It is an interesting time of year for the above entitled article, but leave it to the Los Angeles Times. It seems as though this apologetic for atheism holds it out as just another form of belief, or religion, if you will.

One interesting note, it seems that atheism would keep a presidential candidate from being elected, at least, as things now stand.

This post by one of the folks who visited Next-Wave from the "slicers" is just too good not to mention. What a great, biblical approach to what we should do in the face of serious sin in our leaders. Nice work, Rick. From the post:

Several years ago I sat in a pastor’s meeting as the regional overseer made the announcement. A prominent pastor had resigned his position in one of the leading churches in our association. “He resigned because of sin in his life: pornography, misuse of alcohol and prescription drugs. There have been allegations of improper use of church funds.” [It later turned out that nearly every one of these allegations was untrue, and blown out of proportion]

The announcement went on as I thought about the public confession of this man’s sins. “What if other people knew about the secret sins in my life,” I thought. "If my personal struggles became public knowledge would I be judged any more fit than the brother who was the subject of the meeting?" In the harsh light of my own self-examination, I found myself wanting.

I thought: “If they knew me, really knew me, they wouldn’t let me pastor.”

Questions and answers and comments flew around the room. I sensed an undertone of anger and judgment. I felt a personal sense of shame as I heard the leader say: “Now, if any of you are struggling with these kinds of issues, tell us so we can help you.” “Yeah,” I thought, “Help you out of the ministry!”

Now it seems clear that Ted Haggard was struggling with serious "temptation." Unfortunately, it is also clear that he had no one who could share his private struggle and help him carry his burden. Now an opportunist who is attempting to make a political point has accused him. Another sad chapter that points out the reality that even the most visible, and strongest of leaders may have feet of clay.

But here's my question. While others may gloat, who among us is without sin? Who among us is righteous enough to cast the first stone of condemnation? Whatever our politics may be, whatever our theological inclinations, I pray that mercy would triumph over judgment and that devastation in this situation might be minimized.

Today many of us will take at least a moment to reflect on the events of 9-11. With wall-to-wall news coverage, documentaries and miniseries it would be impossible not to at least consider those events. They have certainly changed our world, just fly on an airplane if you don’t believe it. Even Al-Qaida has gotten into the act with a video released by their “media group” that celebrates their great “victory.” It will probably be a number of years from now before we truly grasp the implications of the “War on Terror.” In the meantime, let’s take a moment to pray for peace and safety.

CB

Pat Robertson, please stop declaring God's judgments on nations, towns and leaders of foreign countries. I can't see how such talk really does any good. It also doesn't make any sense from a Biblical standpoint, does it? Next time you think that you need to say something like, "watch out, God is going to get you," why not just take the 5th and keep quiet? Please...

Kyle Lake, pastor of University Baptist Church, was killed in a freak accident at his church Sunday. (via Stephen Shields and Rudy Carrasco) When I was younger this kind of news didn't bother me quite as much as it does today. I read Kyle's book, Understanding God's Will, this year and found it to be a refreshing look at a subject that has always been a bit muddy for me. My sympathies to Kyle's family and prayers for his church family. Someday God, I know we will understand.

A moment of silence...

If there is one thing we should learn from the Katrina disaster, it is this: We are not ready. Whether we have 72 hours to evacuate, or an earthquake or tsunami hits in a few moments, we are not ready. No matter how many plans have been made, or rehearsed, or discussed, we are not ready. Or maybe I should say it this way, . I don't have a stockpile of food and water, do you? I don't have enough cash on hand, or in the bank, do you? I don't have an alternative means of transportation if I can't use my car, do you?

If a disaster strikes and I am separated from my family, I don't have a plan for how to connect, do you? If there is one thing we can be certain of, it is this: More disasters are coming. So, how then should we live? In fear? Or maybe we should prepare? Get ready?

Will Samson has written an insightful post on the political fallout from Katriana. An excerpt: "One of the things I am not very good at is apologizing. Saying those simple words - "I'm sorry" - is so very difficult. But there is power and healing in those words. It shows that you value the relationship more than your pride."