FAVORITE NON-FICTION 2024

I believe the quote is from C.S. Lewis, though I could be wrong.

Yes, this is an annual tradition, but I save the non-fiction for last. I have yet to hear anyone saying I should have my favorite fiction or favorite songs being the one to save for last, but as I said before, I believe these may have more impact than the other lists. 

This is the list I most often would countdown to #1 (or count down from #1), but this year I'll go with my more normal approach by putting them in alphabetic order. 

One comment I'll make - more than other years, there are authors on this list that I either know personally or interact with on-line. That is more typical with the novelists and musicians that I follow, but not as much with non-fiction. So I'm very happy with this list. 

So are you ready? Like the fiction, I'll add a link on the title to my review of the book.

1. DANIEL: FAITHFUL IN THE FIRE, by former SBC President J. D. Greaer. This was the workbook for an eight part Sunday School class study. The focus is how Daniel remained faithful in the midst of an ungodly nation. Thus, more attention is given to the historic segments than the prophetic side.
2. FIVE TRAITS OF A DISCIPLE MAKER, released by Navigators, edited by Doug Neunke (U.S. President of the Navigators). This is an excellent devotional study, just taking a few minutes a day. Each of the five traits are divided into several devotionals.
3. GOING THERE: TALES FROM THE RIVIERA AND BEYOND, by Donna Fletcher Crow. Regular readers will recognize Crow's name, and may even realize that she wasn't mentioned on the fiction list this year (which is definitely not typical). This book is a blend of experiences and history of a trip Donna made during the height of COVID and some short stories featuring characters from her mystery series. This book was considered both as fiction and non-fiction, and I chose for the latter.
4. GOOD NEWS GOING BAD: A CRITICAL EVALUATION OF A MODERN MISSIONS MELTDOWN, by Dr. Jim Baugh. I had the honor of having Jim Baugh as one of my classmates in college. This book deals with missionaries who are more concerned about not offending the lost than they are with being faithful to Scripture.
5. IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS: A BIBLICAL THEOLOGY OF PERSECUTION AND DISCIPLESHIP, by Glenn Penner. Penner used to be director of VOM-Canada and a professor at Oklahoma Wesleyan before he went home to be with the Lord. You may have seen me have other books from the New Studies in Biblical Theology series; this is not one of them but it could be. Definitely an eye-opening book.
6. NOW AND NOT YET: THEOLOGY AND MISSION IN EZRA-NEHEMIAH, by Dean Ulrich. Speaking of New Studies in Biblical Theology, here is a good book from that series.
7. RELIGHTING THE TORCH, by Andrew Horning. Another book by a personal friend. Probably the only political book in the group, but it includes annotated versions of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Amendments. 
8. STONES THAT CRY: GOD'S PRECIOUS METAL, by Glenn Remsen (art by Scott Remsen). Is all mainstream rock/metal music as evil as we think? Or is there some searching among the artists? I have a few controversial books in this list, and this probably would be at the top of the list, but it definitely made me think. By the way, I'm a Glenn Remsen fan, and love his podcast Lithoscry.
9. THE THRILL OF ORTHODOXY: REDISCOVERING THE ADVENTURE OF CHRISTIAN FAITH, by Trevin Wax, vice-president of research and resource development of the Southern Baptist Convention. I discovered Wax with his 22 part pod-cast "Reconstructing Faith," where he would mention this book each week. This definitely is a deep book, and probably one I'll reread. Its point is that the Christian life should be exciting.
10. 31 SPIRITUAL LESSONS I LEARNED FROM MY DOG, by Raylene King. I've had this book for years, maybe even decades, but I'm familiar with Dennis and Raylene King, and Cosmo, the Dachshund referred to in the title. It's an excellent month long devotional.

FAVORITE SONGS - 2024

Hello Luna at Kingdom Come Festival

 This is the third song list I have, and like last year I'm making it a top 20. A lot of good songs. Once again, I'm putting them in alphabetic order.

Before I start, I will comment that I've discovered a lot of good bands and singers I was unaware of until 2024 - ten of them, to be exact. A couple were introduced to me on Glenn Remsen's Lithoscry broadcast, and several more via my connections with Always 1 Ministries which puts on Kingdom Come Festival. However, there's also one "old-timer" who made it on the list. I'll let you figure out who that iconic band that's joining more recent groups on this list.

Allow me to mention some highlights with the performances. I had the honor of seeing two of my favorite drummers to watch on Saturday morning: Mark McKowen of Divine Martyr and Christian Dunkel of Undefeated. These two bands and I Am The Pendragon, Reclaim the Day, and True Revival put on a great show as usual. There were great times of worship led by With Lifted Veils and BRVVE, But the show that blew me away was Hello Luna.

So here's the list of songs that blessed me this year. I'll put asterisks by the artists I've just been introduced to this year. I'll also include a link to my list on Spotify.

• "Above All Names" by Mr. Weaverface.*
• "Absolution" by Divine Martyr
• "Buried On The Inside" by Hello Luna*
• "Come To Forever" by Counter*
• "Cost Me Nothing" by Steph Andrews*
• "Enter The Light" by Counter
• "Fight, Fight, Fight" by Worhol
• "Help Us See Jesus" by Sovereign Grace Music
• "Life Inauthentic" by Worshipwired*
• "Lighthouse" by Crystoria
• "My Path To Walk" by David Pataconi. This one is my favorite of the year. The more I hear it, the more I'm moved, especially knowing the challenges Pataconi is facing. By the way, while this is the first time you've seen Pataconi's name on the list, I'm not including an asterisk because he's part of a band that made last year's list, and coincidentally (I promise) that band is the next entry on the list.
• "Overthrow" by TheoTerran
• "Paper Kingdoms" by Steph Andrews
• "Rise" by Undefeated
• "Rumble" by Tierra Vacia;* They also have an unplugged version; I'm including both on the playlist link.
• "The Declaration" by End of I,* featuring Deshiel Lynn*
• "Time To Go" by McKenna*
• "When We Were Kings" by Stryper
• "You Raise Me Up" - AL-TIRAH*
• "You Won't Ever Abandon Me" by Allie Crummy*

As said, here is the link to the playlist if you want to be blessed... I mean, if you want to hear the songs on my list.. Also, I'm waiting to see which songs I listened to the most this past year, and will be sharing that early next year.

FAVORITE FICTION - 2024

Courtesy of Enclave Publishing

My annual favorite lists start today with fiction, followed by songs with non-fiction the day after that. I'll call today's list a top ten, though I'm combining two books from the same series as one of the ten. 

I'll wait to next year to recalculate the novelists I read the most of, but I've read 3 novels by one author, which puts them in a tie with James Blish in 6th place at 13. 

Once again, I'll put them in alphabetic order by name. I don't want the author who's in tenth place disappointed they didn't end up higher, but I figured the real reason is that it puts all on the list on a level plane for potential readers. If you want to see the review, click on the title (one review won't be posted until January 2nd). So here goes:

1. "BLOWN COVER" by Jodie Bailey. A non-K-9 book from Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense. I've lost track on how many books are in this series she's written. This is one of two stories where the male character has amnesia for most of the book. Book review will be up January 2, 2025.

2. "COLD THREAT"/"COLD VENGEANCE" (Ryland & St. Clair, books 2 and 3) by Nancy Mehl. These are the second and third of the Ryland & St. Clair trilogy. This series is one that I thought got better as it got further along. 

3. "ICE LAKE" (A Katy Russell Mystery, Book 1) by Jackie Zack. Cozy mysteries are my comfort food, and this one fit the need. Looking forward to the rest of the series. 

4. "K-9 NATIONAL PARK DEFENDERS" (Pacific Northwest K-9 Unit, Book 9) by Katie Lee and Sharee Stover. This is a two novella conclusion of the Pacific Northwest K-9 unit. Harlequin's Love Inspired Suspense has an annual multi-author K-9 series, with the main continuing stories resolved in book 8, but includes a two novella Christmas wrap up. This is the first of the concluding novellas I've read, and it won't be the last. By the way, this is the fifth of those series I've read, and is definitely my favorite.

5. "OLYMPIC MOUNTAIN PURSUIT" (Pacific Northwest K-9 Unit, Book 4) by Jodie Bailey. Yep, the second Jodie Bailey book I've mentioned, as well as the second Pacific Northwest K-9 story. 

6. "RHATALOO" (a Takamo Universe Novel) by Kerry Nietz. This is a prequel to his Muto Chronicles ("Rhats," "Rhats Too," and "Rhats Free" are all out). This story has the man-sized rats landing on a primitive earth in the days of Napolean. 

7. "SECRET SABOTAGE" by Terri Reed. Like "Blown Cover," this is a Love Inspired Suspense story where the male lead has amnesia through most of the book. I'll let something slip here: those were my two favorites of the year. 

8. "SCENT OF TRUTH" (Pacific Northwest K-9 Unit, Book 2) by Valerie Hansen. In this book, the heroine is trying to solve killings and bad behavior from someone who looks just like her.

9. "THREAT DETECTION" (Pacific Northwest K-9 Unit, Book 5) by Sharon Dunn. You might look at the list, and realize I have 4 books from this series on my list, just less than half. Well, I actually have the first book on last year's list, meaning over half the books have the "honor" of being one of my favorites!

10. "WITNESS IN PERIL" by Jodie Bailey. The third Jodie Bailey book on the list. It takes place at the Grand Canyon, helping me feel homesick. 

Have you read any of these books? Any that you want to add to your list to read?

Tomorrow, I'll be looking at my favorite songs.

 

SPECIAL CHRISTMAS POST FROM GUEST BLOGGER CHARLES WESLEY!

 

Charles Wesley

Merry Christmas! I just thought it would be nice to have a reminder of the importance of Christ's birth, so I thought I'd let Charles Wesley give us a good theology lesson that you can sing to. 

Note - my favorite hymn lyrist is Charles Wesley. The music was written by Felix Mendelssohn (my favorite classical composer), who was born over twenty years after Wesley's death. Of course, most of you know this already. By the way, most hymnals only have the first three of five verses; we did have one hymnal where it combined the first half of the fourth verse and the first half of the fifth, which is the version I'm sharing.

So here's today's blog:

Hark! The herald angels sing,

Glory to the newborn King;

Peace on earth, and mercy mild,

God and sinners reconciled!

Joyful, all ye nations rise,

Join the triumph of the skies;

With th’angelic host proclaim,

Christ is born in Bethlehem!

Hark! the herald angels sing,

Glory to the newborn King!

Christ, by highest Heav’n adored;

Christ the everlasting Lord;

Late in time, behold Him come,

Offspring of a virgin’s womb.

Veiled in flesh the Godhead see;

Hail th’incarnate Deity,

Pleased with us in flesh to dwell,

Jesus our Emmanuel.

Hark! the herald angels sing,

Glory to the newborn King!

Hail the heav’n born Prince of Peace!

Hail the Sun of Righteousness!

Light and life to all He brings,

Ris’n with healing in His wings.

Mild He lays His glory by,

Born that man no more may die.

Born to raise the sons of earth,

Born to give them second birth.

Hark! the herald angels sing,

Glory to the newborn King!

Come, desire of nations, come,

Fix in us Thy humble home;

Rise, the woman’s conquering Seed,

Bruise in us the ser­pent’s head.

Adam’s likeness now efface,

Stamp Thine image in its place:

Second Adam from above,

Reinstate us in Thy love.

Hark! the herald angels sing,

Glory to the newborn King!

MERRY CHRISTMAS (EVE & DAY), 2024! A PHOTO COLLECTION

 

Our lit Christmas tree at home.

I know. Still in the hit and miss blogging (that will change this week, and maybe a little longer). And this blog won't be long either. Wishing you all a blessed Christmas.

So instead of a lot of words, I'll share some Christmas pictures I'm fond of!

Nativity set with the core values of Northside Baptist Church in the background.

Photo from Live Nativity at Castleton United Methodist Church (haven't been to one in years!)

Christmas lights, downtown circle, Indianapolis.

We have several nativity scenes at home, but this is my favorite.

Nativity scene at Christ Church, Indianapolis, on the circle.

Nativity Scene at Cincinnati Zoo. Yes, that's a rabbit by Joseph. Yes, he's alive.The keeper was doing some cleaning in that area of the zoo, and let the rabbit enjoy the fresh air.

My drawing "All Creation Worships."

Finally, me and Becky at Northside Baptist Church

BOOK REVIEW - "YOU'RE NOT ENOUGH (AND THAT'S OKAY): ESCAPING THE TOXIC CULTURE OF SELF-LOVE" BY ALLIE BETH STUCKEY

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I've always dreamed of being the starting center for an NBA team - being 65 years old, 5'6", and having no shooting skills shouldn't keep me from that dream, right? You're not going to tell me I can't fulfill my dream, are you? I mean, that could damage my self-esteem! 

Journalist/Podcaster Allie Beth Stuckey's debut book, "You're not enough (and that's okay): Escaping the Toxic Culture of Self Love" addresses five thoughts she considers lies:

1. "You are enough."
2. "You  determine your truth."
3. "You're perfect the way you are."
4. "You're entitled to your dreams."
5. "You can't love others until you love yourself."

By the way, am I the only one who notices each of those things start with one's self, not with God? They also all sound good to the ear, encouraging self-sufficency, self-determination, self-esteem, and other things like selfishness? But what if we approach it as what does the Bible say, we say that Jesus teaches following Him includes denying self (Matthew 16:24; Mark 8:34; Luke 9:23) and hating your family and your own life in contrast to loving Him (Luke 14:26)? 

My impression is the intended audience are young women, and I don't fit that group either gender wise or age wise. However, it resonated with the self-centered view of the world and looking at my own experience. No, I never dreamed of being an NBA starting center. However, I did have dreams of having a novel published. I also remember talking to a promoter of a self-publishing group who in her pitch made the following arguments: 

1. "I wrote it, so it deserves to be published." (I've written two novels, and the first definitely did not deserve to be published.)
2. "If I sign up with the self-publishers, I get 100% of what my books sell." (Actually, not true - I pay them before the book is published, not afterwards as I would with traditional publishing.)

You notice that the emphasis on both arguments? And this was with a self-publisher of Christian books, but no mention on if God wanted the book published.

Allie points out in dealing with the last one that the Biblical command to love one another as we love ourselves is not a command to love ourselves but assumes we love ourselves. After all, we eat what we enjoy instead of what makes our stomachs curl, unless it is non-appetizing healthy food to make ourselves better. After all, there is plenty of middle ground between self-loving and self-loathing.

If I had a daughter between 12 and 42 (any older than this and she'd be at the time of writing too old to be my daughter), I would purchase this book for them, encourage them to read it, and suggest she and her mother have conversations about the things dealt with in this book. (I would have that conversation with my son if I had a son between that age. And it will be 13 years at least before I have a child within that range.) I highly appreciate and recommend this book.

 

BOOK REVIEW - "THE THRILL OF ORTHODOXY: REDISCOVERING THE ADVENTURE OF CHRISTIAN FAITH" BY TREVIN WAX

 

The author of Hebrews warns us against drifting (Hebrews 2:1-4). Jesus tells the Ephesian church of losing their first love (Revelation 2:4). But how do we maintain that first love? How do we keep from drifting, especially when we may drift unaware? 

In "The Thrill of Orthodoxy: Rediscovering the Adventure of Christian Faith," Trevin Wax (Vice president of Research and Resource Development of the Southern Baptist Convention) deals with things that distract us from joyfully serving the Lord and how to stand firm in our faith.

First, what is meant by Orthodoxy? One reviewer thought it might refer to the Orthodox Church, in contrast to Roman Catholic, Baptist, etc. No, it goes back to the meaning of the word, which is "right belief." Sometimes, it's compared to Orthopraxy ("right practice"). 

This book mentions various ways of drifting. Wax maintains that it's not orthodoxy that is narrow-minded but rather heresy (false teaching). He points out that our beliefs - whether correct or not - have an impact on our life. Towards the end, he mentions two mindsets believers may have that takes away from the thrill of a right relationship with God: "The Faithful Few," who see themselves as defending the truth from an overwhelming opponent, and "The Always Adapting," who alter their teaching and emphasis to fit the culture even if it changes the meaning of Scripture.

I highly recommend this book. It is deep and not a quick read. However, it's one I will read again.

THIS BLOG: SHOULD i LET SLEEPING DOGS LIE AND PACK UP, OR AM I CALLED TO KEEP THIS UP?

These painted dogs (Cincinnati Zoo) are as active as this blog has been the past month!

 Yep, this blog has its ups and downs. At times it has its planned three blogs a week, and sometimes more. Then there are times that it's weeks between entries.

For example, you notice the "Saturday Controversies" series seems to have fizzled. But I also haven't had any interviews posted. There's a few that I sent the questions and never had the answers sent back. There's some I've got set up to send the questions, but just haven't gotten to it. Same with the list of people I'd interview but haven't taken time to ask.

Another "yep" as far as the future of the blog. In times past, the questioning is based on discouragement. This time, time's the reason. I'm debating whether I should keep this up at all, or if I should just aim for one a week. 

I've talked about getting guest bloggers. True, I haven't taken time to ask, but when I do I don't have any takers.

What's the answer? Please pray for me on what I should do with this blog. Thanks. God is able to use it, but He doesn't need me blogging.

I'll close with this - there will be more blogs this month. After all, I've got my end of the year lists!

BOOK REVIEWS - THE NEW BRAVE & THE BOLD: "THE BRIDE AND THE BOLD" AND "THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS" BY SHOLLY FISCH (WITH A SPIRITUAL LESSON THROWN IN)

 For those unfamiliar with comics in general and DC in person, "The Brave and the Bold" was a title which teamed up Batman with other heroes - and occasionally one not so heroic, like the Joker or the Riddler. When I read that title in the '70's, I found it a bit dark. However, this six part series by Sholly Fisch, including "The Bride and the Bold" and "Through the Looking Glass!," is much more fun and aimed at a young audience.

In "The Bride and the Bold," Batman and Wonder Woman stop a plan by a pair of Wonder Woman's old foes. However, God of Love Eros was upset with the violence, believing Wonder Woman was sent to show love, not beat up on the baddies, so he puts her and Batman under a spell where they fall in love and plan a wedding. Of course, one bad lady is jealous and thus rounds up the two heroes' rogue galleries to crash the wedding. Of course, most of the wedding guests were superheroes, so you can guess the rest.

"Through The Looking Glass!" starts with Batman and the Flash facing off with the Mad Hatter and Mirror Master. The bad guys flee through a mirror, with the heroes in pursuit, and end up in a Wonderland-like Dimension, and then Mirror Master returns to reality taking the mirror with him so the heroes can't escape. Or can they?

As stated, these are aimed for a young audience. However, if you happen to be an old comics fan like yours truly, you'll enjoy seeing familiar faces both among the good guys and the bad guys. It's also a short book (you can read either one in 15 minutes).

One fun thing about this series is it ends with some questions that relate to telling the story (both the writing and the drawing).

I definitely recommend these books. But would you believe one of these has a theological lesson, possibly unknown to the author? (SPOILER ALERT)

In "The Bride and the Bold," Eros is displeased seeing Wonder Woman fighting Giganta and Mouse Man with Batman helping, so he makes them fall in love. But when the wedding has the heroes beating up on the bad guys, Eros thinks that's worse, saying that Diana (Wonder Woman) was sent to spread love. Then, Eros' mother Aphrodite shows up and points out that Wonder Woman is showing love by defending the defenseless from the bad guys. 

As Christians, we're given an example that we need to stand up for faith and defend our brothers and sisters in Him. Unfortunately, many - including believers - claim that standing up against false teachers and refuting error is judgmental and unloving. No, tolerating evil is what's unloving.

BOOK REVIEW - THE COMPLETE DICK TRACY VOLUME 27 BY CHESTER GOULD (1972-1974)

 

For those regularly reading my blog, you'll notice I've reviewed volume 3, 4, and now 27 of the Complete Dick Tracy. I'll confess - the ones I read I get from the library, and these are the only three of the 29 part collection they have. Thus, no Flat Top, no Blow Top, no Pruneface, no Mumbles, no Mousy, no Influence, no Oodles, no Pearshape! (At least I got Lips Manlis/Bob Honor and the Blank.)

I will admit that this was not as enjoyable as the earlier books I read. I thought the Button story was silly, disappointing, and illogical (kidnapping a news reporter to post things about the villain giving to church? Really?) His sister Hope Lezz said she was tired of his abuse but we never saw that abuse (except asking to hide out at her house) and the story ending depressing. I found Peanutbutter (a smart but trouble making 10 year old) annoying, and Moon Maid (that is, Mrs. Dick Tracy Junior) was a stretch. Big Brass' story didn't fare much better. The only redeeming character was the kidnapped reporter Jack Grafic. 

Another admission - I became a Dick Tracy fan through Max Allan Collins' tenure with the strip and via the 1990 Warren Beatty movie. Would I have gotten hooked with the '60's and '70's Chester Gould strips?  Maybe as a silly teenager, and maybe not.

If you are a die-hard fan and want to see the entire collection, get this. If, like me, you want to get introduced to Dick Tracy at his best, get the older books, like 3, 4, maybe 8, 9, 10 and 13. 

BOOK REVIEW - "GOOD NEWS GOING BAD: A CRITICAL EVALUATION OF A MODERN MISSIONS MELTDOWN" BY DR. JIM BAUGH

 

What is the purpose of missions? Isn't it to be a witness to Christ from home to the furthest parts of the world (Acts 1:8), to make disciples of all nations and teaching them to do all Jesus commanded? Then why would missionaries water down uncomfortable teachings of Christ to appeal to those who reject Christianity?

Jim Baugh's insightful book, "Good News Going Bad: A Critical Evaluation of a Modern Missions Meltdown," focuses on what is called "The Insider Movement." The theory is that if Christians blend in with the major belief of the region, they would be more accepting of Christianity. This book focuses on outreach to Muslims, but also mentions sometimes the practice is used to reach Hindus. 

Baugh deals with several aspects of missionaries avoiding calling Jesus the Son of God or the crucifixion and resurrection because those elements of the story would be offensive to Muslims. He also ends each chapter with a story how a Muslim comes to Christ. He gives an example by asking how we'd answer one who asks what we think of Mohammed, an answer that would either open or close a door for further conversation. I love his answer, but you'll have to read it to find out what it is!

While this focuses on the mission field, Baugh does allude to the fact that there are similar practices in general, where we're more worried about being popular than proclaiming the truth of the Gospel. One thing that is true in modern American Christianity that is sometimes mistakenly taught on the mission field is a churchless Christianity, in spite of the author of Hebrews telling us not to forsake the assembly of us together (Hebrews 10:24-25).

I highly recommend this book. It doesn't hurt that it was written by a college classmate.

BOOK REVIEW - "SHEPHERDS FOR SALE: HOW EVANGELICAL LEADERS TRADED THE TRUTH FOR A LEFTIST AGENDA" BY MEGAN BASHAM

 

What is an Evangelical? Is there a political view that qualifies the title Evangelical? Are pastors and Christian leaders that lean left turning from the Gospel, or do they disagree on which party's policies best represent the teachings of Christ?

"Shepherds For Sale: How Evangelical Leaders Traded The Truth For A Leftist Agenda" by Megan Basham has the premise that Christian leaders are trying to appeal to the world by moving to the left, embracing concepts like climate change, Critical Race Theory, #MeToo, etc.

I learned about this book via one of my favorite podcasts:  "Unshaken Faith" with Alisa Childers and Natasha Crain. I'll admit - I was disappointed by this book.

One thing is "the truth" in the title refers to political conservatism. No, for the Christian, the truth refers to the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, the inspiration, infallibility, inerrancy, and sufficiency of Scripture, and salvation by grace rather than works. There is no evidence that the leaders criticized in this book have turned from the faith.

Likewise, there's an assumption that the reason some may not support Trump or are not dogmatic on certain political views is a lack of faith rather than a disagreement on the best way to live out said faith. I'll confess, in 2016 I did not trust Trump and voted Libertarian.

Finally, what is an Evangelical? For the past 40 years, I considered it the more liberal side of Biblical Christianity, trying to reach the world for Christ, while Fundamentalism is more focused on being strict Biblicists. Now, it's used to hint the politics, though on that subject - like with many others - there is variation among Evangelical concerns. So Basham's concerns are items that neither surprise nor concern me. As stated, there is no indication of turning from the Gospel.

There is error in the church that needs correcting. However, some do that correcting in a way that sows discord, that leaves one with a bad taste in their mouth. I felt that way after reading this book. It's rare I do not recommend a book I've read, but this is one of the exceptions. The topic is important, but I think this book did more hurting and dividing than solving the problem.

BOOK REVIEW - "COLD VENGEANCE" (RYLAND & ST. CLAIR BOOK THREE)

Can River Ryland and Tony St. Clair find the missing podcast hostess, assuming she's still alive after being missing the greater part of a year? Is reuniting River's wayward father with her Alzheimer stricken mother a good idea or a potential disaster? And will River survive the well-planned vengeance by the accomplice of a serial killer who failed killing River once and has no place for failing again?

"Cold Vengeance" is the final part of the Ryland & St. Clair trilogy. If you haven't read the previous entries - "Cold Pursuit" and "Cold Threat" - I would highly advise you read them in order, to be able to follow the story (the previous two books had cliffhanger endings). While each novel had its own story and corresponding characters, there are two overarching threads that tie the three together.

This story is steady moving - it seems slow at parts, but the menace of the serial killer keeps the edge to it. The characters are also easy to like (I'll admit, I grew to like River better through the series). 

I do recommend this book and the series, which is not a surprise because I enjoy reading Nancy Mehl - this is the 20th book and 6th series of hers I've read.

MOVIE AND RIDE REVIEWS AND COMPARISON - DISNEY'S "ALICE IN WONDERLAND" (1951) AND DISNEY'S "ALICE IN WONDERLAND" (2010)

I debated calling this "An Evening Down The Rabbit Hold." Reason? I took an evening and watched both versions back to back. I saw an edited version of the original once in the later '80's on TV (an hour including commercials, compared to the features 75 minute without commercials), and not the newer version. Of course, if you count the number of times I rode the Disneyland ride when I was a kid... 

Walt Disney's "Alice in Wonderland" (1951) was a memorable and creative animated film. Some consider that Lewis Carroll was influenced by drugs when he wrote this story, and this film didn't do much to counter that view. As a writer, I find it interesting that there wasn't a real hero(ine)in the story, nor was there a villain - the Queen of Hearts wasn't mentioned let alone seen in the first half of the film. Rather, it dealt with Alice dealing with unique, unforgettable characters like the Caterpillar, the Chesire Cat, the Mad Hatter and the March Hare, Tweedledum and Twiddledee, the Walrus and the Carpenter, the aviary in Tulgy Wood, and the Queen of Hearts ... oh, I must not forget the King.

As mentioned, I didn't see the movie until I was an adult, but I was very familiar with the Disneyland ride, which is connected near the Peter Pan ride and Mr. Toad's Wild Ride, with Snow White not far away. The original design of these rides were visual thrills, with some surprises like the honking bird on Alice or the crocodile snapping at you on Peter Pan. Didn't really tell a story and didn't have an ending (for example, going through several doors on Alice, having the witch roll a stone on you at the end of Snow white, and going through hell - literally - on Mr. Toad. By the way, no Queen of Hearts on Alice.

After I left California, Disney did remodeling while I was gone. They added a fifth ride (Pinocchio), and had the rides more give a story summary and, with the exception of Mr. Toad, end with a happy ending (Peter Pan and friends commanding the ship, Snow White revived by the prince's kiss, and the Mad Hatter and White Rabbit wishing you a happy Un-birthday. Sorry, but I liked the originals better. But if I go back to Disneyland after a 40 year sabbatical, I'll get on the original four again. (I'm able to view them on Youtube when I need a fix.)

Now, let me move to Disney's "Alice in Wonderland" (2010). Or should it have been called "The Mad Hatter in Wonderland?" Johnny Depp's version of the character is prominent on both the front and back cover, and he's the only actor whose name is on the front. (Take a look at the covers pictured above - do you agree that the focus went from Alice to the Hatter?)

To be honest, while I had a crush on the cartoon Alice since my childhood (I had no interest in the Disney princesses), I actually liked this remake better.  It came across more of a fantasy movie than a drug trip like the cartoon. The Red Queen and the Knave were good villains, and Alice's role was more like Frodo's than a girl lost in an unreal world. I'd also say this is my favorite Tim Burton movie, and that I loved the take on the Bandersnatch.

Last comment - would you say I'm onto something to say we need a dose of unreality to cope with the 2024 election?

  

REVIEW - "HERE WE STAND: 31 REFORMERS, 1 PER DAY" BY DESIRING GOD

 Okay, how do I classify this? Is it a book? If so, it would be a good one, But there is no indication of it being published. Desiring God, connected to John Piper, released this on-line. When I saw it promoted in September, I signed up to receive it each day throughout October in honor of Reformation Day. I'm glad I did - it was a blessing.

How many reformers can you think of? I'll give you my list, and see how you do with it:

• John Wycliffe
• William Tyndale
• Jan Huss
• Simon Menno
• Peter Waldo
• Mr. and Mrs. Martin Luther (the latter was the first person Warren Wiersbe introduced in "50 People Every Christian Should Know")
• Philip Melanchthon (my hero and personal favorite)
• Ulrich Zwingli
• John Knox
• John Calvin
• Theodore Beza
• Jacob Arminius

There are others I'd also think of, like Charles Simeon, Matthew Henry, John and Charles Wesley, George Whitfield, and Isaac Watts, but all these were too recent for this list. And I have a hunch my list of 13 is impressive, but short of what they had. By the way, only one I listed was not covered, meaning they had 18 or so (they had at least one pair included the same day) I hadn't heard of.

The list was full of variations. They had pre-reformers like Wycliffe and Hus, Anabaptists like Waldo and Menno, "Bride of the Reformation" Wibrandis Rosenblatt who married and was widowed by four reformers (three of which were also included in the list), and non-theologian Johannes Gutenberg whose printing press helped the Reformation have the effect it did.

I don't know how to find this collection - they didn't post it on Facebook, and as I mentioned above, it hasn't been published. But I recommend it. However, I was unsurprisingly disappointed they didn't have the guts to include Jacob Arminius! But then, they might have been disowned by their Calvinist brethren. And maybe, like the others I mentioned, Arminius may have been a little too late for this list. 

Allow me this brief post-script - I'm posting this on International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church. It's appropriate - many of them like Luther and Calvin had to flee from one place to a safer one, while others like Tyndale and Zqingli paid the ultimate price.

BOOK REVIEW - "IN THE SHADOW OF THE CROSS: A BIBLICAL THEOLOGY OF PERSECUTION AND DISCIPLESHIP" BY GLENN PENNER

I wrote the review on Sept. 23, 2024, and posted in on Amazon and Goodreads at that time, but I decided to wait on this review until today - October 31, aka Reformation Day. I thought this would be a good blog for the combination of Reformation Day, All Saints Day (Nov. 1), and International Day of Prayer for the Persecuted Church (First Sunday in November, which is the 3rd this year). It's also gives us thought as we head to the voting booth as well.

My wife and I have spent over a year reading a few pages of this book each week. It definitely gave us food for thought.

Former director of Voice of the Martyrs Canada and professor at Oklahoma Wesleyan University Glenn Penner has written a powerful book. "In the Shadow of the Cross: A Biblical Theology of Persecution and Discipleship does an awesome job of going through the Bible from Genesis to Revelation and dealing with how much persecution is a part of Scripture.

We tend to think American Christianity is normal. Au contraire. Both historically and currently in much of the world, it is persecution that is normal. 

I highly recommend this book. 

 

BOOK(LET) REVIEW - "GODLY CITIZENS UNDER GODLESS KINGS" BY JOHN MACARTHUR

 

Election day is just a week away, and we get to choose between a candidate some consider evil and an opponent belonging to a party that promotes what many (myself included) consider evil. How are we to live in days of an ungodly government?

If the lines for voting are long, "Godly Citizens Under Godless Kings" by Rev. John MacArthur might be good and appropriate reading, especially since it is only 34 pages long. But if you've already voted early, this still is an insightful and thought provoking book.

MacArthur starts off in Romans 13 stating what the role of government is, and then deals with Satan's influence on the state. He points out, "No matter where persecution breaks out, the arch-persecutor of the church is always going to be the government. We know this because the government alone can fine, jail, and even execute people with impunity." He speaks about civil disobedience in Scripture and today, and closes with a guideline on "How to live under a pagan government."

I have three comments I'd like to add in closing.

1. While I am convinced that neither the Democrat, the Republican, or the Libertarian Party are committed to a Biblical leadership, I do think MacArthur is overreaching when he says the government will always be part of the persecution - some of today's persecution is from other sources like the Columbian drug lords and the terrorist group Boka Haran. This is technical - I can see the U.S. government persecuting Christians.
2. MacArthur mentions being fined during the COVID lockdowns by the California government. He doesn't mention the church's standing firm and eventually getting the fines erased. I think that should have been included, even if this was a pamphlet.
3. I read this shortly after listing to the Reformed Libertarian podcast, where both hosts are anarchist (meaning they don't believe we need government). I've read some that say Christians are obligated to stand against ungodly nations to the point of taking up arms, as in the Revolutionary War. MacArthur doesn't deal with the Revolution, but he definitely believes government is necessary and placed by God. Am I sure which side I take on that issue?

SATURDAY CONTROVERSIES - ARE FAITH AND POLITICS OIL AND WATER OR CHOCOLATE AND PEANUT BUTTER? (PART 7)

Christians United Church, Indianapolis, IN

First, I know. This is being posted on Monday. Sorry I didn't get it done on Saturday, but better late than never! But if you notice I actually posted Monday's blog on Saturday (yesterday) and Saturday's on Monday. Of course, I usually don't have a Monday blog. 

Allow me to start with a list of items of debate between Christians involving politics.

• Should Christians vote? Some refuse to vote, some think not voting's a sin.
• Is it allowable for Christians to either leave one spot on the ballot blank or to vote for a "third party?" Some would claim that doing so is really a vote for your least favorite major party candidate; others would counter that  voting for the lesser of two evils is really voting for evil and that it's better to vote for a good candidate that has no chance of winning or to not vote than voting for a really bad candidate who has a better chance of beating a really, really bad candidate.
• What are Christians obligated to do or not do under Romans 13:1-7? Should Christians stand up against a tyrannical government and fight or should we be respectful and disobey only if what's commanded is directly disobeying God?
• If we have a choice between a morally sound candidate whose party has views that are opposed to their faith and a scoundrel who has better policy views, who should you vote for?
• Does the fact we're in a representative government mean we don't really need to honor Presidents and Congressmen? Or is the better view that we should show respect regardless of office or party?

No, I'm not giving answers to these questions. In fact, I rephrased one of these questions because I was letting my bias show (no, I won't tell which one). I'm just pointing out where there are disagreements between Christians, most of which have no verbatim Biblical commands. But instead, I'll give some challenges.

1. Between now and election day, pray for God's will to be done in the election. No, don't pray for your choice. Pray that God's choice prevails.
2. Commit to pray for the people who get elected, that God guides them and that they govern well. Yes, committing to this BEFORE the election means you might be praying for a candidate you either despise or fear. But when the apostles taught people to obey their governing authority, they were talking about Nero, and there's no absolute proof that either candidate is THAT bad! 
3. Realize - in spite of the hateful, ungodly campaign ads we get ad nausea... I mean nauseum - that ALL candidates are for justice, education, public safety, the economy, the environment, etc. The opposing candidate is NOT against these things; they just have a different opinion on how to do it. Thus, unless you're strong at loving your enemies, don't treat the opposing party candidates as enemies. 
4. Also remember - no party is righteous. Both try to appeal to Christians because ... well, they want our vote. When they get elected, they'll probably do what the party wants, and each party has ways their opposed to God's way. We won't get all the problems solved until the King of Kings returns and sets up His Kingdom.

 

BOOK REVIEW - THE COMPLETE DICK TRACY VOL. 4 (1936-1938) BY CHESTER GOULD

 

I've been aware of Dick Tracy most of my life, but I didn't have a lot of time reading the strip. I only saw two or three days worth when Chester Gould was still doing the strip when on vacation. I got to know a few villains via MAD Magazine and my dad mentioning them (e.g. Flattop, Pruneface, and Oodles). For a few years, I saw the strip occasionally in the '80's and 00's, the 40's movie "Dick Tracy Meets Gruesome" co-starring Boris Karloff, Warren Beatty's 1990 film, and read a book which included a few series including the introduction of Sam Ketchem and Gould's final story.

I had previously seen the third volume of this collection. The final story (featuring Lips Manlis who was in the '90 movie) was at a stopping point. But it wasn't finished - it too another 10 weeks worth to conclude it. There were three other stories in this volume, and stories 3 and 4 flowed together, as the final story let you know that it would be finished in Vol. 5.

Besides Lips, the only villain I was familiar with in this volume was The Blank, who had a key role in the '90 movie (a much bigger role than Manlis). However, Beatty's dealing with the villains differed from the original comic strip. 

I enjoyed reading these books, and recommend them.

PODCAST REVIEW - "RECONSTRUCTING FAITH" WITH TREVIN WAX (SEASON 1)

 On my blog, I've reviewed fiction and non-fiction books, and an occasional music project. This is my first podcast review. It probably won't be my last: there is a second season that I've just started listening to. But it won't be typical.

Most of the podcasts I listen to are what you'd call in novels a collection of stand alones. In the case of Lithoscry with Glenn Remsen, it's a set of interviews. With Unshaken Faith by Alisa Childers and Natasha Crain or Reformed Libertarian with Kerry Baldwin and Gregory Baus, it's a tag team editorial; in some cases they're related to previous blogs but not a series.

In contrast, "Reconstructing Faith" is a professionally put-together documentary, with narration by NAMB Vice-President of Research and Resource Development and author Trevin Wax, interviews, and sound bites of various speakers, tying in modern issues with church history. Also, each season is like a book, with each episode being a chapter, meant to be listened to in order.

The first season started off pointing out the rash of people "deconstructing" their faith, and continues to point out issues that have left people question their faith and/or the church. Covered are items like the purity movement, the misuse of authority, racial issues, sexual abuse, politics, and Christians more interested in the American Dream than the Kingdom of God. Trevin wrapped up the season looking at successful apologists like C.S. Lewis and Francis Shaeffer, a Q&A session, and a finale titled "It's Time To Rebuild."

This podcast was eye-opening and helped me see things from eyes other than my own, and understanding why some have walked away from Christianity, as well as how to rebuild.

I highly recommend season one. I'll be surprised - or more accurately, shocked - if I'm not recommending season 2 in about a month.

SATURDAY CONTROVERSIES - HOW OLD IS THIS EARTH? (PART 6)

Creation Museum, Petersburg, KY

The age of the earth is a controversy among believers. Are the non-theistic scientists correct in their calculations on when the universe began? Or do we take God's Word to mean what it says?

Let me start by identifying the four main views (there are others, but they are close to one of the four):

1. THEISTIC EVOLUTION. God started the evolutionary process.
2. PROGRESSIVE CREATION. This view rejects Darwinian evolution, but agree with the earth being billions of years old. Christian geologists and astronomers often hold this view. The professor who taught biology while I was at Bible College held to this view.
3. RECENT CREATION. This view goes to the Bible, and interprets "six days" to mean "six days." The omnipotent God created everything in 144 hours, as it says in Scripture. 
4. GAP THEORY. No connection to the clothing store. Believes that there's a gap between the first two verses in Genesis, with the creation account starting in verse 3 referring to a re-creation. I learned this view with it seeing Satan's fall occurring during this view; some see that as being when the dinosaurs showed up. The above mentioned teacher described the view in these two sentences: "There is no scientific proof to this theory. There is no Biblical proof to this theory."

Did I let my bias show? Well, if I didn't, I will now. I definitely am a recent creationist. I'm not a scientist, but there are Biblical and theological reasons I hold to this view. 

• Romans 5:12 states that by one man sin entered the world, and death through sin. The only view where death is seen as a result of sin as opposed to a natural occurrence is Recent Creationism. 
• Hebrews 11:6 says without faith it is impossible to please God. Recent Creationism believes God is able to create this universe in six days - this reflects faith in God being able to do anything (a truth reflected repeatedly in Scripture). Sorry, but my impression of Theistic Evolution and Progressive Creation has faith in the interpretations of scientists, some unbelievers and some antagonistically so.
• In the Pentateuch, "day" usually means a 24 hour period of time. Did the flood last 40 million years? Uh, no. In Exodus 20:8-11, God compared His command for Israel to work 6 days and rest the 7th with His creating the heavens and the earth in 6 days and resting on the 7th. Are we to work 6 million years and then rest a million? I don't think so. Now some appeal to 2 Peter 3:8, with a day with God being a thousand years and vice versa, but in context, 2 Peter 3:8 has nothing to do with creation, and is not giving us liberty to reinterpret Biblical numbers.

No, this isn't a salvation issue. However, I did hear one late Christian leader speak of recent creationism with disgust. What? Why should a Christian get upset when another Christian believes the Bible means what it says? 

BOOK REVIEW - "ICE LAKE: A KATY RUSSELL MYSTERY BOOK 1" BY JACKIE ZACK

 

Why is Katy Russell's fiance taking her to the lodge and lake where her best friend lost her life? And is finding out the truth a threat to Katy's life?

"Ice Lake" is the first Katy Russell Mystery Jackie Zack has published. I really enjoyed it: I needed to read a novel from my favorite genre (cozy mystery), and this was what the doctor ordered. One might argue if its brevity puts it into the novella range (131 pages), but it felt like a full novel. The characters are interesting, and the plot is full of red herrings and plot twists.

There are a this point, as far as I know, three more Katy Russell mysteries, and I'm looking forward to reading them.

CURIOUS WHAT MY FAVORITE PODCASTS ARE?

 

Emblem for Google Podcasts Manager, unfortunately no longer available.

A while back, I asked if I should start a Pod Cast. Obviously (I'm guessing), I haven't. But what Podcasts do I listen to? Which would I be interested in that I can't get on my server? What is a draw for me to get interested in a Podcast?

I could build up a lot of suspense and make you read through a lot of stuff, but I'll start with the first one, and tell you what I do listen to, in alphabetic order.

1. Bible Study For Adults. This podcast is designed for leaders and students who are using this topical approach from Lifeway Publishers (Southern Baptist Convention). Each quarter is divided into two parts. The first part of this quarter was "Thrive: Living On Purpose, and they just started "Navigating Family Conflict."

2. Explore The Bible. This has a lot in common with the above, basically because like "Bible Study for Adults," it is from Lifeway Publishers. The difference between the two is that this one goes through books. For example, as I write this they're in their second quarter on the book of Acts, with the previous quarter doing the first 12 chapters, and the remaining 16 this quarter.

3. The Gospel Project. How many of these podcasts are connected to Lifeway? Only three, but putting them in alphabetic order has Lifeway's three curriculums at the top. The Gospel Project is similar to Explore The Bible, except it goes through the Bible through the course of three years. This quarter, they just got started in Genesis. There is a difference between this Podcast and the others: This one is aimed solely at teachers. It has one hostess instead of two or three people talking about the lesson. It tends to be shorter as well.

4. Lithoscry (aka Ravens Cry). Hosted by Glenn Remsen. Those who have followed my blog will recognize that name. I interviewed Glenn earlier this year. (Click here to see the interview) Most of the interviewees are Christian rock and metal bands, though there are others as well, such as Richard Blackaby from Experiencing God and "The Chosen" creator Dallas Jenkins. 

5. Reconstructing Faith. Back to Southern Baptists! Trevin Wax from the North American Mission Board hosts this two semester (at this point) series about how to strengthen the church. This one is more like a news series, with various interviewees, soundbites, etc. 

6. The Reformed Libertarian Podcast. This is put out by the Libertarian Christian Institute (who also have their own podcast), and is hosted by Kerry Baldwin and Gregory Baus. I find it interesting combining Reformed Theology with Libertarian Political Philosophy. One note - both hosts are Anarchists, believing we would be better off without government. Still don't buy it, but still listen.

7. Thru The Bible With Dr. J. Vernon McGee. This is one I listen to on the website rather than a podcast channel, and I'm basically keeping up with the current radio broadcasts. Dr. McGee goes through the Bible every 5 years, alternating between Old and New Testaments. For example, he just finished Titus and Philemon and started on Daniel. Dr. McGee is no longer with us, but the program has been going on, not just here in the U.S. but around the world.

8. Unshaken Faith. This is hosted by Alisa Childers and Natasha Crain. Both have their own Podcasts. I enjoy them working together, dealing with Christian Worldview and modern society. The past few weeks, they've been dealing with the After Party and its shortcomings. 

What other podcasts am I interested? Well, when I get caught up with some of these, I'll add Child Evangelism's Fellowship One:Seven to the rotation. I have interest in the podcasts by Alisa Childers, Allie Beth Stuckey, Natasha Crain, Russell Moore, Will Cain, Libertarian Christian Institute, and The Catch with John Fisher. Plus, my friend Eddie Kross has one coming out tomorrow!

However, one drawback. I subscribed to Podcasts on Google Podcasts. Google Podcasts decided to stop operating, and transferred my podcasts to YouTube. They stay on my list, but should I search for one that wasn't already on my roster - e.g. Natasha Crain - or if I cancel one to time and then decide to resubscribe - e.g. The Catch with John Fisher - I find I'm unable to get them on YouTube. 😢 So I'm debating changing to Spotify or Apple (let me know if you have any suggestions). By the way, I listen to them on my phone at work. 

What interests me? Well, it helps if I'm familiar and have a positive opinion of them. True, it will help to hear divergent views, but not while I'm working!  One major thing is the length of time. Raven's Heart and Reconstructing Faith are hour long, but I prefer half an hour or less, The Lifeway curriculum podcasts, Thru the Bible, and Unshaken Faith consistently hit that time constraint, and Reformed Libertarian varies but often is that short.

I rarely get comments, but does anybody following this have any favorites?