Tag Archives: life

The Message Behind the Music-February 3

Posted on February 3, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind It Must Have Been Love:

Gessle wanted to convey a message within a song with Roxette that love may be lost, but it is never forgotten. It Must Have Been Love was a perfect fit for the film Pretty Woman starring Richard Gere and Julia Roberts. This song addresses the theme of love and loss, especially when human beings become vulnerable by opening up about past failures in life. This timeless classic resonates with individuals who have endured the painful reality of lost love.

Biblical Connection:

If I speak in the tongues[a] of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast,[b] but do not have love, I gain nothing, 1 Corinthians 13:1-3.

Exegesis of It Must Have Been Love:

It must have been love
But it’s over now
Lay a whisper
On my pillow
Leave the winter
On the ground
I wake up lonely
There’s air of silence
In the bedroom
And all around
Touch me now
I close my eyes
And dream away

Whenever a relationship ends, there is a noticeable difference. You grow so accustomed to being together and having someone in your life that you forget what it’s like to be alone. The lyrics in the opening stanza illustrate this eerie silence.

It must have been love
But it’s over now
It must have been good
But I lost it somehow

The feeling of love vanished when this significant other left ia brought up. This relationship seemed like true love, but was lost for some unknown reason.

It must have been love
But it’s over now
From the moment we touched
Till the time had run out

The love this song is referring to is based upon emotions, focused too much on the physical aspect of a relationship.

Make believing
We’re together
That I’m sheltered
By your heart
But in and outside
I turned to water
Like a teardrop
In your palm

Sometime a relationship can begin like a Hollywood movie, too good to be true. When the honeymoon period is over, you have to work at a relationship to keep it going. If you don’t, everything you dreamed of can fall apart.

And it’s a hard
Winter’s day
I dream away

Dreaming is getting her through his absence.

It must have been love
But it’s over now
It was all that I wanted
Now, I’m living without
It must have been love
But it’s over now
It’s where the water flows
It’s where the wind blows

Love requires action. Anyone can say, “I love you,” but true love is lived out like the analogy shared by the apostle Pail in 1 Corinthians 13.

It must have been love
But it’s over now
It must have been good
But I lost it somehow
It must have been love
But it’s over now
From the moment we touched
Till the time had run out
Yeah, it must have been love
But it’s over now
It was all that I wanted
Now, I’m living without
It must have been love
But it’s over now
It’s where the water flows
It’s where the wind blows
It must have been love
But it’s over now

This extended chorus is searching for answers to why this relationship ended.

It must have been love
But it’s over now

Perhaps, watching Pretty Woman will provide further insight into the complexities of love.

Final Thoughts:

I had to write a research paper for a Philosophy class in college on Pretty Woman. I had to use philosophical terms to explain why a woman would turn to prostitution. While I don’t recall my final conclusion, I do see a lack of genuine love lived out by members of society. Instead of being doers of the Word of God by emulating the love of Jesus, too many people are all talk and no action. May today’s blog inspire you to demonstrate acts of love daily to give hope to others who have given up on love.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-February 2

Posted on February 2, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Exegesis of Love Bites:

The initial plan for Love Bites was designed to be a country ballad. Def Leppard took what was presented by their producer and added elements of rock mixed with rhythm and blues. The lyrics explore a fear of falling in love. Perhaps, band members were thinking about a good friend who they had thoughts of becoming emotionally involved with but didn’t want to ruin what they already had.

Biblical Connection:

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres, 1 Corinthians 13:4-7.

Exegesis of Love Bites:

If you’ve got love in your sights
Watch out, love bites

The expression love bites can be explained by co-authors Chester and Betsy Kylstra in their book Restoring the Foundations. Chester refers to emotional wounds to your heart as soul ties. This encapsulates any brokenness, depression and pain from a previous relationship. This is the warning for anyone thinking about falling in love.

When you make love, do you look in your mirror?
Who do you think of, does he look like me?
Do you tell lies and say that it’s forever?
Do you think twice or just touch and see?

Who are you thinking about when you have sex? Are you stuck in the past, using your current relationships as some sort of an emotional rebound? Or have you moved on, focused on the present person in your life? The final 2 lines point to pain from the past, empty promises of love that were never fulfilled. The second warning about love is think before you act.

Ooh, babe
Oh, yeah

When you’re alone, do you let go?
Are you wild and willin’ or is it just for show?
Ooh, come on

The man behind the lyrics wants to know if his current relationship is more than just sex.

I don’t want to touch you too much, baby
‘Cause makin’ love to you might drive me crazy
I know you think that love is the way you make it
So I don’t wanna be there when you decide to break it, no

There is a fear of getting their heart broken again. Subsequently, it would be better to remain friends rather than having sex as this act changes everything as well as expectations.

Love bites, love bleeds
It’s bringin’ me to my knees

From the bands learned experiences in life, love has been more painful than pleasant. These past relationships have scarred members of the band, becoming hesitant about jumping into future relationships. This is why in their opinion love bites.

Final Thoughts:

Failed relationships have taken a toll on me over the first 20 years of my life. One led to a nervous breakdown, others left a trail of heart break and one in college left me scarred for several years. Yet, when God is the center of your relationship, love can be beautiful. Despite the positives of love, it still requires work like the words of the apostle Paul, learning to love others like Jesus taught.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 31

Posted on January 31, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind I Love Rock N’ Roll:

The inspiration behind Joan Jett’s song is an evolution of artists who sought to compose a rock song that would stand the test of time. This quest began with the Rolling Stones song “It’s Only Rock ‘N’ Roll (But I Like It). Upon hearing this, The Arrows lead singer Alan Merrill was inspired to create a modern equivalent. This spawned I Love Rock N’ Roll which Joan Jett made famous.

Biblical Application:

Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, 16 making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. 17 Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. 18 Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. Instead, be filled with the Spirit, 19 speaking to one another with psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit. Sing and make music from your heart to the Lord, 20 always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Ephesians 5:15-20.

Exegesis of I Love Rock N’ Roll:

I saw him dancin’ there by the record machine
I knew he must’ve been about 17
The beat was goin’ strong
Playin’ my favorite song

The opening stanza takes listeners b ack to a time period when diners and restaurants either had a jukebox per booth or a large one where music could be played while you were waiting for your food to arrive. Joan observes a teenager dancing next to a jukebox. The selected song had a great beat and was Joan’s favorite song.

And I could tell it wouldn’t be long
‘Til he was with me, yeah, me
And I could tell it wouldn’t be long
‘Til he was with me, yeah, me, singin’

Whether this was love at first sight or two fans coming together to celebrate their favorite song, Joan had a feeling that they would soon be together singing on the dance floor.

“I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me”
Ow!

Before apps, computers, and music devices, teenagers gathered around a radio listening to their local station, waiting to hear their new favorite song. Back in the early 1980’s, the only way to hear an entire album was go to the mall to purchase a tape cassette or vinyl record. The less a song was played, the more excited you were to hear it once your radio station played it. The jukebox was the social center of an establishment. Hit songs were played over and over again.

He smiled, so I got up and asked for his name
“That don’t matter”, he said, “‘Cause it’s all the same”
Said, “Can I take you home where we can be alone?”

Normally, guys would wait for a slow song before asking a girl to dance. However, in this case, the bond for music created an instant connection between these two.

And next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me
Next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me, singin’

Joan’s dream came true, now a couple thanks to a common interest in the same artist.

“I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me”
Ow!

Music is a way to celebrate life.

Said, “Can I take you home where we can be alone?

Next, we were movin’ on, he was with me, yeah, me
And we’ll be movin’ on and singin’ that same old song
Yeah, with me, singin’

Love and relationships can happen fast when you share a common interest.

“I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me”

Music can unite people.

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with-

This repetitive chorus encourages listeners to dance.

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with-

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with-

There was a time when local high schools had a dance every month. These events were like scenes from Footloose as teenagers express their individuality through dancing. Dancing alone is awkward, but when you are with someone else it’s easier to stay on beat and get in a groove.

I love rock ‘n roll
So put another dime in the jukebox, baby
I love rock ‘n roll
So come and take your time and dance with me

Joan sings about a time in America that doesn’t exist anymore as teenagers are too distracted by their phones and social media. Social interaction has been lost and stunted due to the lack of hangouts that exist centered around music.

Final Thoughts:

I was an extremely shy teenager until I went to my first high school dance as a sophomore. Although I didn’t know what I was doing, I tried to emulate my cross-country teammates. Once I learned how to dance by developing my own unique moves, I became confident like Joan, seeing myself with someone I liked, no longer afraid to ask a girl to dance during a ballad.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 28

Posted on January 28, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Sweet Child of Mine:

During a jam session at Guns N Roses’ home in Los Angeles, guitarist Slash began playing a circus melody. While this melody was initially dismissed, Axl Rose and his girlfriend at the time Erin, co-wrote the lyrics to Sweet Child of Mine. As these two reminisced about their childhood, Slash’s circus melody seemed to make a perfect match.

Biblical Application:

In the paths of the wicked are snares and pitfalls, but those who would preserve their life stay far from them. 6 Start children off on the way they should go, and even when they are old they will not turn from it, Proverbs 22:5-6.

Exegesis of Sweet Child of Mine:

She’s got a smile that it seems to me
Reminds me of childhood memories
Where everything was as fresh
As the bright blue sky

The newness of Axl’s relationship with Erin reminded him of simpler times living as a child.

Now and then when I see her face
She takes me away to that special place
And if I stared too long
I’d probably break down and cry

Axl was in a great place in life after meeting Erin. He feels blessed and fortunate.

Whoa, oh-oh
Sweet child o’ mine
Whoa, oh-oh-oh
Sweet love of mine

Either Erin is younger or pictures of her as a child who makes Axl feel special.

She’s got eyes of the bluest skies
As if they thought of rain
I’d hate to look into those eyes
And see an ounce of pain

Axl is scared of hurting Erin, overwhelmed by the beauty of her eyes.

Her hair reminds me of a warm, safe place
Where as a child I’d hide
And pray for the thunder and the rain
To quietly pass me by

Erin must be a beautiful woman. Being with her has become Axl’s happy place.

Whoa, oh-oh
Sweet child of mine
Whoa-whoa, oh-oh, oh-oh
Sweet love of mine

The chorus reflects the happiness within Axl’s heart.

Whoa, oh-oh, yeah
Whoa, oh-oh-oh, sweet child of mine
Whoa-oh, whoa-oh, sweet love of mine
Whoa, oh-oh-oh, sweet child of mine, ooh, yeah
Ooh-ooh, sweet love of mine

This extended chorus reinforces Axl’s gratitude.

Where do we go? Where do we go now?
Where do we go? Mm-mm, oh
Where do we go? Where do we go now?
Oh, where do we go now?
Where do we go? (Sweet child)
Mm-huh, where do we go now?

This stanza suggests uncertainty in their relationship. What’s the next step? Was Axl considering marriage? At some point, there is a desire to take this relationship deeper, to the next level.

(Where do we go?) Ah-yah-yah-yah-yah-yah-yah-yah-oh
(Where do we go?)
Ooh, where do we go now? (Where do we go?)
Uh-uh-uh, uh-uh-uh-oh

There is uncertainty, a cause for concern.

Where do we go?
Oh-oh, where do we go now?
Oh, where do we go?
Where do we go now?

The more you think about something, the more stressful it becomes.

Where do we go?
Whoa-oh, where do we go now?
No, no, no, no, no, no, no, sweet child
Sweet child of mine

The conclusion opens the door for either a joint decision to move on or end this relationship.

Final Thoughts:

Depending upon your childhood, you either have fond memories or you’re glad to be an adult. Since life is full of distractions, there is always something or someone pulling you away from the people you love. Relationships can be exhausting. Yet, if you have the will to love and God is the center of your relationship, you have a better chance to stick with it for better or for worse.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 26

Posted on January 26, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Against the Wind:

Bob Seger was a member of his high school cross country and track team. As Seger reflects upon days when he was literary running against the wind, he reflects upon past experiences in life. The lyrics of the Against the Wind chorus are a metaphor for the challenges, obstacles and struggles that human beings endure throughout life. The theme of resilience is highlighted by the montage of Against the Wind in the iconic film Forrest Gump.

Biblical Application:

He makes my feet like the feet of a deer; he causes me to stand on the heights.34 He trains my hands for battle; my arms can bend a bow of bronze.35 You make your saving help my shield, and your right hand sustains me; your help has made me great. 36 You provide a broad path for my feet, so that my ankles do not give way, Psalm 18:33-36.

Exegesis Against the Wind:

Seems like yesterday
But it was long ago
Janey was lovely, she was the queen of my nights
There in the darkness with the radio playin’ low

Bob Seger is having a flashback to his days in high school. Janey is likely Bob’s high school sweetheart. Spending time together listening to music.

And the secrets that we shared
Mountains that we moved
Caught like a wildfire out of control
‘Til there was nothin’ left to burn and nothin’ left to prove

Bob reflects upon meaningful conversations where he was vulnerable. These special moments removed barriers that separated him from Janey and or other friends. The wildfire analogy appears to refer to a relationship built on honesty where nothing was withheld.

And I remember what she said to me
How she swore that it never would end
I remember how she held me, oh, so tight
Wish I didn’t know now what I didn’t know then

Bob developed a special bond with Janey as he relives fond memories from his past.

Against the wind
We were runnin’ against the wind
We were young and strong
We were runnin’ against the wind

The wind slows down your momentum when it’s in your face. Yet, when you are young, you don’t know any better, clinging to a relationship.

And the years rolled slowly past
And I found myself alone
Surrounded by strangers I thought were my friends
Found myself further and further from my home

This stanza suggests that Bob’s relationship with Jany ended. This loneliness was not healed by people that Bob thought were his friends. Bob left home, moving away to start a new life.

And I guess I lost my way
There were, oh, so many roads
I was livin’ to run and runnin’ to live
Never worried about payin’, or even how much I owed

Failed relationships have a lasting impact on human beings. While Bob lost his way momentary, this pain resulted in going into debt.

Movin’ eight miles a minute for months at a time
Breakin’ all of the rules that would bend
Began to find myself searchin’
Searchin’ for shelter again and again

Running an 8-minute mile is a slow pace where your mind tends to wander. This portion of Bob’s life went off the rails as he began to challenge authority. Bob was looking for shelter, a safe place to recover.

Against the wind
Little somethin’ against the wind
I found myself seekin’ shelter against the wind

Storms usually bring high winds. Bob wanted his current trial to end.

Well, those drifter’s days are past me now
I’ve got so much more to think about
Deadlines and commitments
What to leave in, what to leave out

Bob is full of thoughts as he reflects upon his past. There is too much to say, struggling to figure out what is essential and what can be left out.

Against the wind
I’m still runnin’ against the wind
I’m older now, but still runnin’ against the wind

While Bob is now older and wiser, he is still facing difficult issues in life.

Well, I’m older now and still runnin’ against the wind
Against the wind, against the wind
Still runnin’ (against the wind)
I’m still runnin’ against the wind (against the wind)
I’m still runnin’ (against the wind)
I’m still runnin’ against the wind (against the wind)
Still runnin’ (against the wind)
Runnin’ against the wind, runnin’ against the wind (against the wind)

This extended chorus points to the fact that trials never stop like trade winds which never cease.

See the young man run (against the wind)
Watch the young man run (against the wind)
Watch the young man runnin’ (against the wind)
He’ll be runnin’ against the wind (against the wind)
Let the cowboys ride (against the wind)
Ooh (against the wind)
Let the cowboys ride (against the wind)
They’ll be ridin’ against the wind (against the wind)

Bob sees himself back in high school and now as an adult running against the winds of life. This song concludes with an image of the fronter with cowboys riding as the wind blows around them.

Final Thoughts:

As a former runner, I am reminded of David’s prayer as a shepherd. Herding his sheep upon all kinds of terrains, David trusted God with every aspect of his life, including not twisting or turning his ankle. Following reconstruction surgery on my left ankle, I made David’s words into a prayer each time I went running. Although life is full of hidden holes, potholes and ruts, God can protect you when you go running against the wind.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 11

Posted on January 11, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Go:

The lyrics of Go express self-discovery during times of uncertainty in life. As this world is constantly changing, sometimes human beings need to be nudged in the form of a call to action to avoid feelings of regret. Meanwhile, Go addresses the topics of being caught in between a series of emotions. Instead of giving into apathy and procrastination, the writer wants listeners to make a decision by stop wasting precious time.

Biblical Application:

In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. 18 But someone will say, “You have faith; I have deeds.” Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. 19 You believe that there is one God. Good! Even the demons believe that—and shudder, James 2:17-19.

Exegesis of Go:

Dig for victory, go for gold
I don’t wanna die before I get old
And I wonder where I’m going to
There’s some way out, there’s some way through

Seize the moments that you have while you are young. If you chase after your dreams now, you won’t have any regrets when you are older.

But I’m lost, I’m lost, I’m down again
My direction is changing, which way
Which way can I go?

Failure has a way of derailing hopes for greatness in life. If you decide to quit or stop pursuing a goal in life, uncertainty will consume your soul.

Get up and go

Stop wasting time. Make a decision and move on.

You start me up, you slow me down
No one can deny, you get around
When you’re hot, you’re cold, you’re in between
Keep asking myself, what does it mean?

This stanza addresses distractions in life. Whether this is a relationship that is on again and off again or words of discouragement, this is what you should expect if you want to succeed.

And I walk that tightrope, you should know
I’m losing my balance, maybe
Maybe I should go

Don’t hang on to your past. Make up your mind so you can press on with your future.

Get up and go
Just go
Get up and go

Stop hesitating and just go to pursue your next phase in life.

Face to face in sympathy
But now you turn your back on me
Turn a card and win, but you may lose
Fate only has that right to choose

Life isn’t fair. Some people are lucky, others get good breaks. The average and less gifted have to work harder than anyone else to reach their desired destination.

If you’re right, leave me here, I’ll die alone
You’ve got the time, you’ve just got time
You’ve got the time, just go

You’ll never know an outcome until you try. Don’t be afraid of failure. Face your fears and go.

Get up and go
Just go

Another call for action.

Get up and go
Just go
Just go
Get up and go

As Nike once said, “Just do it!”

Final Thoughts:

Asia was one of my favorite bands in Junior High School. Despite entering high school at 5 feet tall and 100 pounds soaking wet, I never let this interfere with chasing my dreams as an athletic. Although I didn’t reach all of my goals, I kept working to reach new heights. Go was an inspirational song that kept me improving as an athletic and now as a person.

by Jay Mankus

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The Message Behind the Music-January 9

Posted on January 9, 2026 by expressyourself4him

Inspiration Behind Here I Go Again:

The lyrics of Here I Go Again were conceived out of David Coverdale’s personal experiences following the breakup and subsequent divorce from his first wife. While staying in Portugal, loneliness and depression led David to compose a song about resilience and self-discovery. While reflecting upon this emotional journey, Here I Go Again has become an anthem for anyone facing adversity in life.

Biblical Application:

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us. 8 We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; 9 persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed, 2 Corinthians 4:7-9.

Exegesis of Here I Go Again:

I don’t know where I’m going
But, I sure know where I’ve been
Hanging on the promises
In songs of yesterday
And I’ve made up my mind
I ain’t wasting no more time
Here I go again
Here I go again

David has finally made a decision to let go of his first marriage. Rather than continue to dwell on what he lost, he’s ready to move on, stop wasting time and start a new relationship.

Though I keep searching for an answer
I never seem to find what I’m looking for
Oh Lord, I pray
You give me strength to carry on
‘Cause I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams

David is tired of being alone. After a time of healing and reflection, he is ready to start over again. With God’s help, David will be able to follow the dreams that he has put on hold for now.

And here I go again on my own
Going down the only road I’ve ever known
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone
And I’ve made up my mind
I ain’t wasting no more time

David doesn’t mind being single. Possessing a strong sense of individualism, he’s a leader who has a certain way that he wants to live his life now.

I’m just another heart in need of rescue
Waiting on love’s sweet charity
And I’m gonna hold on for the rest of my days
‘Cause I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams

David acknowledges that his heart isn’t fully recovered from his divorce. David wants to wait on love rather than force himself into another relationship.

And here I go again on my own
Going down the only road I’ve ever known
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone
And I’ve made up my mind
I ain’t wasting no more time
But here I go again

The chorus repeats David’s decision to move on.

Here I go again
Here I go again
Here I go

Despite being single, David is going to press on with his life.

‘Cause I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams

There is a certain stubbornness that rock stars exhibit. Despite being alone, David is going to keep on living life like he did before getting married.

And here I go again on my own
Going down the only road I’ve ever known
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone
And I’ve made up my mind
I ain’t wasting no more time

David is tired of wasting time.

And here I go again on my own
Going down the only road I’ve ever known
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone

David has accepted his current situation.

‘Cause I know what it means
To walk along the lonely street of dreams

Waiting for your dreams to come true can be frustrating.

And here I go again on my own
Going down the only road I’ve ever known
Like a drifter I was born to walk alone

David accepts being single and doesn’t mind doing and going where he wants.

Final Thoughts:

Although the end of Here I Go Again contains repetitive lyrics, this song explores recovering from a divorce. Being out on tour traveling the country and world keeps your mind busy. Yet, the key to a full recovery is making sure you’ve done everything in your power to salvage a relationship. Once you’ve done all that you can do, this is in God’s hands. From here it’s time to heal and move on.

by Jay Mankus

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Engaging Our Culture: April 9-Giving to a Friend in Need

Posted on April 9, 2025 by expressyourself4him

Video of the Day: Clip from the 1993 film “Sandlot”

Bible Verse of the Day:

Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done, Proverbs 19:17.

Biblical Connection:

As a former baseball player and coach, Sandlot is one of those classic baseball movies to pass down to the next generation of ball players. While James Earl Jones plays Mr. Mertle, he is the owner of Hercules, the baseball eating dog who the boys in Sandlot refer to as the Beast. After Scotty Smalls accidentally takes his father’s ball signed by Babe Ruth to play with the boys, it ends up in Mr. Mertle’s backyard which sets the scene for today’s video clip.

The older I get, the more I realize that I don’t need the things that I have amassed and collected over the years. As I’m about to move for the second time in three years, I find myself willing to give away some of my collections. Perhaps, this is what went through James Earl Jones’ mind playing Mr. Mertle. Realizing the trouble that Scotty was in with his father, Mr. Mertle was willing to let go one of his prized possessions. In return, all Mr. Mertle requested was companionship talking baseball.

Closing Song:

When you give out of the goodness inside your heart, there’s not many better feelings like this in life. While the Bible, church and your parents may have encouraged you to give, this I something that I’ve learned through the tugging on my heart. The next time you have the opportunity, give to a friend or stranger in need.

by Jay Mankus

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Engaging Our Culture: March 11-For Better or For Worse

Posted on March 11, 2025 by expressyourself4him

Video of the Day: Trailor from 2019 ESPN 30 for 30″For Better or For Worse”

Bible Verse of the Day:

 In your struggle against sin, you have not yet resisted to the point of shedding your blood. 5 And have you completely forgotten this word of encouragement that addresses you as a father addresses his son? It says, “My son, do not make light of the Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when he rebukes you,6 because the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and he chastens everyone he accepts as his son,” Hebrews 12:4-6.

Biblical Connection:

I had close friends who lived in the suburbs of Detroit, Michigan when Dennis Rodman played for the Pistons. As a rookie on the team that became labeled the Bad Boys of the National Basketball Association, Dennis took on the persona of teammate Bill Laimbeer. In his early years, Dennis was a scrappy player who cared more about getting loose balls and rebounds than scoring. This defensive minded mentally allowed Dennis to become the perfect spark off the bench to ignite this team. Dennis’ high energy led the Pistons to back-to-back NBA titles.

Years later, I was running Michael Jordan’s Golf Shop in O’Hare International Airport when Rodman joined the Chicago Bulls. While attending Willow Creek Community Church, Lee Strobel began a sermon series on What Would God Say to Famous People? Dennis Rodman was one of these individuals. Strobel revealed that Dennis was never disciplined by anyone in his life until he stole something from a host family in college. Dennis cried like a baby as no one ever loved him enough to explain to him right from wrong. This is the backstory to ESPN’s For Better or For Worse.

Closing Song:

When individuals follow their human nature throughout life, they end up living a colorful life like Dennis Rodman. However, if you want to avoid the pain of making poor decisions day after day, reach out to help a friend to keep them from the error of their ways like Dennis, James 5:19-20.

by Jay Mankus

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Engaging Our Culture: January 2-Avoid Repeating the Mistakes of Your Past

Posted on January 2, 2025 by expressyourself4him

Video of the Day: Scene from the 2000 film “Remember the Titans”

Passage of the Day:

Now these things occurred as examples to keep us from setting our hearts on evil things as they did, 1 Corinthians 10:6.

Biblical Connection:

The context of today’s video takes place in dormitories near Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The T.C. Williams High School football team is the middle of training camp, away from their home in Alexandria, Virginia. This decision was made to avoid the distractions of desegregation taking place in the early 1970’s as T.C. Williams began the integration process. An all-black school and all-white school were consolidated to become one, T.C. Williams High School. As Coach Yoast played by Will Patton is demoted from head to assistant coach, this only increases the racial tension as Denziel Washington, Coach Boone, is elevated to the top position. The early morning jog followed by Denziel’s emotional plea is designed to bring his team together before racial divide tears it apart.

The Biblical connection to this video comes from the apostle Paul who wrote letters to the Church at Corinth. These first century epistles were sent to help new churches grow or get back on track if Paul received news of Christians reverting back to their former way of life prior to entering into a personal relationship with Jesus. The context of 1 Corinthians 10:1-5 is a brief history of past errors, mistakes and sins committed by the nation of Israel. Just as Denziel Washington addresses bigotry, hatred, and stereotypes in his speech, each choice that you make leads to either life or death, Deuteronomy 30:15-18. As 2025 begins its second day, strive to learn from your past mistakes. Don’t continue down a path of self-destruction. Rather, take a lesson from the dead, learn from their past failures so that living the abundant life that Jesus promised is possible this year.

Closing Song:

An interactive blog to engage our culture in 2025 by Jay Mankus.

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