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S.A.N.S. Episode103: Whom Shall I Fear?

Chris Tomlin has slowly become the Michael W. Smith of modern-day Contemporary Christian Music. You don’t have to go far to recognize Tomlin’s popularity as fans have purchased over 7 million records. Today’s featured song is a remake of a popular church hymn Whom Shall I Fear? This open ended question serves as a reflection to consider God’s promises and power to protect you from harm.

There is no fear in love [dread does not exist], but full-grown (complete, perfect) love [g]turns fear out of doors and expels every trace of terror! For fear [h]brings with it the thought of punishment, and [so] he who is afraid has not reached the full maturity of love [is not yet grown into love’s complete perfection], 1 John 4:18.

Fear of one of those inner demons that often results in nightmares. Yet, fear can come in the form of peer pressure, especially in this age of virtue signaling and wokeness. However, the apostle Paul reminds his readers that the Holy Spirit is greater than fear, 2 Timothy 1:7. As Christians develop and mature in the love of Jesus, this knowledge can and will expel every trace of fear. Enjoy Chris’ song.

by Jay Mankus

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Christless

Seinfeld was one of the first sitcoms to mock Christmas, establishing Festivus for the rest of us.  Meanwhile, Jewish holidays weren’t exempt as Saturday Night Live, known as SNL, created their own version of Hanukkah sung by Adam Sandler.  At one point in American culture, certain topics were taboo, to avoid offensive language.  However, a growing trend has erased the line eliminating boundaries, opening up every religion to verbal attacks except for Islam.

When you subtract the presents, songs and exchange of gifts, what else remains?  Sure, there are decorations, lights and manger scenes, but is Jesus still Lord of this holiday?  Or has the good news of a Messiah been X-out by cards too cheap to print the reason for masses across the country and throughout the world?  As I look around the roads, shopping malls and desolate streets, cheers of good news is a rare sound.  Rather, complaining, gripes and moodiness fill the air, opening the door for another Christ-less season.

If political correctness continues to be a guiding light for Americans, I’m afraid the days of Christmas may soon be over.  In a recent interview, Christian singer Chris Tomlin vowed he’d go to jail if celebrating Christmas ever became illegal.  For those who think, “that would never happen here,” don’t be so sure.  For whenever a nation curses Israel or harms their ability to remain free, God promises to curse those countries that don’t stand with God’s chosen people.  In the Silent Nights that remain, may the Holy Spirit touch your heart, persuading you to invite Jesus back into your home, neighborhood and perhaps local schools.  If not, Christmas will be another day for the homeless and orphans, waiting for a brighter day.

by Jay Mankus

Counting Your Blessings

As the sun sets on another birthday, one thought comes to mind, count your blessings.  Exactly a year ago today, I was stressing over another school year, teaching 2 brand new classes, 7 total classes out of a 8 period day.  However, now I am able to slow down, spend more time with family and begin a new era in my working career.

Since history often repeats itself, I can lean on the words of Joseph in Genesis 45:5-7.  Nobody likes to lose their job, struggle to make payments on their bills as well as receive rejection after rejection from jobs applications.  However, God is in control and uses all things to bring out his ultimate purpose like leading Joseph to Egypt through a strange series of events .  Therefore, I will count my blessings like Joseph, knowing all things happen for a reason.

As for the future, I am in the process of editing Express Yourself so I can enter my revised script in one or possibly 2 prominent screen writing contests.  On Saturday, I am planning to play in the Delaware Amateur Frisbee Golf tournament with my 2 boys.  Meanwhile, I am waiting in eager expectation for my next full time position.  Like the Chris Tomlin song sings, “Your will, your way, always!”  Praise God in advance for the blessings He has in store for you, taking things one day at a time!

by Jay Mankus

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