Walking In Wisdom

I could not help to see how green around the gills all the Dem talking heads were Friday night on news channels.  The reason for the blood draining from their faces was John McCain's pick of Sara Palin.  Palin is the 44 yr old Governor of Alaska. What has gotten them sick is that McCain did the courageous, wise and out of the box decision that the Big O did not do -- pick a VP who can and has made change happen!  This campaign is all about CHANGE -- yet BO picks the one of the longest sitting Senators (36 yrs for Biden) and someone who votes third (with O as number 1) on lineral voting in the senate -- THAT'S CHANGE?

Let me tell you what they are saying....

1) She is inexperienced. Is this nerve? She has held elected office for 13 years; has executive experience; has negotiated major contracts; is the commander of the Alaskan Natl Guard -- let's see the Big O has a total of 173 days in the Senate and voted 120 times present in the IL Senate because he did not want to make a decision. So who has experience?

2) No Foreign Policy experience. Wait a minute...did Bill Clinton; did GW Bush; did Ron Reagan...unless you are in the Presidential role or fufilling a position like Secty of Defense and State, what type of experience can you gain? Even as a Senator -- the Big O and Biden have been briefed and visited Iraq -- but so has she. Again she is NOT going to be President....MCCain is - end of discussion.

3) She is a heartbeat away from the Presidency. OK...so is Joe Biden. He scares me to death with his policies and positions. Its ironic they were not worried about John "Keep your Zipper Up" Edwards four years ago? That would have been a repeat of the Bill Clinton sex-scandal years.

4) She's a Women.  I can not believe that this is coming up. The Dems were a couple of thousand of votes away from having a woman presidenctial candidate and to honest they wish she was the nominee.

5) She's young. They are more concerned that she will connect with young people and mothers in her same place.

6. This was a political decision. OK YOU GOT US ON THAT ONE! But wait a minute...BO looks at the polls and sees that McCain is catching him. He asks why?  Because people do not see  he has experience or foreign policy experience (I thought that was what Palin lacked?) and so he picks Biden. That wasn't political?  This is a political race. One of the factors when making a VP pick is that you ask what they can "bring to the ticket" - specifically votes; Electroral state votes; political positions that the Prez is lacking -- its all politic. The problem with this pick is that McCain has out foxed the Big O and it stings.

So why was she a brilliant pick.....

1) She is thoroughly conservative. McCain has sured up his base and especially the evangelical vote!

2) She has done something. Don't let the talking heads use phrases like "Governor of AK for JUST TWO YEARS..." -- wait a minute...you need to ask.... what has Obama done?  He has DONE nothing...what is his record?  This lady has rocked the world of Alaskans. I will put her resume up against any of them!

3. She's not an insider. A matter of fact -- she has prosecuted the insider. She has had the nerve to go after corrupt Republicans. She is a reformer. Talk about change. Talk about going against the status quo. Talk about shakying up Washington -- she is apit bull who will clean up DC.

4. She is pro life. She is the kind of woman that pro abortionist hate.  She had four kids and lewarned she was having a Down's Syndrome baby. This baby would be the perfect reason why abortion should be accessible -- to get rid of a useless human being. But Sara Palin see all life valuable. She even is against abortion in the evident of rape and health concerns -- she believes that God gives life -- don't mess with God's work! Even Dick Morris, a pro-choice politico said - "when I look at Sara Palin's conviction - it melts my heart about the issue."

5. She's a woman. This really hacks them off! Look as much as they want to think they have "won over Hillary supporter" -- they are deluded. The soccer moms who are mad that Hill got a bad deal and really don't like The Big O's liberal, liberal views -- will give Sara a look and they will like what they she!

6. She understands the oil crisis. She has lived in the oil crisis. She was a watch dog at big oil. Look this is the major issue in AMerica -- she is the only candidate of the four that has actually been to ANWAR!

7. She's one of us. Her story is fantastic. Her husband is a commerical fisherman for goodness stake. She is amother (did I mention her son is headed to Iraq) and she talks about "servanthood" when discussing running for office. Novel.

The jury is out -- but I think McCain has made a great choice. She is going to make a great candidate; VP and if need be a President!

If you were a Democrat, you must be thinking to yourself.... "what have we done?  What were we thinking? Hillary should be our candidate?"  I have to tell you after last night's stellar performace, I would be soooo conflicted as a DEM today. And i have to tell you -- Hillary is brilliant. Last night she set herself up as the standard bearer of the party and will leave questions in everyone's mind.  Here are a few scenarios....

1. Hillary's speech never directly supported the Big O - she spoke alot about her accomplishments and what she believed in and what she stood for BUT she never directly stated that this was the Big O's position.

2. She never tauted the Big O's character, abilities, experience (not to taut) and his accomplishments. All she would do is after sharing about what she was about.... "so we have to elect Obama!"  The absence of her building a case for BO really smells suspectious.

3. All she talked about was being "good loyal dems" -- not Obama promoters!  There is a big difference and no matter how you spin - she never pitched him.

4. So what if he loses....can't blame Hillary - she did the right thing and supported him publicly.

5. If he loses - they will question whether they should have had her as Prez or at least the VP and Obama is finished as a politico in the party!

6. If he wins - she will be rewarded as the turning point of the elects - not sure what the polls say -- but if it bumps a point or two today and a point or two on Thursday....she will be credited NOT HIM.

7. Tonight the stage is set for Bill to "tank BO" -- see his wife was nice -- but he does not have to be.  It was a stroke of genius to have her speak first -- Bill can say ting like -- "wasn't Hillary something...isn't my wife some politician...leader....future prez..." hint hint....

8. So what does Hillary want?  Simple....Obama to get his butt whipped -- if that happens....she is the AUTOMATIC 20012 DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATE!!!! No questions....she will start running from day one as a Senator opposed.

SO WHAT SHOULD MCCAIN DO?

1. He could ask Hillary to be his VP - not likely but really fun to consider!

2. He should come out with a TV ad directed to Hillary's backers and tell them that "they were cheated....it is obvious who should be the dem candidate....if you want Hillary to have her shot in 2012....vote for me!"

3. McCain should highlight those issues where Mrs. Clinton and he agree -- her supporters could get some of their wishes fulfilled through McCain -- they get nothing with Obama --- PLUS if the Big O is elected in 2008 -- he will be the inumbant in 2012....  Hillary will be pushed to 2016 - she will be TOO OLD!!!

4. McCain should start talking about facing Mrs. Clinto in 2012.....

 

So to all the Hillary supporters -- vote McCain and you will get your wish.... McCain-Clinton in 2012.

This past summer I was the "interim youth pastor."  As we anxiously (not sure if I was more anxious or the students) waited for the arrival of our new youth guy -- i was the shepherd of our young people. Its been nearly 20 years since being a youth pastor and that whole generation has greatly changed. They are much more savvy, more aware of things and life. They know so much more than the kids I was youth pastor to -- they know more but still have a level of immaturity. All in all, I asked myself -- "so what do I do with them?"

We challenged them!!  We put out an old fashion challenge that included attendance to youth activities and classes. They had to serve for four hours somewhere. They were expected to invite a friend to youth group and experience one element of evangelism....inviting! And finally they were expected to memorize an entire chapter of the Bible -- 2 Peter 1. During youth group on Wednesday night -- I preached through the text, but they were asked to memorize it.

Amazingly some 13 completed the challenge and were rewarded with a fully paid trip into New York city...Staten island ferry ride, Ground Zero, Canyon of Heroes walk, bus ride, subway ride, walk up fifth avenue, Rockefeller Center, St. Pats and trump tower!!! And lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe -- what a day!

Sunday morning a number of the students stood before the church and recited the chapter -- how powerful that was!  The fact is this generation may seem more sophisticated and mature in many ways, but a simple challenge and memorizing God's Word still can effect students and produce life change!

This weekend we will probably know who the two Vice Presidential candidates and so i thought I would weigh in on the picks. First the Big O's pick for VEEP....  I think he has three choices.

1. Joe Biden - older, experienced, a pit bul and great debater. The problem is that he knows more then O and made a comment during the primary season that O was a "clean, articullent black man."  Not sure that will fly!

2. Bill Richardson - He is latino, been a governor and has executive experience and was the energy secty under Clinton. If O wants to make the ticket more acceptable palatable to a NON-radical liberal type, Richardson might be too hot to handle.

3. Hillary Clinton - If O wants to win - he picks Hill. But it will also make him look desperate and then you have to have the Clintons looking over your shoulder everyday. O does not like to be questioned or look bad.

MY PICK...Richardson - O is arrogant enough to go for broke!

McCain's man....I have three picks as well....

1. Mitt Romney - this is the easy pick. He is an economic genius; good looking; could be prez easy, has played the good soldier. He and Mac had words during the primary but I think it would be ok.

2. Tim Pawlenty - The last name is a problem -- hard to spell and pronounce. A GOP favorite - could help you take a swing state of Minnesota.

3. George Allen - I know you thought I would say Lieberman or Ridge. But I am counting on Mac knowing that either of these pro-choice politicos would sink his ship! George Allen - former Senator of VA; fmr. Governor; Redskin heir; thorough conservative. I like him even though no one throws his name around.

MY PICK....Romney - I thinhk Mitt could systematically take apart any of the O's picks and deliver financial backing and McCain needs money!

LAst Saturday night we finally got to hear the truth. With all the political spin and the protecting the candidates from saying something that would not leave a good taste in voters mouth, we finally started hearing what the Presidential candidates really believe and what is at the core of their belief structure. Ameazingly -- IT TOOK AN EVANGELICAL PASTOR TO MAKE IT HAPPEN!!!

Pastor Rick Warren hosted a forum at his church Saturday night and it turned out that 500 media outlets picked up the event and most cable TV networks broadcasted live the forum. The structure of the discussions were simple. Each candidate spent one hour with Warren who asked the exact questions of each man. Obama went first. McCain was not allowed to li8sten to his responses - since Saturday Obama people have claimed that McCain cheated -- NOT TRUE!  He arrived late to the church and was sequested to a another building and hide there until he was called to the stage.

The difference with the candidates was clear and remarkably contrast. Obama answers were stumbling, wansewring and never fully landing. Very post modern as was noted by many TV commentators. McCain was forceful, dogmatic and concise. He was answering questions before Warren could finish the questions. The most alarming for me was Obama's inability to clearly share when HE thinks life begins and when a human should have rights. His answer - "that question is above my pay grade???"  McCain - "conception!" He was not asked does he believe women should have the right to abortion -- but when does life begin....a personal, moral answer. Astonishing!

McCain's experience, life situations and decisive convictions won me over. Probably before this forum, I was voting against Obama -- McCain showed me something. I still don't like his wild card style that leaves me nervous that he si unpredictable at times and hiw known foul language, that needs some sanctification. But he was very personal and very vulnerable about his failings. I appreciated that.

Because of Saturday's forum, we now have a clear understanding at the difference of the candidates. Spin all youwant political handlers -- we now have the video proof of what the men believe and how they answered. If I were McCain -- I would just keep playing Obama's responses and he will be a shoe in! 

HAs anyone been watching the race for Prez? Have you noticed the latest polls? McCain and the Big O are just about even! That does not fair well for the darling of the media. His star is fading. Why you may ask?  Just click on to my commentary a few weeks ago on how McCain can win and How O will lose.... Let me give you one more McCain strategy...if you are reading John....

Throw GWB under the bus!  I know it sounds terrible but the last surefire way to win is distance yourself from the negatively received aspects of Pres. Bush's policies - specifically..... energy, immigration, spending and regulatory efforts in the US financial institutions.

Energy - Simply put -- "Drill Here and Drill NOW!!"  The American people are worn down by the price of oil and everything attached to petro products -- which is everythingt! Even food goes up with high oil because it takes gas to transport the food to the market and the consumer pays the ticket! Bush has failed to give us an agressive and comprehensive policy on energy and has failed to fight for complete US independence from foreign oil. McCain gets up and says... "The President has failed to give us a comprehesive plan for energy....here is my plan....I say we drill now on US soil and stop allowing the world from gouging us at the pump!" Add 5 points to his lead on the Big O!

Immigration - Bush has failed at sealing the borders, punishing any business owner who employees illiegals and round up those here without permission. Yes these are people and they all have a story -- but if they are in our country without legal means -- they are criminals and anyone assisting them are co-conspirators to a crime! McCain gets up and says...."The President has failed at fully securing the borders and forcing those wanting in our country to do it the legal, fair and safe manner -- here is my comprehensive plan to do that!"  Add another 5 oints to his mounting lead!

Economy - Bush has failed to shut down the drunken sailor like spending in Washington. Every American understands what onald reagan said in 1981 - "The government must start living like every citizen must - live within its means and spend no more then they take in." McCain stands up and says..."Bush has failed us in not watching the piggy bank....too many programs have been funded with US dollars and itmust stop and the answer is not to tax more or punish the American people. We must stop it now or we will send the country into the poor house. Programs will cease to exist. Hand outs will stop. Pet projects of senators and congressmen will go away. But the US will be solvent again financially." McCain will shoot up another 5 points and the BIG O will be dead and finsihed.

So Mr. McCain do you have the courage to say what needs to be said and assure yourself of a victory? The American peo[ple are ready -- are you?

Sunday I preached a message that was part of a 2003 series I did on the book of Mark. It was about what I called - "The Servant's Secret." It is all about prayer and we looked at Jesus life and ministry and how intregal prayer was! I would encourage you to flip over to our church's website - www.newsongfellowship.com - and click on last week's message. What you need to know is that we purposefully did not pray the entire service. No call to worship, no prayer in the worship set; no pastoral prayer; no prayer before the message.... some noticed the absence!  At the end of the message - just as i was getting to drive home the point.... someone stood up and confronted me on the lack of prayer. Listen to the message!

We are but 24 hours away from what I expect to be a thrilling and spiritually exhilirating event. Tomorrow night (August 7) off Broadway actor MAx Mcleans honors us with his presence and will perform is production - Mark's Gospel.  Max literally memorizes the entore book of Mark and then brings it alive through oratory excellence!  We are praying for a major impact on our church. Some 1200 tickets are out on the street! I will report back after the event!

 

Note: This Christmas I reported about seeing Max in NYC as he performed CS Lewis' Screwtape Letters....