Monthly Archives: July 2016

The Death of Professional Sports

Posted on July 21, 2016 by expressyourself4him

In the 1996 film Jerry McGuire, Tom Cruise plays a hot shot sports agents who begins to develop a conscience.  When a defense men in the National Hockey League that he represents sustains another concussion, Cruise chooses money over his clients health.  Seeing right through this scheme, the son goes off on Jerry, setting the stage for conviction.  Unable to sleep with his guilt, McGuire has a vision which turns into a mission statement.  Unfortunately, this decision leads to his firing from the firm he practically built.  This mentality no longer exists just in Hollywood.  Rather, its a sign that the death of professional sports is near.

The way most leagues are run today, labor unions seek to get each player top dollar.  However, as salaries rise so do season ticket prices, parking and stadium concessions.  At some point, the annual income of fans will be tapped out; unable to commit to a full season.  Meanwhile, as stars continue to be insulted by excessive million dollar contracts not big enough for their ego, when will the masses begin to revolt?  Although I love watching sports on television, I see a day in the future when even I will tune out professional sports.

Back in its infancy, athletes worked jobs during the off-season as sports were more of a hobby with little pay.  This generation of stars played for the love of the game.  These pioneers made it possible for today’s athletes to flourish, earning more money than their wildest dreams.  Unfortunately, when individuals become bigger than life they lose touch with the middle class.  I try not to be negative, but if this current trend continues, it won’t be long before professional sports dies.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Slowing Down to Serve

Posted on July 20, 2016 by expressyourself4him

The concept “eye of the tiger” was introduced by the Rocky Series of movies.  Meredith Burgess plays Mick, Sylvester Stallone’s boxing trainer.  When Rocky becomes focused, he develops an eye like a tiger on the prowl.  Thus, in the 1982 film Rocky 3, the group Survivor creates a theme song that highlights this concept.  Unfortunately, I find myself way too often in the zone like this song’s lyrics.  Obsessed with a project or task at hand, this state prevents me from slowing down to serve others.

A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side.  So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side, Luke 10:31-32.

One day some religious leaders had a busy schedule to keep.  There were places to go, people to meet and lives to touch.  During their travels, some bystanders were overlooked, passed by and skipped over.  Thus, the beggar on the street corner was neglected again, not willing to change their course.  While Jesus refers to a priest and a Levite in the passage above, I see myself as a weekly offender, too busy to recognize the Samaritan in need of help.

But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him.  He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him, Luke 10:33-34.

The other night at work, I listened to the conviction of the Holy Spirit.  In the hour that followed,  I was amazed at the opportunities that God brought my way.  Before I knew it, I helped an associate with a scanner problem; then another with a question about life, love and marriage.  On any other evening, I wouldn’t have noticed these people.  However, whenever you slow down enough, its much easier to see how God can use you to serve others.

by Jay Mankus

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When A Name Loses Its Meaning

Posted on July 19, 2016 by expressyourself4him

One of Aesop’s most famous fables in The Boy Who Cried Wolf.  The phrase “cry wolf” derives from the English idiom meaning to give a false alarm.  In this children’s story, a boy develops a habit of lying until a wolf actually arrives.  When this boy’s reputation was weakened by a series of tall tales, no one came to his aid in his time of need.  This is an example of when a names loses its meaning.

If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us, 1 John 1:8.

Companies spend hours of deliberation and discussion before arriving upon a name.  This often signifies cores values, define the essence of each corporation as well as represents a brand.  Employees are ambassadors who either exemplify their organization or become negative, focusing on everything a company does wrong.  While history provides a list of businesses that have deceived, hidden or faked their way to the top, time has a way of exposing the genuine from the frauds.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness, 1 John 1:9.

In this age of social media, competition, critics and enemies will attack those groups and individuals that they do not like.  Unfortunately, some of these posts are exaggerated, false or taken out of context.  Thus, you or someone you know can have had their reputation severely damaged and ruined.  When a name loses its meaning, some never recover for this smear campaign.  Nonetheless, if this day arrives, Jesus is always a prayer away.  Despite what the world may say, I serve a God of second chances, who mends hearts and restores souls.

by Jay Mankus

 

 

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The Heart of this Matter

Posted on July 18, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Troubled souls watch in horror following the third act of terrorism in less than two weeks.  After the shock wears off, people are looking for answers, searching for the heart of this matter.  While the facts of the most recent ambush of police officers in Louisiana is unclear, there elements shine some light upon the darkness behind these evil acts.

1. Opinions have been elevated to truth status.

Whether you watch cable news, follow social media or read secular publications, public opinions go viral weekly.  Cable news uses talking points to define the narrative, filtering out the context by over-emphasizing what they want the low information voter to believe.  Facebook, Snap Chat and Twitter elicit emotions, creating an environment for anger, hatred and negativity to have a voice.  Meanwhile, a few elite members of the media daily spoon feed the American public, repeating ideologies, philosophies and worldviews until their opinions become what is good, right and true.

2. Political Correctness has replaced the Bible as genuine absolutes.

During my last year as a high school Bible teacher, our administration felt it was necessary to bring in a professional for an inservice day on sensitivity training.  As the black student population grew, a series of seminars was designed to equip teachers with a better understanding of the African American community.  Unfortunately, most of the time was spent regurgitating liberal beliefs void of any biblical principles.  When public schools kicked the Bible, prayer and God out of education in the 1960’s, the measuring stick for absolutes were eliminated.  More than fifty years later political correctness has now become the gospel of the twenty first century.

3. You can’t force people to act, believe or change.

One of the things I learned during my months in a youth ministry trade school is that you can’t change someone’s attitude.  However, once an individual takes ownership and responsibility for their actions, they can change themselves.  If God doesn’t force people to believe in Him, creating free will, why is the world trying to convince those who differ from their worldview to become open minded?  According to Jesus in John 16, the Holy Spirit is the only source that provides permanent change.  Discipline, good intentions and hard work are productive, but not eternal.  Therefore, if you want to start making this world a better place, begin with the heart of this matter by looking at the man, woman or child in the mirror.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Words Written in the Sand

Posted on July 17, 2016 by expressyourself4him

The Sunday Morning Television talk shows are notorious for setting up conservative minded individuals.  Prior to an invite, politicians are hopeful for a good showing, looking to get their name out on a national stage.  Yet, when the questions begin, many feel like they are on trial, attacked and bombarded for possessing Bible based beliefs.

They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him. But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger, John 8:6.

This atmosphere was normal for Jesus during the first century.  Whenever He interacted with Pharisees, religious leaders and teachers of the Torah, Jesus often endured a game of gotcha, waiting for Him to stumble and fall.  On one occasion Jewish officials attempted to use a woman caught in adultery as a trap.  Unlike most debates, Jesus uses a different strategy, ignoring their questions by choosing to write words in the sand.

When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her,” John 8:7.

The word chosen to describe writing by John, a disciple of Jesus, is not your typical verb.  The context in this passage refers to “writing down the record.”  Thus, scholars assume that Jesus begins to write down the secret sins of these religious leaders in the sand.  Upon hearing Jesus’ request in verse 7, one by one the crowd of accusers quietly goes back to their homes.  When Jesus finished writing, he appears surprised by the honesty of these Jews.  However, his last words to this woman are poignant, “go now and leave your life of sin.”  These words are just as relative today, a call to heed and obey.  Go and do likewise.

by Jay Mankus

 

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Where Are Your Footprints Leading?

Posted on July 16, 2016 by expressyourself4him

For those of you who have pets, it doesn’t take much for a kitten, puppy or other new member of the family to reap havoc.  Like any child who knows their in trouble, sometimes animals try to hide their mess.  In this case, all you have to do is follow visible signs of destruction before you reach the guilty party.  Yet, child and pets aren’t alone as even adults have moments of weakness, sending a poor message by taking steps in the wrong direction.

If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth, 1 John 1:6.

Unfortunately, grown ups tend to make life much more complicated than it is.  Subsequently, sometimes its important to simplify life, going back to the basics.  The Bible kids classic song Oh Be Careful Little Eyes What You See is a great place to start.  These lyrics warn individuals of the lasting consequences of walking in darkness.  Tasting forbidden fruit, lusting for someone or something or crossing the line known as sin, could become a life style if you’re not careful.

“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.   But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! Matthew 6:22-23

In his sermon on the Mount, Jesus shares the correlation between your eyes and sin.  Essentially, eyes are a lamp created to guide and direct people throughout life.  However, if used inappropriately, these beacons of light can become a source for evil.  Thus, whether you are young or old, Oh Be Careful Little Eyes What You See still applies.  In view of this choose wisely and if you make mistakes along the way, repent quickly.  May the footprints that you leave on earth point souls to the love of Jesus.

by Jay Mankus

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When Timing Really is Everything

Posted on July 15, 2016 by expressyourself4him

In the hours following the terrorist attacks on September 11th, 2001, Major League Baseball and the National Football League felt it was inappropriate to play games while bodies were being pulled from beneath remnants of the World Trade Center.  Subsequently, baseball commissioner Bud Selig cancelled all games for the rest of the week.  Meanwhile, Paul Tagliabue postponed a weekend slate of NFL games, citing regrets of playing two days after president John F. Kennedy’s assassination.

These things happened as a warning to us, so that we would not crave evil things as they did, 1 Corinthians 10:6.

While civil unrest is apparent, citizens unhappy with how some Americans were killed and treated by law enforcement, perhaps now is a good time for a season of trueths.  If timing really is everything, what good will further protests do in the wake of the deadliest day for police officers since 9/11.  Where is common sense, decency or social etiquette to let people mourn and remember those whose life have been snuffed out?  If individuals don’t learn from history, America will not escape the same fate fallen civilizations have endured.

There is time to kill and a time to heal.  A time to tear down and a time to build up.  A time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, Ecclesiastes 3:3-4.

Regardless of your stance on racial relations, there should be one common bond that unites, that we are one nation under God.  The political correct crowd can not deny the founding of religious principles established by our forefathers.  Thus, everyone must make an important decision: are you going to be part of the problem or a piece to the solution?  Solomon’s words in Ecclesiastes are profound.  Yet, if these words are ignored, I’m afraid healing will never arrive.  In the future, don’t let your emotions get the best of you.  Rather, ask God to help you see what you can do to make America great again!

by Jay Mankus

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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The Devil’s Triangle

Posted on July 14, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Across the surface of the earth, there are small sections which produce anomalies.  For one reason or another, abnormal, odd or strange events seem to happen within defined areas.  One of the most famous occurs over water, others take place in the mountains and some form a triangle between three specific geographical points.  Whether you are referring to the Devil’s Triangle at sea or a 44 mile highway loop in Oliver Springs, Tennessee, some places appear to be cursed, filled with a history of accidents, disaster or tragedy.

And that they will come to their senses and escape from the trap of the devil, who has taken them captive to do his will, 2 Timothy 2:26.

Although I don’t want to jump to conclusions, these places produce acts and occurrences that defy science.  While several of these unusual accounts can be explained due to rare barometric conditions, others seem to be linked to the supernatural.  According to the apostle Paul, people will experience traps set by the devil, demonic influences or powers of darkness.  Thus, when you find yourself within the snares of the Devil’s Triangle, you need to know what you’re up against.

In which you used to live when you followed the ways of this world and of the ruler of the kingdom of the air, the spirit who is now at work in those who are disobedient, Ephesians 2:2.

As a fallen angel, Satan controls the airspace, sending minions to create havoc throughout the face of the earth.  These invisible attacks plants seeds of doubt, urges hearts to indulge in worldly pleasures and promotes a New Age mindset.  Sometimes this involves sending people into our lives that lead to subtle changes in the form of compromise.  While people may visit places on earth known as the Devil’s Triangle, you don’t have to leave your home to experience a spiritual war upon your soul.  Prepare yourself with prayer!

by Jay Mankus

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A Misfit Living in a Cruel World

Posted on July 13, 2016 by expressyourself4him

Fifty two years ago this coming December, Rudolph the Red Nose Reindeer debuted.  In the years that have followed, children and parents have made this animation a Christmas classic.   Something about an elf who wants to be a dentist and a reindeer whose nose glows appeals to anyone who feels like a social outcast.  Essentially, this story serves as a reminder to those who are currently a misfit living in a cruel world.

While Jesus was having dinner at Matthew’s house, many tax collectors and sinners came and ate with him and his disciples, Matthew 9:10.

After experiencing public scrutiny and humiliation, Hermey and Rudolph run away from their problems, coming to shore on the Island of Misfit Toys.  Upon interacting with a Charlie in the Box and a train with square wheels, Hermey and Rudolph come to the realization that their lives aren’t as bad as they initially thought.  Sometimes all you need to do is meet someone less fortunate and your perspective changes immediately.

Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him, Matthew 20:34.

There is a perception in the world from those who do not believe in God that Jesus is too good, holy and righteous for sinners.  On the contrary, Jesus spent most of his time on earth conversing, eating and sitting with the lower and middle class.   Jesus’ ministry was centered around reaching out to misfits, needy individuals and the poor.  Therefore, don’t think you have to have everything together to serve the Lord.  Rather, find meaning and purpose in this cruel world by touching the lives of people in need with an encouraging word, hug or smile.

by Jay Mankus

 

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A Sad Sign of Troubled Times

Posted on July 12, 2016 by expressyourself4him

The History Channel has a series of shows related to prophecy.  Nostradamus programs tend to get the most publicity, concentrating upon his published collection that first appeared in 1555.  While there are shows dedicated to Bible prophecy, there is one author who gets overlooked.  The apostle Paul makes a prediction in a letter to one of his disciples which is like a headline from one of the major tabloids.

They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, 2 Timothy 3:6.

Apparently, there was a growing trend of bad boys having a negative influence on woman during the first century.  Based upon the vocabulary used in the passage above, Paul suggests that men were preying on gullible women, then manipulating females to get what they want.  Based upon the amount of children born out of wedlock and dysfunctional homes in America today, Paul’s prophecy is a sad sign of troubles times.

Always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth, 2 Timothy 3:7.

The notion that love is blind applies to this moral dilemma.  While many individuals often say, “I’ll never do that again,” when push comes to shove several repeat the same mistakes time after time.  Thus, bad boys continue to intrigue naive woman, curious what it would be like to date them.  Unfortunately, despite having a knowledge of right from wrong does not stop the desperate or tempted from tasting temporary pleasures.  May the Holy Spirit pierce through this darkness so that these sad signs of a fallen society will turn around soon.

by Jay Mankus

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