The World Race

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

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

The Mockingbird Parables

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

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?

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

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

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

WWJD-What Would Jesus Do?

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

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

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

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:

1. Vision
2. Communication Skills
3. People Skills
4. Good Character
5. Competence
6. Boldness
7. 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

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:

1. Get your chimney cleaned by a professional chimney sweep
2. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
3. Install chimney tops or shrouds
4. Keep the hearth area clear
5. Make sure your fireplace screen is present
6. 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

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:

1. 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
2. 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.
3. The needles on artificial trees come in a variety of ways. Some are flat and soft while others resemble real needles.
4. 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?
5. Size is something to think about. Make sure the tree fits your home and the place it will be standing for Christmas.
   
6. 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

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

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

Unemployment Emphasis Week

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

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!

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 Life feel to it, What If. It also stars Kristy Swanson, Debby RyanJohn 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

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

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

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

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

Learn more about the Centurion Program and Apply today!

Crisis Leadership

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!!!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Age-Appropriate Chores

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

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

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.

By Faith - Keith and Kristyn Getty

One of my favorite couples!! Keith and Kristyn Getty from Ireland. You are going to love this video!

By Faith from Keith and Kristyn Getty on Vimeo.

Free Music Download

Ginger Millermon is offering her latest single , "Who He Says He Is" for FREE!! You have until midnight on Tuesday, August 31 to get your copy so don't wait. Click the picture at the right for your mp3 copy today!