Trains all with some rather unusual features?
Take a look at this series of videos making the rounds on the Internet:
"MARY", CALLER TO THE "POWER HOUR" ON MARCH 30, 2009, GIVES MANY DETAILS THAT THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY IS TRANSPORTING AND DISTRIBUTING BIRD FLU IN MASS QUANTITIES.
I will say this. These recent videos leave me suspicious because at the "precise time" that they are beginning to gain some traction and are becoming quite popular I came across another
"State and federal authorities are investigating a finding of suspected non-pathogenic or low-pathogenic avian influenza in a single broiler/breeder poultry farm in western Kentucky. The strain poses minimal risk to human health and is not the high-pathogenic strain associated with human and poultry deaths in other countries.State Veterinarian Robert C. Stout has quarantined the farm, which produces hatching eggs for Perdue Farms Inc. Perdue plans to depopulate 20,000 chickens in two houses on the farm. The Kentucky Department of Agriculture is conducting surveillance on backyard flocks within a two-mile radius of the farm."
Hmmm, well that's odd, huh? I mean, when's the last time you remember reading a similar story in this country involving one of the world's major chicken processing companies? Yeah, me neither. It's also odd that I didn't hear about it in the mainstream news. Wanna know what's even "odder" than that? Jim Perdue, Chairman of Perdue Farms Inc., said in AN INTERVIEW DATED FEBRUARY 13, 2006, that it was likely only a matter of time before the United States is hit with a case of avian influenza.
"THERE WILL BE AN OUTBREAK [OF A MILDER STRAIN], MOST LIKELY WITHIN THE NEXT FEW YEARS," PERDUE SAID IN AN INTERVIEW. Sales could drop, he said, based on unjustified fears of a health threat, and that would require an effective and prompt consumer-education campaign to be undertaken to shore up consumer attitudes in the United States.
This also reminds me of something else that Not Another CONspiracy wrote about in March. What was the focus of that particular piece:
> Government Shutting Down Banks
> Police State
> FEMA Camps
> Martial Law
> August / September 2009
> ?
Why were those things mentioned? Take a look at this:
STEVE QUAYLE'S BROADCAST ON APRIL 6TH promotes a "prepare now" message too (with more fervor and passion than ever before from him!).
So, make no mistake, the scenario they present is EXTREMELY plausible!
If the dollar continues to die, and the banking system continues it's path of destruction, it would be quite easy to shut them down. In fact, it could be the only thing the administration will be able to do to "save" the system. Let's be honest though, because if that were to happen, according to the media, the "official story" will be to tell all of us that they all "failed," rather than the truth of the matter, which would be that the government actually shut them down (now, there have been 23 U.S.BANK "FAILURES" already this year we were just told).
Plus, it also lines up with the alert that came from Indiana about two months ago. Take it with a grain of salt because it is referenced on a public message board, but this is supposedly a first hand witness account from a military source found HERE that claims that a Pastor was told by a military officer to start stocking up on food, weapons, and ammo. Of course, LAST SUMMER Indiana saw even more military "urban warfare" training too.
For what it's worth, the woman in the video who goes by the name "VALANO72" is a self-professed Christian who seems very sincere. In fact, I believe it was her channel where I originally stumbled upon that "Daniel's Timeline" series of studies before everyone else starting alerting me to it in other places. Spend some time on HER CHANNEL because there's A TON of information there. Again, take it for what it's worth under prayerful consideration. Food for thought.
So, what do we make of all this? Is a Bird Flu/Bio Attack False Flag event imminent? As Not Another CONspiracy wrote, "This is wild stuff. I don't know what to think. This sounds so credible it's almost unbelievable. But we know the unbelievable/unthinkable is what happens. You know, the known unknowns that we know "DONALD RUMSFELD" spoke of and the outrageous conspiracy theories "GEORGE W. BUSH" spoke of?"
In addition, I agree wholeheartedly with what one Look Up Fellowship community member (Todd/KingAir001) recently wrote about this: "As all of you may know, I try to study and keep abreast of the latest developments occurring around us, and tonight is no exception. Please understand that if I recommend or send out a video it does not mean I support everything that is being said, nor does it mean I support or even know WHO is saying it. Sometimes I am in a position that where I read/see certain information that I think is credible, but I have to be concerned on how that information is received and processed. This is just such an example. I have NO IDEA who is presenting this information in this video. Nonetheless, I am passing it around. I have heard WAY TOO MANY types of examples in this video for it to just be meaningless. I am NOT trying to scare anyone. It is my RESPONSIBILITY to make decisions on information when I receive it, and to determine if it warrants sharing with this group. I have made the decision to share this information with you, and for YOU yourself to personally decide its merit. This video concerns the transportation of ACTIVE Bird Flu viruses etc all over this nation for some evil purpose of the NWO to be released upon our nation and innocent citizens. Once again, please take this information with a grain of salt, and decide for yourself what you will make of it. For me, and my family, it looks and sounds EXACTLY like what these evil sinister forces are willing to do to our own populations to control and herd us after the fact to suppress any forms of open rebellion and resistance to their plans. Decide for yourself." Amen Brother! I couldn't have said it any better myself.
They have a point there you know. It kinda reminds me of the whole "truth is often stranger than fiction..." mantra. Either way, it's all very interesting and suspicious at the same time so please keep your eyes and ears open.
Oh yeah, did I mention that Not Another CONspiracy also noted that THE LATEST EPISODE OF "24" just last Monday was about almost the exact same scenario! Lovely. We all know from past articles here that popular TV/Film is where we often find "advance warning" of real-world events that are coming soon. I wonder what last night's episode was about. HEY, WASN'T IT ANOTHER FOX TV SHOW THAT EERILY PREDICTED 9/11?
In the final analysis, there can really only be two conclusions. Either this is a fact (and all these reports are true), or it's nothing more than fear mongering by those who seek to condition and control us through the fear of death and uncertainty.
Pray for discernment. Next, please join me in saying the following prayers as well:
"Father God, I know I need You because I am a sinner, but also know that I can never get to You on my own. There's nothing I can do on my own to make up for my sins; nothing I could do on my own to earn favor and forgiveness from You or to secure my place in Heaven when I die. The only thing I can do is to make a conscious decision that You sent Your one and only Son Jesus Christ, and that He came to this world for me. He took my sins upon Himself, was crucified in my place, died for me, and was resurrected so that I may live forever. I accept Him and His sacrifice, and desperately want to receive Your Son Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Savior. When He conquered death for my sake He gave me access to You. Thank You for Your grace and Your mercy. Thank You for forgiving me and for sending the Holy Spirit to transform my life from this moment forward. I pray that You transform my life from this day forward and give me a heart and a mind that desires to not only get to know You, but to be with You as much as possible. Teach me how to live, and teach me how to share this message with others before it's too late for them. Amen."
"Dear Lord, I pray that you will not remember the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions. Please think of me according to Your mercy and for Your goodness' sake, O Lord. Lord I turn from all of those sins that I committed and I ask for Your help in washing the memory and thoughts of that sin completely from my mind. Please restore me to faithful obedience to Your Word, and fill me with Your Holy Spirit anew, so that I may keep Your commands all the days of my life. Lord Jesus, I invite you into my heart anew today, and I ask forgiveness for all of my sin. Jesus, thank you for dying for my sins and for forgiving me of them through your shed blood for me on the cross. Please take away all the sinful 'old things' in my heart that defile me, and replace them with the 'good things' that you desire to grow in to my life. Please wash away all the sinful crud and tendencies toward evil and replace them with a hunger and thirst for your righteousness. I need your help, Lord God, in living this new life in Christ. Please send your Holy Spirit afresh into my life to help me, heal me, lead me and transform me. I also pray that your shed blood washes over me, protects me, and that I am counted worthy to escape the things that are coming upon this world in the form of your righteous judgment. Lastly, I pray that you have mercy on this nation even though we deserve your fierce judgment for our blatant sins that are before you. Help us to see the error in our ways as individuals and as a nation, and lead us to repentance before it's too late for us. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen."
(RESEARCH: NOT ANOTHER CONSPIRACY)
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Last Saturday I had the final installment of my extended (and amazing) 50th birthday celebration. Blue Moon Circle (minus some folks who had other obligations) met at Robin's house near Binghamton and went from there to share the collected local covens' Beltane celebration. We try to go every year, although we don't always make it. Although we love our small group, sometimes it is nice to share a holiday ritual with a larger gathering. And these folks are a great bunch of people.
I got to help chop down the tree for the maypole (usually the guys do this, but part of the ritual had to do with role reversal-very enlightening and empowering) and then we all did the Maypole dance.
Beltane celebrate fertility and sacred sexuality, for those of you who didn't know-it is always a riot to dig a hole and put the pole in it...much smutty merriment always ensues...
Here is a picture of the beginning of the dance:
Afterwards, we returned to Robin's house for Blue Moon Circle's feast, Beltane bonfire, and part 3 of my birthday celebration (combined at this point with circle member Bobbie's birthday, which was the following day). My adorable goddess-children Sophia and Nate joined us, as did Robin's wonderful hubby George. [I married Robin and George and was there for the birth of both kids, so as you might guess, we are pretty darned close.)
Robin made an amazing cake, which tasted even better than it looked:
Sophie was very excited by my mystery present, which was a huge heavy box...
The box turned out to be a CARTON of printer paper...for printing out my prospective best-sellers. Apparently, she Robin and George expect me to write very fast! No pressure...
At the end of the evening, we relaxed by the bonfire and talked about those things in our lives that had already come to fruition, and that we were grateful for. I was grateful for my new agent, of course! But also for all the people who had been so wonderful, and gone out of their way to make my 50th birthday so memorable. You know who you are, and you all rock :-)
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Everything true and real is becoming evident but only for most ardent seekers as ALL truthes are also being co-opted as they always have, as allowed by the Evolutionary Level Above Human, archaically termed The Kingdom of God/Heaven/Nirvana/Englightenment/Overcoming. Atheism IS today a belief in nothingness.
Global Warming is natural and is being tounted as human created by those who either can't or won't give credit where credit is due. FACT: Human's, nor space aliens (according to their own admission) did not create any of what we term nature - the planets, the stars, the moons, the elements, the systems, the genetic structures, the electromagnetic force/energy that permeates and instructs ALL things according to their design and application within their overall environment that IS limited in scope.
Humans ARE powerful, but ONLY in potential of what they can become IF they individucally choose to ASK the CREATOR CREW are most clearly represented historically by those identified by the names/titles as Adam, Enoch, Krishna, Moses, Buddha, Elijah, Jesus, Ti and Do not by the religions that formed from their incarnations but by their core teachings of Love of the Lord with ALL, but while not with us physically Love our neighbors as ourselves which helps us rise out of our instinctual self centered animal behaviors into a selfless - service to the CREATION through the last phyiscal incarnation of that MIND(holy spirit) from the Level Above Human, termed enlightenment, overcoming, samadi, etc.
Meanwhile Space aliens and discarnate (dead humans) seek to influence alive humans into their service which don't seem altogether evil EXCEPT in how they propose that this enlightenment can be reached without that real connection with the CREATOR CREW's reps that we won't have if we don't look/search external to ourselves directing our ASKING often and application as best we can which Is then the God within part.
It's not done for us. It's not automatic. It takes leaps of faith.
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THE STRATEGIC SORCERY TRAINING COURSEA ONE YEAR BOOT CAMP IN PRACTICAL MAGIC
If you are looking for measurable success with through magic, and not just fantasy attainments...
If you want to not only improve your spiritual life, but your financial and love life as well...
If you want real magic that works in the real world, than this may be the training for you.
Before I even wrote my first book, people have been asking me to present a complete and graduated system of magic as I practice it. At the end of last year I did just that and presented the Strategic Sorcery Training Course.
Due to the overwhelming response I am re-starting the class for a new cycle of students. This new cycle will start on March 1st and will consist of 52 lessons, which will arrive via e-mail each week. There will be one homework assignment per month, but no time limit on when those need to be completed - you work at your own pace.
This course jumps off from where my book, "The Sorcerer's Secrets" leaves off, and teaches very detailed steps for attaining just about any goal. Though the first cycle of student are only 1/4 of the way through the course, people are already getting great results. The following are some comments from students on the material thus far:
"The exercises set are easy to follow yet produce results remarkably quickly. From the beginning initiation ritual I have experienced more results than on any other course... its like I've been super-charged. My channeling is coming through thick and fast, my healing abilities have increased and, in life in general, I feel more centered, balanced and content with life.
- Sue"THROUGH THE STRATEGIC SORCERY COURSE, I HAVE LEARNED TO CHANGE THE WAY I DO CERTAIN THINGS AND FEEL THAT NOW I AM FINALLY WALKING THE MAGICKAL PATH THAT I WAS MEANT TO BE ON."
- Rev. Jay K.
"THOUGH WE HAVEN'T EVEN GOTTEN VERY FAR IN THE COURSE, I HAVE ALREADY USED MATERIAL FROM THE COURSE IN WORKINGS THAT HAVE INCREASED MY INCOME. AFTER 12 YEARS DOING OTHER TYPES OF MAGIC, STRATEGIC SORCERY HAS BEEN A REVELATION!-LINDA
The meditations, especially the Pillar and Spheres, has brought me back into being in synch with time. Not rushing ahead or lagging behind, but being right there in the moment. And that is a Really Big Deal to me. I have gained-I kid you not-three to four hours a day. That's exactly what it feels like. I am getting things done like you wouldn't believe. I feel like I'm coming back home to my Self.
- Susan
The Lesson on Thought Management alone was enough for me to overcome my fear of rejection and ask out the girl I have been obsessing over for months. We have been going out for three weeks now. This course is making a big difference in my life.
-Thomas
HONESTLY, I WISH IT HAD BEEN AROUND WHEN I WAS A BABY MAGE. JASON'S
IVE BEEN WORK THE PERSONAL ALCHEMY ASPECT OF CEREMONIAL MAGICK FOR TWENTY YEARS, JASONS COURSE HAS GROUNDED MY ETHEREAL DREAMS INTO SOLID PRACTICAL WORKINGS.YOU WONT COMPLETE JASONS CLASS WONDERING IF YOUVE DONE REAL MAGICK. YOU WONT LEAVE ASKING, DID I REALLY FEEL THAT? YOU WILL KNOW THAT YOU HAVE DONE SOMETHING EXTRAORDINARY. -ROBERT HAGERCEREMONIAL MAGICIAN AND BLOGGER OF DOING MAGICK
The only requirements for the course are that you be over 18 years of age, have access to e-mail, and a copy of "The Sorcerer's Secrets, Strategies in Practical Magick". There will be many other
To sign up for the class write me at inominandum@gmail.com and put STRATEGIC SORCERY COURSE as the subject line. You will then be given a student number and further instructions.
Payment can be made through PayPal to inominandum@gmail.com or sent via check or money order to:
Jason Miller
PO BOX 36
Barnegat, NJ 08005
If you have been looking for a way to improve your life both your inner life and outer circumstance, than I hope to hear from you soon.
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"I believe in the Church of Baseball. I've tried all the major religions, and most of the minor ones. I've worshipped Buddha, Allah, Brahma, Vishnu, Siva, trees, mushrooms, and Isadora Duncan. I know things. For instance, there are 108 beads in a Catholic rosary and there are 108 stitches in a baseball. When I heard that, I gave Jesus a chance. But it just didn't work out between us. The Lord laid too much guilt on me. I prefer metaphysics to theology. You see, there's no guilt in baseball, and it's never boring..." Annie Savoy (from the movie Bull Durham)."
In yesterday's Washington Post, columnist Marc Fisher wrote about the "unsavory mix of peanuts, cracker jacks and Jesus" at the Washington Nationals ballpark. He was specifically criticizing the initiative of a Christian marketing company to have "Faith nights" at major and minor league baseball games. The Washington Nationals will have their "Faith Night" on August 5th when the Nats play the St. Louis Cardinals, and for an extra 10 Christian fans will be able to hear a concert by the band MercyMe and meet Bob the Tomato and Larry the Cucumber from Veggie Tales.
Fisher's criticism of Faith Night was that it was exclusive to people of other faiths and that baseball is, in itself, a kind of religion (that's when he quoted the character Annie Savoy from the movie Bull Durham). The organizers of the event claim that it's no different from Realtors' Night, Disco Night, 4-H Night or Hispanic Heritage Night at the ballpark and that no one should take offense because all are welcome to come (or not). Of course, part of what is driving this critique has to do with the history of the Nats and their involvement with an evangelical chaplain program, Baseball Chapel, and the message that some of their chaplains were preaching about the eternal damnation of people of other faiths.
Now I am as PC as the next person, and I hear and understand these critiques about Christian exclusivity, and, honestly, I don't really buy it. Not when it comes to Faith Night anyway (the Baseball Chapel thing is a different story). That's not was offends me about "Faith Night." What really offends me is the idea that Christianity is something to be marketed in the first place. That our faith should be packaged and sold, promoted by animated characters, and that there's a group out there telling baseball execs that they should hold Christian Faith Nights because they can deliver "5,000-15,000 more in ticket sales" by holding a Christian rock concert at the ballpark. What would Jesus think about all this, do you suppose?
This week's Gospel lesson from the Revised Common Lectionary is from Luke 9:51-62. In it Jesus is heading toward Jerusalem where he will face his trial and execution, and he's talking with the disciples about what it means to follow him. And as usual, they don't get it. When
I could be wrong (it's happened before) but I don't think Jesus is saying here that we should use baseball games as a way to bring people to Christ. I think he's saying that our Christian faith calls us to a life of worship and devotion, of sacrifice and service, of humility and compassion. Our faith is a way of life, not a product to be bought and sold, and exchanged when it doesn't meet our needs any more. And I think there's a very fine line between evangelism and "marketing," between being relevant and selling out. A Christian "faith night" at a baseball game "should" be different from Realtor's Night. Maybe instead of buying peanuts and cracker jacks, we could take up a collection to feed the hungry children of Washington, DC? Or organize people to walk from the ballpark to the Capitol to draw attention to the suffering of God's people in Darfur? Those might be more authentic ways to combine Christianity and a large secular sporting event.
Coincidentally, Marcus and I have tickets to this game on August 5th. Not because it's Faith Night, but because Marcus also worships the St. Louis Cardinals. We're going to worship at the Church of Baseball. But I'll let you know if we run into Bob the Tomato.
There Are 108 Stitches in a Baseball
Originally uploaded by B Tal
Credit: http://animals-and-shamanism.blogspot.com
We often say that all religions are equally absurd and that the only reason some seem more absurd is that we are less familiar with them. Islam will seem strange to someone living in a thoroughly Christian culture, and Christianity will seem odd to someone raised in a thoroughly Islamic culture. But one of the things most religions have going for them is the difficulty in disproving them. That is, most of the popular religions have survived in part because they do not base themselves on concepts that are extremely easy to disprove. However, there is an important exception in the case of the Mormon religion.
We can certainly attack the concept of an omniscient, omnipotent, and loving god, highlighting its logically incoherent nature. But this is very different from something like conclusive proof that Jesus or Mohammed never existed. Even if there are compelling reasons to suspect that Jesus never lived, this is a far cry from proving that he did not. So as absurd as Christianity and Islam are, it isn't like most Christians and Muslims cling to beliefs that have been thoroughly debunked (or am I being too generous here?).
This is not the case with Mormons. The Mormon accounts of Joseph Smith, with his golden plates and seer stone, are more than implausible. By rooting their religion in the modern era, the Mormons have made it far easier to evaluate and even disprove many of their central claims. As an example, we know that Joseph Smith was a real person; in fact, he was a con man. We know that the material claimed to have translated, his book of Abraham, was fake. Moreover, genetic testing has revealed that Native Americans are not Israelites as Mormons believe.
From an atheist perspective, it would be easy to claim that adherents of all religions are equally deserving of mockery for what they believe. After all, each of the major world religions demands irrational and often destructive beliefs from adherents. Still, Mormonism is one of the only examples of a religion I have found that is based on a set of claims that are not only demonstrably false but that have been shown to be false. This seems to put Mormons in a somewhat different category as adherents of most other religions.
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