CNN.com - Judge sentences offenders to attend church - May 31, 2005

CNN.com - Judge sentences offenders to attend church - May 31, 2005

Judge Michael Caperton is well intentioned but the means do not justify the end. There are two issues here: (1) Going to church is presented as a form of punishment for convicted criminals; (2) It sets a bad precedent when the state can determine whether or not, when and how you go to chuch. Judge Michael Caperton may hope that criminals becomed reformed by going to church but using church visitation as a form of punishment is not the way to go about it.

Stewards of the Gift of Life

As I traveled on the road today, I felt delighted to see the sunlight, the trees and smell the fresh scents of the last days of Spring. Life in Christ feels good. My mind reflected on the news headlines that grabbed the nation’s attention a few months ago. Everyone was riveted to the news, as the last days of Terry Schiavo unfolded. When considering the question of the right-to-life, the Christian has to comprehend and respect Christ as the Source and the Owner of all life. The unbeliever has willingly decided to retain the right-to-life decision as his or her own. Ultimately, such a person has relegated that decision to the devil. The Christian, on the other hand, has relegated that decision to God – a wise decision (Genesis 2:7). After His resurrection, Christ also gained ownership of death. In all matters pertaining to life and death the Christian must consult God and not the courts or the politicians. As stewards of the gift of life, we understand that Christ has the final decision on the right-to-life. We must be faithful stewards of the gift of life.

Count it all joy to be a Christian

I want to create a place in cyberspace where people can share their experiences as Christians with each other. 2004 was a difficult year for me. God led me to 2 Chronicles 20. Like King Jehosophat, I realized how clueless I was. I learned to pray the Prayer of Jehosophat (verse 12). Here I am in 2005, fully restored by God, financially and otherwise. As a steward of the blessings of God, I must share His goodness with others. Please share with others and me how He has blessed you.