We have been called by God into a relationship with Jesus Christ and through that relationship, we can testify to His love for us and His greatness expressed through us. So, whatever He calls us to do, He gives us the power and will place us in locations so that we can express our love for Him and share it with a dying world.  The apostle Paul wrote in 2nd Timothy chapter 1 (ESV):
7 for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
8 Therefore do not be ashamed of the testimony about our Lord, nor of me his prisoner, but share in suffering for the gospel by the power of God,
9 who saved us and called us to a holy calling, not because of our works but because of his own purpose and grace, which he gave us in Christ Jesus before the ages began,
10 and which now has been manifested through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel...

The NFL Draft has become quite the occasion.  Strategically nestled between the Super Bowl and the start off fall camp, it helps to maintain the awareness of the National Football League as a year-round product.  And, with over 800,000 attending in person in Pittsburgh this year and millions tuning in over the three-day spectacle, people are able to see and hear from at least a few, probably, future stars of the game.

And, while it was largely expected and perhaps even anti-climactic that Fernando Mendoza from Indiana would be selected #1 by the Las Vegas Raiders, what perhaps no one expected was that Alabama's Ty Simpson would be selected, not by the Arizona Cardinals, as was anticipated by some pundits, but by the Los Angeles Rams, to join a quarterback room with the reigning MVP of the league, a former two-time collegiate national champion, and a player who has been to three Super Bowls, winning two as a backup and losing one as a starter.  Talk about development.

But, there's something about Ty Simpson - a coach's son who waiting patiently at Alabama to start and who put together a nice, albeit disappointing season last year for Tide fans.  A recent Movieguide article opened this way:

Former Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson can take on the NFL with confidence, knowing his identity is secure in Jesus Christ.

“I know where I’m going,” he said on an episode of “The Walk” podcast. “I have full confidence knowing where I’m going. That’s how I see it. We’re His children, and we’re here to spread His Word because of what He did. But at the same time, if the Lord Jesus comes back tomorrow, like in Revelation, and the earth dissolves like that, I know what’s going to happen.”

“The question is, do you?” the quarterback asked.

The article talks about how his father, Jason, had sent him Scriptures in the morning on a regular basis, and how he has been a "spiritual mentor" to His son.  The article goes on to say:

His faith keeps him steady as he heads into the NFL Draft.

“I think it goes with my faith,” he said, per Fox News Digital. “My faith is very important to me. I fully believe that my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ died on the cross for my sins, and knowing that football is just a minor stepping stone in why I’m on this Earth, I feel like I’m on this Earth for a bigger reason: to get people together to spread the word. The fact that I can do that on a huge stage, the Lord has blessed me in so many ways, that just gives me confidence.”

A former Alabama player made an impact when his name was called, selected just before Simpson by the Dallas Cowboys.  An Instagram post related, "The NFL Draft turned into a moment of worship to the Most High when Caleb Downs chose worship music as he was selected by the Dallas Cowboys...In a moment the world celebrates status, he pointed it back to God. That’s what it looks like to keep your faith first, no matter the stage...Bigger than football."  That was on the Holy Athletes Instagram feed.

Sports Spectrum had reported about the Ohio State safety:

But Downs is more than just a football player. And he’s not shy in talking about what’s most important to him.

“There’s two things that are more important than me, more important than me playing football,” Downs told “The Walk” podcast in August as to why he wears No. 2. “My faith in Jesus Christ and my family. So those two things is what I wear on my chest every game and those are the two most important things in my life.”

His faith has been central not only to his personal life, but also to his platform at Ohio State. In 2024, several football players helped lead a worship gathering on campus that featured worship music, player testimonies and baptisms. When the event returned in 2025 — drawing an estimated 2,000 attendees, nearly double the previous year — Downs was among the players who spoke to the crowd.

After the event, Downs shared with ABC6 television, “God is good...I mean, I can’t take credit for it. None of my teammates can take credit for it. At the end of the day, His glory is above anything that we can do, but we know Jesus is real and we know that if you believe in Him, you will be saved.”

Listen carefully, and you will see and hear elite athletes living out their faith.  And at schools, on campuses, all around our nation, students are committing to live for Jesus Christ.  So thankful for the work of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and how they are training up young people to allow the Lord to live through them and to use the platform God has given them to testify to His love and greatness.  

As I read earlier, the Bible says that God has "saved us and called us to a holy calling."  So, not only have we been born again by Jesus, but He lives in us to empower us to live a life pleasing to Him, not in our own strength, but through the Holy Spirit inside. That means wherever we are, whatever we do, we can bring honor to His name.  Because He is in us.

And as we reflect on what Jesus has done in us, then we can humble ourselves before Him and allow Him to live and speak through us, so that in all things Christ can be glorified.

Can you feel it? Can you sense it?  There is something going on in America.  One could certainly say it's not all good, and I agree with that.  But, in the midst of what seems at times to be a massive battle between good and evil, when evil seems to be pervasive and good is sometimes overwhelmed, the Spirit of God is moving upon the hearts of people.  In the times of the apostle Paul, he wrote to Timothy in the book of 2nd Timothy chapter 3 (ESV).  Here are some snapshots:
1 But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty.

He then discusses the types of behavior that would be carried out and pinpointing those who are "always learning and never able to arrive at a knowledge of the truth," he provides a template for resisting evil:
8 Just as Jannes and Jambres opposed Moses, so these men also oppose the truth, men corrupted in mind and disqualified regarding the faith.
9 But they will not get very far, for their folly will be plain to all, as was that of those two men.
10 You, however, have followed my teaching, my conduct, my aim in life, my faith, my patience, my love, my steadfastness,
11 my persecutions and sufferings that happened to me at Antioch, at Iconium, and at Lystra—which persecutions I endured; yet from them all the Lord rescued me.

In the face of evil, the hand of God is on His people, and because Jesus has defeated the power of the enemy, even though he still roams about, we can be confident that He is with us, doing what He's always done -in Acts 10, Peter proclaims:
37 you yourselves know what happened throughout all Judea, beginning from Galilee after the baptism that John proclaimed:
38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and with power. He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with him.

So, in our society today, there is anticipation that the presence of Jesus, by His Holy Spirit, is doing that healing and redeeming work.   The website for the Barna research group states: "In a survey conducted in February 2026, nearly 3 in 10 U.S. adults (29%) say a spiritual revival could be coming, with Gen Z the most likely of any generation to anticipate such a movement (38%). These figures reflect Barna’s most conservative population estimates of renewal—and even at that level, they account for roughly 80 million revival-minded adults."

Please keep in mind, this is not a survey of self-identified Christians or evangelicals - these are adults in general, and even then, just about 3 out of 10 respondent said revival could be on its way - 4 out of 10 in Gen Z!

The survey summary continues:

When Americans who expect a spiritual revival explain why, they point to a mix of spiritual hunger and cultural hardship.

Across all adults, the top reasons are deeply spiritual in nature. Prayer leads the list, cited by 46 percent of revival-minded adults, followed by young generations turning toward God (44%), a search for meaning and purpose (41%), people experiencing God (39%), and hunger for God (37%). Miracles rounds out the spiritual category, cited by 30 percent of respondents.

And there's a time stamp here - the frame given is the next 12 months.  

Gen Z consists of those ages 14-29, and in this case, only adults in that category were polled, and regarding that generation, "Forty-two percent of Gen Z cite mental health challenges as a revival catalyst—the highest rate of any generation—alongside anxiety (35%)."

Barna CEO David Kinnaman is quoted as saying:

“The research doesn’t predict a revival. And respondents were not given a specific definition of revival, so we anticipate that people have a wide range of ideas of what that might look like. Yet, it reveals something worth paying attention to: a large number of Americans believe one is possible—and for younger adults especially, that belief is being forged in some of the most difficult circumstances of their lives.”

“That matters for Christian leaders. When a generation turns toward faith not out of tradition or habit but out of a genuine drive for something deeper—stemming from anxiety, isolation, and disruption—the Church’s response to that search may prove more consequential than any single cultural trend.”

The anecdotal data is certainly there - I read and share stories regularly about gatherings in which the Spirit of God brings people into a saving knowledge of Christ.   We see individual and community transformation.  People are testifying publicly to the existence and goodness of God.   Now, we have statistical data that indicates people think that some sort of non-descript "revival" could be - could be - on its way.

But, the clear indications of revival can be found in the familiar verse in 2 Chronicles 7:14, offering the prescription for revival and spiritual awakening in a nation.  And, it starts with the Church.  There are 4 conditions: 1) humility 2) praying 3) seeking God's face, and 4) turn from their/our wicked ways.   And, the result: 1) God will hear 2) God will forgive 3) God will heal.  That's the barometer right there.   I believe the degree to which we meet the aforementioned conditions determines the extent to which God promises to respond.

We can check our own hearts and collectively we can take the time and allow for the Lord to work in us...we are directed to humble ourselves before the Lord and certainly we are to pray.  But, there is an extension of that: to seek His face.  What does that mean?  I think you could start by examining the difference between calling out to God and communing with Him.  And, through communion-fellowship-intimacy, true repentance grows.  In the presence of God and His righteousness, repentance results, which produces righteousness in our own lives. 

You certainly can't believe everything you see or read these days.  That's why Faith Radio desires to be a trusted source of Biblical truth and information approached from a Biblical worldview perspective.  Gifted Bible teachers each day on Faith Radio open the Word of God to proclaim this truth.  Because powerful forces are present to push agendas that don't line up with Scripture.  And, we have to carefully process the information, and the way it's presented. In Philippians 1 (ESV), Paul states that he is praying for believers to have discernment:
9 And it is my prayer that your love may abound more and more, with knowledge and all discernment,
10 so that you may approve what is excellent, and so be pure and blameless for the day of Christ,
11 filled with the fruit of righteousness that comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.

The headlines spread quickly of this news from last Tuesday, as announced by the U.S. Department of Justice:

A Grand Jury in Montgomery, Alabama, today returned an indictment charging the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) with 11 counts of wire fraud, false statements to a federally insured bank, and conspiracy to commit concealment money laundering.

That press release noted: "Between 2014 and 2023, the SPLC secretly funneled more than $3 million in donated funds to individuals who were associated with various violent extremist groups..."  Those groups included the Ku Klux Klan, United Klans of America, Unite the Right, and others.  The DOJ said, "According to the indictment, the objective of the scheme and artifice was to obtain money via donations through materially false representations and omissions about what the donated funds would be used for."

Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche stated, "The SPLC is manufacturing racism to justify its existence,” adding, “Using donor money to allegedly profit off Klansmen cannot go unchecked. This Department of Justice will hold the SPLC and every other fraudulent organization operating with the same deceptive playbook accountable. No entity is above the law.”  FBI Director Kash Patel described it as a "massive fraud operation."

Now, the case has to go to court, but, if true, these are powerful allegations.  As Tyler O'Neil of The Daily Signal, who is an expert on the ways of the SPLC, having written a book on the topic, stated, the SPLC claimed that that paying informants in these organizations was necessary for the purpose of safety.

In another article, O'Neil examines the "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville, VA, which inflamed racial tensions.  He says:

According to the Justice Department’s new indictment, the Southern Poverty Law Center—which raises money by presenting itself as the top opponent of “white supremacy” and trades on its history of suing the Ku Klux Klan into bankruptcy in the 1980s to smear conservatives today—paid one of the “Unite the Right” organizers no less than $270,000 between 2015 and 2023.

Not only was the SPLC paying the person—identified as “F-37” in the indictment—but the leftist group was also supervising F-37’s “racist postings” and helped F-37 “coordinate transportation to the event for several attendees.”

To call this explosive would be an understatement. A brief reminder: Biden said he decided to run for president after watching the events of Charlottesville. He repeatedly used the event as a cudgel to demonize Trump, and he mentioned going after “white supremacy” in his inaugural address.

He goes on to discuss the partnership that developed between the Biden Administration and the SPLC, which has long been known for its "hate map," including Christian organizations such as Family Research Council, Focus on the Family, and others.

And, in another explosive development about which O'Neil reported, Texas Representative Chip Roy wrote a letter of response to the indictments.  He has called for further action , including a Congressional select committee against groups perpetrating a Marxist, left-wing agenda.  Roy is quoted as saying: “We know that there are significant efforts underway across agencies to continue to root out not just SPLC but the vast array of Marxists and leftists that are actively engaging in this activity to undermine our society,” adding, “I think it’s important that the indictments are indicative of what we know of the SPLC but we also know that it’s a much bigger network and the administration does, too.”

The Christian Post stated:

The indictment comes six months after the FBI terminated its partnership with the SPLC. The organization has been criticized for labeling Christian conservative groups with traditional views on marriage and sexuality as “hate groups.” At the time, Patel claimed that SPLC "abandoned civil rights work and turned into a partisan smear machine" a long time ago, adding that “their so-called ‘hate map’ has been used to defame mainstream Americans.”

In a piece at The Washington Stand, the digital news website of Family Research Council, Joshua Arnold wrote:

Where the indictment broke new ground was in exposing the unseen double-face of the SPLC — with one half condemning “hate” while the other half bankrolled it. “For years, the SPLC has used its platform to label and target organizations with whom it disagrees, often blurring the line between legitimate concern and ideological attack,” exclaimed Family Research Council President Tony Perkins. “That kind of reckless characterization doesn’t just damage reputations, it has put lives at risk.” In 2012, a gunman inspired by the SPLC “hate map” opened fire at FRC headquarters in Washington, D.C., an incident for which the SPLC has never apologized nor been held accountable.

Again, there is a grand jury indictment based on these allegations, but the case has to be heard in court.  Nevertheless, these actions have shone a brighter spotlight on an organization that has misrepresented the actions of Christian groups as being purveyors of so-called "hate," just because they stand on Biblical truth.  In attempting to fulfill its stated goal to fight what it calls racism, as it's been pointed out, this organization has amplified it.

That seems to be the modus operandi of certain people and groups: they say there are fighting "racism,"  but they end up building it up; some have actually said they were fighting what they call discrimination by discriminating against other groups.  And, Christians seem to be on the receiving end.  For instance, in the name of so-called "inclusion," Christians become ostracized because they stand on Biblical truth on matters of sexuality.

The answer to racism is not creating more of it and it is certainly not solved by dividing people along racial lines.  It is a sinful condition of the human heart, and through submission of the heart to the love of God, who truly can change a heart, we can see others in the way God sees them.  The Church, as I have said previously, should be leading the way in addressing issues of race, because the love of God, as 1st Peter 4 says, covers a "multitude of sins."  The heart is desperately wicked, the Bible says, but God can give us a new heart and new eyes through Jesus Christ.

The Israelites entered the Promised Land, and proceeded by and large to do the will of God, to establish themselves in the place that God had ordained for them. They exercised faithfulness and experienced the provision of the Lord.  But, things changed quickly, according to Judges 2 (ESV), which states:
7 And the people served the Lord all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua, who had seen all the great work that the Lord had done for Israel.
8 And Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died at the age of 110 years.
9 And they buried him within the boundaries of his inheritance in Timnath-heres, in the hill country of Ephraim, north of the mountain of Gaash.
10 And all that generation also were gathered to their fathers. And there arose another generation after them who did not know the Lord or the work that he had done for Israel.

One. Generation.  That's all it took.  That's why we must reach future generations with the gospel of Christ and testify to His faithfulness.

Johann Klaassen's grandson had, as CBN.com puts it, "expressed an interest in spiritual matters."   He began to think about what he could relate to his grandchildren for the future. He said, "I thought, you know, if I recorded the Bible, I could give it to him, and he would have grandpa's voice forever," adding, "We're only here for a short period of time, so what can we leave?"

So, each day for a year, he took a portable audio recorder and spoke God's Word. The article said, "Klaassen utilized a 'Read the Bible in a Year' plan and began recording his reading of scripture on January 1, 2025. That allowed to complete his project in one year.

Even though admittedly there were struggles to read the designated passage for each day, he didn't give up, didn't back off - kept his eyes on the goal!  The CBN story related:

After completing more than 500 recordings, Klaassen loaded the MP3 files onto colored flash drives, gift-wrapped them, and presented them to his five grandchildren on Christmas Day.

"They loved it," Klaassen said of his grandkids' reaction. "They were like, 'Whoa, dude, grandpa - go gramps.' They were fired up."
 
A family member recorded the touching gift exchange on video, which has now been viewed by millions online.

Klaassen commented on the online response: "Power of Christ. Power of the Holy Spirit. God works in mysterious ways, and this is pretty mysterious."  And, he desires that his family members and others will be impacted.

Just as I thought regarding America Reads the Bible last week in Washington, as the Bible tells us, the Word of God will not return void.  The truth of Scripture is a powerful force through which lives are transformed.  So, what this grandfather, in his early 70's, is leaving behind is timeless and priceless.

We can also consider what the Lord may be leading us to do in order to reach the next and future generations with His truth.  Faith Radio is in the midst of our "Reaching the Next Generation" campaign in which we are asking 350 people to give a thousand dollars for needed equipment upgrades on our facility at WLBF in Montgomery.  You can learn more through our website or app.

It's a sad account from the book of Judges.  After ALL that the Lord had done for His people, still a generation came that didn't know God; didn't even know about His faithfulness to Israel.  Verse 11 of Judges 2 says, "And the people of Israel did what was evil in the sight of the Lord and served the Baals."  We have to keep the Word of God flowing. We must be faithful to know His Word, speak His Word, and do His Word - shining the light of Christ!

And, please keep in mind, Johann Klaassen, read the Word out loud every day for a year. Every day.  What a reminder of the importance of consistent time in Scripture, regular time with the Lord.

I believe that God's Word is living and active.
I believe that God's Word brings light.
I believe that God's Word is the absolute truth.
I believe that the Word of God will not return void.
I believe that the Holy Scriptures are the authoritative, infallible Word of God.

The Bible contains the principles and proclamation of God's power.  And, there is power when they are read.

Psalm 119 opens up by stating (ESV):
1 Blessed are those whose way is blameless,
    who walk in the law of the Lord!
2 Blessed are those who keep his testimonies,
    who seek him with their whole heart,
3 who also do no wrong,
    but walk in his ways!
4 You have commanded your precepts
    to be kept diligently.
5 Oh that my ways may be steadfast
    in keeping your statutes!
 
Picture this: 84 hours of Bible reading by some 400-500 Christian leaders, entertainers, lawmakers, and influencers.  Streamed live over a dedicated platform.  Originating from the nation's capital in Washington, DC.  

Great American Family, whose streaming platform, Great American Pure Flix, streamed the Bible reading, said in a press release:

Since launching April 19, millions have watched portions of the 84-hour, cover-to-cover Bible reading—held in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary—via Pure Flix or in person. Earlier in the week, a recorded reading by President Donald Trump from 2 Chronicles 7:11–22 marked a historic moment—the first time since Ronald Reagan that a sitting president has publicly read the passage.

The press release also noted, "Franklin Graham closed the week with a prayer of salvation, inviting viewers and those in attendance to personally respond to the Gospel and place their faith in Christ, bringing the national reading to a deeply personal and prayerful conclusion."

After reading the Bible with the Samaritan's Purse team earlier in the week, Franklin Graham was also in attendance at the White House Correspondents' Dinner about a half-hour away from Museum of the Bible at the Washington Hilton, where shots were fired during the event, which was attended by President Trump, other Cabinet members, and members of the press.  Graham posted on X: "We are still learning details, but I am grateful to God that the President of the United States is safe and that no innocent people were harmed. It could have been much worse. I’m tremendously thankful for our Secret Service and law enforcement. It was incredible to witness these highly trained experts spring into action to get President @realDonaldTrump, the First Lady, and our nation’s leaders out quickly and efficiently...I thank God that America has such a great leader. Pray for our President."

And, just a note, in 1981, at the same hotel, the Washington Hilton, an attempt was made on President Reagan's life.  Erika Kirk, the widow of Charlie Kirk, who was murdered at a rally on a Utah college campus, was also in attendance, having read Scripture at America Reads the Bible the day before.

I have seen comments online about the occurrence of this mass Bible reading and assassination attempt occurring during the same week. That ballroom was about 30-minutes away from Museum of the Bible in the VERY SAME CITY.  Do you think that the enemy was pleased with Scripture being read over our country?  I say certainly not.  Could the actions of a potential assassin have been part of the enemy's response to America Reads the Bible.  And, consider this: can you imagine if the alleged perpetrator had been successful?  Do you believe that something worse could have been prevented due to prayer and faithful proclamation of Scripture?  Both of those components have been pointed out as contributing factors to the suspect's failure to breach the ballroom and take a single life.

The suspect, by the way, according to the New York Post, "...sent a chilling anti-President Trump manifesto to his family just before opening fire — calling himself the 'Friendly Federal Assassin'..."  The Post said that his "targets were “Administration officials (not including [FBI Director Kash] Patel)… prioritized from highest-ranking to lowest."  He also said: “I am no longer willing to permit a pedophile, rapist, and traitor to coat my hands with his crimes..." The Post also related this about suspect Cole Allen:

Allen referred to his Christian faith several times in the document within a list of “rebuttals” to imagined objections to his actions. He also made mention of hot-button political issues like the Trump administration’s strikes on Venezuelan drug boats and the detention of illegal migrants.

“Turning the other cheek is for when you yourself are oppressed. I’m not the person raped in a detention camp. I’m not the fisherman executed without trial,” Allen wrote in the deranged document, which a relative provided to police, officials said.

“I’m not a schoolkid blown up, or a child starved, or a teenage girl abused by the many criminals in this administration. Turning the other cheek when *someone else* is oppressed is not Christian behavior; it is complicity in the oppressor’s crimes.”

I don't believe in coincidence, and we are in a period of time, I believe, of intensified spiritual activity.  There was a report of protestors outside the dinner calling for the death of "all of them."  It was reported that the President's motorcade was attacked.  I think that something was going on in the heavenlies last Saturday night.

So, how do we respond?  We need to pray like never before for the leaders of our nation. Not only are there domestic terrorists who are bent on doing violence, but we are involved in military action against a nation that has long brutalized its people under subjection to a violent ideology.  

The work of the enemy is certainly apparent.  But, the enemy himself has been brought under subjection under the feet of Jesus.  The battle is intense, and God's people stand in a position of responsibility to pray and submit to Scripture.  In our churches and in our homes. Each day, we should strive to communicate with Jesus by our prayers and listen to Him communicate with us through His Word and by the illumination of the Spirit in accordance with that Word.

The unprecedented event called America Reads the Bible took place all last week at the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC, culminating with the reading of Revelation 22 reportedly around the same time in which a would-be assassin attempted to breach security at the Washington Hilton about a half-hour away from the Museum.

The event was led by the founder of Christians Engaged, Bunni Pounds, and featured 84 hours of Bible reading by some 400-500 Christian leaders, entertainers, lawmakers, and influencers.  It was streamed live on Great American Pure Flix.  Its parent company, Great American Family, said in a press release:

Since launching April 19, millions have watched portions of the 84-hour, cover-to-cover Bible reading—held in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary—via Pure Flix or in person. Earlier in the week, a recorded reading by President Donald Trump from 2 Chronicles 7:11–22 marked a historic moment—the first time since Ronald Reagan that a sitting president has publicly read the passage.

The press release went on to say: "Franklin Graham closed the week with a prayer of salvation, inviting viewers and those in attendance to personally respond to the Gospel and place their faith in Christ, bringing the national reading to a deeply personal and prayerful conclusion."

A federal appeals court, in a ruling by the full court, decided by one vote, has ruled the Texas law mandating the 10 Commandments to be posted in public school classrooms across the state to be constitutional.  FoxNews.com reported: "In a 9–8 ruling, the 17-member Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals held that Senate Bill 10, the law passed by Texas' ...legislature, does not violate either the Constitution’s Establishment Clause or the Free Exercise Clause."

Jonathan Saenz, the President of Texas Values, is quoted as saying: "Today’s ruling confirms that our state can honor the moral heritage that undergirds our legal system without violating the First Amendment," adding, "This decision makes clear that acknowledging the historical foundations of our laws is not only permissible—it is fully consistent with the Constitution."  

The Fox story also notes that, "...S.B. 10 requires that a 'conspicuous' copy of the Ten Commandments be displayed in every classroom in every public school and open-enrollment charter school in Texas. The court ruled that it was not bound by Stone v. Graham, a 1980 U.S. Supreme Court case in which the justices struck down a Kentucky law requiring public schools to post religious texts in classrooms."  Why? Because it relied on what was known as the Lemon test, which required a religious display to have a "secular purpose."  That was set aside by Kennedy v. Bremerton, as First Liberty President, CEO, and Chief Counsel Kelly Shackelford stated on the organization's website; he said: "As the Fifth Circuit correctly concluded, posting the Ten Commandments in schools clearly meets the Kennedy “history and tradition” test."

Jennifer Melle is a nurse in the U.K. who believes in taking her Christian faith to work with her.  She used male pronouns in reference to a convicted male pedophile who presented as a women, and was suspended from her job under threat of termination.  That's according to WORLD Magazine, quoting from the Christian Legal Centre, which announced that Melle's employer, St. Helier Hospital, had settled with her.

As the article notes and WORLD had reported, she had been restored to her job back in February after a hearing before the National Health Service.   She had been scheduled to testify at an "employment tribunal" earlier this month, but she did not because the settlement was reached prior to that hearing.  But, her legal issues are not over - there are pending investigations by the hospital over her use of male pronouns, as well as her speaking out to the media about her situation.

It is also striking that Melle was punished after, as BBC reports, she was "racially abused" by a male posing as a woman - after she addressed the man as "Mr."  Melle is quoted in the article as saying, "No nurse or other medical professionals should ever have to face what I have faced simply for telling the truth, doing their job, and reporting racist abuse and physical threats from a patient."

Consider what is occurring around us:
*Amidst positive economic signs, people are nervous about monetary issues and providing for their families.
*Mental health issues are more numerous.  Anxiety and depression are rampant.
*There is conflict all around the world.
*Anger is seemingly more intensified on social media platforms.

The list goes on and on.  There, I got that out of my system.  Wow, what opportunities we have to share the hope of Jesus Christ.

Jesus said in Matthew 5 (ESV):
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
5 “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
6 “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.

He's a rising social media influencer - and how we need people entering that fray to shine the light of Christ, and recently he said this to CBN News: "There’s a hunger for things that are deeper...I think there’s a hunger for things that are meaningful. I think there’s a hunger for spiritual formation and walking in, I would say, the truest sense of reality.”

He also said, "Prior to COVID, we just kind of floated and did our own thing,” adding, “It reminds me a lot of the time right after 9/11 … there was this like clarity that seemed to have came over people and they were curious and interested.”  He also noted another cultural moment - the death of Charlie Kirk - which he believes has caused a "bump" in attendance at his church.

This influencer is known as Ruslan KD.  He's not from around here, telling CBN several years ago: "I’m … ethnically Armenian...My father is full Armenian. My mother is adopted by an Armenian family in Azerbaijan — Baku. So, that’s the city we come from is Baku, right in the Middle East, off the Caspian Sea.”

His family was adversely affected by the Armenian Genocide; his father left the family to go to Moscow for a season.  But, ultimately the family ended up in America.  But, his experience in church was negative and he encountered abuse.  He began to smoke and sell marijuana and break into people's houses. 

While doing community service hours, Ruslan heard the gospel for the first time.  The CBN story says:

...when Ruslan got his first job at Pizza Hut, his manager gave him a copy of Josh McDowell’s “The New Evidence That Demands A Verdict,” a book that gave him answers to his biggest questions.

“Fast forward, I end up fully surrendering my life to Jesus at the end of my junior year of high school,” Ruslan said.

The process of growth and learning continued, with Ruslan honing his music skills and becoming a popular Christian YouTuber.

He started on YouTube in 2015, but things kicked into gear during COVID.  He relates: “During the pandemic, people started asking my opinion on other things,” adding “They knew that I was a Christian, and so I was doing kind of like music reviews. I had seen some success as an independent musician, and people just started asking my opinions on other things.”  CBN reports: "Soon, his love for the Bible, teaching, and social media coalesced. Ruslan started taking his views on the issues — through a Christian lens — to YouTube, and the rest is, well, history."

In the most recent CBN story, Ruslan pinpointed cultural moments that have provided opportunities for the spread of the gospel: 9/11, COVID, Charlie Kirk.  But, Ruslan addressed what he calls a "hyper, hyper, hyper skepticism of all institutions."  The article says, "This has created a distrust that, at moments, might descend into unhealthy places — including 'a hyper conspiratorial rabbit hole,' as people are now more apt to doubt everything."

As Ruslan KD can remind us, in the midst of doubt and distrust, people are looking for something - or Someone - to believe in.  A hunger has been created, and they are seeking something real and authentic to bring clarity for our lives. Jesus promised to fill the hunger and thirst of our souls, as the Bread of Life who brings living water through the Holy Spirit.

We have to be careful to watch our response to cultural trends - we can easily become discouraged in light of world events.  Yet, if we are tethered to the truth of Christ, we can find stability and satisfaction in Him and see world challenges as real-world opportunities to testify to the reality of Jesus.

We continue to see the outward signs of God moving among His people, and bringing new people into the Kingdom of God through a relationship with Jesus Christ.  The hope of the gospel is being demonstrated far and wide to counter a deep-seated sense of despair, and the presence of the Lord, as it always has been, is available to bringing hope and healing. The Bible says this in Malachi 4 (ESV), in the final chapter of the Old Testament:
1 For behold, the day is coming, burning like an oven, when all the arrogant and all evildoers will be stubble. The day that is coming shall set them ablaze, says the Lord of hosts, so that it will leave them neither root nor branch.
2 But for you who fear my name, the sun of righteousness shall rise with healing in its wings. You shall go out leaping like calves from the stall.

Can we confidently say that the sun - the Son - of righteousness is rising?  There are pockets of hope that indeed the Lord is moving in powerful ways.

And, as the Bible Society in the UK had said several years ago as the result of survey data, there is a "quiet revival" reported among young people in that country.  However, a promising 2024 survey conducted by YouGov has been withdrawn, according to The Christian Post, which said the survey organization said recently "that it had re-analyzed its data collection. The research group found that the data sample for 'The Quiet Revival' report contained 'a number of respondents who we can now identify as fraudulent.'”

A previous Christian Post article had reported that YouGov's "report indicated that the proportion of adults in England and Wales who both identify as Christian and attend church at least once a month had risen from 8% in 2018 to 12% in 2024."  Also, "Among 18 to 24-year-olds, the figure reportedly increased from 4% to 16%, with more than a fifth of young men in that age bracket reported to be attending monthly — a particularly sharp rise. Women of the same age group were also reported to have increased attendance, from 4% to 12%."

So was, or is, this "quiet revival" fiction?  Paul Williams, CEO of The Bible Society is encouraged by data from other sources; The Christian Post related:

“This wider picture is also supported by a number of other surveys, based on probability sampling, which point to an increased engagement in faith among young adults compared to older generations,” the Christian CEO said.

Williams pointed to research such as the Ipsos MORI 2023 Global Religion Survey, which found that, on average across 26 countries, 40% say they believe in God as described in holy scriptures. Twenty percent said they believe in a higher power.

“While religious identity overall is shifting from ‘Christian’ to ‘no religion,’ Christianity in Britain appears to be moving from a declining nominal faith to a committed and active one, as cultural shifts — especially among younger people — encourage a more proactive search for identity, meaning and purpose,” Williams said, directing people to Bible Society’s new report, “The Quiet Revival one year on: what's the story?”

That is from a statement by Bible Society CEO Paul Williams.

And, there are trends that have emerged that can bring hope.  That report, "The Quiet Revival one year on: what's the story?” summarizes trends that it has tracked or observed:

That 4th trend is especially important: there is "a decline in nominal faith, and a growth in active faith."  

So, in the remnants of the discredited YouGov study, there are still reasons to believe that God is at work in the UK - and around the world, including the US.  But, there is a dichotomy out there between the professing believers who don't necessarily hold to a Biblical worldview and those who are living out what is called in that report an "active faith." George Barna has released a copious amount of data showing the disconnect among people who are nominal Christians and those who are not.  

We should always make sure that our lives are heading in that positive direction.  We should certainly guard against regressing in our Christian walk, but standing still - marking time - can lure us to think that we are OK spiritually, when we really are not.  Each day, we should be striving for signs of spiritual growth, and that comes through our personal time with God, which consists of prayer, time in the Word, and listening to the direction of the Holy Spirit, so that we can reflect His presence in our lives.  Out of our "quiet time" can grow a "quiet revival" that will turn up the volume on our Christian witness.

The twisting of biology in our culture has led to some errant, even harmful, ideas with regard to gender.  Now, you have those who believe that a person can have a biological sex that was "assigned," presumably based on parents' or a doctors choice, and a different gender that is based on opinion, or feeling.  This leads to confusion and despair.  Jesus taught on gender, the definition of marriage, and the sanctity of it in Mark chapter 10 (ESV):
6 But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ 
7 ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife,
8 and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two but one flesh.
9 What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate.”

The words of Tennessee Senator Marsha Blackburn have rung out throughout the last few years, since she asked prospective U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson to define the word, woman.  As USA Today reported at the time:

Jackson, appearing confused, responded, "I’m not a biologist.”

Blackburn chided Jackson, claiming that "the fact that you can’t give me a straight answer about something as fundamental as what a woman is underscores the dangers of the kind of progressive education that we are hearing about."

This type of progressive mindset that was identified by Sen. Blackburn in that Senate confirmation hearing continues to flourish today.   The Daily Citizen of Focus on the Family spotlighted a controversy in the state of Florida, the fire of which was lit by a contestant in the Miss America pageant, Miss North Florida Kayleigh Bush.  The article relates:

On their respective websites, Miss America and Miss Florida require participants to be “female.” No additional language or imagery suggests “female” might refer to anything other than biological sex.

So thought Kayleigh Bush when she competed in — and won — the Miss North Florida pageant in late 2024. But when she leafed through her participation contract for the next stage of competition, the Miss Florida pageant, she found the agreement defined “female” to include castrated boys.

The Daily Citizen reported, "Bush, with Liberty Counsel’s help, tried to negotiate, arguing the contract’s definition of 'female' violated her religious belief that sex is binary and immutable."  But Miss America held fast to that definition, and Kayleigh withdrew rather than 'agree to compete against boys and promote sex rejecting surgeries.'"

Florida's Attorney General has written a letter to the Miss America Organization, in which he stated: "These organizations cannot operate under the false and misleading title of ‘Miss’ if indeed they are open to male participants,” adding, "By promoting their competitions as female-only and then surreptitiously allowing certain men to compete, Miss America and Miss Florida are engaging in a wrongful bait-and-switch advertising scheme targeting young women."

Well, CBN.com reports that the Miss America organization has made a revision to its policy; it says that, "This year, the law office for the Miss America Organization updated its definition of 'biological woman' as a person having 'two x chromosomes.'"

The CBN article stated:

Mallory Hudson, communications manager for Miss America HQ, confirmed the change to the Washington Times, saying, “The current eligibility policy as to gender was formally updated in the second half of 2024 and was revised again in 2026 to ensure consistency, transparency, and respect for all individuals who meet the qualifications to compete."

But, the attorney for the organization decided to take potshots at Kayleigh Bush and Liberty Counsel, basically saying that Miss America didn't do what it plainly did - Stuart Moskovitz stated, "To be clear, we have not altered our policy as the result of Kayleigh Bush's claims. We have merely clarified the language so there can be no doubt as to the intent of the provision. Both the original language and the clarification were designed to prevent men from participating in the competition..."

Mat Staver, Founder and Chairman of Liberty Counsel is quoted regarding their expected endgame of this case, "Miss America should now reinstate the benefits of Bush's crown, including the scholarship that she rightfully deserves."

Beware of gaslighting - that's certainly what seems to be taking place here.  People will attempt to shade the truth by telling you that you did not see what you plainly did.  Or, try to persuade you that you saw something that wasn't there.

I think you could say this whole business of separating the definition of "sex" from "gender" is a form of gaslighting - people are being told their biological sex is different than what their feelings are telling them - now being referred to as "gender."  Feelings can be deceiving - we have to bring our feelings under the submission of the Holy Spirit. Feelings can be confusing, causing people to think they're born in the wrong bodies or that some unnamed someone, "assigned" them a gender.  Well, in a sense that's true, because biology - creation - is evidence of the design of God.  We can be encouraged to tell the truth and to not necessarily believe everything we see - or what we're told that we have seen.

We have to make sure that we are properly listening to the direction of the Holy Spirit and that we are properly placed in order to accomplish God's purposes.  He calls on us to take what He has given us, whether it be spiritual or natural abilities, or even financial resources, in order to help others.  In Acts 16 (ESV), we can read about a plea from a certain group of people:
6 And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia.
7 And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them.
8 So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas.
9 And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.”
10 And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.  

According to the "Reach the Nations" blog from ABWE, "When the apostle Paul responded to this vision from the Holy Spirit (the “Macedonian call”) in God’s providence, a church was successfully planted, and the gospel spread."  The post added, "However, this famous call was not the last plea Paul received from Macedonia."  It quoted from 2nd Corinthians chapter 8, which says:
1 We want you to know, brothers, about the grace of God that has been given among the churches of Macedonia,
2 for in a severe test of affliction, their abundance of joy and their extreme poverty have overflowed in a wealth of generosity on their part.
3 For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord,
4 begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints—
5 and this, not as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then by the will of God to us.

Blog post author Lee Jantzen wrote, "The first call Paul received was for help, the second call was a plea to allow them to help others by including them in the offering Paul was collecting for the church in Jerusalem."  He asks, "When was the last time you or I 'begged earnestly' for the chance to give to the Lord’s work?"

There are number of factors that contribute to the progress of the work of God and the spread of the Word of God.  And, finances are a key part - the Macedonians, even though they were not people of "means," they were generous out of their means.

Cheryl Chumley of The Washington Times, who has been a Meeting House guest in the past, wrote this recently:

The New York Times just reported that the once-ballyhooed Giving Pledge that saw dozens of billionaires publicly promise to distribute half their fortunes to charities has fallen out of favor and now there’s a sort of backlash taking place — indeed, a sort of backtracking, where the promised distributions aren’t happening and the signatories themselves are removing their names.

Cheryl shared, "The Giving Pledge is a philanthropic endeavor founded in 2010 by Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates to encourage fellow billionaires to give at least half of their money and possessions to various charities..."  She writes that the Times stated: “It was unmistakably fashionable [in 2010] to sign the Giving Pledge, which launched with [Charlie] Rose’s gauzy TV interview and a Fortune cover story. The project was born in an era when people like Mr. Gates epitomized a humanitarian culture that espoused both big capitalism and big philanthropy. Being seen as a good billionaire who gave back was important. … Now it’s stylish, in a Silicon Valley contrarian sort of way, to bash the Giving Pledge.”

Why has the pledge diminished?  Chumley contends, "That’s because to the joiners, the actual act of giving was always secondary."  

In the op-ed piece, she offers a Biblical viewpoint on charity, "True givers give in secret, expecting nothing in return, and even denying their giving in some instances. This type of giving — of giver — is once again biblical."

She also comments on a story from the Scriptures "...of the woman who was so touched by Jesus that she gave her last coins to the temple, and in so doing, traded her material poverty for spiritual and heavenly riches. Jesus said she gave more than the wealthy because she gave all and from her heart."

Kinda like the Macedonians, heh?

When giving is self-serving, it brings attention to the seemingly charitable or the philanthropic.  When it's from the heart, something - or Someone - is at work.

It takes money to do ministry, no doubt about it.  When a ministry - Faith Radio - is greeted with a challenge to raise $350,000 to replace aging equipment, we become aware of what it takes to reach the world.  We're thankful for people who have already become one of the 350 people to give $1000 to the cause.

But, also consider the resources held by the body of Christ in the world today.  You have wealthy people who are funding all sorts of unbiblical causes.  But, imagine if the Church not only tithed to their local church, but considered how God could use them to further the work of the Kingdom, what a different world it would be.  You might think a dollar or two can't change a heart, but think about how people's hearts have been changed in pursuing what is called the "Almighty Dollar."  

The Macedonians didn't seem to be millionaires, but they did want to be in on the work of spreading the gospel.  Earnestly.  They wanted to use what might be considered "loose change" for a billionaire and participate in God's plan.  When we operate from a Kingdom mindset, we can recognize that God takes all sorts of resources, including the financial resources to change lives.  We can ask the Lord how He would have us use what He has given to us in order to help ignite spiritual awakening around the globe. 

There is no doubt that the scales of justice had been unfortunately been tilted against pro-life people who have had their First Amendment rights threatened and found themselves arrested for engaging in peaceful protest.  The law responsible is the FACE Act, which stands for Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances Act.  The U.S. Justice Department issued a press release last week, which said: "Based on a review of over 700,000 internal records, the report not only details specific ways the Biden Justice Department weaponized federal law, but also outlines the corrective action taken by the current Justice Department to make right the wrongs of the prior administration."

Concerned Women for America, in a press release, highlighted these aspects of the report:

1. The Biden DOJ violated the rights of Americans by its biased enforcement of the FACE Act. 2. The Biden DOJ collaborated with pro-abortion groups to track pro-life activists’ First Amendment activity. 3. Biden DOJ prosecutors engaged in inappropriate conduct and comments. 4. The Biden DOJ pursued more severe charges and significantly harsher sentences for peaceful pro-life defendants than violent pro-abortion defendants. 5. The Biden DOJ sought to provide funding to pro-abortion groups.

The release by the DOJ highlighted actions that it and President are taking, including: "President Trump issued full and unconditional pardons to many of the pro-life Christians unfairly targeted by the Biden DOJ," and "DOJ has settled civil cases to address the injustices and took personnel action against those responsible."  According to the report, "The Trump DOJ issued a directive that, moving forward, DOJ prosecutors may only bring abortion-related civil actions and prosecutions under the FACE Act in extraordinary circumstances or in cases presenting significant aggravating factors."

One pro-life individual who had been arrested in a pre-dawn raid at his home was Mark Houck.  The Christian Post reported last week that, "In a statement published Thursday, the pro-life advocacy group 40 Days for Life Institute of Law & Justice announced that pro-life activist Mark Houck won a settlement of over $1 million nearly four years after the early morning FBI raid on his home generated outrage." The article noted that Houck had been "charged with violating the Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act...in 2022."

It's become quite an issue across the nation as school officials are being directed to keep secrets about a student's gender identity from the child's parents.  And, it has cost a school board in Indiana.  The Christian Post reported that, "School counselor Kathy McCord sued the South Madison Community School Corporation after being fired for refusing to follow a policy that required staff to conceal from parents that their child identified as the opposite sex while at school."

McCord's issues with the school board began in 2021, when it issued a "Gender Support Plan" that, in and of itself, was supposed to be kept a secret.  The article notes: "In March 2023, the school board for the South Madison Community School Corporation decided to fire McCord for her public opposition to the plan."  McCord had been referred to in a Daily Signal article.  Alliance Defending Freedom filed a lawsuit after she was fired.  The complaint stated, “South Madison fired Mrs. McCord for exercising her constitutional rights. And even before its unconstitutional retaliation, it compelled her to speak a viewpoint that violates her religion..."  The school district has settled with Kathy McCord for almost $200,000.

Tommy Waltz is an evangelist with Gospel of God Ministries.  He and his ministry team have visited a number of public festivals in the Raleigh, NC area to share a message about Christ; they have found themselves being told to leave public areas.  Liberty Counsel has responded by sending a demand letter to the Raleigh Police Department; on its website, the Christian legal organization stated, "The letter, addressed to Raleigh Police Chief Rico Boyce, states that city police officers repeatedly ordered Christian evangelist Tommy Waltz and other ministry members to stop preaching, turn off its sound system, and leave public streets and sidewalks during several public events."

The website noted:

Streets and sidewalks are “undisputed quintessential public forums” with heightened First Amendment protection, wrote Liberty Counsel. Since the restrictions were not “content-neutral” or “narrowly tailored to a significant government interest,” nor did they “leave open alternative channels of communication,” they fail the “time, place, and manner test” for restrictions on public gatherings and speech.

Liberty Counsel states, "Raleigh police officers unconstitutionally denied access to public sidewalks, improperly relied on event coordinators’ objections, and misapplied local noise ordinances to curtail the ministry’s speech."  Liberty Counsel has asked for a response by this Thursday, April 23.

There is something very powerful that occurs when God's people come together and engage in corporate worship.  I believe that as we humble ourselves before Him and surrender to His presence, that the Spirit of God will move among us, and we can experience the touch of His hand on our lives - as Psalm 22 (ESV) reminds us:
3 Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.
4 In you our fathers trusted; they trusted, and you delivered them.
5 To you they cried and were rescued; in you they trusted and were not put to shame.

The King James says that God "inhabitest the praises of Israel."

On a Good Friday in Nashville each year for 10 years now, thousands have gathered at Bridgestone Arena for an evening of praise and worship, led by Chris Tomlin.  My wife and I attended last year and already have tickets for next year's event.  Honestly, it's a tough ticket - we waited too late to get tickets in the lower bowl for this year, so I was ordering 2027 tickets the night before Good Friday.  

The website Music Row quotes Chris Tomlin as saying, “I never would have dreamed we’d be 10 years down the road with this Good Friday Nashville concert,” adding, “It’s been quite a beautiful journey and something that I look forward to every year.”

The article goes on to say:

The roots of the event trace back well before its Nashville debut. Tomlin first experienced the impact of a multi-church Good Friday gathering while living in Houston, later continuing the model in Atlanta. When he relocated to Nashville, he saw an opportunity to build something similar, though he admits he didn’t anticipate its eventual scale. Over the past decade, Good Friday Nashville has grown into the largest ticketed Christian concert ever held at Bridgestone Arena, while also becoming the venue’s longest-running annual charity-related event. It now ranks among the most significant recurring concerts in the building’s history, tying with Taylor Swift for the second-most headlining appearances.

And, the proceeds benefit a ministry.  The article says, "Each year, proceeds are funneled back into the community, supporting initiatives tied to foster care and adoption through For Others, the nonprofit founded by Tomlin and his wife, Lauren. The organization has since grown into a national network connecting donors, nonprofits, businesses and government partners to address the foster care crisis."

The event has acquired a reputation for its special guests, and this year was no exception for the 10th anniversary.  Last year, Phil Wickham was among the guests.  This year, Michael W. Smith was part of the lineup, along with Hillsong's Brooke Ligertwood, Dwan Hill and The Choir Room, and an Iranian artist named Golnosh Khorasani, who gave thanks to participants on Instagram, including speaker David Nasser, perhaps best known for his years of service at Liberty University, who now leads For Others.  He also used to pastor in Birmingham.

It's incredible to be in the midst of 15,000 people lifting up praises to the Lord.  And, I believe that God will meet us in our corporate worship no matter the size of the room or the crowd.  We should ideally come into the presence of God with an expectancy that He will meet us that He will show up and do His sovereign work in our lives.

We can also reflect on how we commune with God each day.  It can be in a consistent quiet time, in prayer, calling out to God and listening to His Spirit, and in the reading and study of His Word.  Decide on how you want to read the Scripture, execute the plan, dig deep into His Words, and allow the Holy Spirit to show you fresh wisdom from the Word.

And, throughout our daily activities, we can maintain a sense of His presence.  That can even be through personal worship time, maybe even as we drive or walk. Please remember, listener-supported Faith Radio can keep you company with rich, solid Bible teaching and music that can usher you into the presence of God and remind you of His goodness and love.  You can listen on your radio, through your smartphone, on your computer, and in a variety of ways - through a live signal, live streaming, or on-demand at your convenience.

We have an assortment of amazing stories that we can find in the Bible, which all contribute to the overall narrative of God's interaction with humanity.  We find flawed individuals, sinful people, whom God uses to accomplish His purposes.  And, above and through it all, we find that we have a perfect Savior who perfectly executed God's perfect plan and became the perfect sacrifice for our sins.  In Hebrews 10 (ESV), we can read these words:
11 And every priest stands daily at his service, offering repeatedly the same sacrifices, which can never take away sins.
12 But when Christ had offered for all time a single sacrifice for sins, he sat down at the right hand of God,
13 waiting from that time until his enemies should be made a footstool for his feet.
14 For by a single offering he has perfected for all time those who are being sanctified.

As reviewer Joseph Holmes notes at Religion Unplugged, one of the chosen Biblical characters in the recent Fox mini-series, The Faithful: Women of the Bible, may not have been perfect enough.  He writes in a review concentrating on the Sarah episode:

One of my favorite aspects of the film was Sarah’s perspective on Abraham’s relationship with God. If there’s narrative potential in focusing on the matriarchs of the Bible rather than the patriarchs, it’s this angle. What’s it like to follow someone who claims they’re following God and they keep doing crazy and unbelievable things?

The way the show portrays it, Sarah’s intense loyalty to her husband kept her following, but her doubts led her to find more “reasonable” ways for his promises to come true.
 
But the film also seems embarrassed that Sarah doesn’t have enough Hollywood heroic things to do. So they make a bunch of stuff up.

I understand why filmmakers, in dramatizing stories from the Bible, will sometimes take some creative license to adapt it for the screen.  For instance, I think Jon Erwin and his team have done an excellent job in magnifying the Bible character of David, who is caught in the treachery of the House of Saul in the streaming series, House of David.  Most Biblical dramas will tell the stories in a "well, it could have happened this way," mode.  But, we shouldn't miss the point of what the Scriptures teach us; as Holmes writes: "The Bible doesn’t airbrush its heroes' brokenness; it teaches us to confront our own brokenness and have empathy for the brokenness of others. Even while still holding ourselves and them to high standards. The Bible’s praise for its flawed heroes can give us courage that our flaws don’t bar us from admiration as well."

Meanwhile, Mel Gibson is telling the stories of Jesus through two new films set for release next year, sequels to his blockbuster movie, The Passion of the Christ.  Gibson told Joe Rogan, according to Variety, "My brother and I and Randall [a reference to co-writer Randall Wallace, who collaborated with Gibson on Braveheart] all sort of congregated on this. So there’s some good heads put together, but there’s some crazy stuff...And I think in order to really tell the story properly you have to really start with the fall of the angels, which means you’re in another place, you’re in another realm."  Variety reports that The Resurrection of the Christ Part 1 will premiere on Good Friday next year, which is March 26.  Part 2 releases 40 days later, on Ascension Day, May 6.

And, Jon Erwin is at it again with another Biblical epic - a three-part series called, The Old Stories: Moses, to be released by The Wonder Project, according to Movieguide.  The article quotes from Erwin:

“Moses is one of the most iconic figures in history, and his story still resonates with us today,” Erwin said in a press release. “We set out to tell THE OLD STORIES: MOSES with a cinematic awe and scale that feels both epic and personal. I am especially proud of the cast performances, and I can’t wait for people to see it on Wonder Project.”

Ben Kingsley will star in the title role in the mini-series.

The stories we find in the Scripture all are inspired and correlate with the overall story arc of the Scriptures, which deals with a perfect God loving and redeeming imperfect people. And, we are taught through the Bible how we, through accepting Jesus as our Savior, we can live a holy life, not out of our own strength, but through His.

As it's been said, we're part of His story.  Even though the writing of the Scriptures is complete, their work is by no means finished.  Because the Lord is working in us by His living Word and by our knowledge of Christ, the living Word, who lives in our hearts and produces fruit, the fruit of righteousness, through those who choose to follow Him.

We grow in our faith as we allow the Holy Spirit to speak to our hearts through His Word - the proclamation of truth can be a powerful force in transforming our minds, thinking Godly thoughts, rejecting the ideas of the world, and walking in Christ's power.  We should powerfully contend for the truth in our lives.   Romans 10 tells us that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God.  In the book of Jude (ESV), we can find these words:
3 Beloved, although I was very eager to write to you about our common salvation, I found it necessary to write appealing to you to contend for the faith that was once for all delivered to the saints.
4 For certain people have crept in unnoticed who long ago were designated for this condemnation, ungodly people, who pervert the grace of our God into sensuality and deny our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ.

We are all contenders for the faith, and Faith Radio is devoted to providing sound Bible teaching and uplifting music so that you can grow in the Lord.  We desire to be a trusted source for material that is consistent with Scripture.  And, our primary medium to do that is through radio - the transmission of the spoken word.

The Nielsen company has released a new report called,  “Audio Today 2026: How America Listens."  Inside Radio states, "The study finds that radio reaches 93% of all U.S. adults each month, making it the top-reaching media platform in the country...Even among the hard-to-reach 18-34 audience, radio reaches 89% of the population."

The article goes on to say that, "The medium also dominates ad-supported audio listening. According to Edison Research’s Share of Ear data cited in the report, radio accounts for 55% of daily ad-supported audio listening among adults 18+. Podcasts account for another 21%, while ad-supported streaming audio captures about 15% of listening time."  It adds: "Radio’s strength is particularly pronounced in the car, where it captures more than 80% of all ad-supported listening time. The report notes that nearly three-quarters of out-of-home radio listening during weekday morning and afternoon drive occurs in vehicles."

Here's another "radio" nugget: An FMR / Eastlan Ratings National Radio Listening Survey "reveals that 84% of adults 25-64 listen to Radio weekly. Radio has been remarkably consistent over the last five years, revealing stable dominance in the audio space."  In that age demographic, 63% listening to streaming audio and 40% listen to podcasts.  That's according to the RAMP24/7 website.

And, there's more good news.  Looking at just the media practices of the evangelical Christian audience, Christian Daily reports:

Nearly half of evangelical Protestants in the United States engage with Christian media on a daily basis, and more than two-thirds do so at least weekly, according to new national research released by Infinity Concepts and Grey Matter Research.

The study found that 48% of evangelicals consume Christian media daily, while 69% engage at least once a week — levels researchers say stand out at a time when many media platforms face declining trust and shrinking audiences.

According to the report: "Researchers examined 11 forms of Christian media and found that Christian music, radio and social media rank as the top three weekly touchpoints, each reaching more than half of evangelicals. These platforms serve as consistent channels for biblical teaching, encouragement and inspiration, according to the report."

We need to be encouraged in our walk with the Lord.   Radio, as a form of media that can go wherever you go, including into your vehicle, can be a tremendous resource for spiritual growth.  And, we see that even younger generations are engaging with radio.  We MUST be there for them.  You can find out more about our "Reaching the Next Generation" initiative through our website and app.

We live in times where there are significant numbers of media sources.  Our desire at Faith Radio is to be a trusted source, to which you can turn and hear Biblically-sound teaching and music that exalts the Lord.  We encourage you to make Faith Radio part of your daily spiritual habit through which you can grow.  Turn - to truth.

Today is known as Tax Day, the deadline for filing federal income taxes, and where applicable, state income taxes.  And, as it's been pointed out, when we owe taxes to our governing officials, we can actually celebrate God's provision - because He has blessed us with income.  Kinda changes the focus, doesn't it?  And, our taxes actually go into governmental coffers in order to hire employees who will implement the laws of our land. In Matthew 22 (ESV), we see a snapshot from the life of Jesus, where the Pharisees were attempting to lay a trap for Him - they said:
17 Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?”
18 But Jesus, aware of their malice, said, “Why put me to the test, you hypocrites?
19 Show me the coin for the tax.” And they brought him a denarius.
20 And Jesus said to them, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?”
21 They said, “Caesar's.” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's, and to God the things that are God's.”
22 When they heard it, they marveled. And they left him and went away.

In Romans 13, Paul writes in verse 7: "Pay to all what is owed to them: taxes to whom taxes are owed, revenue to whom revenue is owed, respect to whom respect is owed, honor to whom honor is owed."  Various agencies of government, charged with making critical decisions every day, are funded by our tax dollars.

It was great to have Emily Washburn from The Daily Citizen of Focus on the Family on The Meeting House on Faith Radio recently to discuss the recent jury decision regarding irresponsibility on the part of social media companies.   Several weeks ago, she covered another story, this one having to do with the implementation of employment law.  She wrote about the The Fair Treatment of Religious Organizations Act, which has been introduced into the U.S. House of Representatives, "would prohibit the federal government from refusing religious organizations tax-exempt status or federal funding eligibility based solely on their beliefs about marriage and sexuality."

The article notes, "The act addresses legislative uncertainty caused by the Supreme Court’s infamous ruling in Bostock v. Clayton County, which changed the definition of 'sex' in Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to include sexual orientation and so-called gender identity." I will note that this decision became part of a plethora of attempts to change that definition in other areas of public life; for instance, allowing males to play in female sports is a result of a similar attempt to change it.  Washburn notes: "When the Supreme Court redefined sex in Title VII to include protections for sexual orientation and 'gender identity,' it didn’t just undermine Congress’ original intent — it gave left-wing idealogues legal power over religious employers."

As the Daily Citizen article states:

Justice Neil Gorsuch explicitly acknowledged the problem Bostock posed for religious organizations in his majority opinion, writing:

We are … deeply concerned with preserving the promise of the free exercise    of religion enshrined in our Constitution; that guarantee lies at the heart of
 our Constitution.

Though Justice Gorsuch went so far as to sketch out what religious exemptions to Bostock might look like —rooted in the First Amendment, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act and existing legal exemptions for religious employers — the protections remained theoretical, and religious organizations remained on eggshells.

Gorsuch wrote the majority opinion in Bostock.  And, even the justice was aware of its implications.  And, even the EEOC has fought back; the article relates:

It was only this January that the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) voted to rescind its “Enforcement Guidance on Harassment in the Workplace,” which would have forced federal and private sector employers — including religious employers — to abide by Bostock’s expanded definition of sex discrimination, including forcing women to share private spaces with biological men.

When the ruling was issued, Focus on the Family President Jim Daly was quoted by The Daily Citizen; he said: "There is only one word for what the Court has done today: legislation...Our concern now is for how future courts and public officials will apply this decision against people of deep faith who own businesses, run religious educational institutions and continue to adhere to the biblical definitions of marriage and family. I fear this increasingly legislative-oriented majority has sown the wind and now innocent people of good will and faith will reap the whirlwind.”

It's interesting how certain Supreme Court justices warned of negative implications toward people of faith in writing decisions that threatened them; Gorsuch did that here, then-justice Kennedy did it in Obergefell.  He wrote: "...it must be emphasized that religions, and those who adhere to religious doctrines, may continue to advocate with utmost, sincere conviction that, by divine precepts, same-sex marriage should not be condoned. The First Amendment ensures that religious organizations and persons are given proper protection as they seek to teach the principles that are so fulfilling and so central to their lives and faiths, and to their own deep aspirations to continue the family structure they have long revered."

Try telling that to Kim Davis, the Kentucky clerk who had an appeal of a court judgment against her turned back recently by the Supreme Court.  Or, others who have found themselves rhetorically - and legally - bludgeoned by the force of the LGBT forces.  In our country, we must continue to hold the practice of faith in high regard.  And, recognize that our nation was founded on principles that are consistent with the Bible. Bostock and Obergefell gave special rights to those who practice behavior that conflicts with Scripture, and we should pray and petition lawmakers to make amends for laws that violate our founding principles.

Kudos to the House of Representatives in Tennessee, which voted that "...same-sex marriages do not have to be recognized in the state of Tennessee," according to Nashville's News Channel 5.  This is commonsense legislation that would right an egregious wrong that has opened up the floodgates to the practice of homosexual and transgender activity.  

While we should certainly show the love of Christ to those in our neighborhoods and workplaces who do not hold to a Biblical view of sexuality, that doesn't mean that we should not speak and act according to the directives of the Scriptures.

Sometimes it seems that innumerable topics of speech are fair ground and perfectly acceptable in public settings.  But, let a Christian speak about his or her faith, and all of a sudden, there are issues.  Implications.  Loss of livelihood and dignity.  So many subjects to discuss, but one can sometimes be off-limits.  But, we know why, don't we?  They don't want to hear about and accept God's authority, otherwise they would have to obey it.  Paul and Barnabas experienced that, and in the book of Acts, in chapter 14 (ESV), we can read:
1 Now at Iconium they entered together into the Jewish synagogue and spoke in such a way that a great number of both Jews and Greeks believed.
2 But the unbelieving Jews stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers.
 3 So they remained for a long time, speaking boldly for the Lord, who bore witness to the word of his grace, granting signs and wonders to be done by their hands.

College student Paige Rogers has encountered some "poison minds," working in a coffee shop where her supervisors believed she was serving up something poisonous, or at least they acted like it. First Liberty reported this:  "After being asked by a coworker about her views on marriage and other sensitive topics, Paige respectfully shared her Christian beliefs. Following this, Heine Brothers terminated Paige via text because of those Christian beliefs."

Just like that - talk about the weather, that's OK.  The latest pop star - no problem.  Even those "sensitive topics," if her views had made the "approved" list.  But, talk about Christ - a toxic brew!

Cliff Martin, Senior Counsel for First Liberty Institute, visited our booth at NRB with another First Liberty client, a teacher who had chosen not to teach LGBT-oriented material and was reassigned (the teacher was exonerated, by the way).  He said this about Paige's case: “The idea that an employer can fire an employee for simply voicing a religious belief, after being invited to do so, is chilling,” adding, “No employee should have to hide their faith in order to keep their job.”

Paige Rogers has decided to speak out in a more public forum than the coffee shop where she used to work in Louisville.  She wrote an op-ed for FoxNews.com, in which she said: "My Christian faith is a core part of who I am. My faith in Christ defines who I am and how I view the world. I am a sinner saved by grace and God has changed my heart. Ever since Christ saved me, I now seek to love others as Christ first loved us. That is my joy in life."

She related: "I’ve always been open to answering questions about my faith, so when given this opportunity to share my Christian views, I responded truthfully, respectfully, and only when invited to share."  She was fired - by text - a week later.  That was that - no due process, no chance to tell her side of the story, no sense of fairness.  The coffee company claimed they conducted an investigation, but Paige was not included.

First Liberty is filing a charge of discrimination before the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission.  

And, for good reason - since Paige wasn't allowed a discussion with her former employers, she has sought a national forum in which to make her case, and the overall case for freedom of expression.  She wrote: "People might not agree with my religious beliefs, but alignment with my personal opinions is not the issue. The freedom for coworkers to voluntarily converse and share differing viewpoints without fear of termination is what’s at stake here."  

Plain and simple, as Paige Rogers wrote, "I was fired for my faith. Christians are called to speak the truth in love, and I firmly believe that is what I have done. I hope to encourage others going through a similar situation to stay firm in their faith and trust that God will do the rest."   She said, "My simple request is that Heine Brothers offer the same safe and welcoming environment to its religious workers that it offers to its customers."

Love and understanding grow as we engage in conversation.  But, there are those who don't want to converse, they prefer to silence.  And, believers in Christ have been on the receiving end of that treatment for centuries.  Jesus Himself experienced that pain of silence, which resulted in His death on a cross.  And, there will be times when we face hostility, ridicule, and persecution.  

But, that should not persuade or intimidate us to face a self-imposed silence.  Jesus said we'd face tribulation in this world, but we could maintain a sense of "good cheer," of joy in Him, because ultimately we know that we are not at home in this world, but that we have an eternal home in Him.  And, we should want to take as many people with us to that place; the place Jesus has prepared for those who call upon His name.  

Paige gets it - she believes in a view of the world that is not of this world.  And, that firm foundation in Christ governs her behavior, including the words of her mouth.  We can also speak the truth in love, respond to people in grace, and spread the sweet aroma of Jesus Christ, which is far more savory than anything that coffee shop can brew.  Because we have consumed His living water, we can spread the words of life.

We are fortunate as Americans, even though there have been challenges, to have a Constitution that provides for free speech and freedom of religion.  However, there are not only officials in the U.S. but in other countries as well who have a different idea about these cornerstone freedoms.

Take Canada, for instance.  As The New York Post published recently, from a Fox News piece:

Bill C-9, the Combatting Hate Act, introduced by Canadian Liberal Justice Minister Sean Fraser, passed the House of Commons on March 25 and now heads to the Senate.

The measure would expand Canada’s hate speech laws, create a new hate-crime offense, and add penalties for intimidating or blocking people from accessing houses of worship, cultural spaces, schools, senior residences, and cemeteries.

The article notes that, "Christian and Muslim groups say the change could chill sermons, religious debate, and other faith-based expression, while the Liberal government and some Jewish advocacy groups say the bill is aimed at combating antisemitism, not criminalizing religion."  It quotes member of Parliament Andrew Lawton, who says: "the legislation could leave faith communities vulnerable to prosecution for sharing their beliefs or quoting Scripture."

Mission Network News reported recently on the court ruling against a member of Parliament in Finland who faces punishment for speaking out from a faith perspective. MNN quoted Floyd Brobbel of Voice of the Martyrs Canada, who stated: "The concern remains that the loosening of the definition of hate could, in fact, in the long run, do exactly what they say the bill will not do.”  

MNN said: "At a deeper level, the situation raises questions about how religious beliefs are interpreted in modern legal systems — whether they are assessed on evidence or increasingly through the lens of perceived offense. Some observers see parallels between the developments in Finland and what could potentially unfold in Canada."

While members of Congress are supporting a bill that would restrict the distribution of the so-called "abortion pill" by withdrawing approval by the Food and Drug Administration, state-level attempts to remove one way for women to terminate their pregnancies have been advancing.  Liberty Counsel reported on three states who have taken concrete steps; its website reports:

• "Mississippi legislators passed House Bill 1613, which amends the state’s overall drug trafficking laws, and classifies sending abortion pills into the state as a form of drug trafficking when prescribed without an in-person visit and with the intent to cause an abortion."  Also,
• "Tennessee’s House Bill 5, which advanced out of the state assembly’s House Health Committee to the state Senate, aims to hold out-of-state abortion pill distributors liable in wrongful death lawsuits if drugs mailed into the state caused the death of a unborn child." And,
• "...the Arizona House of Representatives advanced HB 2364 that would make 'providing an abortion-inducing drug via courier, delivery, or mail service' a felony carrying a prison sentence of up to four years. The bill would also make ordering abortion drugs—not just mailing them—a class one misdemeanor, which would carry a penalty of up to six months in jail or fines of up to $2,500."

And, recently, as Family Research Council reported, a federal judge declined to issue a stay in a case brought by the state of Louisiana against the distribution of the abortion pill, but issued a warning to the FDA.  FRC President Tony Perkins stated: "In deference to the executive branch, the court agreed to allow the FDA to complete the review it has promised, but the FDA has not even indicated whether this review has started to this day. The court has given the FDA no more than six months to report on its progress. The court's message seems to be 'we are watching!'"

Times Square in New York City has become one of those national gathering places where people gather in large numbers.  And, on the evening of Easter Sunday, thousands came out to worship the Lord and declare that Jesus is alive!  CBN.com reported that Pastor Mike Signorelli hosted the gathering, stating:

Thousands of people attended the services, packing the popular tourist destination while Signorelli proclaimed the Gospel. It was a moment motivated and inspired by prayer.

The service was also televised globally, with more than 40,000 people watching online. And Signorelli said his team received messages indicating more than 600 people made a decision to follow Christ during one part of the event.

The article went on to quote the pastor as saying, “I live in New York City with my family, so I’ve got two daughters, and my wife and I are just trying to be a light in the darkness,” adding, “And of course, New York City is getting incredibly dark, and whether it’s false religions, whether it’s witchcraft and … we’ve just seen politically it’s an incredibly dark place.”  The article noted, "Signorelli said he was praying about what he could do on Easter to help stem the tide of chaos and felt that doing a service in Times Square would be a powerful vehicle."

With approval from the mayor's office, the service went forward.  The pastor had said, "So I think God’s making a big statement. This is bigger than me, bigger than our church. I think this is really about Jesus Christ.”  He said, "I believe God divinely and supernaturally opened this door.” 

Even though we have professed Christ, have been born again, and have the Spirit of God living in our hearts, we are prone to what has been called, "spiritual amnesia." We are prone to forget what God has done for us.  And, I believe that we are in a season in which God is calling us to remember Him - as a Church and as a nation.  We need Him day by day, and we must be careful that the cares of this world don't choke out the awareness of God.  In Deuteronomy 8 (ESV), as Moses addressed the Israelites, He said this:
11 “Take care lest you forget the Lord your God by not keeping his commandments and his rules and his statutes, which I command you today,
12 lest, when you have eaten and are full and have built good houses and live in them,
13 and when your herds and flocks multiply and your silver and gold is multiplied and all that you have is multiplied,
14 then your heart be lifted up, and you forget the Lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of slavery...

What amazing wonders God had performed in the midst of His people, but how forgetful the people of Israel were.  Yet, the Lord was longsuffering toward them.

I believe that remembering calls to mind another word that starts with "re-," revival.  

As the month of May begins, a revival crusade that was endorsed by the South Carolina legislature will be held in Charleston.  CBN reported recently:

Republican State Rep. Mark Smith spoke with CBN News about why he spearheaded a concurrent resolution, signed by every legislator in the state's House and Senate. It supports the May 1-3 World Harvest crusade and calls for "the voluntary rededication of South Carolina to the Almighty God through prayer, repentance and moral renewal among its citizens."

The measure commends World Harvest evangelist Jacob Ebersole for organizing the Charleston crusade.

Closer to home, Alabama legislators passed a resolution calling for September to be designated as a month of prayer and fasting.  They also passed a bill requiring the 10 Commandments to be placed in public school classrooms.   And, Alabama voters will consider a constitutional amendment to require the Pledge of Allegiance at the beginning of each school day and to allow students to initiate and lead prayer.

Recently, motivational speaker Chris Widener shared about an event on May 3 originating from Jacksonville, Florida called "Revival 250," to call upon God for revival.  Speakers include Tony Evans, Raleigh Washington, Jonathan Cahn, Troy Miller, and other high-profile speakers.

Then, on May 7, the National Day of Prayer will be observed across America, with a variety of special activities planned, including the Montgomery Prayer Breakfast and the state National Day of Prayer observances at the State Capitol.  You can check our National Day of Prayer calendar at FaithRadio.org under the Events tab; you can also find it at our app.

And, with this year being the 250th anniversary year of our nation, there is an event on the National Mall in Washington on May 17 that is called, "Rededication 250."  Its website says:

Join with neighbors and friends from every state in the Union in giving thanks and praise to God for 250 years of His Providence for the United States, in praying that God Bless and Protect America for the next 250 years, and in solemnly rededicating our country as One Nation under God. In speech, song, and storytelling, we will bear witness to the extraordinary story of how God has powerfully and wondrously shaped the United States of America—remembering the people, sacrifices, and defining moments in which God has powerfully manifested Himself in our history.

Sean Feucht will lead a worship gathering on the Mall the night before that special event as part of his "Roots of Revival" tour.

And, that's just in May.

So, what's going on?!?  Perhaps, as a nation, people are waking up - not only recapturing a sense of our history and God's hand on our land, but also recognizing our need for God. In challenging times nationally and worldwide, we need the presence of Almighty God.

Remembering can bring revival, and revival can produce rejoicing.  The Lord desires to bring people to Himself, to bring those who have dedicated their lives to Christ closer to Him and to call others to follow Him, to make Jesus the Lord of their lives.  

But, we must not forget what God has done, not only for our nation historically, but for His Church, which is his appointed entity to represent Him in the earth.  And, we can also consider what God has done in our lives individually.   The enemy desires for us to forget - we must strive to remember and, if necessary, to recapture a sense of what God has done and desires to do in and through us.

The observance of Easter and the events surrounding it give Christians an opportunity to not only reflect on what our Savior experienced for us, but to share it with the world. Realizing we possess the power of the Holy Spirit, we can depend on the Lord to display His glory and truth to His people as we testify to His greatness and love.  In Psalm 40 (ESV), we can read these words:
7 Then I said, “Behold, I have come;
    in the scroll of the book it is written of me:
8 I delight to do your will, O my God;
    your law is within my heart.”
9 I have told the glad news of deliverance
    in the great congregation;
behold, I have not restrained my lips,
    as you know, O Lord.
10 I have not hidden your deliverance within my heart;
    I have spoken of your faithfulness and your salvation;
I have not concealed your steadfast love and your faithfulness
    from the great congregation.

The amazing feats of the Artemis mission into space has provided a greater awareness of what lies beyond earth and the vastness of the universe that God has created.  And, the pilot of the Artemis 2 Orion capsule Victor Glover was recently asked by a news reporter to share comments relative to Easter.  Glover, a committed Christian, responded, according to Space.com:

"In all of this emptiness — this is a whole bunch of nothing, this thing we call the universe — you have this oasis, this beautiful place that we get to exist together," he said of Earth. "I think, as we go into Easter Sunday, thinking about all the cultures all around the world, whether you celebrate it or not, whether you believe in God or not, this is an opportunity for us to remember where we are, who we are, and that we are the same thing, and that we've gotta get through this together." 

The article hearkened back to a spiritual moment in 1968 during the Apollo 8 mission, noting that: "As they circled the moon on Dec. 24, 1968, the three Apollo 8 astronauts read the first 10 verses of the Book of Genesis during a live TV broadcast that reached an estimated 25% of Earth's population."

And, as WORLD Magazine reported: "American astronaut Victor Glover on Monday evening spoke of Jesus’ love in a message broadcast to Earth just before the Orion spacecraft passed behind the moon. While the astronauts were working to unlock the mysteries of the cosmos, one of the greatest mysteries on Earth was love, he said. Jesus said that the greatest command was to love God, and the second was to love your neighbor as yourself, Glover said."

The Easter message and his declaration on Monday night were not just one-offs, but indicative of a pattern of Glover sharing his faith in Christ in the midst of his work with NASA.  

In tribute to the Artemis mission, I've posted a short video online of comments by NASA astronaut Butch Wilmore, who spoke with me recently about his love for the Lord and his trust in Him during a challenging space mission.

The impact of the Scriptures being shared from space can certainly help us to think about the One who created it all.  As former ABC News Science editor Michael Guillen related in a conversation recently centered around the release of his film, The Invisible Everywhere, there is much that is invisible to us that actually speaks to the reality of God. And, as Guillen shared, "believing is seeing."

So, we can learn so much through space exploration, unlocking the secrets of science and pondering the greatness of the God who has made it all.  And, we can regard science as the study of what God has created.  When we think about the nature of and beauty of creation, including its order and design, and the laws that cause it to work, we can give glory to our Lord, who holds it all together.  

And, He can hold it all together for us; Hebrews 1 states, referring to Jesus: "He is the radiance of the glory of God and the exact imprint of his nature, and he upholds the universe by the word of his power."  We can recognize the One who is bigger than ourselves and rejoice that He chose to send His Son, who gave His life so that sin might be conquered and death might be overcome, granting us new life in Him for eternity.

God is intent on getting His message out - He has provided His Word for us, and Bibles are available in many nations of the world: legally in many places, illegally in others.  He uses His people to speak to others about Jesus.  And, throughout our nation, Christian radio is a powerful force and available to an overwhelming majority of Americans.  Psalm 67 states:
1 May God be gracious to us and bless us
    and make his face to shine upon us, Selah
2 that your way may be known on earth,
    your saving power among all nations.
3 Let the peoples praise you, O God;
    let all the peoples praise you!

National Religious Broadcasters recently issued a report based on a new Pew Research study called, Religious Radio Across America.   Among the main talking points are these amazing statistical findings, according to NRB's report:

Roughly 25% of all AM and FM radio stations in the country are dedicated to religious content, a figure that underscores the enduring presence of spiritual broadcasting even as media consumption habits continue to evolve.

Equally significant is the medium’s accessibility. Nearly 98 percent of adults in the United States live within range of at least one religious radio station. This near-universal reach positions religious radio as one of the most accessible forms of faith engagement available today, rivaling even digital platforms in its ability to connect with audiences across geographic, economic, and demographic lines.

The Pew study also notes: "About half of U.S. adults (45%) say they ever listen to religious audio programming – such as music, sermons, talk shows or audio dramas – either via radio or online. Most listeners say they tune in because they find the content spiritually uplifting, relaxing or able to provide guidance for daily life. Fewer point to keeping up with news and current events as a major reason for listening."  And, as the study notes, almost two-thirds of "religious" stations are "Christian" in nature.

And, in a trend that Faith Radio and many broadcasters address, as NRB relates, "Younger audiences engaging with religious content are more likely to turn to streaming platforms and podcasts rather than traditional AM/FM radio, signaling a broader evolution in how faith-based programming is consumed. This reinforces the growing importance of a hybrid approach, one that integrates over-the-air broadcasting with digital distribution.

NRB says that the Pew study "...makes clear that religious broadcasting is well positioned to thrive, especially as it embraces new ways to reach audiences however they listen."

It is gratifying to know that Christian radio, and by extension, Christian programming online, reach a significant percentage of the population.  And, as I'll talk about new week, radio reaches well over 9 out of 10 American adults.

So, God has opened amazing doors through which His message can be shared.  And, by offering on-air and online programming, Faith Radio is well-positioned to reach people in multiple age groups in a variety of ways.  We recently celebrated our 42nd anniversary, and five years after we signed on, our Montgomery facility increased its power to 100,000 watts - the maximum allowed by the Federal Communications Commission.  We replaced our original transmitter 15 years later.  Now, that transmitter is in need of replacement, along with the antenna that sends our programming out from our tower, and the feed line that gets the audio signal to that antenna.  

It's a valuable and massive undertaking that, upon completion, will position us to reach a new generation with quality, Christ-centered programming.  Please prayerfully consider participating in our campaign to raise funds for that effort. Just press the red "Reach the Next Generation" button on our website or app to learn more.  

We are grateful for the listeners to Faith Radio who are dedicated to growing in their walk with the Lord, and remember God's faithfulness to allow His truth to be shared through our various facilities.  We also recognize that we are all called to share God's truth and what He has done in our lives through our relationship with Christ.  Human activity, including the human voice, are key ways in which God communicates His message throughout the world.

As people dedicated to Christ, following Him in whatever role He calls us, we can reflect His very presence.  That includes that call to be husbands and wives, mothers and fathers - the Holy Spirit is available to empower us to demonstrate God's strength and guidance and provide strong examples for our families.  Deuteronomy 6 (ESV) states:
4 “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.
5 You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
6 And these words that I command you today shall be on your heart.
7 You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

The National Fatherhood Initiative has released this startling statistic, based on 2025 U.S. Census data: "18.2 million children, 1 in 4, live without a biological, step, or adoptive father in the home.*  That organization's website says, "Research shows that a father's absence affects children in numerous unfortunate ways, while a father's presence makes a positive difference in the lives of both children and mothers."

In attempting to strengthen fathers and the institution of fatherhood, incorporating Christian principles, Mark Merrill and the organization Family First launched All Pro Dad.  A recent Spectrum News article quoted him as saying: "For decades, we have worked alongside fathers in communities across the country, and we’ve seen firsthand the difference encouragement and support can make,” adding, “Through All Pro Dad, our mission is for every child to know and experience the love of a dad. We’re honored to partner with Ohio to expand this work and help more fathers win the everyday moments that matter most.”

The Ohio Department of Children and Youth has partnered with All Pro Dad "in order to connect Ohio fathers with resources, encouragement and connections to help them stay engaged in their children’s lives."

Just weeks ago, according to the article, "...a statewide media campaign, 'Win the Everyday' launched on social media, digital platforms, connected TV and on signage through DCY and Family First to support the initiative."  The All Pro Dad School Chapter Program and the All Pro Dad Experience will be implemented throughout the state.  

And, a high-profile former coach and sports broadcaster has become the face of All Pro Dad.  Tony Dungy co-founder of the organization, at a press conference announcing the launch of the initiative, stated: "Fatherhood isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being present,” adding, “Some of the most important lessons a child will ever learn come from watching their father show up, encourage them, and lead by example. This partnership sends a powerful message to fathers across the state: you matter, your role matters, and All Pro Dad is here to help.”

So much respect has been shown for Coach Dungy throughout the years - he has become known as a reliable voice on behalf of the Christian faith and the pro-life cause.  Since departing from coaching, he has been part of the Sunday Night Football broadcast team on NBC.

But, no more.  And, in responding to his dismissal, he showed characteristic grace.  He posted on X:

It’s disappointing  news but I want to thank my NBC family for making the last 17 years so special.  I’ll have lasting memories of my time there, especially with Rodney Harrison who has become a tremendous friend.  

God has always directed me in these moments and while I’m not sure what the next step will be for me—whether it will be in football, in broadcasting, or getting more involved in church and community outreach —I know God has plans for my life and I can’t wait see them unfold. And I am reminded of one of my favorite verses in the Bible-Romans 8:28. “God works all things for His good for those who love the Lord.”

Whatever the coach does, I am confident he will continue to shine the light of Christ - and he's already showing that through his work with fathers.  It reminds us of the tremendous role and opportunity that God has in store for fathers to be godly examples to their families, churches, and communities.  

We can also think about how each of us can be instruments of God's grace.  When let go by NBC, Dungy did not lash out, he didn't criticize his former employer.  He submitted himself to God's plans.  And, that's a great example how we can view change, as an opportunity that the Lord has afforded to us so that Christ might be glorified in and through us.  Coach Dungy talked about leading by example, and that's something good to keep in mind as we respond to life's challenges. 

We recognize that our Savior suffered and died so that in Him we can be set free from the power of sin and death.  Because of sin, we deserved to die, but because Jesus was the perfect substitute for us, He took our punishment on the cross and was victorious because death could not hold Him.  But, the Bible tells us we are not exempt from suffering.  1st Peter 4 says this:
12 Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you.
13 But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed.
14 If you are insulted for the name of Christ, you are blessed, because the Spirit of glory and of God rests upon you.
15 But let none of you suffer as a murderer or a thief or an evildoer or as a meddler.
16 Yet if anyone suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed, but let him glorify God in that name.

On Good Friday, I was thinking about what it meant to share in the sufferings of Christ.  That certainly doesn't mean that I would have to die for my own sins, because Jesus did that. But, all around the world, people are suffering and dying because they are Christ-followers. We live in a fallen world, so we are not exempt from suffering - the Bible even tells us that God produces the fruit of patience through our suffering.  

While we may not suffer unto death, certainly there are consequences of sin for which we suffer, even though there may be forgiveness.  There are also manifestations of the enemy - spiritual attacks - in which we suffer.  Christ did not redeem us from suffering, but He suffered so that we might be redeemed.  And, that we may have hope.

I have great admiration for the former governor of the state of Arkansas, who is now our Ambassador to Israel, Mike Huckabee.  He spoke at Faith Radio's 25th Anniversary celebration back in 2009.  By extension, I admire the current governor of Arkansas, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, who once served as press secretary in the White House.  She, too, is an outspoken Christian whom I believe lives out her faith in Christ.

Last Christmas, she issued a proclamation giving Arkansas state workers a day off on December 26, the day after Christmas.  She received pushback for it.  On Facebook, she declared, "I will not apologize for or retract my Christmas proclamation giving state workers an extra day off.  Christmas is the celebration of the birth of our savior Jesus Christ, and if we are to honor Him properly, we should tell His miraculous, world-changing story properly, too."

David Brody of CBN News penned a story about Sanders relating to her 2020 release of the book, Speaking for Myself.  The article states, quoting the now-governor:

Sanders also had to fight, specifically to defend her reputation against liberals who couldn't stand her. "Their whole mantra is all about tolerance as long as you agree with them," Sanders told CBN News. "And because I didn't agree with them on policy, and I was a supporter and a very vocal supporter of the president, I was fair game and everything about me was fair game, everything from my appearance, my weight, my makeup, my fitness to be a parent."  However, Sanders knew who to really listen to. "I wasn't looking for anybody else to define me. I knew who I was. I knew that God had created me for a purpose and that gave me the confidence I needed to go in and face every day."

So, you might say that Sanders desires to live out her faith in the Lord.  And, it has affected dining experiences.  You may remember an incident in 2018, in which she and her family were asked to leave a Virginia restaurant - why?  Because of her working in the White House.  You might even say that she drew hostility because of who she was.  I don't think it was too much of a stretch to say her faith played a role in that.   The Daily Wire recalled that incident when it reported on a more recent occurrence just weeks ago, reporting:

Hours after The Daily Wire revealed the details of the incident at The Croissanterie in Little Rock, in which Sanders was asked to leave after having lunch with two mom friends, and was both shouted at and flipped off as she departed, the restaurant told local press that it had nothing to do with her conservative politics.

“After the party completed their meal, a member of the security detail was quietly asked to help conclude the visit in line with our standard 90-minute table policy,” the restaurant told KARK. “The request was not immediately received, and the party remained for an additional period before departing without incident once communication was established.”

Restaurant employees didn’t seem to get the memo. In a widely circulated Facebook post that was taken as a statement from restaurant staff, an employee called the governor “evil” and made it very clear that Sanders’ politics made the governor’s visit controversial.

Todd Starnes quoted the governor as saying, “Arkansans are known for their warm hospitality, and while that restaurant certainly doesn’t meet that standard, my administration will continue to focus on lifting Arkansans up, not tearing others down with discrimination and hate..."  Starnes also quipped, "And might I suggest that Gov. Sanders consider dining at a restaurant that serves biscuits, rather than croissants?"

She was called "evil" by restaurant patrons.  She has been subjected to ridicule from those who disagree with her.  That's not only bad manners, but it's not the way of Christ.  We decry political violence, certainly, but we can also be careful about not only the words we speak, but the way they are spoken.  

We will face hostility because of our belief in Christ - that's part of the territory.  The enemy wants to destroy us and there are many who want to silence us.  But, as our Savior taught us in John 16, we will have tribulation, but we can be cheerful because He has overcome the world.

Sharing in the sufferings of Christ?  Being called evil?  We are not exempt.   Most of us don't face suffering unto death, but many do.  We may face ridicule because He did and He lives in us.  But, we can respond with confidence in and dependence on the Lord, and we can be joyful and even compassionate when there are those that display hostility toward us because of Him.

Kaley Chiles is a counselor in Colorado, a believer in Christ who desires to offer Biblically-based counsel.  As Alliance Defending Freedom stated last year:

Many of Chiles’ clients come to her because they share her Christian faith. These clients believe their lives will be more fulfilling if they grow comfortable with their bodies rather than pursuing a path of harmful drugs or surgeries. Yet Colorado law censors Chiles from speaking words her clients want to hear and insists that counselors can only help young people by encouraging them to identify inconsistent with their sex. After Chiles filed a lawsuit challenging the law and a divided panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 10th Circuit ruled against her, ADF attorneys asked the nation’s high court to hear the case, which it agreed to do.

Last week, the U.S. Supreme Court overwhelmingly ruled in Chiles' favor - by an 8-1 margin.  ADF summarized following the ruling: "...the U.S. Supreme Court affirmed that counseling conversations are speech and that states cannot silence viewpoints in the counseling room."  The court, in its majority opinion, said that Colorado's law "...censors speech based on viewpoint. Colorado may regard its policy as essential to public health and safety. Certainly, censorious governments throughout history have believed the same. But the First Amendment stands as a shield against any effort to enforce orthodoxy in thought or speech in this country. It reflects instead a judgment that every American possesses an inalienable right to think and speak freely, and a faith in the free marketplace of ideas as the best means for discovering truth. However well-intentioned, any law that suppresses speech based on viewpoint represents an ‘egregious’ assault on both of those commitments.” 

I've been following this unfortunate case out of Ohio, in which a local church, Dad's Place in the city of Bryan, desiring to minister to the homeless in its community, found itself on the opposite side of city officials and its pastor was arrested.  First Liberty noted: "For almost three years, the City of Bryan, Ohio has been attempting to shut down the Church’s ministry through multiple criminal and civil proceeding, including 18 criminal zoning charges, middle-of-the-night fire inspections, and both criminal and civil fire code prosecutions.  And while city officials demand the church install an expensive fire suppression system, the city does not require any of its motels, most of its apartment complexes, and even a senior living facility to install fire suppression systems in their buildings."

First Liberty announced: "Judge James D. Bates of the Court of Common Pleas of Williams County issued a final order dismissing with prejudice a lawsuit brought by city officials in Bryan, Ohio, seeking to shut down the religious activities of Dad’s Place and Pastor Chris Avell.  The decision allows Dad’s Place, a Bryan, Ohio church, to continue operating its temporary shelter ministry free from interference by the city. "

It his ruling, the judge wrote: "...the Court concedes that the Fire Chief’s enforcement of the fire code fails because it lacks a compelling interest and isn’t the least restrictive means of enforcing fire safety. The City has given waivers to other businesses like hotels, but has refused to give the church a similar accommodation. This is fatal under strict scrutiny. Therefore, a judgment in favor of Dad’s Place must be entered.”

Jaden Ivey was once a player with the Chicago Bulls of the NBA, but no more.  He had made a dramatic profession of faith in Jesus Christ and decided to comment on the team's embrace of LGBTQ ideology, writing, according to Todd Starnes: 

“The world can proclaim LGBTQ, right?” Ivey told viewers via livestream on Monday morning. “They proclaim Pride Month. And the NBA, they proclaim it. They show it to the world. They say, ‘Come join us for Pride Month, to celebrate unrighteousness.’ They proclaim it on the billboards. They proclaim it in the streets. Unrighteousness.”

Starnes reported that Ivey no longer has a job because of "conduct detrimental to the team."  This decision has reverberated throughout the sports world, with a number of players showing support for the now-waived player.

Isaac Beck of the Changed Movement, writing for The Christian Post, stated:

The league marches in New York City pride parades, adorns arenas with rainbow logos, hosts Pride Nights, and promotes institutional affirmation of LGBT lifestyles. These initiatives are not private opinions. They are top-to-bottom corporate campaigns designed to weave ever so blatantly into the very fabric of the game.
Yet when a young player like Jaden Ivey uses his own personal social platform to confess biblical truth and dissent from league orthodoxy, the response was immediate termination. The double standard could not be clearer. The NBA welcomes, amplifies and institutionalizes certain ideological messages while treating traditional Christian convictions as toxic and potentially career-ending. One can give God a blanket thanksgiving at a post-game press conference, but if you reference personal transformation or a reality check on sin, pack your bags.

He took Bulls' coach Billy Donovan to task, saying, "Donovan expressed concern that the young man might be struggling mentally."  Beck wrote: "...publicly confessing biblical truth on social media is now being framed as a potential sign of mental instability. When a Christian athlete shares from his faith, the league’s response is not honest disagreement but an insinuation that something must be wrong with his mind."

It's called March Madness for a reason - players performing at their highest level, clutch plays, buzzer-beaters, and an expectation of the unexpected.  Our lives can seem like sea of madness, with chaos, pressure, challenges, and daily decisions to make, but in the midst of madness, we can abide in the peace that passes all understanding, that comes from the Lord.  Philippians 4 (ESV) shows us how we can keep our equilibrium:
5 Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand;
6 do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.

Tarris Reed is someone who keeps his focus on Christ; he plays for the UConn Huskies.  A Sports Spectrum article notes that while Reed didn't make the dramatic game-winning shot, he was a major force for keeping his team in the regional final game against Duke in the second half.  The article relates:

“I’m filled with gratitude just looking around, just so thankful for it all,” he said on Sports Spectrum’s “What’s Up” podcast in January. “It’s crazy how I’m at my last year, going into my last semester, and now I’m realizing, ‘Wow, look at the Lord. Look what the Lord has blessed me with.’ I wish I could have known this in my freshman year. … Be grateful for it, man, because this is it for me.”

Reed said on the podcast that his college experience was defined just as much by his spiritual growth as his growth on the court. Once challenged to read about the life of Jesus in the Bible, Reed now reads Scripture as part of his daily morning routine.

“Jesus just wiped my eyes clean,” Reed said on the podcast. “I got to see the world through a whole new lens. That’s really where my journey began. That’s where the seed — my whole life — just grew and it started to blossom from there.”

Tonight, Reed gets to square off against a team for which he once played, the Michigan Wolverines - while at Michigan, according to Sports Spectrum, "a coach challenged him to read about the life of Jesus in the Bible."  He said, “It changed my life,” adding, “The way I walk, talk, act, speak — Jesus has literally changed me from the inside out. I love talking about the Lord and what He’s done for my life, so I can go out and help others.”

Ben Humrichous from another Final Four participant, the Illinois Fighting Illini, was the subject of a recent Sports Spectrum article, as well, which said:

“I give God all the glory,” he told WCIA in Champaign last weekend. “Finding a ton of freedom in the way that I’m playing again. It’s just fun, and I love that I get to do it with the guys that I get to do it with. So, I gotta give God glory for the gift that this is, and I just want to keep it going.”

Humrichous frequently mentions his faith publicly, such as in postgame interviews and on Instagram. He even had the opportunity to speak at a church in nearby Danville, Illinois, in February 2025. He is also very involved with the University of Illinois chapter of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA).

He is also quoted from an interview with WEHT in Evansville: “My faith is No. 1. That’s what’s most important. That’s what’s going to drive everything in my life. It’s why I can play the game of basketball and just have fun. Because of Jesus, I’m set free from performance and expectation and failures.”

During the tournament, there have been some compelling faith stories that have emerged. For example, consider High Point's Chase Johnston, who made the game-winner in his team's upset of Wisconsin.  CBN.com reported:

"It felt great! First and foremost, I just want to give all the glory to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, it's been an unbelievable season. This is a group of guys that's built on John 15:13. We serve each other, we love each other, and we'd die for each other," he said, pointing to the team's true source of unity.

John 15:13 says, "Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends."

The Daily Citizen reports that Chase wears the #99 to refer to the Parable of the Lost Sheep, and how the Good Shepherd would leave the 99 sheep safely in the fold to run out looking after a single lost sheep.

And several sources report he had Acts 20:24 written on his shoes. It states, "However, I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me—the task of testifying to the good news of God's grace."

And, I have to give props to Rick Barnes, who has coached Tennessee to three straight Elite Eight appearances.  Outkick reported that, "After Friday’s win, Tennessee players and coaches gathered in the locker room, took a knee, and recited the Lord’s Prayer — a reflection of the culture Barnes and his players have built that takes place before and after each game."

The article goes on to say:

Freshman Nate Ament, who has been on campus for less than a year, has already felt that lasting impact.

"If I can add real fast, especially doing it before the game and after the game, just to know that good performance, bad performance, win or loss, Jesus is always there for you," Ament explained. "Your worth isn't in how you play as a basketball player, but it's what Christ has done for you. You're a child of his.

"If we all understand that, it kind of allows us to play with more confidence and play for something that isn't a win or a loss, but to play so we can glorify him."

The article also notes, "...at Tennessee, players say Barnes’ authenticity — especially in his faith — is a major reason they commit to the program."  Ament said, "Specifically for me, it's one of the reasons I chose Tennessee because of Coach Barnes and his faith," adding, "It trickles throughout the whole coaching staff."

Rick Barnes is quoted as saying, "I wish, at their age, I would've gone deeper in my relationship with Jesus Christ...That's one of the reasons why, when I came to Tennessee eleven years ago, we started this thing called ‘Power Talk’, and we have for eleven years. It's a gospel message we have before our pregame meals. It's the most important thing."

I have talked regularly about the way that God will use sports, and those who play them, to bring glory to Him.  So many of these athletes have an outstanding platform through which they can share the message of what God has done and is doing in their lives.  And, that can be inspiration to us to testify to the Lord's love and greatness wherever He places us. 

The apostle Paul used sports analogies to reinforce principles of the Christian faith.  Such concepts as preparation and persistence can be found as we read the Scriptures.  We can certainly approach the Christian life in a similar way, being devoted to God and growing in His strength.

Today is what is known as Maundy Thursday, a day that contains so many compelling images of the final hours of the earthly life of Jesus - from the Last Supper He shared with His disciples to the dramatic scene in the Garden of Gethsemane, then the arrest of Jesus to stand trial before the religious leaders and the governmental officials. We see a clash of spiritual forces, a conflict of authorities, and the culmination of God's redemptive plan through the cross.   Picking up in verse 42 of Matthew 26 (ESV), we find these words:
42 Again, for the second time, he went away and prayed, “My Father, if this cannot pass unless I drink it, your will be done.”
43 And again he came and found them sleeping, for their eyes were heavy.
44 So, leaving them again, he went away and prayed for the third time, saying the same words again.
45 Then he came to the disciples and said to them, “Sleep and take your rest later on. See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
46 Rise, let us be going; see, my betrayer is at hand.”

This is an important and life-transforming narrative.  The cross stands as a central focus of our faith.  Yet, fewer Americans, according to a new Gallup survey, place a priority on the practice of faith.  A CBN report notes:

Newly published data from Gallup found that, in 2025, the share of U.S. adults who identified as “nones” — those with no religious affiliation at all — reached a record high of 24%, up from 21% and 22% the previous four years. Additionally, 28% said religion is “not very important” in their lives.

And, the study found: "less than half (47%) of American adults say religion is 'very important' to their lives, while another 25% described it as 'fairly important' to them."  The article states that, "Only six demographic groups remain highly religious today, with more than 50% saying religion is “very important” to them."  One of those groups: "Protestant or nondenominational Christians..."

Megan Brenan, a senior editor at Gallup, provides this analysis: "While religion remains deeply important to major segments of the population … the long-term trajectory shows a steady decline driven largely by generational replacement,” adding, “Younger adults are both less likely to identify with a religion and less likely to attend services, reshaping the nation’s religious landscape as they constitute a growing share of the population.”

Writer of the CBN article, Tre Goins-Phillips, notes: "The shift comes as a greater number of Americans are abandoning organized religion for syncretism, an amalgamation of different religious ideas and philosophies."  He uses Jude 4 as a verse describing what is occurring in our culture today - the New Living Translation says, “I say this because some ungodly people have wormed their way into your churches, saying that God’s marvelous grace allows us to live immoral lives. The condemnation of such people was recorded long ago, for they have denied our only Master and Lord, Jesus Christ..."

We are in the midst of this season called Holy Week, which features incredible mileposts of the final days and hours of our Savior's earthly life, leading up to and including His death on a cross, followed by His resurrection from the dead.  He is alive and alive in the hearts of the people who have called upon His name and are saved.

Thankfully, the redemption plan is very, very important to God, and we have to be diligent to adopt and maintain that attitude.  The Bible, in the Parable of the Sower in Mark 4, describes those factors that can lead to the Word of God not bearing fruit in our lives. One of those is "the cares of the world."  1st John 2 says: "For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world."  We must reject an unhealthy affinity for the things of this world and press on and press into Jesus, the One who loved us so much that He was willing to endure the pain, the shame, the brutality, the rejection, and even death so that we might have eternal life.