Hang On, Hope is On the Way- New Series

I’m working on a new Sunday School series, "Hang On, Hope is On the Way." that I will be teaching this fall. I’m going to flesh out some posts to help me in the process. Over 11 weeks, I want to explore the Biblical concept of hope by delving into the lives of heroes of the faith and examining relevant Scriptures.

What is 'hope’?. In general, hope is often understood as a desire for something good to happen in the future. However, Biblical hope is more than just wishful thinking. It is a confident expectation and desire for something good in the future, rooted in faith and trust in God's promises.

Romans 15:13, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." God is the source of hope, and the results of this hope are joy, peace, and an overflowing abundance of hope, accessed through trust in God and the power of the Holy Spirit. 

Is this different from the use of the term in secular culture? . Secular hope is often uncertain and not based on a sure foundation, resembling wishful thinking more than anything else. In contrast, Biblical hope is certain and rooted in God's promises, providing strength and assurance. For instance, consider the difference between hoping for an Alabama or Auburn football win and hoping in God's faithfulness. One is uncertain and out of our control, while the other is grounded in the unchanging character of God.

Hope is crucial for Christians. It sustains us through trials and challenges, as seen in Romans 5:3-5, which explains that suffering produces perseverance, character, and hope. Hope also gives us a future perspective and eternal outlook, as described in Hebrews 6:19, where it is called an anchor for the soul, firm and secure. Furthermore, hope motivates us to live righteously and follow God's will, as mentioned in 1 John 3:3, which says that everyone who has this hope in Christ purifies themselves.

Biblical hope is a confident expectation based on God's promises, contrasting sharply with the uncertain nature of secular hope. It sustains us, provides an eternal perspective, and motivates us to live righteously. 

.Here is what the series will look like:- a forward-looking perspective, emphasizing the ultimate hope Christians have in eternal life and glory with God

Week 1: Introduction to Biblical Hope

• Main Focus: Define Biblical hope and contrast it with secular views.

• Key Verse: Romans 15:13 – "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit."

• Discussion Points:

• What is hope?

• Difference between hope and wishful thinking.

• Importance of hope in a believer's life.

Week 2: Abraham – Hope in God's Promises

• Main Focus: Abraham's faith and hope in God's promises.

• Key Verse: Hebrews 6:13-15 – "When God made his promise to Abraham, ... And so after waiting patiently, Abraham received what was promised."

• Discussion Points:

• Abraham's journey of faith.

• Hope through patience and trust in God's timing.

Week 3: Moses – Hope in God's Deliverance

• Main Focus: Moses' hope in God's deliverance of Israel.

• Key Verse: Exodus 14:13-14 – "Moses answered the people, 'Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today.'"

• Discussion Points:

• The Exodus story.

• Overcoming fear and trusting in God’s deliverance.

Week 4: David in the Psalms – Hope in God's Faithfulness

• Main Focus: David's expressions of hope amidst trials.

• Key Verse: Psalm 42:11 – "Why, my soul, are you downcast? ... Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God."

• Discussion Points:

• Psalms of lament and trust.

• David’s reliance on God’s faithfulness.

Week 5: Elijah – Hope in God's Presence

• Main Focus: Elijah's hope during times of despair.

• Key Verse: 1 Kings 19:11-13 – "The Lord said, 'Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the Lord, for the Lord is about to pass by.'"

• Discussion Points:

• Elijah's encounter with God.

• Finding hope in God’s presence during discouragement.

Week 6: Peter – Hope in Restoration

• Main Focus: Peter’s hope after his denial of Christ.

• Key Verse: 1 Peter 1:3 – "Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."

• Discussion Points:

• Peter’s denial and restoration.

• The living hope through Jesus’ resurrection.

Week 7: James – Hope in Trials

• Main Focus: James’ teaching on hope amidst trials.

• Key Verse: James 1:2-4 – "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds..."

• Discussion Points:

• Trials as a testing of faith.

• Perseverance and hope through difficult times.

Week 8: Paul – Hope in the Gospel

• Main Focus: Paul’s hope in the gospel message.

• Key Verse: Romans 5:3-5 – "Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope."

• Discussion Points:

• Paul’s sufferings and hope.

• The transformative power of the gospel.

Week 9: Jesus – The Source of Hope

• Main Focus: Jesus as the ultimate source of hope.

• Key Verse: John 14:1-3 – "Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me..."

• Discussion Points:

• Jesus’ promises to his followers.

• Hope through Jesus’ words and actions.

Week 10: The Early Church – Hope in Community

• Main Focus: Hope within the early Christian community.

• Key Verse: Acts 2:42-47 – "They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer."

• Discussion Points:

• The role of community in sustaining hope.

• Examples from the Acts of the Apostles.

Week 11: Our Hope in Glory

• Main Focus: Exploring the Christian hope of eternal life and glory with God.

• Key Verse: 1 Corinthians 15:52-53 – "In a flash, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For the perishable must clothe itself with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality."

• Discussion Points:

• The promise of resurrection and eternal life.

• New heavens and new earth (Revelation 21:1-4).

• The nature of our glorified bodies (Philippians 3:20-21).

• The ultimate fulfillment of hope in Christ’s return and reign.

• Encouragement to live in light of eternity (2 Corinthians 4:16-18).

I invite your prayers, comments, stories, analogies, testimonies as we begin this on Sept 1.

The Olympic Backlash Defense and the Problem of the Nimbus

Note: It has been a long time since I received so much interaction on a post or controversy since I posted a few things on social media. I normally do not like 'adding to the noise' but the intensity of the debate and direct messages made me do some research over the weekend. While I tend to play peacemaker all the time, it is getting harder and harder as the agenda of far left globalists seem to be in full attack on principles and virtues that have to undergird society in order for it to continue. 

The Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Olympics in Paris ignited significant controversy due to a segment that seemed to parody Leonardo da Vinci's "The Last Supper." The segment featured a central figure adorned with a halo crown, surrounded by drag artists and dancers, an image that many interpreted as a deliberate mockery of a sacred Christian scene.

Religious groups, particularly the French Catholic Church, condemned this portrayal as blasphemous.

In defense, the organizers cited Titian's "The Feast of Dionysus" as an alternative source of inspiration.

There is a problem with this defense in my opinion and seems to have been a strategic response to the backlash rather than the initial artistic intent. The use of a halo crown in the Olympic ceremony directly invokes Christian iconography, particularly that seen in "The Last Supper."

The halo, also known as an aureola, nimbus, glory, or gloriole, is a symbol of holiness and spiritual character in Christian art, prominently associated with Jesus in da Vinci's work. This inclusion suggests a deliberate reference to Christian themes, aligning the parody with sacred imagery to engage and provoke the audience. 

The visual resemblance is significant; Leonardo's painting captures a dramatic moment with Jesus as the central figure, surrounded by his apostles reacting to the announcement of betrayal. Similarly, the Olympic ceremony's central figure, haloed and flanked by performers, mirrors this setup, emphasizing dramatic interaction and emotional expressions. This composition suggests that "The Last Supper" was a significant source of inspiration.

While "The Feast of Dionysus" (or "Bacchus and Ariadne") by Titian is a celebrated work, it does not inherently carry the same religious weight as "The Last Supper." Titian's painting, created between 1520 and 1523, illustrates a mythological narrative with Bacchus discovering Ariadne. Although vibrant and dynamic, it lacks the profound religious connotations present in da Vinci's mural. 

The organizers' reference to this painting appears to be a strategic move to deflect criticism by framing the segment within a broader cultural context. The Italian Renaissance, which produced both da Vinci and Titian, was deeply intertwined with the Church, subtly suggesting that the parody had the Vatican and Christian symbolism in mind from the outset.

The defense citing "The Feast of Dionysus" seems more like an attempt to mitigate backlash rather than an initial artistic intent. The parallels between the Olympic ceremony and "The Last Supper" are more pronounced, from the use of a halo to the arrangement of figures and the dramatic portrayal of a significant moment. These elements align the parody closely with da Vinci’s work, indicating that it was the primary inspiration. The inclusion of a halo and the overall composition evoke the visual language of Renaissance religious paintings, further supporting the argument that the scene aimed to reference and parody Christian iconography deliberately.

Titian's "The Feast of the Gods,"  does not depict Bacchus with a nimbus or halo. The painting, which features a mythological scene with various gods and goddesses, focuses on the revelry and interactions among the figures without using Christian iconography such as a nimbus. The emphasis is on the vibrant, earthly celebration rather than divine sanctity, in contrast to the religious symbolism present in da Vinci’s "The Last Supper."

The reaction to the Opening Ceremonies of the Paris Olympics can be understood through various historical and cultural lenses. Historically, France's persecution of the Huguenots and the Enlightenment's emphasis on secularism have shaped a culture where religion is often private, and public displays of faith can be contentious. This secular stance is a cornerstone of French identity, often clashing with more traditional national values. Art, particularly in a global event like the Olympics, often reflects these cultural tensions.

 The inclusion of the imagery seems VERY intentional. From the left, it was likely aimed at tolerance and inclusion but to traditionalists, it seemed like another attempt to force acceptance or face the consequences. Tolerance and acceptance are two very different things. Promotion is a step farther. Coercion even deeper.

This doesn't anger me, nor do I feel compelled to boycott the event. I want to support athletes in their quest! Instead, I see these thoughts and practices as a natural human expression in a world that rejects divine truth. At the same time, this brings to mind the biblical principle that "God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap."

This calls for a pause and reflection not on our opinions but on Biblical truths. It serves as a reminder of the importance of aligning our actions with God's will, recognizing that His justice and truth are paramount. People are not the enemy. As Ephesians 6:12–13 (ESV) states, "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armor of God, that you may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand firm." 

I always think in terms of people watching me: am I reflecting the truth of Jesus? I hope my reactions to these types of things show my commitment to truth and a love for other people. If we walk around screaming and crying and playing whack-a-mole on everything that defies our view, what am I showing about God's love, patience, and forgiveness of me?

Paul's words in 1 Corinthians 5:9–10 resonate here: "I wrote to you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people—not at all meaning the sexually immoral of this world, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters, since then you would need to go out of the world." 

Paul then goes on to explain that he was referring to people who live in open and defiant sin within the church. We should not be shocked or dismayed when we find human beings acting according to our inherent nature. We should be prayerful and hopeful that the gospel captures the heart of every soul that breathes.

As I was reading a bunch of stuff this weekend, I thought it was interesting and plausible that Titian's painting could have been the O.G. parody or mocking of Davinci anyway!

Although there is no concrete historical evidence directly linking Titian’s "Bacchus and Ariadne" to Leonardo da Vinci’s "The Last Supper" as a source of inspiration, several factors suggest possible influences. Both paintings share stylistic similarities, such as dynamic compositions and intense emotional portrayals. Leonardo’s "The Last Supper" is celebrated for its depiction of the apostles' reactions to Jesus' announcement of betrayal, capturing a wide range of emotions through body language and expressions. Similarly, Titian’s "Bacchus and Ariadne" depicts a dramatic moment with Bacchus leaping towards Ariadne, using vivid colors and dynamic movement to convey emotional intensity.

Leonardo’s works were widely studied and admired by Renaissance artists, including Titian. Although there is no direct evidence, it is plausible that Titian, like many of his contemporaries, was influenced by Leonardo’s techniques. Titian’s mastery in using vibrant colors and light in "Bacchus and Ariadne" reflects an ongoing exploration of naturalism and expressive potential in painting, which Leonardo advanced.

Renaissance artists were part of a vibrant and interconnected network, and Leonardo’s influence on the Venetian school, to which Titian belonged, was significant. The exchange of artistic ideas through patrons, scholars, and other artists facilitated this influence. Leonardo’s "The Last Supper" was quickly recognized as a masterpiece and set a high standard for subsequent artists, including Titian.

Art historians acknowledge that while direct connections between the specific works of Leonardo and Titian might not always be documented, Leonardo’s broader impact on Renaissance art—through his pursuit of realism, depiction of human emotion, and innovative techniques—likely influenced Titian and other contemporaries.

Finally, the supporters of the ceremony pointed to the fact that Davinci's painting was Italian and what did that have to do with France anyway?

I felt like the central figure was not just any branch of Christianity... the primary message was to Rome. Even the Catholic Church in France got it. Replace Jesus with the obese and in their view, extravagant, domineering, and disgusting dominance of the Vatican.

It was plain to me what the message was.... and now there is a lot of "bach" pedaling  taking place.

Sources:

1. National Gallery of Art. "The Last Supper." Retrieved from National Gallery of Art.
2. National Gallery. "Bacchus and Ariadne." Retrieved from National Gallery.
3. BBC. "Olympics 2024: Paris Opening Ceremony Sparks Backlash Over Religious Parody." Retrieved from BBC.
4. ChatGPT. OpenAI.

Our Only Hope is Still a "Secret"

In his timeless work "Christianity and Liberalism," J. Gresham Machen unveils a profound secret that has the potential to transform our lives and society. This secret is the authentic Christian religion, specifically the message of divine grace. Machen contrasts this with modern liberal interpretations of Christianity, which he believes have deviated from its true essence. He emphasizes that the rediscovery of this genuine Christian message, much like during the Reformation, holds the potential to restore spiritual vitality and freedom to mankind.

Machen criticizes what he terms "materialistic paternalism," where the state assumes a controlling role over individuals, especially children, to the detriment of their spiritual and intellectual growth. He warns, “Place the lives of children in their formative years, despite the convictions of their parents, under the intimate control of experts appointed by the state, force them then to attend schools where the higher aspirations of humanity are crushed out, and where the mind is filled with the materialism of the day, and it is difficult to see how even the remnants of liberty can subsist.” This overreach by the state leads to a homogenized society, stifling creativity and reducing everyone to the lowest common denominator.

Machen observes, “It cannot be denied that great men are few or nonexistent, and that there has been a general contracting of the area of personal life. Material betterment has gone hand in hand with spiritual decline.” 

He attributes this scarcity of greatness to the erosion of personal liberties and higher aspirations under the weight of materialistic values. In such a world, spiritual vitality and the pursuit of deeper truths are overshadowed by the pursuit of material gains.

The secret Machen refers to is the rediscovery of the genuine Christian message. He sees this as a beacon of hope, suggesting that the principles of divine grace, when embraced, can lead to a spiritual renaissance. He asserts, “The condition of mankind is such that one may well ask what it is that made the men of past generations so great and the men of the present generation so small.”

For us today, this means looking beyond the superficial aspects of modern life and seeking the deeper truths of our faith. It calls for a rejection of the materialistic values that dominate our culture and a renewed commitment to the principles of divine grace and spiritual growth. This revival of authentic Christianity can restore the greatness and spiritual depth that Machen believes have been lost.

As we reflect on Machen’s message, let us consider how we can apply these principles in our own lives. Are we allowing the materialism of our society to overshadow our spiritual growth? Are we seeking true freedom through a deeper relationship with God, grounded in divine grace? Let us strive to rediscover and live out the authentic Christian message, bringing light and freedom to our own lives and to the world around us.

May we remember Machen's call to rediscover the "great principles of Anglo-Saxon liberty" and seek a new Reformation in our time. Let us turn from the "weak and beggarly elements" and have recourse again to the grace of God. In doing so, we can hope to restore the spiritual vitality that leads to true greatness, both personally and collectively.

The Broom Tree is Planted and Ready and Was Prepared Long Ago

You come to passages in the Bible in different seasons, different moods, different decades and they stay true yet find applications and thoughts that you never remember thinking about in previous encounters.

A passage that comes to me, very often is I Kings 18 and 19.

In 18 Elijah has a very public and dramatic victory on Mt Carmel, yet the story of substance to me is the surprising reaction of the prophet in Chapter 19.

Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. [2] Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, “So may the gods do to me and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by this time tomorrow.” (1 Kings 19:1–2 ESV)

And Elijah grew VERY afraid:

Then he was afraid, and he arose and ran for his life ....

Have you ever run from something that is scary? ... I have.... one time as a boy I jumped a fence and a german shepherd ran toward me... I turned and ran so fast and so full of fear that I leaped over the chain link! The panic! Yes, usually there is danger... but we also are running from something that we can't see anymore, and in our mind the beast is growling and drooling and about to snatch us...

When a powerful enemy puts you in their site... it can create such a panic.  But with Elijah, he had just publicly stood up to the state and the prophets of darkness... why run now? I think it was the nature of her vow... it sounded drop dead serious and it made Elijah not only quiver, but run.. and the running creates thought distortions as well.

[4] But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he asked that he might die, saying, “It is enough; now, O LORD, take away my life, for I am no better than my fathers.” 

I have written some of this before, but most recently it has been used by the Lord to challenge and comfort me as I approach turning 60 in just a few days.

Going from 20 to 30 was no big deal... 30 to 40, I joked a little...but no sweat. I handled 40 to 50 even better.

But as it dawned on me that I was about to turn 60, well, to be honest, it kind of wrecked me for a few months!

So where do we go and what do we do when these thoughts begin to overtake us?

Mental health is a very complex issue and usually there is not an instant cure. In Elijah's case, the Lord intervened in a very supernatural way... but there are principles here that can help all of us. Living moment by moment and taking steps is a type of miracle... and we should celebrate all victories, even the tiniest ones!

This is a testimony of my latest encounter....

DON'T MISS THE BROOM TREE

I wrote a song about this post- you can hear it here:

Under the Broom Tree

 And he lay down and slept under a broom tree. And behold, an angel touched him and said to him, “Arise and eat.” [6] And he looked, and behold, there was at his head a cake baked on hot stones and a jar of water. And he ate and drank and lay down again. [7] And the angel of the LORD came again a second time and touched him and said, “Arise and eat, for the journey is too great for you.” [8] And he arose and ate and drank, and went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights to Horeb, the mount of God. (1 Kings 19:5–8 ESV)

At some point our human energy meets its limit and we fall down... incapable of going forward. In the middle of the desert, the Lord had been growing a broom tree, some of which can grow to heights of 9 feet or more. 

Years previous, it was just a shoot, struggling to survive in the harsh heat and dehydrating winds. But God knew it would serve a purpose ( and many more we will never know) to hide the prophet in pain. And there Elijah was fed by angels. 

On two occasions, as he woke up... maybe years later he thought it a delirious dream ...... but we know better. God feeds us as well when we reach the end of the rope. The text that comes at an unusual time. A song we hear. A stranger we meet. We pass it off later as a coincidence, even at times we run away God's angels- but they won't stop until you have been given enough to finish the journey and get back on mission.

The Lord has put some beautiful broom trees in my life- a shade and retreat where I collect my thoughts and ponder the Almighty.

I'm writing this looking out over a majestic lake, a thunderstorm stirring the waters. I am so alone but not lonely.

Just a note- it doesn't take 40 days to get from Carmel to Horeb and it doesn't take 40 years to get from Egypt to Canaan. But we never get to go in a straight line anywhere when it comes to matters of faith. We fight the path and God has to nudge us bit by bit. This is not a hike in a meadow, this is a wrestling match all the way! And when we finally get there, we always laugh at why it took us so long!

THE AMAZING ENCOUNTER THAT CHANGED NOTHING AND EVERYTHING

So this is one of my favorite passages in the Bible:

There he came to a cave and lodged in it. And behold, the word of the LORD came to him, and he said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” [10] He said, “I have been very jealous for the LORD, the God of hosts. For the people of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and killed your prophets with the sword, and I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life, to take it away.” [11] And he said, “Go out and stand on the mount before the LORD.” And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore the mountains and broke in pieces the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. And after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. [12] And after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire the sound of a low whisper. [13] And when Elijah heard it, he wrapped his face in his cloak and went out and stood at the entrance of the cave. And behold, there came a voice to him and said, “What are you doing here, Elijah?” [14] He said, “I have been very jealous for the LORD, the God of hosts. For the people of Israel have forsaken your covenant, thrown down your altars, and killed your prophets with the sword, and I, even I only, am left, and they seek my life, to take it away.” (1 Kings 19:9–14 ESV)

What a mystery and what a moment!

God asks... "What are you doing here?". Don't you love the questions of God! "Adam, where are you?"

"Peter, who do men say that I am?"

God knows the answers.... but he LOVES the interaction!

And those questions can haunt, can convict, and uplift... sometimes ALL at the same time!

What we miss here is the passion and conviction of the two answers, even though the words are the same!

And it is easy to ask in those moments... "Is God there? and Does He care?"

But even through the winds, and earthquakes, and fires... His still small voice nourishes me to keep crawling. And what is our response? Get up and get on mission.

And the LORD said to him, “Go, return on your way to the wilderness of Damascus. And when you arrive, you shall anoint Hazael to be king over Syria. [16] And Jehu the son of Nimshi you shall anoint to be king over Israel, and Elisha the son of Shaphat of Abel-meholah you shall anoint to be prophet in your place. [17] And the one who escapes from the sword of Hazael shall Jehu put to death, and the one who escapes from the sword of Jehu shall Elisha put to death. [18] Yet I will leave seven thousand in Israel, all the knees that have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him.” (1 Kings 19:15–18 ESV)

God is there... He does care... and we are NEVER alone. There is no such thing as the 'last Christian on earth' though the devil wants you to believe that.

So where are you?

Here is where God began to encourage me- it is OK, death will catch me one day, but that is when I will suddenly be more alive than ever. 

My job is to live in such a way that I glorify Him by loving others. 

As I get older, I grow less in love with things that will never love me back. My wife, children, and now grandchildren are the the center of my affections and my gratitude to God deepens.

And I have great friends as well.

As Elijah went on in obedience, he picked up a friend.

So he departed from there and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen in front of him, and he was with the twelfth. Elijah passed by him and cast his cloak upon him. [20] And he left the oxen and ran after Elijah and said, “Let me kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow you.” And he said to him, “Go back again, for what have I done to you?” [21] And he returned from following him and took the yoke of oxen and sacrificed them and boiled their flesh with the yokes of the oxen and gave it to the people, and they ate. Then he arose and went after Elijah and assisted him. (1 Kings 19:19–21 ESV)

It is okay to become afraid at times , God understands.

But here is something else I picked up on the way...God does more in small things, in quiet than in big dramatic moments.

He works in time like yeast... though we want Him to operate like dynamite!

I don't have the time or talent to explain all that He has shown me- but I am telling you- I'm excited about the future- Today, I am not afraid, but tomorrow I may cringe again.

But there are Broom trees still on the horizon!

NASCAR, Beer, Football, Bourbon, Bibles- Red Necks and Red Hats

I come from a blue-collar deep south family—NASCAR, beer, football, bourbon, and the Bible. Rugged fighters, loyal to a fault, and also strangely tainted with doubt and a sense of “less than”—athletic achievement in my life experience is a perfect soup to feed this psyche, and the competitive testosterone flows like fire. A lot of my people wear red hats these days, and you sure don’t want to stand in their way when they decide to throw down.

The first epiphany I had of this was finding and reading a book by John Heisman- from whom we get the famous trophy.

John Heisman's book "The Principles of Football" is a comprehensive guide on the sport, written by one of the most influential figures in American football history. Published in 1922, the book delves into various aspects of the game, providing insights and strategies that were innovative for its time. "The Principles of Football" is not just a technical manual; it also serves as a testament to John Heisman's innovative approach to the game. Many of his ideas and strategies laid the groundwork for modern football tactics and coaching methodologies. The book is revered for its historical significance and remains a valuable resource for coaches, players, and football enthusiasts.

But his analysis on the origins of football is what made me pause with wonder!

The relationship between the aftermath of the Civil War and the rise of football in the South offers a compelling lens through which to view the socio-cultural dynamics of post-war America. 

The Civil War left the Southern United States in a state of devastation, not only economically and physically but also psychologically. The defeat of the Confederacy and the abolition of slavery marked a significant upheaval in the social and cultural fabric of the South. Southern men, who had fought for the Confederacy, faced a loss of honor and a crisis of identity in the post-war period.

Football and Success

According to Heisman, football emerged in the late 19th century as a new battleground where Southern men could channel their fighting spirit which had been lost. The sport, with its emphasis on strategy, physical prowess, and teamwork, mirrored many aspects of military combat. For many Southern men, football became a way to reclaim a sense of honor and competition, providing a socially acceptable outlet for the aggression and competitive spirit that had been a part of their lives during the war.

The burgeoning popularity of college football in the South was partly driven by the desire to compete with Northern institutions. Southern colleges and universities saw football games against Northern teams as opportunities to achieve symbolic victories, restoring regional pride. A win on the football field was seen as a form of redemption and a way to assert that the South could excel and prevail over the North in a new arena.

Football also played a role in the cultural reclamation of Southern identity. The sport became intertwined with Southern traditions and values, including notions of honor, bravery, and resilience. By excelling in football, Southern men could demonstrate the enduring strength and character of the South. College football games became major social events, reinforcing community bonds and regional pride.

The Military Aspect

Many early football coaches in the South had military backgrounds, bringing a disciplined and strategic approach to the game. This military influence further solidified the connection between football and the martial values esteemed by Southern society. The structure and discipline of football practices and games resonated with the Southern emphasis on order and hierarchy, reflecting the military past of many communities.

The loss of the Civil War and the subsequent reconstruction period created a void in the Southern psyche that football began to fill. By providing a new arena for competition and honor, football helped Southern men cope with the defeat and loss of identity that followed the war. The sport allowed them to reclaim a sense of pride and regional identity, transforming football into more than just a game—it became a symbol of resilience and a means of asserting the South's place in the broader American landscape. As such, football’s rise in the South can be seen as both a cultural and psychological response to the profound impacts of the Civil War.

Red Hats and The Rust Belt: Should MAGA Hats Strike Fear?

Using this background and understanding of my culture- the modern political landscape, particularly in the Rust Belt,  the Deep South and other traditionally blue-collar areas, has seen a resurgence of a different kind of rivalry and competition. The red MAGA hat, much like the post-Civil War adoption of football, symbolizes a new battleground of ideas and identity. For many in these communities, the hat represents a fight against perceived marginalization and a rallying cry for a return to traditional values and economic security.

For many in this world, these hats symbolize what they want to be... loyal, rugged, and known to have a fierce competitive spirit. The hat also includes a strange sense of loneliness, being left out, pushed down, called uneducated, pre-judged as racists, and other feelings I entitle "less than". It makes people feel the need to assert themselves in a changing world. Just as football provided an outlet for post-war Southern men, the MAGA movement provides a voice and a symbol for those feeling left behind in the modern economy.

However, should these hats strike fear? While they certainly can represent a divisive and often contentious political stance, it is essential to understand the underlying motivations and emotions that drive their wearers. Just as football was more than a game, the red hat is more than a political statement—it is a symbol of identity, competition, and a desire for respect and recognition in a rapidly changing world.

The people I walk with are embracing, loving, forgiving, and have a worldly common sense wisdom that Ivy league graduates can't get with paper diplomas.

How does a true understanding of the gospel help?

Back in 2016, I wrote a series of posts under the title "Gospel Confrontation"- you can find the very first one here- How Can Good News Be A Confrontation?

In these posts, I played a thought experiment on how the gospel should confront ... including a command to soften and change... all types of people- conservatives, progressives, skeptics, addicts, the self righteous... the list can go on and on and on.

While pundits and social media posts portray these people as fascist and all the other "ist" terms, these labels fall off in the midst of clarion calls to Christ... yes, it is inconsistent and often even opposite of Christ's life and commands, but the self correction remains evident.

The yeast of the Bible moves people forward in very subtle but concrete ways... in my hometown, Birmingham is not what it needs to be, but I promise- it is NOT what it used to be.

The good news of the existence and forgiveness of God is good news for all.

The last 2 weeks have been as crazy as I have ever seen on the political landscape of this nation. 

And sadly, X (formerly twitter) only has human opinion and very little content of help or hope.

We must lean on Scripture and seek to find common ground. We must march on our knees, not with torches on the streets.

We also must NOT stoke fear or attack people... 

Where I live is as deep a red place as anyone will ever find, but I know these people love, forgive, fight, but also have clear boundaries and accountability. There is no need to panic or kill over it. We must compete in the world of ideas and lash out against any harm or lawlessness if we hope to survive.

Freedom to speak and freedom to worship have to be protected!

Too many lies are being told on both sides... it is hurting us as a people.

It isn't the end of the world if one party or another wins.... the end of our country will happen when no one cares enough to fight for it at all.

_____________ update after the RNC convention

This week, I watched the RNC convention pretty closely, I have gotten away from network and cable news for about 2 years now- 

Our political divide is still not healthy for the strength of our Union and a convention is designed to rally a base to unify together.

The RNC is closer to my Biblical values and worldview than the DNC, but no political party aligns perfectly with that worldview and that is OK.

I will vote this year, that is my duty-  but where I live is very deep red and likely will have a majority of republican representatives up and down the Federal and State ballots.

I still wish there was more a desire to reach across the aisle for common good- but some of the issues are so divisive that it will take the grace of God to happen.

Much to pray about......

Preparing the New Wine

I've often written about this, but I keep returning to the question: How can we effectively share the gospel with the next generation in an increasingly hostile culture?

Mark 2:18–22 (ESV)
Now John's disciples and the Pharisees were fasting. And people came and said to him, “Why do John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” And Jesus said to them, “Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast. The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day. No one sews a piece of unshrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the patch tears away from it, the new from the old, and a worse tear is made. And no one puts new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins—and the wine is destroyed, and so are the skins. But new wine is for fresh wineskins.”

The Context

I have a particular fondness for Mark’s gospel, possibly due to its flow. By this point in the narrative, we see growing crowds:

Mark 1:37: “Everyone is looking for you”
Mark 1:47: “Yet the people still came to Him from everywhere”
Mark 2:2: “So many gathered that there was no room”
Mark 2:13: “A large crowd”

As the crowds grew, so did the conflict.

The Confrontation

The text notes, “Now John’s disciples AND the Pharisees were fasting.” If everyone else was fasting, why weren’t Jesus’ disciples?

Were the people asking honest questions, or were they just looking for a fight? 

The tone seems snarky and accusatory: “Why do John's disciples and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?” They implied that Jesus’ disciples were not devout.

Jesus’ Response

Jesus responds with three illustrations:

The Wedding: The bridegroom will leave eventually, but now is the time to celebrate.
Patching a Garment: An improper patch can worsen the tear.
Wineskins: New wine requires new wineskins to prevent loss.

These illustrations emphasize that there is a time for everything. Jesus' presence signifies a time of celebration, not fasting. He is initiating something new and is unconcerned with the Pharisees' approval.

Responding to Conflict and Criticism

In our world, conflict is constant, and negative opinions abound. This has been especially true in the past few years. The landscape seems colder and the trolls bolder. Doesn't it seem that there is a noticeable increase in negative communication?

The Reformation is a powerful historical example of adapting the message of the gospel. Martin Luther and other reformers did not change the core truths of Christianity, but they sought to make it more accessible and understandable to the people of their time. They translated the Bible into vernacular languages and used the printing press to distribute it widely. This adaptation brought the gospel to a new generation and significantly impacted the Christian faith.

I truly believe if we keep a passionate desire to see the gospel take hold in our culture, we can be Biblically accurate and socially effective. Holy Spirit love has a way of taking root even in the harshest of environments. And we can do it without compromise.

Here Are My Key Takeaways:

Patience: Trust that God's timing is perfect.

Presence: We must be found in the company of the culture.
Resist Enabling Negativity: Avoid participating in or encouraging whisper campaigns.
Steadiness: Stand firm and celebrate the gospel amidst storms.
Expand Your View of God: Embrace His timing and sovereignty.
Challenge the Status Quo: Be prepared to face opposition for your allegiance to Jesus.

Engaging the Next Generation

The teenage world faces numerous negative influences. Instead of blaming the youth, we should recognize our own responsibility and the impact of the current culture on everyone. 

Jim Elliot, offers a compelling example to this concept. Elliot and his team sought to bring the gospel to the Auca (now known as the Huaorani) people of Ecuador. Despite the risks and the cultural differences, Elliot and his companions approached the Aucas with respect and a desire to understand their culture. They used innovative methods to establish contact, such as dropping gifts from a plane. Tragically, Elliot and his fellow missionaries were killed by the very people they sought to reach. However, their legacy of sacrificial love and cultural sensitivity eventually led to the Auca people embracing Christianity. This story underscores the importance of engaging with cultural sensitivity and perseverance.

Similarly, the Apostle Paul, when preaching in Athens, connected with the culture by referencing their own poets and philosophers, making the gospel relatable and understandable. These examples remind us that while the message of the gospel remains unchanging, our methods can and should adapt to effectively reach our audience.

As Christ said, new wine (the truth) needs new wineskins (new structures)... it isn't just practical, it is essential!

Key Proposals:

Clearer Communication: Be specific about what constitutes appropriate behavior. Use Scripture to guide discussions.
Closer Relationships: Build trust and understanding with the youth. Take time to know their lives beyond superficial interactions.
Cautious Judgments: Apply consequences fairly, keeping context in mind. Offer the benefit of the doubt and address issues with patience.

I also recommend that we press the new generation participate in this process, we can mentor and guide without a fear of heresy... God's Word will self correct the errors. The Holy Spirit is living and active.

When young people start sharing the gospel, their own personal faith becomes a great adventure... it is exciting!

We Can Do This!

We must adapt our methods without compromising the gospel’s truth. The mode of salvation—faith in Jesus alone—remains unchanged, but our approach to reaching this generation must evolve. Clear terms, close relationships, and cautious judgments are essential.

Ultimately, the power of the gospel endures. Our goal is not to win arguments but to win souls, recognizing that this is a spiritual battle. Christ will be victorious, and our mission is to model His love and truth in a world that desperately needs both.