Mike's Show Notes

At the Throne of Grace

2012-02-01T09:50:00.000-05:00

Dr. John MacArthur is host of the daily radio program, Grace to You, and has been the senior pastor of Grace Community Church in Southern California for nearly 50 years. At the Throne of Grace is a collection of 54 prayers that have preceded some of his 3,000 plus sermons.

MacArthur's goal, rather than encourage repetitive prayer and religious formalism, is to motivate believers to become more prayerful, more expressive and more thoughtful in their prayer as they come to the Lord before his throne of grace.

Dr. MacArthur has found his own prayer life blessed by Puritan prayers and resources from Charles Spurgeon and other godly men of earlier generations who convyed truth and passion in vivid, heartfelt language.

"We need to pray more; we need to give more careful thoughts to the content of our prayers; and we need to spend more time preparing our hearts and our tongues for prayer," says MacArthur. "Remember that Jesus warned against vain repetition and showy, grandiose prayers (Matthew 6:5-8)."

To listen to my conversation with John MacArthur, click here or scroll down.

Prayer Circles

2012-01-25T11:26:00.000-05:00

Mark Batterson is lead pastor at National Community Church in Washington, D.C., a multi-site church plant that is targeting emerging generations. He is author of several books, and his latest is, The Circle Maker: Praying Circles Around Your Biggest Dreams and Greatest Fears.

The idea for this book, Mark says, came from a story from the Talmud. It is a true legend of how Honi, a man of God, prayed a bold prayer for rain during an intense drought. What he did was he drew a circle and said to God that he would not leave that circle until He blessed the area with rain. Mark shows in his book that miracles will happen once Christians pray bold prayers.

In his unique story-telling way, Mark Batterson encourages his readers to take that step of faith, like the children of Israel, Moses, Noah and many others in Scripture, and watch what God does when you pray "circles" around your biggest dreams and greatest fears.

To listen to my interview click here or scroll down.

A New Year and A New You!

2012-01-04T11:37:00.000-05:00

Each year we all make resolutions to improve ourselves, and the top promise made is to lose weight. However, as the month rolls on we tend to get away from that particular goal and then before we know it we are off all together.

I thought I would ask my friend Pastor Steve Reynolds, author of the book Bod4God, to give me a few pointers about losing weight and how to stay focused on the goal. To listen to our conversation click here or scroll down.

Pastor Steve has a great web site that is full of information and ways to start a weight loss challenge in your community or church. Check out the Bod4God site to learn more.

Questions to Ask Yourself For 2012

2011-12-30T08:30:00.000-05:00

10 Questions for the New Year?—Following are 10 questions from NavPress author Donald Whitney to help you evaluate the condition of your spiritual life. God’s plan is for all of us to live at full spiritual capacity! These questions help us think and move in this direction.

1. Do you thirst for God?

2. Are you governed increasingly by God’s Word?

3. Are you more loving?

4. Are you more sensitive to God’s presence?

5. Do you have a growing concern for the spiritual and temporal needs of others?

6. Do you delight in the Bride of Christ?

7. Are the spiritual disciplines increasingly important to you?

8. Do you still grieve over sin?

9. Are you a quick to forgive?

10. Do you yearn for heaven and to be with Jesus?

Merry Christmas Everybody!!

2011-12-25T06:00:00.001-05:00

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - Jesus is Radically Divisive

2011-12-24T21:44:00.000-05:00

Matthew 2:3 says, When Herod the king heard this he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.

Herod heard the news of the birth of a "king" and shook in his boots. So did the religious establishment. We tend to want to put Jesus in a box, to control Him, to make Him nice, and safe, and passive. This is the guy who dumped tables over in the Temple and who said in Matthew 10:34, "Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword." Jesus knew the Gospel would divide this world. It is as true today as it has always been. If you know Christ that is passive and safe and exists primarily to meet your needs and make you comfortable, you don't know the real Jesus.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - God Places Tremendous Value On the Lowly and the Lost

2011-12-23T08:17:00.000-05:00

Luke 2:8-9 says, And in the same region there were shepherds out in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear.

Who were the first to hear publicly about the Christ child's birth? The Roman ruler? The religious establishment? Nope! Dudes keeping sheep. God loves the outcasts and the low. We all struggle at times with feelings of low self worth. We look at the world around us and feel at the bottom of the pile. But fear not!! You are in the right place to have God reach down and use you for a powerful purpose! That's His way.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - When God Does Awesome Stuff For Us, The Proper Response is Praise

2011-12-23T06:15:00.000-05:00

Luke 1:46-48 says, And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant."

Mary knew God had touched her life. Her response? Unabashed, heartfelt praise. Plain and simple. When God does good for us the most perfect response is pure, honest thankfulness and praise acknowledging His favor over us.

Jacob T. Marley - A Prequel to A Christmas Carol

2011-12-22T11:52:00.000-05:00

Marley was dead, to begin with...

These words begin one of my favorite Christmas stories, A Christmas Carol. The beloved classic by Charles Dickens that has been made over and over again on stage and screen (my favorite being the Patrick Stewart version though the George C. Scott adaptation is a close second) and it tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge and the process of redemption he goes through the night before Christmas. However, the tale of his long time partner Jacob Marley is over-looked, until now.

R. William (Bill) Bennett rewinds the story to reveal the life of Jacob T. Marley who was allowed to return as a ghost to warn Scrooge away from the destructive path he had chosen. Why was he allowed to return? Why was he not given the same chance to change? Or had he?

Bennett's book has the sound and feel of the Dickens' classic and transports you back into that world. With such remarkable story-telling, Bennett investigates and uncovers a life worth redeeming and delivers a wonderful companion to the classic Christmas tale.

To hear my interview with Bill Bennett click here or scroll down.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - The Gospel is Not a Secret

2011-12-21T07:42:00.000-05:00

Luke 2:17-18, And when they saw it, they made known the saying that had been told them concerning this child. And all who heard it wondered at what the shepherds told them.

The shepherds saw the Baby and took to shoutin' in the streets! (well... maybe, but you never know!) The Gospel is by nature contagious. We are called to be people who openly speak to the saving grace of Christ in an individual's life. Let's get equipped to do this: read and study the Scriptures, be a part of an active discipleship community (Sunday School or small group), learn to tell your story, etc. Always be prepared to share the hope you have - with energy!

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - We Should Approach Jesus With Reverance and Honor

2011-12-20T08:15:00.000-05:00

Luke 1:31-33 says, And behold, you will concerive in your womd and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of JAcob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.

Many Christ-followers are guilty of downplaying Jesus' majesty. While we see Jesus as our personal Savior, He is also King of Kings, the Son of the Most High, the Holy Ruler who sits enthroned as Lord over all nations. As we pray, as we sing, as we teach let's be reminded Who it is we are serving. Jesus does not exist to answer to us. It's, in fact quite the opposite.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - Responding to God in Obediance Allows Us to be Used to Our Fullest Intended Purpose

2011-12-19T08:06:00.000-05:00

Luke 1:38, And Mary said, 'Behold, I am the servant of the Lord; let it be to me according to your word.' And the angel departed from her.

When you feel God leading you to do something, or take some sort of action, the right response is obedience. When you obey God, He can actually use you. If you will not obey God's leading, they deprive yourself of being vital tools in His hands. God is on mission... whether or not we choose to join Him is on us.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - The Bible is a Record of God Working to Achieve His Purpose

2011-12-18T08:00:00.001-05:00

Luke 2:4-5 says, And Joseph also went up from Galilee, from the town of Nazareth, to Judea, to the city of David, which is called Bethlehem, because he was of the house and lineage of David, to be registered with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child.

God promised David that someone from his lineage would always be on the throne. This happened, oh, roughly half a millennia before Christ was born! Fulfilled prophecy is an incredible teaching tool to help give your students confidence in God’s powerful providence. God is at work, in history and in the lives of your students. And that is really cool.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - The Harder the Situation the Greater the Faith

2011-12-17T21:15:00.000-05:00

Matthew 1:24-25 (ESV) says, When Joseph woke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him: he took his wife, but knew her not until she had given birth to a son. And he called his name Jesus.

Joseph may be my favorite (human) character of the Christmas Narrative. What incredible faith! Everything in him said to divorce Mary (and do it quietly to protect her life . . . what love!). But Joseph showed immense faith in the Lord’s plan. You can benefit immensely from Joseph’s example here.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - You're Never Too Young to Be Used by God

2011-12-16T07:52:00.002-05:00

Luke 1:26-27 says, In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. And the virgin's name was Mary.

Mary was pretty young. Scholars' opinions range anywhere from 13 or 14 years old to 18 or 19. The point is this: God used Mary in a miraculous way. That's God's M.O. He used Mary when she was just a teenager. We could also mention her cousin Elizabeth who gave birth at an older age. It doesn't matter your age, position in life or your circumstances (do a study on the town of Nazareth), God can and will use you today as vital parts of His plan to redeem humankind.

10 Days of Christmas Devotional - The Incarnation is Awesome

2011-12-15T07:15:00.000-05:00

Luke 2:6-7, And while they were there, the time came for her to give birth. And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger because there was no room in the inn.

It seems this generation places a high value on authenticity. There is nothing more authentic than the God of the Universe taking in human form in order to perfectly save his creation from themselves. We can know and worship and relate to God because He became one of us.

The Grace Effect

2011-12-08T09:59:00.002-05:00

Where would the U.S. be without the influence of Christian values? Historian and author Larry Taunton has taken up answering this question in his new book, The Grace Effect: how the Power of One Life Can Reverse the Corruption of Unbelief. Taunton tells the captivating story of his family's efforts to adopt a Ukrainian orphan named Sasha, the Godless world they encountered along the way, and the glimpse they saw of future America if radical secularists have their way.

Through the narrative of Sasha's redemption, you see the false promises of socialism; the soul-destroying influence of unbelief; and how a society cultivates its own demise when it rejects the ultimate source of grace. But they also see the power of the grace effect, an observable phenomenon proving that life is demonstrably better where authentic Christianity flourishes.

To listen to the interview please click here or scroll down. For more information on this remarkable story click here.

Larry Taunton is the founder and executive director of Fixed Point Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to the defense of the Christian faith. In that role, Taunton has personally engaged some of the most vociferous opponents of Christianity, including Richard Dawkins, Peter Singer and Christopher Hitches.
Taunton has written a great article regarding the on-going anti-Tebow stories that will engage you in a new way - read the article here. Plus he also developed the Lookup316 Superbowl ad, which was rejected by the network. Watch the commercial below:

Answers for Skeptics

2011-12-02T12:25:00.000-05:00

Dr. Alex McFarland, religion and culture expert, is a renowned expert in Christian apologetics. He is the host of the TV program Sound Rezn and is the co-host for Explore the World. He has authored several books including, The 10 Most Common Objections to Christianity, Stand Strong: In College, 10 Questions Every Christian Must Answer plus others.

One thing you will find about Dr. McFarland's books is that they are well-written. They are intellectual yet easy to understand. He doesn't shy away from the hard topics but confronts them head on. His latest book, 10 Answers for Skeptics, identifies the 10 most common types of skepticism that plague doubters' minds and offers believers proven strategies for connecting intellectually and spiritually with those who are skeptical about the claims of Christianity.

Dinesh D'Souza, New York Times best-selling author and president of The King's College, says in his forward to the book, "His enthusiasm is contagious not only in person but also in his writing. Alex's latest contribution to the field of apologetics, 10 Answers for Skeptics, is a unique blend of reason and experience. The result is a book that offers answers to intellectual barries as well as the experiential challenges to faith that trouble many skeptics."

During my interview with Alex we talked about his new book plus his latest debate with president of American Atheists David Silverman over the topic "Is Christianity good for America?" To listen click here or scroll down.

The Forgiveness Project

2011-11-21T09:39:00.000-05:00

As the holidays approach, a few unwelcome guests will arrive in many homes - stess, depression, and anxiety - all thans to the overwhelming demands of the days between Thanksgiving and the New Year.

Author, researcher and forgiveness expert Dr. Michael Barry has spent years conducting clinical reserach on the link between cancer and stress - namely the stress of negative emotions such as anger, bitterness and unforgiveness - and says that the holidays are an especially difficult time for many.

Through his years of in-depth medical, theological and scoiological research, as well as clinical expericne, Dr. Barry made a significant discovery that the immune system and forgiveness are very much connected. Negative or stressful feelings can actually prevent physical healing within the body. He discovered that the disease of unforgiveness can impact every organ, and it is an emotional disorder that can be prevented, treated and cured if a person is open to forgiveness.

I had the opportunity to speak with Dr. Barry about his research and how unforgiveness can lead to a stressful hoilday season. We also talked about his new program "Release Now" which teaches and guides people through the steps of forgiveness. To listen to the interview, click here or scroll down.

Rev. Dr. Michael Barry is Director of Pastoral Care at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Philadelphia, PA where he specializes in the connection between fatih and health. He has served in ministry for more than 20 years and has appeared on radio and television programs around the country. His proram, Release! The Healing Power of Forgiveness teaches patients how to explore their feelings of unforgiveness toward others, themselves or even God. He is the author of A Reason for Hope, A Season for Hope, The Art of Caregiving, and his latest The Forgiveness Project

Random Thoughts with Steve Russo

2011-11-16T11:45:00.000-05:00

Steve Russo, author, commentator, radio/TV host, and professional drummer, has been speaking to teens and young adults for a number of years. He was the co-host for Focus on the Family's Life on the Edge-Live! along with Susie Shellenberger. He recently released another book targeted to young adults that is not your run-of-the-mill devotional, Random Thoughts.

This brand new devotional takes on a different approach. Instead of the "do this and don't do that" mentality, you'll find an in-your-face honesty and topics that are relevant to young people in our culture. Plus, you will also find that Steve is not the only one speaking you also have an actor, writer, professional skateboarder and many others.

This interview with Steve is probably one of the best you will find here and I hope that you will pick up a copy of his book, Random Thoughts. To listen click here or scroll down

To learn more about Steve and his ministry check out his websites:

Alleged the Movie - A Fresh Look at the Scopes Monkey Trial

2011-11-09T11:24:00.000-05:00

Frederick Foote went to Harvard, practiced Law for a short time in New York, and ultimately ended up in banking. His movie career began when he was one of the early investors for The Passion of the Christ and another movie Bella. The Skopes Monkey Trial was a story that he always wanted to see told from the moment he researched it, even going back to college, and it was then that he began working on the script and eventually assembled the team to bring Alleged to film. He considers it one of his great achievements that he has been able to draw more attention to the Scopes trial, and particularly William Jennings Bryan - A Christian man that fought the worst kind of racists bent on sterilizing tens thousands of men and women in the name of improving the human gene pool. Alleged has been an important milestone in Fred’s quest to drive attention to this cause.

I had the opportunity to talk with Fred about his new movie and about the issues of eugenics and evolution. To listen to the interview with Fred Foote, click here or scroll down.

Film SynopsisCharles Anderson (Nathan West) feels trapped writing for his deceased father’s meager newspaper and living in a tiny town (Dayton, TN) in steep decline. Local news is scarce in Dayton but in yonder Nashville the populist statesman and Christian fundamentalist William Jennings Bryan (Fred Thompson) stirs up the Tennessee legislature to pass an anti-evolution statute. At Robinson’s Drugstore a few local entrepreneurs, keen on a way to channel 20,000 or so folks into dying Dayton for a look-see, concoct a friendly scheme for the small town to host the “Trial of the Century” — they just need a teacher at the high school willing to claim that he taught evolution. John Scopes (Jamie Kolacki) obliges despite never having taught evolution to anybody that he can recall.

When the notorious agnostic Clarence Darrow (Brian Dennehy) agrees to defend Scopes and meet the Great Commoner in a battle to see which theory of mankind’s origin is the fittest (the Bible’s or Darwin’s), the entire world shows up and Dayton becomes the enter of the journalistic universe. Once in the midst of this staged event, however, Nathan is torn between his love for the more principled Rose Williams (Ashley Johnson), his fiancée, and the escalating moral compromises that he is asked to make as the eager protégé of H.L. Mencken of the Baltimore Sun (Colm Meaney), America’s most colorful and influential columnist. Complicating matters is Rose’s half-sister of mixed race, Abigail (Khori Faison), who local doctors feel is a candidate for sterilization to prevent her, on Darwinian grounds, from propagating her supposedly inferior genes.

Alleged is a true story of conflicts that boiled over in 1925 but that remain simmering with us to this day — evolution and creation, the role of science in social policy, and media sensationalism motivated by religious and political biases on all sides. When the truth is at stake, Charles discovers, some lies just have to be told.

Doing the Right Thing

2011-10-03T10:28:00.013-04:00

What do you think would happen to the Church - indeed to America - if 5 million people simply did the right thing? I believe the Church and the country could be changed... perhaps radically! -- Chuck Colson

Introducing Doing the Right Thing, an eight week exploration of ethics. Each week Chuck Colson and John Stonestreet will cover topics dealing with ethics in everyday life as well as government, business, education, family and much more. Contributors like Ben Stein and Joni Eareckson Tada will join Chuck and John for these insightful and timely half-hours that will help believers "do the right thing" in every context.

Week 1 - Doing the Right Thing: Why does it matter? What does ethics mean to you? To listen - click here

Week 2 - The Crisis of Ethics: What's Gone Wrong? When is it okay to lie? To listen - click here

Week 3 -Absolute Truth: Can We Both Be Right? How do you know what's right? To listen - click here

Week 4 - Everyday Ethics: Can I Walk the Talk? What should be the church's role in teaching ethics? To listen - click here

Week 5 - The Issue of Life: What is a Human Being? When does human life begin? To listen - click here

Week 6 - Ethics in the Workplace: Is it an Oxymoron? What's the best story you've told to get a day off work? To listen - click here

Week 7 - Ethics in Public Life: Is it possible? On a scale of 1 to 10 - How much do you trust your elected officials? To listen - click here

Week 8 - Doing the Right Thing: Where Does it Start? If you could one thing to change the world, what would you do? To listen - click here

Forbidden

2011-09-16T10:06:00.001-04:00

I was able to interview two of my favorite authors the other day about a new collaboration that has just been released. Ted Dekker and Tosca Lee have teamed up to present a new trilogy entitled The Books of Mortals and the first book, Forbidden, has recently released.

Tosca has been a guest of mine before and has written two fantastic works: Havah: The Story of Eve and Demon: A Memoir. Her latest book, Iscariot, a novel about the infamous betrayer of Christ, will release next year.

Ted has been a favorite of mine for many years. The book that got me hooked on him was Thr3e, a thriller that has twists and turns that keeps you guessing and wanting more. His Circle Series (Black, Red, White and Green) is one that I highly recommend. He is known for this thrillers that combine adrenaline-laced plots with incredible confrontations between good and evil.

Forbidden, the first book in the The Books of Mortals trilogy, is set in the distant future, in world ruled by The Order. The Order controls humanity by genetically removing all emotions but fear. That is until a young man is given a secret message and a vial of blood that changes everything and everyone involved. A fast paced story involving emotion and reasoning that will cause discussion and debate.

Connect with Ted on Facebook and Twitter
Connect with Tosca on Facebook and Twitter

Click to listen to the interviews with Ted and Tosca or scroll down.

C

Strength... Honor... Courage

2011-09-11T21:00:00.000-04:00

Os Hillman - Change Agents

2011-09-02T10:42:00.000-04:00

I've been doing a lot of reading lately on the topic of change. Don't know exactly what that means right now but I'm guessing that some changes are going to take place soon and God is getting me ready for it. The first book I read was written by long-time friend Phil Cooke entitled Jolt (check out the blog post). The latest book was written by new friend, Os Hillman entitled Change Agent.

This book by Os is not exactly on change but on being a change agent. Os writes about the stages a change agent goes through in preparation and the 7 mountain top cultural issues that a change agent needs to affect. To listen to the interview click here or scroll down.

Change Agent Book 1 minute promo from Os Hillman on Vimeo.

Pulpit Freedom Sunday

2011-08-31T09:49:00.000-04:00

Recently I had the chance to talk with Dr. Jim Garlow, senior pastor of Skyline Church in San Diego, California. We talked about the upcoming Pulpit Freedom Sunday, October 2. I asked him about the history of the IRS code that forbids pastors from recommending candidates or legislation from the pulpit and what we can do now. Dr. Garlow's response can be found here or you can scroll down.

Click here to learn more about Pulpit Freedom Sunday.

Speak Up Movement Promo from Josh Garlow on Vimeo.

The Change Revolution

2011-08-11T10:27:00.000-04:00

Phil Cooke has recently released a new book entitled, Jolt! Get the Jump on a World That's Constantly Changing. In it Phil helps you discover how you can navigate today's culture of disruption and actually use it to your advantage.

The world is changing at the speed of light and mastering this change can revolutionize your business, ministry and your life. Phil gives you 25 "jolts" that can help you leverage a new direction, maximize your potential, overcome insecurities and create a future and a legacy.

I had the chance to talk with Phil about his book plus, as we always do, we talked the current state of Hollywood and some movies that are coming out. To listen click here or scroll down

Jersusalm Countdown

2011-08-09T09:26:00.000-04:00

With the Middle East in turmoil, Israel's preeminent ally is thrust into an impending war, America is now the target as the battle for Jerusalem begins. This is a brief synopsis for the newest film from Pure Flix Entertainment, Jerusalem Countdown.

Based on the best selling book by Dr. James Hagee, Jerusalem Countdown highlights the reality of an inevitable conflict between Israel and Islam. The story of the movie is about nuclear weapons being smuggled into America, and senior F.B.I. agent Shane Daughtry (played by David A.R. White) is faced with the impossible task of finding them before they are detonated.

The clock is ticking and the only people who can help are: a washed up arms dealer (Lee Majors), a converted Israeli Mossad agent (Stacey Keach) and a by-the-book CIA deputy director (Randy Travis). A film that will have you at the edge of your seat is a sure must see!

This movie also includes the talent of Grammy nominated/Dove award winning singer and now actress, Jaci Velasquez. I had the opportunity to talk with Jaci on the phone about her acting career and what drew her to this movie. We also talked about her roles as wife, mother and now radio announcer. To listen to the interview, click here or scroll down.

Days of Hope and Rescue

2011-07-29T09:36:00.000-04:00

Last year WRAF partnered with Cross International and our listeners rescued over 700 orphans off the streets of Mozambique. This year we are partnering with them again and my goal is to see 1,000 orphans rescued. Just a one time gift of $68 will rescue one of these precious little ones and provide housing, food, clothing, medicine, school supplies, education and much more.

Joining us again this year will be Jack Eason who recently traveled to Mozambique to see what was being accomplished. He was recently on The Morning Show and we talked about a little about that trip and what $68 can accomplish. To listen click here or scroll down.

Please consider joining us at Toccoa Falls Radio Wednesday, August 3rd and Thursday, August 4th as we join with Cross International and rescue children off the streets of Mozambique!

Faith and America's Revolution

2011-07-20T09:45:00.001-04:00

Rod Gragg, author of the new book By the Hand of Providence: How Faith Shaped the American Revolution, was my guest recently, and we discussed the almost forgotten history America's faith-based beginning.

This well researched work shares the dramatic struggle for freedom by everyday Americans in the Revolutionary War. It especially focuses on our first president, George Washington, the leadership of the Continental Congress, and the little known influence of colonial America's pastors.

To listen to the interview click here or scroll down.

Reconciliation

2011-06-20T09:34:00.000-04:00

Has we have just celebrated Father's Day I wanted to share with you a brand new movie to DVD that deals with the sometimes complex relationships between a father and a son. Reconciliation is a movie that not only deals with father-son issues but also looks at the issue of homosexuality. Nancy Heche, mother to Hollywood actress Ann Heche and author of the book The Truth Comes Out has said, "This superb film will probably break your hear. It has a message that could change your life."

This groundbreaking, provocative story about a son struggling to reconcile with his estranged, gay father as they overcome the heartbreaking consequences of their past. I had the chance to speak with writer and director of this movie, Chad Arendt. To listen to the interview please click here or scroll down.

Movie Synopsis
Grant Taylor has been troubled by intense childhood memories ever since his wife, Sara, gave him the exciting news..."You're going to be a dad!" As fatherhood nears, Grant privately wrestles with his embarrassment and anger toward his own father. His memories come to a head when Sara receives a call informing them that Grant's dad, Jeff, is terminally ill and his last wish is to see his son. With Sara's encouragement, Grant reluctantly goes to see the man he disowned at his10th birthday party, when he found out his father was gay. At the hospice, father and son confront the past as they come face to face for the first time in 16 years. Will Grant forgive his father for abandoning their family? Will Jeff forgive Grant for the hateful words he said years ago? What will it take to reconcile?

Doing the Right Thing

2011-06-17T10:35:00.001-04:00

Our culture is undergoing an ethical and moral breakdown of seismic proportions, and the implications reverberate through our families, workplaces, communities and all of society. How did we get into this mess, and how and where do we begin to examine ethical and character issues in order to once again begin to live virtuous lives? How can we, as a society, do what’s right even in the face of powerful temptations and incentives to do what’s wrong?

I had the opportunity to speak with Chuck Colson about a new small group study on ethics entitled, Doing the Right Thing. Chuck has been on a nationwide tour teaching groups about the need for the return to biblical ethics. To listen to the interview please click here or scroll down.

The tour stops in Atlanta and you can join Chuck Colson, Ken Boa, Gerard Long, Jenny Noyes, Scott Rae, John Stonestreet and others in a live exploration of the crisis of ethics, and the steps we must take in our homes, churches, schools and society to rebuild an ethical culture and virtuous society. It will take place on Friday June 24, 8am - Noon at The 755 Club at Turner Field in Atlanta. Cost is $25 (pastors and students free). To register, visit www.alphausa.org/ethics.

This tour previews a six-part curriculum produced by the Chuck Colson Center for Christian Worldview, “Doing the Right Thing: A Six-Part Exploration of Ethics.” This DVD-based series and the live tour events explore topics such as How did we get into this mess?; Is there truth, a moral law we can all know?; If we know what is right, can we do it?; What does it mean to be human?; Ethics in public life; and Ethics in the marketplace.

Event participants will preview extended clips from the video series, hear presentations from leading experts on the topics, and have the opportunity to pre-order the DVD series at a special advance rate in order to begin with others conversations on ethics, morality, virtue, character, truth and issues of right and wrong. To learn more about the curriculum please click here.

Co-sponsors for the event include BreakPoint / Chuck Colson Center for ChristianWorldview, Alpha USA and Reflections Ministries.

Doyle Dykes and The Lights of Marfa

2011-06-13T11:01:00.000-04:00

Doyle Dykes has been playing the guitar for over 45 years and has shared the stage with music legends like: Vince Gill, Chet Atkins, Emmy Lou Harris, Brad Praisley and many others. Endorsed by Taylor Guitars, Dykes has played to audiences around the globe including regular appearances at the Grand Ole Opry.

Now this legendary guitar player offers readers a collection of stories about music, guitars, travels and the miracles of life and faith in his first book, The Lights of Marfa: One of the World's Great Guitar player's Amazing Encounters with God.

Dykes uses the images of Marfa, Texas, a lonely West Texas outpost renowned for mysterious and inexplicable lights which are often ignored by locals buy of interest to faraway visitors, as a metaphor for the mysterious works of the divine.

You can hear my complete interview with Doyle by clicking here or scrolling down.

The Enounter

2011-06-01T11:04:00.000-04:00

Pure Flix Entertainment has become one of the top producers of family-friendly, faith-based movies. They recently released another good movie for the family entitled The Enounter. Here's a brief synopsis of the movie:

Stranded in the middle of nowhere, five strangers take refuge in a deserted roadside diner. An arrogant businessman, a lonely woman, an estranged couple, and a teen runaway appear to have nothing in common, but the Christ-like proprietor of the diner seems strangely all-knowing and offers more than temporal nourishment.

The film stars Bruce Marchiano (Jesus in The Visual Bible series), Christian recording artist Jaci Velasquez, Janie Nieto, Danah Davis, and 6-time WCW World Heavyweight Wrestling Champion, Steve "Sting" Borden.

I had the chance to talk with Bruce Marchiano about this film and what God has been doing in his life as a member of the entertainment industry. To listen to the interview click here or scroll down.

Laura Story and "Blessings"

2011-05-10T11:45:00.000-04:00

Recording artist and fellow Atlantean Laura Story called in on the Morning Show to catch up on what's going on in her life, and to talk about the back story to her latest single, "Blessings." To listen click here or scroll down.

THERE BE DRAGONS

2011-05-06T06:40:00.001-04:00

Everyone, take a look at this movie trailer for THERE BE DRAGONS. It's a powerful film about love and redemption, directed by Roland Joffe (The Mission, The Killing Fields). It opens in theaters May 6 and I'll be going to see this powerful film and I hope you will see it too.

Roland Joffe, the director who brought us the THE MISSION has returned to his roots with the epic movie THERE BE DRAGONS, a powerful story of war, tragedy, love and redemption. Set during the turmoil of the Spanish Civil War (early 1900's), Dragons tells the story of two childhood friends who became separated during the political conflict to find themselves on opposite sides as war erupts. One chooses the path of peace and becomes a priest while the other chooses the life of a soldier driven by jealousy and revenge. Each will struggle to find the power of forgiveness over the forces that tore their lives and friendship apart.

Lynette Eason - The Women of Justice

2011-05-03T07:36:00.000-04:00

Author and speaker Lynette Eason talks about her ministry with the deaf plus how she got into the writing business. Lynette grew up in Greenville, SC. Her home church, Northgate Baptist, had a tremendous influence on her during her early years. She credits Christian parents and dedicated Sunday School teachers for her acceptance of Christ at the tender age of eight. Even as a young girl, she knew she wanted her life to reflect the love of Jesus.

Lynette attended The University of South Carolina in Columbia, SC, then moved to Spartanburg, SC to attend Converse College where she obtained her Masters degree in Education. A couple of years later, she met the boy next door, Jack Eason - and married him. Jack works is her web and marketing guy. Lynette and Jack have two children. They are members of New Life Baptist Fellowship Church where Jack leads the worship and Lynette does whatever she's asked to do like take pictures for the church directory. She has a new book coming out in May - the third book in her Women of Justice series. To learn more about Lynette's books click here. If you are on Facebook you can connect with Lynette there by going here.

To listen to the interview scroll down or click here.

The Day Satan Called

2011-04-13T11:56:00.000-04:00

Bill Scott was confronted with an evil that most people never hear. A young girl called the station Bill was working at and said that she would be sacrificed on Halloween night and then her voice changed and what came out was an evil that shook Bill to his core. Nearly 21 years later and Bill is just now talking about it. His new book, The Day Satan Called, will be released later this year, and it describes the 18 months that followed the phone call that changed his life.

I've know Bill for nearly 20 years and I thought I knew everything about him. When I heard about his new book and was able to read the first chapter I realized that Bill had confronted evil head-on. I was able to talk with Bill about this and his new book a few weeks ago. You can listen to the entire interview by clicking here or scrolling down.

The first chapter of The Day Satan Called is available for free by clicking here. You can pre-order the book at Amazon.

Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martry, Prophet, Spy

2011-04-12T11:17:00.002-04:00

Since early last year I've been enamored with Diretrich Bonhoeffer, the German pastor who played a part in the assassination attempt on Adolf Hitler, and a member of the Confessing Church. I came across Eric Metaxas' brilliant biography of Bonhoeffer and immediatly began to read it. What an extraordinary life Bonhoeffer led. Normally a quiet man, he spoke with such power and conviction regarding the national church in Germany and the Nazis' treatment of Jews. Bonhoeffer has fast become one of my heros.

I had the chance to speak with Eric Metaxas about his book and his thoughts regarding Bonhoeffer. You can hear the complete interview by clicking here or scrolling down. I also urge you to pick up his book and learn as much as you can about Bonhoeffer. You will be suprised at the similarities there are between Bonhoeffer's day and our current stiuations.

Dr. Alex McFarland on the Morning Show

2011-04-04T09:46:00.000-04:00

Alex McFarland - www.alexmcfarland.com

One of the privileges of being a radio personality is the number of people you meet and then become good friends. Dr. Alex McFarland, former president of Southern Evangelical Seminary and radio host, author and speaker, is one of those people. I had the chance to meet Alex for the first time last year at an apologetics conference in Charlotte and I have to say he is one of the most interesting speakers I've met.

Recently, Alex joined me on The Morning Show to talk about some current issues that has raised the question from many skeptics, "If God is a loving God then why did he allow the tsunami and earthquake to happen in Japan." We also talked about the church's role in society. It was a great conversation and you can listen to it by clicking here or scrolling down.

Alex will be a regular contributor to The Morning Show and you will be reading some of his articles on this blog.

Chick-fil-A Leadercast - Dave Ramsey

2011-03-31T13:39:00.001-04:00

This year's Leadercast is bringing together some of the most popular speakers from diverse backgrounds. Dave Ramsey is a best-selling author and nationally syndicated radio personality, helping millions of people get out of debt. After graduating from the University of Tennessee with a bachelor's degree, Dave quickly went into business for himself and found great success in the real estate market - then the bottom dropped. Dave and his family went from having it made to losing it all. He teaches from a life of hard lessons.

Dave's personal story of achieving financial responsibility and helping others live healthy lifestyles as it relates to finances and leadership is the cornerstone of the Lampo Group and the Dave Ramsey Show. He will bring energy to the Chick-fil-A Leadercast while teaching on service in life and in business.

Click here to register for the Chick-fil-A Leadercast at Toccoa Falls College

Chick-fil-A Leadercast - Robin Roberts

2011-03-23T11:34:00.001-04:00

The Chick-fil-A Leadercast will be the leadership event of 2011! This year speakers from around the country will bring their first hand knowledge of leadership to you and your team. For the next few weeks leading up to the Leadercast I will highlight one of the speakers coming to the event. This week it's Robin Roberts.

Robin Roberts is anchor of ABC's Emmy-award winning morning program, Good Morning America. Her personal history is full of stories overcoming obstacles in the pursuit of excellence. From her life in Mississippi, to a college basketball star, to a host on ESPN, and now with GMA, leading them to three consecutive Emmy Awards, nothing has come easy but her faith and deep rooted belief in staying true to one's self Robin Roberts has become a symbol of success for everyone.

Robin will be speaking on:

How to achieve your goals through dreams, focus and determination
Leading and accomplishing your goals without making excuses
Venturing outside your comfort zone
Focusing on the solution, not the problem

A cancer survivor, Robin Roberts will be an inspiration to you and will challenge you to reach for your dreams. Her latest book, From the Heart: Eight Rules to Live By,

To learn how you can take part in the Chick-fil-A Leadercast at Toccoa Falls College, click here and register today!

Two Minute Warning - China Envy

2011-03-23T06:45:00.003-04:00

Because of China’s rising economic status, some Americans are starting to envy them. Chuck Colson explains that such envy is misplaced, because even China acknowledges that it needs what made the West successful: Christianity. Watch Two Minute Warning and find out more.

The Idolatry of Our Personal Opinions : Kirstin Vander Giessen-Reitsma

2011-03-22T07:11:00.003-04:00

"One impression I have of the postmodern belief system, which looks ironically like a doctrine, is that all opinions are equally valid. Just within the past few days, I’ve heard two eerily similar stories from college-level teachers: a student approaches the teacher to disagree with the grade given on a paper. The teacher defends the grade as valid. The student assumes that the root cause of the undesirable grade is a difference of opinion and “concedes” that they’ll have to “agree to disagree.” The teacher is stunned at the student’s audacity, for the grade is not based on difference of opinion, but on lack of comprehension as determined by the teacher’s own authority and expertise in the field." - Kirstin Vander Giessen-Reitsma

The Idolatry of Our Personal Opinions : Kirstin Vander Giessen-Reitsma

Nobody Told Me

2011-03-15T09:17:00.004-04:00

Teens have their whole lives ahead of them, but making poor choices can undermine their hopes for a bright future. Too many young adults look back on decisions they made in the heat of the moment and regret the path they chose - they wish someone had told them how premarital sex could negatively impact their future relationships. Nobody Told Me is a book to help teens make the right choice when it comes to sex, based on actual questions Pam Stenzel has received from real-life teens.

Pam and I talked about her new book and the culture in which teens are now in (click here). The media and the government are not helping matters when it comes to sex. Here's some statistics that should bother you:

Almost two-thirds of teenagers who have had sexual intercourse wish they'd waited. Fifty-five percent of boys and 72 percent of girls said they wish they had waited longer (source)
STDs are the most common disease in America next to the common cold and flu ("Is Sex Safe?", 2001)
One in three girls in the United States is estimated to get pregnant at least once before the age 20 ("The Real Cost of Teen Pregnancy", Washington DC. National Campaign to Prevent Teen Pregnancy, Sept. 2006)
Today there are around 30 known STDs and more than 65 million people in America are already infected by an incurable one (source).
Hormonal birth control dramatically increases your rick of contracting an STD (source)

Pam Stenzel is the founder of Enlighten Communications, an organization that empowers parents, youth leaders and educators to lead informed discussions on sexual abstinence and its benefits. She speaks to over 500,000 teens each year; many of her invitations come from teens themselves. She has written a curriculum, Sex Has a Price Tag, that has won numerous awards and has been translated into 11 languages.

Saving Leonardo

2011-02-22T12:27:00.006-05:00

I recently talked with author and speaker Nancy Pearcey about her newest book, Saving Leonardo: A Call to Resist the Secular Assault on Mind, Morals and Meaning. Nancy has co-authored How Now Shall We Live with Chuck Colson and authored a follow up, Total Truth. She is currently a fellow at the Discovery Institute and editor-at-large for The Pearcey Report. To listen to the interview please click here or scroll down.

Praise for Saving Leonardo:

"A feast for the mind and for the eye. Nancy Pearcey not only is a trustworthy guide for a nuanced discussion on the relationship between culture and the gospel, but she is a gifted teacher as well . . . Saving Leonardo is a rare, precious gift to the churches and universities alike."
— Makoto Fujimura Artist and author of Refractions: A Journey of Faith, Art, and Culture

"Nancy Pearcey helps a new generation of evangelicals to understand the worldview challenges we now face and to develop an intelligent and articulate Christian understanding . . . Saving Leonardo should be put in the hands of all those who should always be ready to give an answer--and that means all of us."
— R. Albert Mohler, Jr. President, The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary

Makoto Fujimura - The Arts and The Church

2011-02-18T12:28:00.004-05:00

I had the chance to speak with, in my opinion, one of brightest and most talented artists in our country - Makoto Fujimura. Fujimura has emerged as a voice of integrating the arts with the Faith in new and creative ways. He has been featured in The Truth Project and was a Presidential appointee to the National Council on the Arts (2003-2009).

Of all of his accomplishments, however, he is most proud of the International Arts Movement. According to their website, IAM "gathers artists and creative catalysts to wrestle with the deep questions of art, faith, and humanity in order to inspire the creative community to engage the culture that is and create the world that "ought to be."

He has recently partnered with Crossway Publishing a beautiful illumination of the four Gospels. This work, titled The Four Holy Gospels, blends Western and Eastern artistic traditions that brings back the traditions of illuminated works from the Middle Ages.

To listen to the interview click here or scroll down.

Makoto Fujimura - The Art of "The Four Holy Gospels" from Crossway on Vimeo.

The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven

2011-02-17T10:59:00.006-05:00

Everywhere I go I see this book! At first I was a little skeptical about another "near death" and "returned from Heaven" book. But as I read I realized there was something different about this. When I was given the chance to interview Kevin Malarkey, co-author, I jumped at the chance because I wanted to know the truth.

The Boy Who Came Back From Heaven is an amazing true story about a six year old who experienced something amazing while he was in a coma after a devastating car accident. Listen to what his father has to say about this and how it has challenged him by clicking here or scrolling down. To read the first chapter click here. Click here to connect with Kevin and Alex on Facebook

Do You Know Where Your Kids Are...

2011-02-16T13:41:00.002-05:00

... on the internet? Keeping track of your kids is tough, and knowing where they are on the internet is getting harder. The Better Business Bureau Children's Advertising Review Unit is asking parents to teach their kids and tweens about surfing safely on the internet. Sit down with them and let them know to stop and come talk with you about situations on the internet like these:

Visiting a website that asks for financial information
Websites that asks for personal information like home addresses, phone numbers, e-mails. etc.
Receiving inappropriate messages and pictures
Posting pictures of themselves
Being harassed and bullied through social networks, e-mails or instant messaging
Getting a friend request from someone they don't know
Signing up for "free" ringtones, music or games.

To learn more about online safety for your kids visit the Children's Advertising Review Unit web site by clicking here.

Transforming the World Around You

2011-02-16T13:23:00.004-05:00

Kris Vollotton, co-founder of the Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry and founder of Moral Revolution, believes that in light of the circumstances that surround our world, it's time for the Body of Christ to carry the Kingdom of Heaven into the darkest places on the planet by learning to influence every realm of society.

I had the chance to talk with Kris about his new book, Heavy Rain: How You Can Transform the World Around You, in which he reminds his readers that the Church is in need of a reformation in order to fulfill God's desire for the Church to transform the world. To listen, click here or scroll down.

Making the Right Call When Choosing a Cell Phone

2011-02-16T08:10:00.002-05:00

Now that the iPhone is available on AT&T and Verizon, the cell phone wars are heating up. How do you pick the right phone and carrier that will meet your needs? Here are a few suggestions from the Atlanta Better Business Bureau:

Phones - think about how you are going to use your phone; if you are going to use it to only make calls than buying a smart phone may not be the right call.
Plans - find out the billing cycle, the term of the contract, hidden fees, etc. One other item is the number of minutes being billed for.
Coverage - this is where the low cost carriers lose - what's the point of having a cell phone when you don't have reception. Also look for national roaming and international calling features.

Some questions you should ask before signing a contract:

How long is the grace period for testing the service and phone?
How long is the contract?
How many minutes do I get each month and how can I track them?
What are the extra fees?
Will bundling or a data plan save me money?

Always read the fine print and don't feel pressured in buying something that you know you don't need. Check out the company's report by visiting the Better Business Bureau.

Ray Comfort - The Defender's Guide for Life's Toughest Questions

2011-02-15T10:15:00.005-05:00

It’s tough to be a believer in today’s world- especially if you are a student in an academic system intent on destroying your faith. Bestselling author and television co-host, Ray Comfort, has collected some of the toughest questions people will face in defending their faith and offers sound biblical responses in his latest book, The Defender's Guide for Life's Toughest Questions. Each issue is one that has been raised by genuine atheists. Don’t be without these powerful facts when you face a world trying to twist and confuse biblical truth.

When an atheist wants an answer, will you have one? I had the chance to talk with Ray about this book and why it's so important that we have an answer for the hope that we have. To listen click here or scroll down.

Amazingly Graced

2011-01-31T09:47:00.006-05:00

Wes Lane is most widely known as the former district attorney for Oklahoma County and his two decades as an award-winning prosecutor. He has been president of the Burbridge Foundation since 2008 and has recently been commissioned as a Centurion through Breakpoint and the Colson Center for Biblical Worldview. He now adds author to his list of accomplishments and we recently sat down together to talk about his new book, Amazingly Graced: A Prosecutor Journey Through Faith, Murder and the Oklahoma City Bombing. To listen to the Amazingly Graced Radio Special click here or scroll down.

The Burbridge Foundation is a Christian foundation dedicated to working solutions to problems impacting our families and our culture. They do this by bringing public awareness to these problems, by working alongside other faiths and concerned citizens interested in strengthening the fabric of our community character, and by providing leadership support to organizations of like vision.

Their current effort focuses on Christian leadership development. In 2007,they reached out to several Oklahoma City Christian lay leaders with a vision for the creation of "salt and light leadership training" to leaders of this and other cities. This has now become the SALLT Fellowship.

Infertility and Assisted Reproduction

2011-01-27T10:23:00.005-05:00

Nearly every couple struggling with the physical and emotional challenges of infertility will consider assisted reproduction. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) options can be emotionally, physically and financially draining.

Americans use invitro fertilization (IVF) at a rate of 236 per 100,000 - totaling more than 70,000 nationwide. How ethical are such treatments? What key issues should couples wrestle with before using any type of assisted procreation? Which options should Christian couples consider.

Dr. Joy Riley, Executive Director of the Tennessee Center for Bioethics and Culture, has co-authored a book that tackles these many other issues regarding ART. Chuck Colson, host of Breakpoint, says of Outside the Womb: Moral Guidance for Assisted Reproduction, "A thorough, thoughtful look at the complexities of assisted reproduction." I had the chance to talk with Dr. Riley about her new book on The Morning Show - to listen click here or scroll down.

Life - The Only Choice

2011-01-24T07:55:00.001-05:00

Who Is My Neighbor?

2011-01-21T09:17:00.006-05:00

An "expert in the law" once asked Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life, in reply, Jesus referred to what was written in the Law - to "love your neighbor as yourself." The next logical question is , "Who is my neighbor?" Instead of giving a huge list of those who are his neighbor, Jesus tells the story of a Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37).

Dr. Wayne "Coach" Gordon, 2011 recipient of The Wilberforce Award and pastor of Lawndale Community Church in Chicago, has asked that very question for the last 20 years. He and his wife of 33 years have worked in the tough Lawndale community trying share the love of Christ to those that are hurting, broken and very much different than the Gordon's.

For nearly 36 years, Coach Gordon has lived out the parable of the Good Samaritan, and through those experiences he has written the Who is My Neighbor. I had the chance to talk with Coach about his ministry and his book, and below you will find clips from that conversation.

Clip 1 - Coach Gordon explains the radical of idea The Good Samaritan
Clip 2 - Coach Gordon gives Jesus' definition of "neighbor"
Clip 3 - Coach Gordon identifies what our neighbor looks like

Snow Days

2011-01-13T07:11:00.001-05:00

I was snowed in the last few days and the kids had a few days off so we decided to do some playing. Here some video of the kids hitting the sled slopes:

Day of Epiphany

2011-01-06T06:53:00.002-05:00

On this final day of Christmas - celebrate the Wise Men worshiping the Christ Child. To learn more about The Day of Epiphany - click here

2010-12-24T11:00:00.000-05:00

The World Race

2010-12-24T09:10:00.004-05:00

This morning I introduced a very special person that worked with me at Toccoa Falls College and recently graduated from the college with a degree in counseling - Laura Hamilton. Laura has been working this past year to raise money to participate in the World Race, a mission with Adventures in Missions. Laura was on my show to share how this past year has been and what she plans to do for 4 months. To listen, click here or scroll down.

Laura still has a few needs that have to be met before she leaves in January. If you would like to help her out go to her web site and there you will be able to donate to her mission and get connected with her as she works overseas.

The True Night Before Christmas

2010-12-15T07:40:00.002-05:00

To learn more about "The True Night Before Christmas" and to order the book visit Cane Creek Publishers

The Mockingbird Parables

2010-12-14T11:01:00.005-05:00

One of my all-time favorite movies and books is Harper Lee's classic, To Kill a Mockingbird. I loved reading the novel when I was younger and still do today. The American Film Institute lists Articus Finch as America's #1 hero - and I concur!!

A few months ago a book came across my desk entitled The Mockingbird Parables. It was written by Matt Litton, who says that Lee's book was one that he loved to read over and over again. According to Litton, there are a number of Christian principles that can pulled from the classic book that are relevant even more so today.

I spoke with Matt a few weeks ago about his book and the love we both share with To Kill a Mockingbird. To listen click here or scroll down.

Hollywood Update with Phil Cooke

2010-12-13T10:03:00.004-05:00

It's always fun to have Phil Cooke, president of Cooke Pictures, on the Morning Show. We talked about the new Narnia movie plus a few more of the "family friendly" releases. Phil also shared his pick for the best movie of 2010. A great conversation that takes more turns than most conversations - so buckle up! To listen click here or scroll down.

How Should a Christian Respond to Homosexuality?

2010-12-09T10:49:00.006-05:00

I believe the number one cultural issue facing the Church today is homosexuality. We as believers have done a poor job at responding to the homosexual community and we are now labeled has intolerant, hateful, and unChristian. How would Christ respond to this segment of our population?

I received a few weeks ago a unique text entitled, the Complete Christian Guide to Understanding Homosexuality, and it was edited by two people who have been affected by homosexuality both personally and in their families. I recognized one name, Joe Dallas, who was the past president of Exodus International. The other name I wasn't familiar with but her last name I did recognize, Heche. Nancy Heche, who works as a counselor out of her church in south Florida, is the mother of actress and Hollywood icon, Anne Heche. You can learn more about Nancy's experience in her book, The Truth Comes Out.

I had the opportunity to talk with Nancy about her life, her work, and the book she and Joe have just published. This is a fascinating conversation that gives some great advice on talking and relating to the gay community. To listen click here or scroll down

Dare to Be a Daniel

2010-12-08T09:52:00.006-05:00

I've been saying for a long time now that today's teenagers are the most spiritually attuned group, but just not Christian. They are prime to hear the Gospel but just not from adults - more likely their peers. And that is one reason why the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association has developed the Dare to Be a Daniel program.

I had the chance to speak with Chad Miller, director of the Dare to Be a Daniel, about the program and the worldview among today's young people.

Chad Miller talking about his teaching at the Charlotte apologetics conference (here)

Chad Miller explaining why the Church needs to fall in love with the Bible again (here)

Chad Miller talking about the Dare to Be a Daniel program (part 1 and part 2)

Generation Ex-Christian

2010-12-07T11:27:00.003-05:00

According to a recent study by Ranier Research, 70% of youth leave church by the time they are 22 years old. Barna Research estimates that 80% of those reared in the church will be "disengaged" by the time they are 29 years old.

Another study from the American Religious Identification Survey released in 2009 showed the percentage of Americans claiming no religion climbed from 8.1% in 1990 to 15% in 2008. The 18-29 years-old group, 22% claimed no religion and 73% were raised in religious homes.

Why are so many young adults leaving the church? Drew Dyck, editorial manager of the leader training team at Christianity Today International, asked the same question and he has published his findings in a new book entitled Generation Ex-Christian: Why Young Adults are Leaving the Faith...and How to Bring Them Back.

I had the chance to talk with Drew about his new book and his insights on today's mass exodus of young adults from the Faith. To listen please click here or scroll down.

Where's the Line to See Jesus

2010-12-07T07:50:00.001-05:00

WWJD-What Would Jesus Do?

2010-12-06T10:47:00.005-05:00

For years I always thought that the "WWJD" got it's start from yellow wrist bands. However, I've learned that the acronym actually comes from a book published in the late 19th century by American Congregationalist minister, Charles Sheldon, In His Steps: What Would Jesus Do. The book takes place in the town of Raymond and focuses on the Rev. Henry Maxwell who challenges his congregation to not do anything for a full year without first asking, "What would Jesus do?" In His Steps has sold more than 30,000,000 copies and is ranked 39th best-selling book of all time.

Joseph Nasser took the book and reworked for a modern audience and produced it into a wonderful movie featuring John Schneider. I had the chance to talk with Joseph about the movie and what it took to make the classic book for today's audience. To listen click here or scroll down.

Dancing With Max

2010-11-23T12:52:00.006-05:00

Along with impending motherhood came the dreams of an ideal suburban New England family - a Volvo in the driveway and a perfect, healthy child who would learn to grow up with all the advantages of a "normal" family. Well, that was the dream of Emily Colson, but God had something different in mind for her.

Her "healthy" baby boy was diagnosed with autism, a disorder the affects 1 in 110 births. Along with an autistic son, Emily also endured a divorce and years of battles to get the help her son, Max, needed.

Dancing with Max is a beautiful story of how God used Max in not only Emily's life but the lives he came into contact. Especially the life of his grandfather, Chuck Colson, founder of Prison Fellowship. Listen to my interview with Emily by clicking here or scrolling down.

The story of Max and Emily is one that will encourage and inspire you. It touched my heart and I hope that it does the same for you. To learn more about autism please check out the Autism Society website.

Here's a video preview of the book with Emily and Chuck

Here's a Two Minute Warning with Chuck Colson about the book and eugenics

Marriage: Broken, In Need of Restoration : Mark Regnerus

2010-11-22T09:36:00.004-05:00

I mentioned on today's show that there's new research from the Pew Forum about marriage. It reports that one in three U.S. children live with a parent or parents who are not married or who are no longer married. This confirms what the U.S. Census Bureau has found in the 2010 reports - nearly 7.5 millions couples are cohabiting. This is firm research that there is a major attack on traditional marriage and families. What are Christians to do in this situation? This latest essay from Q offers some good advise. Plus, the article has a link to the Pew Research on marriage.

Marriage: Broken, In Need of Restoration : Mark Regnerus

The Leadership Wisdom of Solomon

2010-11-18T11:23:00.004-05:00

Pat Williams, co-founder and vice president of the Orlando Magic, has recently released, The Leadership Wisdom of Solomon, which takes a look at the leadership wisdom of the wisest person in history, King Solomon. After spending most of his life reading, studying and teaching leadership concepts, Pat has developed 7 sides of leadership. They are:

Vision
Communication Skills
People Skills
Good Character
Competence
Boldness
Servanthood

These 7 sides are woven into the 20 strategies for leading we learn from Solomon. To listen to the full interview, click here or scroll down.

Fireplace Safety

2010-11-16T08:04:00.003-05:00

I love the Autumn and Winter seasons. The best part is having a fire in my fireplace and each the warmth that it brings. However, each year over 25,000 chimney fires occur which results in the loss of 30 lives and over $126 million in damage. All can be prevented by properly maintaining your fireplace. Here are some tips to keep your fireplace burning safely this year:

Get your chimney cleaned by a professional chimney sweep
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Install chimney tops or shrouds
Keep the hearth area clear
Make sure your fireplace screen is present
Use the right materials for fuel; firewood should be well-seasoned (cut 6 to 12 months earlier)

To learn more go to the Burn Wise site from the EPA

Choosing the Right Artificial Tree

2010-11-16T06:55:00.006-05:00

For as long as I can remember, my family always had a real tree at Christmas. My folks would load us up in the van and go to the tree sellers and pick out the best one we could find. This was always special for me because we did that on my birthday.

Today, since trees are somewhat expensive, artificial trees are on the list of things to get this season. My family inherited an artificial tree that we have used the last three years and have saved quite a bit of money.

So, now that you have decided to buy an artificial tree, how do you choose one. Here as some points to consider that I found in the November 2010 issue of Lake Living magazine:

Artificial trees come in many colors. You need to keep in mind your particular style. Christmas ornaments will really stand out on a color other than evergreen
Some trees come in one piece and are able to collapse for storage. Others, however, have individual branches that need to be inserted. Gauge your level of patience.
The needles on artificial trees come in a variety of ways. Some are flat and soft while others resemble real needles.
Some artificial trees come pre-lit. That's a big thing for me, but there are some concerns. What happens when a bulb goes out? What about LED lights? Should the lights be colored or just white?
Size is something to think about. Make sure the tree fits your home and the place it will be standing for Christmas.
Since size is something to consider also add to the fact storage - where will it go once Christmas is over.

For more tips on buying an artificial tree check out this site. Just some things to think about when hunting for the perfect artificial tree. Once you have found your tree and have it decorated, send me a picture!

5 Ways To Get the Most Out of a Sermon | The Resurgence

2010-11-15T08:17:00.004-05:00

Have you ever walked out of a Sunday morning service and asked yourself, "What did he just talk about? I didn't get it!" I know there are times when that as happened to me. A friend of mine shared this article with me that points to the fact that the Christian faith is based on listening and that there are 5 ways to get the most out of a sermon. The concepts are so easy I smacked myself on the forehead and thought, "I should have known this!"

5 Ways To Get the Most Out of a Sermon | The Resurgence

A Leader's Perspective on Unemployment

2010-11-11T10:12:00.004-05:00

This has been Unemployment Emphasis Week here at WRAF. We've teamed up with Crown Financial Ministries and have been sending out to those in our audience who are unemployed or underemployed The Unemployment Survival Guide. The response has been phenomenal!!

This morning I had the chance to talk with John Hull, president of Equip, about a leader's perspective on unemployment. To listen click here or scroll down.

Hallelujah Chorus at Macy's

2010-11-10T07:09:00.001-05:00

Unemployment Emphasis Week

2010-11-08T10:30:00.004-05:00

Today, over 14 million people are without jobs. Do you know one of them? Are you one of them? People all over are hurting and need encouragement. The Morning Show has teamed up with Crown Financial Ministries to bring hope and encouragement to many of these who are in need of help finding a job or their path in life. I had the chance to talk with Chuck Bentley, president and CEO of Crown, about this week of encouragement. To listen click here or scroll down.

Crown Financial Ministries has created The Unemployment Survival Guide to give hope from God's Word and practical help for surviving financially and finding a new job. They are available all this week from WRAF all you need to do is to call us at 800-251-8326 or you can email The Morning Show at mornings@myfavoritestation.net.

The Unemployment Survival Guide, yours free this week (November 8 - 12)

Thoughts on Election 2010

2010-11-04T06:43:00.005-04:00

Here are some interesting ideas regarding this past last election. George Barna, researcher and founder of Barna Research, has come out with some interesting thoughts on Tuesday's election. Before you think that the next two years are going to be political bliss give George a read and then let me know what you think.

Thoughts on Election 2010

The next article is from Q, authored by Gabe Lyons and Jonathan Merritt. They believe the Christian right didn't show up Tuesday. Do you agree? Do you consider yourself a member of the traditional Christian right or the Tea Party?

Why the Christian Right Was Noticeably Absent in This Election

Interviews Finally Up!

2010-11-01T11:00:00.006-04:00

Last week we had interviews everyday! It was a great week on the Morning Show and WRAF! I've finally gotten all the interviews ready for download.

Mark Young - writer and director for the new movie The Least Among You. I highly recommend this movie! To listen to the interview with Mark click here.

Tosca Lee - former Mrs. Nebraska and author of two books, Havah, The Story of Eve and Demon: A Memoir. She also has a book coming out that will deal with Judas Iscariot, and a new series with one of my favorite authors, Ted Dekker. To listen to my conversation with Tosca click here.

Kevin Sorbo - you'll remember him from the television series, Hercules, the Legendary Journeys. He is the lead of a brand new movie that has a It's a Wonderful Lif e feel to it, What If. It also stars Kristy Swanson, Debby Ryan John Ratzenberger. This is another movie that I highly recommend. If it's not playing in a theater near you please request that it be shown!! You can hear my interview with Kevin here.

I hope you enjoy the interviews and don't forget to check out the websites!

Gabe Lyons and The Next Christians

2010-10-26T10:00:00.005-04:00

Gabe Lyons, author, speaker and founder of Q, and I had the chance to talk about his new book, The Next Christians: The Good News About the End of Christian America. This is a follow-up to his groundbreaking book, unChristian (if you haven't read it - you need to!).

Gabe and I have become fast friends and his writings have always challenged the way I think and respond. In our conversation we talked about what he means by the end of Christian America and who exactly the next Christians are.

To listen, click here or scroll down.

I urge you to pick up a copy of this book. You may not agree with everything Gabe has to say but I guarentee that you will be challenged. Get a few copies for some friends and have some great dialog!

The Lost Encyclopedia

2010-10-26T09:32:00.003-04:00

I've mentioned a number of times both on the air and on this blog that I'm a huge fan of the television series Lost. A few weeks ago I was contacted by a publist about a new book that covers everything Lost and was wondering if I would like to conduct an interview with one of the co-authors, Tara Bennett. Of course I jumped at the chance!

Tara and I talked about the new book (which I was lucky enough to get a copy!) plus the show itself. We talked about the characters and the fans of the show plus we talked about how the writers and producers were able to weave in the storyline religious issues. It was a fascinating discussion.

To listen to the interview click here or scroll down. You may not agree with everything or anything about the show but it is a good source for discussions. And if you are wondering what to get me for my birthday or Christmas - Lost: The Complete Collection (DVD)!

Interviews from the National Conference on Christian Apologetics

2010-10-22T10:25:00.024-04:00

I had a great time at the National Conference on Christian Apologetics which was held at Northside Baptist Church in Charlotte, NC October 15 and 16. There were so many speakers and I was able to interview most of them.

I have posted the ones that I highlighted during the Morning Show. Below you will find links to those interviews plus links to their respective web sites. To listen to the interview click on the title. Enjoy!!

Dr. Erwin Lutser
"Christ Among Other gods-Why Jesus is the Only Way"

Josh McDowell
"Tolerating the Intolerable"

Sean McDowell
"Why Any Serious Religious Quest Should Begin with Christianity"

Dinesh D'Souza

The Roots of Obama's Rage

Janet Mefferd

"The Church in a Crumbling Culture"

John Stonestreet

"Why Students are Walking Away from Their Faith"

Jesus Take the Wheel

2010-10-22T09:29:00.003-04:00

When I first received this book I initially thought that it was a biography of Carrie Underwood and so it sat on my desk for about a week. Then I opened it and found a wonderful discipleship program that I feel is so needed today.

Stuart Migdon has done a great job with this unique program and I urge you take a look at the book and I challenge you to do the 2-1-2 challenge: meet with 2 people, once a week for 2 months, and then see what God can do.

To hear the interview click here or scroll down.

The Centurion Program

2010-10-06T07:20:00.004-04:00

Learn more about the Centurion Program and Apply today!

Crisis Leadership

2010-09-30T12:11:00.005-04:00

John Hull, president of Equip, recently returned from a trip to Poland and Rio de Janerio. While in those countries he had the opporutnity to train leaders on how to deal with crisis. To listen to our conversation please click here or scroll down.

To connect with Equip on Facebook, search for Equip Leadership.

Celebrating 50 Years of Yabba Dabba Dooo!!!

2010-09-30T06:55:00.007-04:00

On September 30, 1960 The Flintstones premired on ABC and for 6 years entertained America with the hijinks of Fred Flinstone and his buddy Barney Rubble. For most of us we saw these iconic characters in eternal re-runs but needless to say they have been a constant companion every afternoon and on Saturday mornings.

Critics and fans alike drew comparisons between the The Flintstones and The Honeymooners. Creators of the cartoon family are conflicted - William Hanna said that The Honeymooners were an influence on the show where as Joseph Barbera didn't think so but thought being compared to The Honeymooners was "a great complement." Either way, The Flintstones had a big effect on our culture: Flinstone shaped chewable vitamins, breakfast cereals, theme parks to say the least.

On this 50th anniversary of this "bedrock" program take some time today a relive your childhood and watch a couple of episodes of The Flintstones.

Apologetics and Religious Liberty

2010-09-29T09:16:00.005-04:00

Dr. Alex McFarland, host of Sound Rezn and president of Southern Evangelical Seminary and Bible College, talks about the upcoming apologetics conference in Charlotte, NC and the eroding of our country's religious liberties.

To listen click here or scroll down

To learn more about the National Conference on Christian Apologetics and to register click the banner at the top of the page or click here

The Story of the Bible

2010-09-28T09:40:00.008-04:00

Next year we will be celebrating the 400th anniversary of the King James version of the Bible. In recognition of that anniversary, Thomas Nelson Publishers has just released a beautiful book entitled, The Story of the Bible by Larry Stone.

Larry Stone, a former missionary to Zimbabwe, has crafted a wonderful book taking a look at the history of the Scriptures with the hopes of drawing people back to a better understanding of the King James version.

To listen to the interview, click here or scroll down

Quest Trilogy a Good Read

2010-09-24T06:52:00.016-04:00

With the success of the Harry Potter series there are many Christian young people that wish for a wholesome, Christian centered adventure series that they can feel safe to read. Well I had the chance to speak with Todd Smith, Chrisitian fantasy author, about the Christian fantasy genre and his latest book trilogy. To listen click here or scroll down.

Books That Will Inspire and Encourage

2010-09-23T10:17:00.007-04:00

Recently I had the chance to do a round of marathon interviews. The first interview was with Kathy McReynolds, Director of Public Policy for the Joni and Friends Christian Institute on Disability. She talked with me about Joni's latest book, Life in the Balance and specifically the chapter she wrote dealing with end of life issues. To listen click here.

The second interview I had was with Gerard Henry, former BET host. He has written a book entitled, Seductive Delusions: Exposing Lies About Sex. This book, targeted to today's generation of singles, addresses the destructive lies that some have believed regarding sex and relationships. To listen click here.

The final interview was with Dan Britton, Executive Vice President of Ministry Programs for Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Dan was the primary editor of the book, The Greatest Coach Ever: Timeless Wisdom and and Insight of John Wooden. Coach Wooden passed away earlier this year and many from all over the sports spectrum paid homage to the "greatest coach ever." People like: Bobby Bowden, Tony Dungy, Mike Singletary, and Tom Osborne. To listen click here.

These books will inspire and encourage you and I hope that you will get a copy of each.

To Save a Life

2010-09-10T09:23:00.003-04:00

I love movies! You have read that from me before. Every once in a while I come across a movie that touches the heart and I've got to let everyone know about it. Recently I've seen a movie that does just that and doesn't talk down to its audience. To Save a Life is a movie about a young man who experiences a tragic event that affects the rest of his life.

I had the chance to interview Brian Baugh, director of To Save a Life, and he gives some background on the movie and the response he has recieved from teenagers across the country. To listen click here or scroll down.

Here's the trailer for the movie:

The Soul of Spider-Man

2010-09-09T09:44:00.006-04:00

Who was your hero when you where a kid? When I was young I always admired my dad and grandfather. However, a lot of my time was spent lost in the adventures of Spider-Man! I loved that character. His life as Peter Parker was much like mine: bullied, kind of a nerd, admired one from far away. But where there spiritual insights of the web-head that I missed?

Adam Palmer, co-author of the book The Soul of Spider-Man, joined me on the morning show to talk about his new book and the spiritual insights that can be found in the Marvel Comics superhero. To listen click here or scroll down.

Leadership Live - Leaving a Leadership Legacy

2010-09-09T09:03:00.005-04:00

It's always a pleasure to have John Hull, president of Equip, on the air with us. Every Thursday he brings us new concepts on leadership that, for me, always challenges me to be a better a leader. Today was no exception. We talked about leaving a leadership legacy with the organization is that so important to the church and to a culture - your family. To listen click here or scroll down.

Pray and Act for the Spiritual Life of America

2010-09-08T06:26:00.004-04:00

You've heard me on the air comment my support of the Manhattan Declaration and you've read my blog article. My question to you now is have you signed the document? Have you joined the hundreds of thousands of people - normal everyday people just like you and me - and added your name? The last time I looked at the numbers there are over 470,000 names supporting the Declaration, which I am a part of. I ask you to read the document here and then add your name.

Last night I had the opportunity to be a part of a conference call that included Centurions from across the country and their pastors. Chuck Colson and Jim Garlow lead the evening encouraging us to pray and fast for 40 days regarding the spiritual direction of our country and, in particular, for over 1 million names associated with the Manhattan Declaration. I was encouraged to hear of the movements acorss the country and how Evangelicals, Catholics and Orthodox believers have joined together to promote this important document.

If you would like to join us for 40 days of prayer and fasting I encourage you to visit the Pray and Act site and learn about what is going on across the country and how you can play a part in the 40 days of prayer and fasting which begins September 20.

Leadership Live with John Hull

2010-09-07T10:55:00.004-04:00

You know, I need to do a better job of posting these interviews with John Hull. John is the president of Equip which trains leaders in the worldwide church. This week's broadcast we talked about what Equip has been doin here in the United States. To listen click here or scroll down.

John Hull and Equip are now on Facebook. Take a look at John's page to get updates on what's happening with Equip. Next time I will do a better job of getting the program up earlier.

U.S. DOL - The History of Labor Day

2010-09-06T06:43:00.001-04:00

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. Thank you for all you do to keep our country great!!

U.S. DOL - The History of Labor Day

A Special Message from Chuck Colson

2010-08-30T13:14:00.006-04:00

Go to Manhattan Declaration website to learn more about the declaration and to place your signature

Age-Appropriate Chores

2010-08-30T07:42:00.000-04:00

If you have kids in the house you know that the work can get piled up. Laundry, toys, dishes - it seems the list goes on and on. I remember as a child how important it was that I pitched in. There were a number jobs that I was responsible for. You may be wanting to give the kids in your household some chores but don't know which is the right one or the appropriate one for the age of your child. Focus on the Family has a good article that will give you some advice on assigning work for your kids.

Age-Appropriate Chores

Beloit College Mindset List

2010-08-26T07:30:00.002-04:00

Do you wonder what this year's freshman class thinks? The class of 2014 might surprise you - take a look

Beloit College Mindset List

John Hull - Leadership Live

2010-08-25T14:14:00.003-04:00

John Hull, president of Equip, and the gang from Cross International (Jake Eason and Chuck Burge) talked about the importance of sound leadership in relief work. To listen click here or scroll down.