It is interesting to me that in years past I was an outspoken defender of the unborn. While that hasn’t changed, I also now often seem to speak in defense of the Muslim. My claim, which I contend is consistent with Scripture, is to love the Muslim and contend with Islam. The Muslim is a human being created in the image of God, and Islam is not the eternal word of Allah but man-made. What I have found is the same irrational response that Paul got from those in Thessalonica in Acts 17 or those in Ephesus in Acts 19. But like the model of Paul, I must press on for the unborn, the Muslim, and my own family.

What I expressed in the voicemail is that when those of the world insult you, it is no big deal, and quoted Psalm 118:6 “The LORD is for me; I will not fear; What can man do to me?” But when those who claim to be followers of the Lord Jesus Christ remain unwilling to follow in the clear commands of Christ that is most unfortunate. This is what is being done by Meadowview, Covenant Christian, Jim Cross, Render Caines, and Chris Bitterman. It is not the Muslim, the atheist, or anyone else who does not acknowledge the Lord that is a real concern and a sadness, but those who state they claim the Lord, but without love. They are the Pharisee in Luke 18:11. I remain willing to celebrate a reconciled relationship with any of them.

Next week we celebrate Christmas. Consider if you are going to celebrate Santa Christ or the Lord Jesus Christ. Consider James 2:14-26, especially “Go in peace, be warmed and filled.” Don’t just think the Lord is speaking only of food. Consider asking this Christmas as you gather as a family, why one member of the family is rejected even while reconciliation is pursued? Check to see if Jim Cross is using the Talmud during the celebration since he refuses to answer if he subscribes to it.

Consider asking Chris Bitterman if he still fears for his life because a man in Cleveland is trying to reconcile with him. Is it me that he fears, or the Lord? Celebrate with him that his name has been shared well beyond North Carolina and ask if that makes him proud?

Maybe you can celebrate together watching the “Marriage Defined and a Commitment Beyond” video. It was a birthday gift to my wife and it seems to be one of my best thus far. More are planned. I hope my kids enjoy seeing the photos of them as they appear. It was a lot of joy to put that part together. I look at those photos very fondly.

So as you celebrate a meal together remember Fritz Erbe. I am just like him but with a nicer hole. Like Fritz, I will not give up until I am dead. I’m in very good health.

I love you all, and I especially love my wife!