Tiring of the Word "Allegedly"

I was just reading a report of a man who killed a woman by running over her a couple times. The word "allegedly" appeared too many times, and was used "wrongly." :)

Honestly, if witnesses watched it actually happen when it actually happened, then there is nothing about what they witnessed that is "alleged." They witnessed an actual event. Interpretations may vary, but one cannot dismiss what they witnessed by the word "alleged," as if they may or may not have witnessed it.

What is alleged is the man's motivation for what they witnessed: he may or may not have done this intentionally or unintentionally. But to report that "Two witnesses allegedly saw this occur" is insulting. … allegedly.

Jesus Is Not a Burger King

And I saw heaven opened; and behold, a white horse, and He who sat upon it is called Faithful and True; and in righteousness He judges and wages war. And His eyes are a flame of fire, and upon His head are many diadems; and He has a name written upon Him which no one knows except Himself. And He is clothed with a robe dipped in blood; and His name is called The Word of God. And the armies which are in heaven, clothed in fine linen, white and clean, were following Him on white horses. And from His mouth comes a sharp sword, so that with it He may smite the nations; and He will rule them with a rod of iron; and He treads the wine press of the fierce wrath of God, the Almighty. And on His robe and on His thigh He has a name written, "KING OF KINGS, AND LORD OF LORDS."      —Revelation 19:11-16

Most people know the name Jesus Christ. Most probably don't realize that the term "Christ" was interpreted by the Jews (Luke 23:2) to mean "King." When Pontius Pilate directly asked Jesus if He were a king, Jesus did not deny the claim (John 18:33-37). 

Westerners don't know much about kings. We read our history books, and wonder how anyone could be loyal to death to one person. We're acclimated to the concepts of temporary influence and rule—our American presidents can only serve 2 terms, or 8 years; and we've only had one exception.

A lot of people who quickly identify themselves as "Christians" actually offer service based mostly upon their own ideas of submission. We read or hear what Jesus commands, but we'd rather put our own spin on these things.

For example, marriage: We know the divine rules (one man and one woman for life), but we'd rather bend the rule to our own views. This is willful sin. God said, "And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for immorality, and marries another woman commits adultery" (Matthew 19:9). How many books have been written to say that this is not what He really meant?

In Mark's gospel account, we read: "Whoever divorces his wife and marries another commits adultery against her, and if she divorces her husband and marries another, she commits adultery" (Mark 10:11-12). It's simple, until we deceive ourselves into thinking it's not. 

There are other issues: worship services! A lot of people will claim to follow Jesus, but absolutely refuse—for whatever excuses offered—to worship Him in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24). And how dare anyone put a subjective spin on Hebrews 10:24-27?

And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. For if we go on sinning deliberately after receiving the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but a fearful expectation of judgment, and a fury of fire that will consume the adversaries.

If we have the attitude that Jesus is King, then we will unreservedly and without hesitation follow His commands (John 14:15, 23-24; 15:14). But when we know His will, and simply brush it off because we esteem Him like any other man suggesting what we're to do, then we are woefully deceived and in danger of eternal damnation. 

I know many scoff at God's eternal rule. But one day He will come in perfect judgment. Wouldn't we rather err on the side of loyalty and mindful obedience to the King of kings? Why are we so willful? 

Jesus is not a symbol of prosperity! He's not a joker! He's not a hippie! He's not a gimmick! He is King of kings, and Lord of lords!

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.      —Isaiah 9:6-7

Observations While Growing A Beard

I used to grow a beard annually. There was really no occasion for it, I just used the cooler temps as an excuse not to shave.

Now, of course, there's No Shave November—a method of raising awareness (and money) for men's cancer. I didn't begin the No Shaving until November 5th for reasons irrelevant to this post.

So here I'm on Day 13. And it's already been interesting:

1. People who do not like beards are not afraid to tell you. And it's almost like it's a moral problem for you to be growing a beard (especially if they haven't seen your face covered in hair). Funny thing: I did not choose to grow a beard to offend; it's my hair growing on my face.
2. People who like beards tell you you're not growing it fast enough. As if there were some control over that anyway. (And, yes, I realize there's this thing called testosterone, but one is not truly less of a man because his beard doesn't pop out in three days full and bushy. I prefer not having thick hair on my back and knuckles, bro.)
3. God created MEN to grow beards. (Yes, there are exceptions, but oh my please shut up). So, when someone tells me they don't really like it, I have occasionally replied with this point that God designed men to grow beards and I'm doing what God designed me to do as a man. The replies are stunning because to some, they consider beards ungodly. And I'm not kidding.
4. Jesus may have had a beard. Yes, I went there. Actually, I'm pretty convinced He did: "I gave my back to those who strike, and my cheeks to those who pull out the beard; I hid not my face from disgrace and spitting" (Isaiah 50:6). And please, I'm not making this a religious issue, but maybe I should (Matthew 7:1–2).

Veterans Day: An Emotional Day

Yesterday was Veterans Day. I have been privileged to know many who have served in our country’s various armed forces. My maternal grandfather and my dad were sailors. I spent time on Parris Island and near Camp Lejeune working among Marines, and to this day I find myself standing straighter whenever I come across a sailor or Marine — retired or active duty.

I am thankful our country finally seems to be on board in supporting our country’s servicemen. Most of those with whom I am familiar are humble and don’t seek notoriety at all, but I am glad they receive it, even if it may be once annually.

Last night we went to a hockey game. Many of the pregame activities focused on Veterans Day stories. I realize the older I have become that the more freely emotional I have become: I sat there through pregame with hot tears streaming down my cheeks.

For years I have had a hard time getting through our National Anthem or Eternal Father (Navy Hymn) without tears welling up, but last night was much more emotional.

“Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer” (2 Timothy 2:3–4).

Yesterday served as a reminder of those who have served, and those who continue to serve, our great country. We should use opportunities like these to call to mind those who faithfully served the Lord. Most without due recognition because, quite honestly, that is the nature of a servant (Mark 10:44–45).