I must admit that it doesn’t take much to set me off. The sad part is that I don’t even need to be around other people to express my frustrations. Whenever I am driving to work, I become enraged, pointing out every little imperfection made by other drivers. While sitting in a pew at church last Sunday, I came to a realization. My name is Jay and I am a complainaholic.
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you, 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
Perhaps, I have become a product of the environment in which I live. Residing within an hour of Philadelphia. aka Negadelphia, I vocalize what I hear, negative comments. On the eve of Thanksgiving, my human nature is at war with how God wants me to behave. Thus, I am stuck in the mud, trying alter my current state of disappointment toward a Christ like attitude. This transformation requires divine intervention.
Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, Ephesians 5:20.
After reading a series a verses in the Bible, I have discovered the power of Thanksgiving. On my first day back to work, I began to sing songs of praise, repeating the chorus from worship songs earlier in the day. This simple adjustment enabled me to become more like a servant than a constant complainer. I still have a long road of recovery ahead, but for now I plan at taking things one day at a time, praying that a spirit of Thanksgiving will replace my complainaholic nature.
Prior to the events in New York City and Washington D.C. on September 11th 2001, the relationship between sporting events and the playing of National Anthems had become a mundane ritual. If you take away the Olympics, playoffs and the Super Bowl, anthems were rarely ever televised. Some professional sports even played anthems while players were still in the locker room. However, post 9/11 the singing of Francis Scott Key’s song united this nation for a minute or so daily. I was in Philadelphia for the first National Football League Monday Night Football game following this terrorist attack. When a flag the shape of the United States was displayed across the entire field, the crowd went crazy, setting the stage for an emotional national anthem. Those professional athletes who have chosen to kneel or sit have forgotten what the national anthem represents. As more begin similar displays as a protest, the future of America’s national anthem is in jeopardy.
Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works! – Psalm 105:2
As a former teacher, I understand pressure to remove the national anthem at professional sporting events isn’t the end but the beginning of an attempt to erase any trace of God from American history. During homeroom or over a loud speaker, public schools read a daily passage or verse from the Bible up to the early 1960’s. The reading communicated a morale, trait or value teachers hoped to instill within their students. When a few atheists were offended, a law suit followed that removed the Bible permanently from public education. When schools obliged others were upset about students and teachers praying for each other. This too was banned, stripping God’s influence from the classroom. Looking back at history, schools have never been the same as God has removed his own blessing from those who have not made room for Him. Then, there was the 10 commandments, “surely we can’t allow human beings to read and see these rigid rules.” Today, religious leaders are arrested if 10 commandment statues aren’t removed from all court buildings. Finally, there is the pledge of allegiance which has been made optional for children or simply discarded all together. If the national anthem is silenced, there’s always something else atheists, leftists and progressives will deem offensive.
Sing for joy, O heavens, and exult, O earth; break forth, O mountains, into singing! For the Lord has comforted his people and will have compassion on his afflicted, Isaiah 49:13.
I hope the owners of professional sports teams don’t cave to public pressure like weak minded republicans more interested in gaining approval from the press rather than upholding American values. During the 2016 presidential campaign, Donald Trump vowed to drain the swamp. When this promise was made, I don’t think Trump realized how deep and dangerous this resistance would be. While the media continues to label the Trump presidency as the worst ever, the horizon appears to be void of any leaders willing to stand up for the national anthem. Sure, there may be some closet defenders, afraid to vocalize their opinions. Yet, America appears to be on the verge of a social war between the past and the present. As someone who grew up in a military family, respect was impressed upon me. Unfortunately, some where along the way respect for God and country has slowly faded away. In view of this decay, may God raise someone up to carry the torch for the National Anthem so that this treasured tradition does not disappear like those now forgotten. Stand up and sing, thanking God for all the Lord has done for this land called America.
My house lies a quarter of a mile from Interstate 95 in northern Delaware. Residing in the I-95 corridor, an hour north of Baltimore and hour south of Philadelphia, I regularly travel this busy highway. In recent trips, its seems like the average speed now exceeds the 65 limit by nearly 20 miles per hour. Thus, police officers are often faced with the dilemma of too many vehicles to pull over.
But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days, 2 Timothy 3:1.
Perhaps this aggression is a sign of end times. The apostle Paul receives a vision, a glimpse of the moral decline within society. As this culture leaves absolutes for politically correct stances, selfish individuals will continue to commit transgressions against innocent citizens. Subsequently, road rage is causing impatient drivers to take their frustrations out on anyone who infringes upon their lane or space.
People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, 2 Timothy 3:2.
There was a time when driving was a leisure activity, exploring back roads for fun over the weekend. Yet, as a growing number of people are in a hurry, friction leads some to explode emotionally. While there are many prophecies that still need to be fulfilled before the end of days arrives, recent acts of terrorism suggest this isn’t too far off. Before this occurs, may those struggling to make sense of our fallen world slow down enough so that police won’t be overwhelmed with too many vehicles to pull over.
When I was younger, the FCC held higher standards, limiting adult content to late night television. Now, whether its sitcoms laughing at broken marriages, questionable commercials during sporting events or indecent lyrics within modern songs, wholesome thinking is being phased out. In a recent Philadelphia radio ad, charities are now selling tickets to hear local celebrities made fun of, mocked and roasted in public. I guess sin does sell.
Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving, Ephesians 5:4.
Unfortunately, negativity is nothing new. In a letter to church officials in Ephesus, Paul addresses a concern he experienced first hand during his long stay. When an individual steps across an unwritten line, there’s a temptation to join in, similar to a feeding frenzy. Even if you didn’t start teasing someone or throwing another under the bus, resisting the desire to jump in is difficult. Weekly, I find myself participating, indulging in unwholesome talk before its too late to take something back.
Dear friends, this is now my second letter to you. I have written both of them as reminders to stimulate you to wholesome thinking, 2 Peter 3:1.
The disciple Peter who also had a reputation for running his mouth came to a crossroads. At some point near the end of his life, Peter became an advocate for wholesome thinking. Torn up inside over the collateral damage of hurtful words, Peter encouraged believers to embrace wholesome thinking. Therefore, if you’re feed up by societies destructive vocabulary, join this fight by stimulating those around you to engage in wholesome thinking.
Bombastic, scathing and passionate are words associated with rants. As a sports fan, three stand out in particular. After his team turned the ball five teams in defeat, Jim Mora responds to a reporter’s question, “playoffs, you’re talking about playoff; I just hope we win another game.” Living just outside of Philadelphia, who can ever forget about Allen Iverson’s practice press conference, “we’re talking about practice, not a game.” Last, but not least is Dennis Green’s tirade after blowing a 14 point lead on Monday Night Football against the Chicago Bears, “they are who we thought they were, but we let them off the hook.”
They will be paid back with harm for the harm they have done. Their idea of pleasure is to carouse in broad daylight. They are blots and blemishes, reveling in their pleasures while they feast with you, 2 Peter 2:13.
Prior to today, I never thought I would find a rant while reading the Bible, but that all changed after examining 2 Peter 2. While writing this letter, it appears that something set Peter off. Whether he was thinking about a specific individual or a collection who share the same mindset, Peter goes off, ripping into those who indulge their sinful nature. For a moment, I thought I was reading a transcript of a famous press conference. If only you tube existed back in the first century, this chapter would surely reach over a million hits.
With eyes full of adultery, they never stop sinning; they seduce the unstable; they are experts in greed—an accursed brood! – 2 Peter 2:14
When I grew up in Wilmington, Delaware, a slice of the south existed. What I mean is that every one on our blocked looked after each other. Subsequently, I didn’t just have my parents; any time I was out of line, a neighbor went off on me, correcting my bad and inappropriate behavior. Unfortunately, if this occurred today there would be law suits, division and turmoil. The more I think about this chapter, I believe Peter leaves behind a vital message. If you want to rant about something, speak out about those things tearing people you love away from God.
When someone else screws up, there is a dark side within human beings that tends to come out. Anger, disappointment and frustration converge to form a lethal combination. If you don’t believe me, just spend a few minutes on twitter or any other social media outlet. Words filled with venom trash, trample and attempt to ruin the life of those at fault.
But no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison, James 3:8.
A few nights ago in Philadelphia this atmosphere played out at the Wells Fargo Center. When the Flyers gave up 6 consecutive goals, three in the third period, some fans began to throw bracelets on to the ice used as a pre-game ceremony to honor their former owner Ed Snider. This behavior led to a delay of game, allowing the Washington Capitals to play the final seven minutes of the game on the power play. In the heat of the moment, people justify their reactions, blaming it on the person or team that screwed up.
Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear, Ephesians 4:29.
In life, we’ve all been on the losing side, the weakest link or the person to blame. When the shoe is on the other foot, its not fun being the scapegoat, the one everyone despises. Thus, whether you are the hero or the chump, its vital to remember the words of the apostle Paul. Stay positive during periods of failure is crucial to surviving these difficult times in life. May the encouragement of others build up and give those who screw up the grace to carry on.
One of my favorite bands growing up was REO Speedwagon. Their first hit song, Keep on Loving You debuted in 1980 on the Hi Infidelity album. My sisters friend played this song over and over on a stereo, blaring it throughout the house. According to the Greek language, there are 3 specific types of love. REO Speedwagon was singing about eros, a sensual and sexually kind of love.
Keep on loving one another as brothers and sisters, Hebrews 13:1.
The author of Hebrews refers to Philia, loving a family member. While the city of Philadelphia means city of brotherly love, those who visit, especially sports fans from rival cities may not feel this love. However, love usually doesn’t come naturally. Most people have to work at, praying for a loving heart or seeking counseling to determine what’s preventing them from embracing others.
Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends, John 15:13.
The final type of love is agape, a love without conditions. An illustration Jesus shares is laying down a life for a friend. This foreshadows Jesus’ death on a cross not just for his disciples, but for the living, dead and those yet to be born. Although imperfections keep individuals from displaying love daily, the goal and prayer for everyone should be to keep on loving.
As a resident of the greater Philadelphia area, I understand the passion of Philly fans. Although the main stream media continues to accuse them of throwing snow balls at Santa Claus, most season ticket holders wear their emotions on their sleeves. If you add alcohol to a bad call or break, thoughts become verbalized. Thus, if you attend an Eagles game on a Sunday, God’s name may be used in a slightly different context than church. Phrases such as “Jesus Christ, God dam it and Holy bleep” are reactions to a sporting event beyond their control.
Outside of the realm of sports, there is another topic of conversation. If someone begins to experience a string of bad luck, loses in life or turmoil, God is usually the first to be blamed. The Old Testament nature of God leads individuals to believe God is punishing them for something done in their past. Yet, when the tide turns toward blessings, praise and rewards for hard work, there is a tendency for adults to take the credit. Either forgetting or overshadowing God’s role, glory is often stolen by selfish souls.
Regardless of where you find yourself on this spectrum, the majority will agree that today’s language is merely a byproduct of a fallen generation. Society has accepted the idea that words need to be spoken, even if people are hurt. Twitter feeds this notion, giving disgruntled followers a platform to voice their opinion. Nonetheless, God is more than a curse word or punch line for a comedian. Rather, Hebrews 4:12-13 reveals that everything will be uncovered, brought to the light, as everyone will have to give an account of what they’ve done and the words they have spoken.
This city’s name is derived from one of 3 Greek names for love. Agape refers to God’s unconditional love illustrated by a father in the parable of the prodigal son, Luke 15:11-32. Meanwhile, eros is symbolic of a sensual love, similar to King David’s feelings for Bathsheba in 2 Samuel 11. However, phila means to love someone like a brother or sister. Thus, the nickname of Philadelphia is the city of brotherly love.
For the past 4 days, the sports fans of Philadelphia has demonstrated this love for the game of golf and their historic gem, Merion Golf Club. While not everyone has been pleasant with a few heckling Sergio Garcia, a majority of the 25,000 in attendance daily are redefining the image of this great city. As the 113th United States Open Golf Championship concludes today on Father’s Day, the only question remaining is will Phil be fulfilled today by winning his first Open title.
In recent years, Phil Mickelson has been ridiculed by the press for his aggressive play in this tournament, Five times a runner up, maybe fate waited until he reached Phil-a-delphia before winning this event which has slipped out of his hands too many heartaches to recount. Unfortunately, like the 2004 Superbowl, with the Philadelphia Eagles up at the half, Phil faded today, playing the final 8 holes 3 over par. Wounded again, Phil will likely recover like Rocky and Philly sports fans, holding out hope to one day be a world champion! Until the next major, kept your head up Phil, for the city of brotherly love is behind you!
For 30 plus years, the national media has killed Philadelphia sports fans for booing and throwing snow balls at Santa Claus during an Eagle’s football game in the 1970’s. With the eyes of the golfing world now on Merion Golf Club, just outside of center city, for this week’s 2013 U.S. Open, another story continues to drag on. After a disappointing career up to this point, Sergio Garcia recently made an off colored remark toward Tiger Woods, trying to be funny at an news conference in Europe. Like beating a dead horse, golf and sports analysts continue to bring this up over and over again, trying to stir up bad blood. For now, can everyone please move on and get over it?
In life, each individual has endured heartache, frustration and pain at least once. Bitterness is often a natural response, left behind by someone or something from your past. Although its true time does heal all things, scar tissue remains, brought to the surface by people, places or things. If you fail to let go of these emotions, barriers will rise up out of the ground in the form of spiritual roots, Hebrews 12:16. This obstacle will eat away at your soul, leaving behind division, friction and hatred toward others. For your own good, I urge you to get over these events, Matthew 6:15.
At the conclusion of Scrooged starring Bill Murray, he confesses his sins to a live audience. After evaluating his own life, Murray realizes that he has been a jerk, selfish and damaged by a poor relationship with his own father. When you practice this kind of behavior, James 5:16, individuals can reclaim a sense of freedom. Reaching this point is no easy task as thoughts of certain co-workers, neighbors or relatives may bring out the worst in you. However, its time to bury the hatchet, to seek forgiveness or forgive anyone you haven’t been able to up to this point in life. Whether its a former boyfriend, girlfriend, spouse or relative, please for the love of God, get over it!
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