In our area of upstate NY there is a famous retired newscaster who, it turns out, needs to wear a hearing aid. Since this discovery, he has become a passionate spokesman for getting your hearing tested. Other celebrities, when they encounter a disease or need, especially when it strikes close to home, often get involved in promoting a cure or helping those so afflicted. That’s a very good thing.

Gaining experience with a hardship which others share makes one more sympathetic, and sensitive. Continue reading →

It is interesting to see that when the original 12 disciples (the Apostles) were sent out, they “preached that people should repent” (Mark 6:12). This is not at all surprising, given the first sermon of Jesus recorded in Mark 1:15 —

“The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe the good news.”

But is this what most American preachers, including evangelicals, preach? Where is the cry, repent! in today’s preaching? If a preacher never calls for repentance, I doubt that he has been sent by Jesus.