Thank you for your patience while we sorted out some internet issues here on the Ponderosa.  A lot has happened since the last time I wrote here.  Jihadi terrorists carry out their plans without fear.  Churches work to distance themselves from the Word of God, the gospel, you know, the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes (Romans 1:16).  When I take my kids to the public library, I see shrines to social activism where there used to be displays showcasing books on freedom, real heroes, and various historical, literary, and science-related topics. In these days that have been given to us, it is important to remember why we're here.  The world rushes to its destruction.  The Bible teaches us that "the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness" (Romans 1:18).  In Joel 2:12-13, the Lord calls, saying:  "'Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.'  So rend your heart, and not your garments; return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness; and He relents from doing harm.'"

This is our message to the dying world.  We offer the gospel, the one name under heaven "that is given among men by which we must be saved"  (Acts 4:12).  As the body of Christ, the gospel is who and what we are.  If we withhold the hope that has been entrusted to us, then we dishonor the work, the perseverance through persecution, the preservation of God's Word through the ages.  "How then will they call on Him in whom they have not believed?  How will they believe in Him whom they have not heard?  And how will they hear without a preacher?  How will they preach unless they are sent?  Just as it is written, 'How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news of good things'" (Romans 10:14-15).