Beware: The Anti-Christ Spirit

             The founder of the Unification Church, a world-wide religious movement, has died at 92. The Rev. Sun Myung Moon founded his religion in Seoul, Korea in 1954, after surviving the Korean War. His notoriety came in the 1970s and 80s when he held mass weddings of thousands of followers. His intent was to build a perfect, multicultural religious world.

            In conjunction, he recruited and indoctrinated multitudes of young people across America to build his kingdom. These were known as “moonies,” which some of us remember well. Unscrupulous tactics and brainwashing techniques were used to dupe followers out of money. Many sold flowers and begged for money on city streets, willing to give Mr. Moon every dime! They operated on so-called “heavenly deception,” believing that lying to get money was justified seeing it was used for “good.” Many a parent lay awake at night worrying about their children who had been swept up into this cult.

            While other modern cults deny similar Biblical teachings like the Virgin Birth and full deity of Jesus Christ, the founder of the Unification Church, became a self-proclaimed “messiah” (anointed one) over the world. At 16, Moon declared that he was called to complete the unfinished work of Jesus Christ. In fact, on March 23, 2004, he was “coronated” during a ceremony in the Dirkson Senate Office Building in Washington, with at least a dozen members of Congress in attendance. During his speech, he declared himself to be “none other than humanity’s Savior, Messiah, Returning Lord, and True Parent.” Significantly, these politicians didn’t seem disturbed by this announcement.

            Although known for his entrepreneurial, religious, and political pursuits across the world, Mr. Moon’s testimony was false. As the many gods and religious teachers before him, he lies dead in the grave. There is only One who died for sinners and rose from the dead to prove it! “God commended (demonstrated) His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (Rom. 5:8) Not only that, but Christ ascended to Heaven, and is now making intercession for those who trust in Him. Sun Moon has demonstrated that he is not the “Sun (Son)!” His presumptuous pride has been exposed for what it is.

            The desire to be god is the essence of sin. Lucifer’s fall from Heaven resulted from his rebellion against the Lord’s authority. “I will be like the Most High,” he said. (Isa. 14:14). He was telling God to “move over” and let him take the throne of the universe. He shows up in the Garden of Eden (Gen. 3) and tempts the first couple to become their own god by disobeying the Lord. This Fall of man resulted in the universal sin, death, and judgment of mankind. The first baby born, Cain, grew up in rebellion, and murdered his own brother Abel. The rest is history.

            When asked about the signs of His Second Coming, Jesus answered, “Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ (Messiah); and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars; see that ye be not troubled…Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ…believe it not. For there shall arise false Christs and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.” (Matt. 24:4-6; 23-24)

            This is all prophetic, leading up to the revelation of the coming anti-Christ, the “man of sin.”  He will be the ultimate false Christ, opposing and “exalting himself above all that is called God…so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.” (2Thess.2:3,4) The world at large will embrace his charisma and supernatural workings. Instead of truth, they will believe the lie, resulting in “strong delusion.” This is what we can anticipate in the future.

            Unfortunately, this process is operating presently in both the church and the world. I’m afraid the “strong delusion” has set in, particularly over the last 50 years. The rejection of the Bible in our personal and national life has been costly. Immorality and perversion have become the order of the day. Solid families and individuals are becoming scarce, resulting in a spiritual dearth in the land. Without Biblical truth, there’s not much to stand on.

            I must say that this condition has great bearing even on the present political scene. Candidates with sound conservative platforms are apt to be trumped by those who substitute smooth words for substance. Those looking for “hand outs” and entitlements could care less for those candidates who promote the work ethic and personal responsibility. With half of our populace on food stamps or some government subsidy, who needs to work? There’s a “savior” in the White House who will pay our way from the womb to the tomb.

             “Obamacare” is more than healthcare; it gives the government the right to control every American. It has become a “gospel” of sorts, perpetrated by a deceitful, arrogant, smooth-talking, self-appointed “messiah,” who promises economic “salvation” to his followers. I think the political nature of this election is being overshadowed by religious stirrings and allegiance to the Democratic “cult,” and its divine leader, “Obamessiah.”

            Apart from the political scene, I trust the reader has embraced the true Messiah, Jesus Christ, who alone paid for our eternal salvation at the Cross. Don’t be duped by the false prophets of our day who deny Christ and His finished work. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” (Rom. 10:13)        

There's a Right Way to "Share the Wealth"

           Most of us remember President Obama’s remarks to “Joe the Plumber,” during the 2008 campaign in Ohio. Joe, whose real name is Samuel Joseph Wurzelbacher, asked the then-Democratic candidate about his small business tax policy. Mr. Obama gave a response that included the statement, “when you spread your wealth around, it’s good for everybody.” These words didn’t settle well with Joe, who took them as Mr. Obama’s intent to implement a socialistic economy, including the redistribution of wealth; i.e. the haves must give to the have-nots.

            In other words, those who work and prosper should be taxed sufficiently so those who don’t work can be supported by the government. Joe’s “business” was not only to make a living for his family, but to share his wealth with others. Certainly that’s a commendable practice, but should never be dictated or controlled by the government. In America, businessmen like Joe have always been free to contribute to charitable groups and needy individuals. That’s the way this country was built, especially before the New Deal welfare system under Franklin D. Roosevelt; even that system, resulting from the “great depression” of 1929, was not just a “hand out,” but a “hand up.” Meaningful employment was set in place, like the Civilian Conservation Corp (CCC), to foster work responsibility and discourage laziness. That program ended during World War II (’42-’43).

            Since then, politicians have been progressively eager to dispense government funds to the “needy,” with little personal responsibility required. It’s significant how rich liberals can give away the “store” under the guise of compassion for the poor, while they themselves know very little of personal sacrifice. Any decent American is for helping those in genuine need; but the question is, how should it be done?

            Before the welfare system, folks graciously helped each other in need. Church and social organizations have been swift and generous to reach out for those in despair. Government intervened in times of national or state disasters, but the rank and file of our populace has gladly borne the burdens of others. The Bible exhorts us time and again to share our wealth with the poor. Even the poor widow was commended by Jesus above many rich contributors, because she gave out of her poverty. (Lk.21:2-4) We all have the privilege of giving freely from what we’ve freely received.

            The following story illustrates the spirit that has made America so unique and great. Just recently, Howard Cooper, the owner of a Michigan car dealership, decided to thank his employees in a special way. The 83 year old businessman has retired and sold the Ann Arbor dealership to an Ohio-based motor company. Just before retiring, Cooper gathered his 89 employees, and gave each of them $1,000. for each year of service to the 47-year old company.

            “The lady behind me had tears running down her face,” employee Sandy Reagan told AnnArbor.com. “I sat next to a person who drives the parts van and he’s been here almost 28 years. He doesn’t make a ton of money, but he got almost $28,000.”

            Think of Sandy’s reaction when she gets her check---she’s been with the company for 46 years! Now that is one huge gesture of appreciation for any boss to share!

            Mr. Cooper said of the surprise gifts, “I hope it makes a difference in their lives like they have made in mine.” The total amount distributed that morning was not revealed, but Bob Jenkins, the 26-year mechanic held a check for $26,000. “I was shocked,” Jenkins said. “You just don’t expect something like that. The whole place was just in shock.”

            What other country would such a scene be witnessed? I venture to say, only in America! This is the fruit of free enterprise, where employers who work hard and prosper can reward those who have contributed to their success. Such is not the case in countries ruled by fascism, communism, and dictatorships. Our beloved country has deep problems, as do others, but the system of free enterprise still works, especially when run by diligent, honest, and benevolent men. Let this kind of freedom triumph once again throughout the land!

Is it Wise to Have a Minimum Wage?

            As an eleven year old boy, I had a great desire to work. My first job was delivering the Star Ledger in Newark, NJ. I fudged a bit when the boss told me the minimum age was twelve. I don’t think he was overly concerned about age, especially when he witnessed my enthusiasm. I later found out that he wasn’t even too interested in how much money I made, since he “bilked” me on several occasions. The money didn’t seem that important because I enjoyed the privilege of having my own “business.” I did make some spending money, but that was overshadowed by the entrepreneurial spirit.

            This led to “bigger” things, like shining shoes on city streets, taverns, and barber shops. In my early teens, I worked in a small grocery store, stocking shelves, sweeping floors, delivering orders, etc. I made what I was offered, without ever thinking about a “minimum wage.” Even my chores on the home front had no monetary “guarantee;” it was all part of personal responsibility and gratitude for all that was provided. In fact, I have lived a life time of employment, never once demanding a certain salary.

            It seems like things have changed, especially regarding young people who expect to be “paid” for chores done around the house. Formerly “deprived” parents are now paying off junior for his coerced effort to pull his weight as a family member. Some children receive excessive allowances for doing nothing! I can’t help but think that such practices have a spoiling effect when it’s time to get a real job.

            Instead of seeking employment during high school and/or college years, the youngster now expects the parents to foot the bill. These students have been raised with a sense of entitlement or “you owe me” mentality. If they do work, the “minimum wage” handle has no appeal—it’s beneath their dignity. They want to make “big bucks” right up front.

            I was never confronted with a minimum wage; I worked for what the employer offered me, usually set by competitive standards.  If I didn’t like the job or the wage, I had the liberty to leave and find something else. The work experience was vital to my development and maturity as a human being. My further education and degree didn’t give me leverage to demand a big salary or high position; rather it afforded me the privilege of making a living, and participating in the mission and success of the business. Making the boss successful had direct bearing on my success.

            From the employer’s standpoint, minimum wages creates other problems. A business man may hire a young person to help part time, with the intent of training him for a steady position. He may not be able at that time to pay the required minimum, but can come to an agreed wage. At the same time, the young worker has a great opportunity to be employed, with great future possibilities.

            The prospect of breaking the “wage law” presents difficulty for both the boss the employee. In fact, the desire and ability for the business owner to create new jobs is jeopardized by such laws. Let the employer be free to offer his workers what he deems fair and agreeable. Let the free enterprise system take its course, validating what wages are minimum and maximum. I think it’s wise for the government to get out of the business of regulating wages in the private sector.

Reflections on Neil Armstrong, the Moon-Walker

            The one who proved firsthand that the moon is not “made of cheese” died August 25, 2012 at age 82. A private service for family and fellow astronauts was held in Cincinnati, OH to honor the first man to walk on the moon. In attendance were Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins, Neil’s two crewmembers on the historic Apollo 11 mission which touched down on the moon in 1969. The first man to orbit the earth, John Glenn, was also there to celebrate the life of his fellow Ohioan.

            Glenn spoke in astonishment of Neil Armstrong’s historic feat—“the first time anybody set foot in someplace other than earth.” He went on to say, that “when I think of Neil (it’s) not just the landing on the moon, but his whole life..;” “he really dared greatly. He had his pilot’s license before he had his driver’s license.”

            Armstrong was a Navy pilot, flying experimental and serving during the Korean conflict. “He was devoted to that before he ever got into the space program,” Glenn said. Neil “got bit by that bug very early in life, and was able to expand on that experience as he went through life like few pilots ever can.”

            On a personal note, Glenn reflected on lessons from Armstrong’s life.

            “It would be great if every person could find something like that that would give them that much pleasure that they would dedicate their lives to. Everyone should pick their field they are interested in and then try to get the finest education possible to allow them to participate in.” This observation is true for sure, but there are deeper considerations.

            Neil was a man of purpose and clear direction. At the same time, he was not an egotist or one desiring celebrity status. His biographer, James Hansen, says that Armstrong rejected personal glory. He was even reticent to sign autographs or appear on media interviews. “Neil has a very strict sense of what’s appropriate, and has since he was a boy,” says Hansen, a former NASA historian who won Neil’s confidence over time. Even in his limited public appearances, Armstrong “always turned the subject away from himself;” he was quick to give the credit to other team members. This attitude was considered “abnormal” by some; but how refreshing it is to find a humble hero in light of the present “tabloid” mentality.

            These principles should echo throughout our country, especially to our younger generation, who desperately needs the vision and discipline of a Neil Armstrong. With the decline of morality, discipline, and character building, we need a resurgence of such in our homes, schools, churches and government.

            The Bible says, “If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do?”  Without a solid foundation, the house will eventually crumble. We need to get back to basics, and that’s more than the 3 R’s. (Reading, writing, and arithmetic) The Judao-Christian principles that formed our Republic must be re-established if we’re to maintain and enjoy our freedom.

            In his acceptance speech at the recent Republican National Convention, Mitt Romney eulogized Neil Armstrong’s character and historic moon-landing. He said, “Tonight the American flag is still there on the moon. And I don’t doubt for a second that Neil’s spirit is still with us—that unique blend of optimism, humility, and the utter confidence that, when the world needs someone to do the really big stuff, you need an American.”

            Would to God that America was really worthy of such a characterizing today! This presents a great challenge. Our country is only a skeleton of what it was 50 years ago. The Woodstock era (60s) was costly; the so-called “peace movement” only generated further chaos. The Bible was thrown out of public education and the Ten Commandments began to disappear from public view. The rest is history.

            Young people with the vision and character of a Neil Armstrong are not easy to find. The greatest need is not for more “moon-walkers,” but those who will walk lawfully and wisely here on earth. This is our battleground. “In God We Trust” is still etched on our coins, which should once again challenge our fledging nation. Miracles can still happen.

            It’s time to seek the God of our Fathers that mercy may be poured out on a people that has forgotten the Source of its greatness and leadership in the world. May there be a stirring in the land, restoring confidence and hope; may we witness ever-increasing grounds to be able to truly exclaim, “God Bless America!”