Citizen of Heaven

If you are a Christian, that means you have volunteered to serve in the army of Jesus Christ. Like many volunteers, you may not have known the full scope of the war that is going on. But believe me, it is terrible. But it is worth the fight.

This week we will discuss who is our true enemy (and it’s not your neighbor), the philosophy that under-girds the enemy’s every effort, inspiration for the fight from the music of Peter Tchaikovsky, and a game from my childhood that was more philosophical than I knew. 

 Hal Hammons is the preacher for the Lakewoods Drive church of Christ in Georgetown, Texas. He is the host of the Citizen of Heaven podcast. You are encouraged to seek him and the Lakewoods Drive church through Facebook and other social media. Lakewoods Drive is an autonomous group of Christians dedicated to praising God, teaching the gospel to all who will hear, training Christians in righteousness, and serving our God and one another faithfully. We believe the Bible is God's word, that Jesus died on the cross for our sins, that heaven is our home, and that we have work to do here while we wait. Regular topics of discussion and conversation include: Christians, Jesus, obedience, faith, grace, baptism, New Testament, Old Testament, authority, gospel, fellowship, justice, mercy, faithfulness, forgiveness, Twenty Pages a Week, Bible reading, heaven, hell, virtues, character, denominations, submission, service, character, COVID-19, assembly, Lord's Supper, online, social media, YouTube, Facebook. 

The existence of suffering is one of the oldest arguments against the existence of God. But God has always wanted different things for us than we wanted for ourselves. People of faith accept and embrace that — even when it hurts.

This week we will discuss the purposes pain plays in our lives; the historical connection between the absence of pain and the presence of problems; the last and perhaps greatest message from Johnny Cash; and how you can build a spaceship that will make it to port without breaking in half.

Hal Hammons is the preacher for the Lakewoods Drive church of Christ in Georgetown, Texas. He is the host of the Citizen of Heaven podcast. You are encouraged to seek him and the Lakewoods Drive church through Facebook and other social media. 

Lakewoods Drive is an autonomous group of Christians dedicated to praising God, teaching the gospel, training Christians in righteousness, and serving our God and one another.

Regular topics of discussion and conversation include: Christians, Jesus, obedience, faith, grace, baptism, New Testament, Old Testament, authority, gospel, fellowship, justice, mercy, faithfulness, forgiveness, Twenty Pages a Week, Bible reading, heaven, hell, virtues, character, denominations, submission, service, character, COVID-19, assembly, Lord's Supper, online, social media, YouTube, Facebook.

Adventure means excitement for a child. To an adult it usually means something complicated at best, terrifying at worst. They’re both right. The key is not to embrace or avoid adventure; it’s choosing the right one.

This week we will discuss the challenges that come with walking by faith; the impact of two bicycle repairmen from Dayton, Ohio; the parallels between Abraham’s adventure and ours; and the level of commitment we are willing to show for Jesus.

Is the internet the irresistible and desirable future for the church, or is it the church’s doom? What are “social influencers,” who are they influencing, and for what purpose?

We cover this and more in the second half of my conversation with Kris Emerson and Dr. Kenny Embry. Kris preaches for the Lindale church of Christ in Lindale, Texas, and hosts the Excel Still More podcast. Kenny is an associate professor of communication at Saint Leo University in Saint Leo, Florida, and hosts the “Balancing the Christian Life” podcast.

It’s a new world out there, for better or worse. And the internet is its university, its playground, and its courtroom. There’s no point in pretending otherwise. 

We will explore the pros and cons of the internet with my two guests. Kris Emerson preaches for the Lindale church of Christ in Lindale, Texas, and hosts the Excel Still More podcast. Dr. Kenny Embry is an associate professor of communication at Saint Leo University in Saint Leo, Florida, 

In part 1, we discuss the echo chamber effect we experience online; and we consider the profound effects, both positive and negative, social media is having on our lives.

To celebrate 100 episodes, I tried to pick out the things above all others that I like to preach, read, hear and play. I’m not sure I was successful, but what follows is the best I could do.

So today we will discuss our own wandering in the wilderness and our anticipation of Canaan land; lessons in governing we can learn from fictitious, sentient rabbits; my fascination with four Italian guitar players; and my incessant, and largely unsuccessful, efforts to get better at Great Western Trail.

We need goals to stay motivated and on course. Maybe it is a particular number on the bathroom scale. Maybe it is getting all the way to Revelation chapter 22 this year. In any case, the goals need to be reasonable and measurable if we are to maximize our chances of success. 

 This week we will discuss how we “do” the Christian Graces of 2 Peter 1, what makes a truly great president, why heaven should NOT be your goal as a Christian, and how having fun with a game directly interferes with my efforts to win.

Cowboys are part of American history — and even more than that, American folklore. It’s a lifestyle: play by your own rules, answer to your own conscience, and ride quietly off into the sunset at the end of the day. Noble hero or ruthless outlaw? Depends on who is making the movie. 

 This week we will discuss the difference between herding cattle and tending sheep; the legacy of Texas legend Judge Roy Bean; the music of Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings; and why my daughter beats me regularly in my favorite game — and the surprising reason that upsets me.

2 Timothy 3;16-17 promises that God’s word will make us adequate in all spiritual things — including “training in righteousness.” So we have the equipment. How to go about using it, that’s another matter.

Today, to help us understand what it means to train and to be trained in the things of God, I’m joined by Stephen Russell, evangelist for the Pepper Road church of Christ in Athens, Alabama; and Aric Russell (no relation), who preaches for the Spring Warrior church of Christ in Perry, Florida.

Everyone wants to be happy. But most of us aren’t — at least it seems that way. For people in Satan’s world, that’s understandable, and even good — maybe they’ll search for a better way. We as Christians, though, have no excuse.

 This week we will discuss why pursuing happiness is actually part of the problem; where Chip Gaines finds that smile he’s always wearing; why Mike Rowe is more right with his philosophy of work  than he knows; and why playing a game that doesn’t give you joy misses the whole point.

No, I’m not quitting this podcast. Nor am I quitting my job, my marriage, or my faith. But many people do. And depending on the situation, that can be disastrous.

 This week we will discuss one preacher’s unfortunate approach to adversity, What drove Chip and Joanna Gaines to abandon their hit TV show, the various rocks people are lobbing at Donald Trump these days and their implications for us, and why quitting a game is not the same as quitting gaming.

The world is on fire — and not in a good way. I can see it. I can smell it. I suspect you can too. But adverse and even dangerous circumstances are the rule in Satan’s world, not the exception. God promises peace to those who seek it. But you must seek it — especially when it seems impossible to find.

This week we will discuss the one fear that will banish all the others, the integrity of Chip Gaines and his business model, the potential loss of freedom (if such is even possible), and the way to turn small successes into total failures.

A pattern is a template, a plan used to construct something — whether it’s a dress, a house, or in our case, a Christian. It can be specific, it can be general. But to build the item in question, it must be followed.

Today I’m joined by Lonnie Oltag, who shepherds and preaches for the Quinn church of Christ in Russelville, Alabama; and Steve Wolfgang, the evangelist for the Downer’s Grove church of Christ in suburban Chicago; We will discuss whether Biblical patterns exist, and if so how we identify and follow them.

I’ve been preaching about types and antitypes. Hebrews 8:5 reminds us how worship during Moses’ day was done “according to the pattern.” And since Hebrews is all about putting the old law into a Jesus framework, we should be as meticulous about our worship today in the church, God’s holy temple, as they were in their day. That’s the argument I’ve heard all my life and made for most of it. Is it a fair use of Scripture? And what other examples can we see of old covenant theology fleshed out in the gospel?

I’ve been reading two books. The first is “Searching for the Pattern,” by John Mark Hicks, which describes how he came to reject what he calls a “pattern hermeneutic.” The second is “The Simple Pattern,” a collection of essays edited by Jim Deason. Perhaps someone should have introduced these brethren to one another; the complexity of the pattern, especially the use of “approved examples,” is one of the main reasons Bro. Hicks wound up rejecting it. What exactly constitutes an example? And does example constitute binding law?

I’ve been playing New York 1901. Players participate in the vertical growth of Manhattan Island. “Bronze era” buildings, perfectly fine at the beginning of the game, eventually are razed to build “Silver era” and ultimately “Gold era” ones to accommodate modern times and preferences. It’s the American way. Why keep something simply because it’s old when something cleaner, stronger and more efficient can be built in its place?

Most Americans look at the church in the same way. The idea of going back to the days of traveling on donkeys and writing on papyrus seems ridiculous on the face of it, in any context. And no one would argue against evolving tactics and technology. But should doctrine evolve as well? And can we stop it even if we want to?

We were told nine months ago that we would have to make temporary sacrifices for the common good. Today the situation is largely unchanged, and many are saying these measures — including church shutdowns — should stay in place indefinitely.

Today we will discuss the function of the body of Christ in isolation conditions; Charles Lindbergh’s keys to success for solo flight; the disturbing level of contentment I see in “virtual worship”; and the improvement I have experienced playing games no one will play with me.

The Bible says nothing of celebrating Jesus’ birthday or how to do so. It’s sad that so many Christians only celebrate their Savior when they are the ones getting the gifts. Still, we can rejoice in the Lord on December 25 as well as any other day.

This week we will discuss preparing room for Jesus in our hearts, and not just when the day is circled on the calendar; the real St. Nicholas and his evolution from bishop to cultural icon; how cold it really is out there in Satan’s world; and takeaways from one of the games the Hammons family has already unwrapped.

Worship is the greatest privilege afforded any of God’s creatures. In a sense, we do it simply by existing, like the rocks and flowers. But we have the ability to consciously, deliberately give praise and honor to our Creator. 

Today we will discuss Hebrews 10:25 and what it does and does not mean regarding our obligation to assemble; how good hymn lyrics draw us closer to God, His people and His plan for us; why singing always sounds better in person; and how just going through the motions may be fine for board games but not for actual worship.

An outlaw is one who works outside acceptable and/or legal boundaries. Sometimes he is accomplishing something he would call “the greater good”; sometimes he is only concerned with himself. But one thing is constant: he does what he wants.

This week on the podcast we will discuss John Wayne’s last role. And the danger in his last message for us; why “superheroes” are neither super nor heroes; how “Wanted! The Outlaws” saved country music and killed Waylon Jennings; and how “Sheriff of Nottingham” is a great game but a bad model for ethics.

Edwin Crozier is the co-host of the Text Talk podcast, an extension of the work he does with the Livingston Avenue church of Christ in Tampa, Florida. Neal Grantham preaches for the  Somerville church of Christ in northern Alabama.

This season is devoted to the giving of thanks to God. But as always, we often make things all about ourselves. I’m trying to do better this year, and I hope I can encourage you to do so as well. This week we will discuss the very real problem of having too much of many, many good things; the story of one who got everything he could hope for and was strong enough to get rid of it; the way to find blessings when you believe they are being withheld from you; and the one game above all for which I am the most thankful.

Cleaning yourself is one of the first jobs we learn. It helps keep us healthy, and it makes us more pleasant to be around — and that was true long before COVID-19 came along. This week we will discuss the ritual washing known as baptism; how filthy the job of priest must have been; how cleanliness may actually be next to godliness, or at least pretty close; and how carelessness destroyed one of my family’s favorite games and changed the way we play games forever.

One jazz master put it this way: If you know the basic chords, you can improvise and create all sorts of music. But you have to know the chords. If Jazz is freedom, then good jazz is knowing how to have freedom without chaos. This week we will discuss what rules, if any, should apply in our worship, whether “Christian spirituality” has anything to do with the bible, what music puts me to sleep and why, and how you play a game with constantly changing goals — if there is a goal at all.

This is the second half of my conversation with Ty Clevenger and Reagan McClenny; please check out the first part if you have not done so already. We covered the topic of tolerance in the first part; here we turn to the war climate in our country that is quickly and perhaps inevitably coming to a boil, much like it did a century and a half ago. We will also discuss the downside to a win-at-all-costs mentality, whether it is in board games or in life. 

Keep up with Ty's work at www.lawflog.com.

Listen to Reagan's sermons and subscribe to the congregational podcast at www.timberlandchurch.org.

Check out the YouTube version of the podcast for extra footage, including a guest appearance from Ty's son, Ethan. Some of the background noise will make more sense if you do!

This is the first part of my conversation with Ty Clevenger, a New York attorney well known for his political activity; and Reagan McClenny, the pulpit preacher for the Timberland Drive church of Christ. In this segment we discuss tolerance -- whether Democrats and Republicans can coexist in the Lord's church, and how we might go about helping that happen.

God is not the author of confusion,  we are told; but His people create a great deal of it on their own in His name. This week we will discuss why modern charismatic worship is unscriptural (and selfish to boot), the crude language we could do with more of, the confusion we use to do what we want instead of doing what He says, and the only game I own that is not in English.

We all seek to live in a kinder, gentler world. But instead of hoping the world will change when we know it won’t, we need to be working on being kinder people ourselves. This week we will discuss going the extra mile in showing kindness, the problems JD Tant had when he did exactly that, the way you can be part of the solution (or at least less a part of the problem), and how winning the game can be the last thing in the world you want to do.

Marriage is one of my favorite topics, and one that is in dire need of attention in our world. Today we will discuss the various applications of the “one flesh” principle; we will revisit the J.D. Tant biography and discuss the pros and cons of his philosophy of courtship; we will deal with perhaps the most selfish argument anyone has ever made to excuse sin; and we will marry off our daughters in an effort to become the greatest family in Renaissance Italy.

Zeke Flores may be the best preacher I know. He’s been a good friend for most of this millennium, and has been working with the Eastside church of Christ in Baytown TX for the last 7 years. When I think of local work, I think of Zeke. Andy Cantrell may be the best preacher I don’t know. I do know that his name always features prominently when preachers sing the praises of other preachers. A native of southern California, he has been preaching in Champlin, Minnesota for 14 years.

Find more information about Andy Cantrell at https://www.nwcocmn.org/.

Find more information about Zeke Flores at https://www.eastsidebaytown.org/.

Confession refers to a public acknowledgement. The New Testament describes two specific contexts in which Christians confess, and we will touch on both. We will discuss what it means to call Jesus your Lord, my takeaways from my very first Russian novel, the distinction between confessing sins and confessing sin, and a bit of a confession of my own regarding my gaming habits.

Communication is both my vocation and my avocation, and language is the tool of my trade. This week I am taking you behind the curtain to show you a bit of how my mind works. A terrifying prospect, that. We’ll discuss the least appreciated part of speech, why we have punctuation at all, the differences between inferences and implications and why you should care, and how you can prove your point with literally any book in the world.

We’ll cover the parallels between musical harmonies and the unity of the Spirit, how worship music can actually push people away from God, the most frequently covered song in all of YouTube, and a game in which too much talent can ruin everything.

I’ve been preaching about heroes. The Bible is full of them, and we’ve never needed heroes more than we do today.  What are some of the issues confronting the people of God today, and what Biblical heroes can we emulate while trying to address them?

I’ve been reading biographies — some focusing on spiritual activity, some not. One of the most satisfying things about the experience is finding a way to connect with individuals from the past and learn from their experiences. The trouble is, I sometimes think I’m just reinforcing the ideas I have already embraced. Is there a way to actually learn from history?

I’ve been playing Santa Maria, a game that derives its name from the flagship of Christopher Columbus. Players do not experience the spread of measles or smallpox, there is no coerced conversion to Catholicism, no one is kidnapped and forced into slavery. And that’s a good thing. I oppose the extermination of indigenous peoples, and beyond that I don’t think it makes for a very interesting format for a board game. Certainly Columbus is a flawed hero. But does that mean he can’t be a hero at all? And for us as Christians, how do we handle flawed heroes, both from the Bible and from our own lives, without glorifying or excusing sin?

I’ve been preaching … about the Nephilim. Greatness in this life is usually incompatible with greatness in the eyes of God.

I’ve been reading … What It Is, Is Preaching, the memoirs of Robert Turner, one of the true giants of the faith I was privileged to know.

I’ve been hearing … fossilized giant footprints have been found all over the world. Your attitude toward so-called proof says more about you than it says about the prints.

I’ve been playing … Kingdomino, with the Age of Giants expansion. If you dare strive for greatness, you are likely to get stomped on.

I’ve been preaching … about Babylon the Great, one of the great images from Revelation. Is it an image of New York? Let’s talk about it. (Bible condemns sin, warns of consequences)

I’ve been reading … New York’s in a decline that may never reverse itself. Exactly how surprising is that, from a Biblical perspective? (Nothing is forever)

I’ve been hearing … a man was shot and killed at a memorial to gun victims. Really. (bad people do evil b/c they can)

I’ve been playing … Pit. The chaos of the stock exchange might make for an exciting afternoon, but it’s no way to live your life. (pray for peace)

Links to cited articles are:
https://jamesaltucher.com/blog/nyc-is-dead-forever-heres-why/?fbclid=IwAR2sLC3Jc4T4dFLa4uvHo-_CSvVLHC8gQM2KYcHUJgOdoh4-6vccAvXreCA

https://nypost.com/2020/08/16/nyc-man-fatally-shot-at-gun-violence-memorial-as-shootings-rage-on/?fbclid=IwAR3ZAYw0ith582g2E33WzZBwWs1_rJ4Z4WLZmMDtzR7O33Twhbk5rA9XmL4

I am joined by two of my brethren in the work, Phillip Martin and Tony Mauck. Phillip is the cohost of the Do the Work podcast. He preaches and serves as one of the shepherds for the Eastside church of Christ in Sharpsburg, Georgia. 

Tony is one of my oldest friends in preaching, currently laboring with the Decker Prairie church of Christ in suburban northwest Houston. 

 I’ve been preaching about the variety we find in our fellowship. It strikes me that many of our brethren over the years have deliberately limited the degree to which we differ in local churches — skin color, native language, clothing styles, you name it. We would all agree that drawing lines of distinction over doctrinal matters is a good thing and occasionally even a necessary thing. But can variety — even in spiritual matters — be a good thing? And if so, is there a way to embrace our differences without compromising Biblical truth?

I’ve been reading a variety of Bible versions in recent years, a hard left turn from my “NASB only” past. Three times the Proverbs writer extols the value of a multitude of counselors. But clearly some counselors are wiser than others. How many versions do you read from, do you have a single go-to version, and how important is it for the congregation and the preacher to be (pardon the expression) on the same page?

I’ve been playing Ticket to Ride a lot more in recent days. We’ve had the original North America map for years and played it to death. But over time we have collected various expansions with different maps and slightly tweaked rules. And we’ve not only found our interest in the general concept renewed, we have even found ourselves finding joy in the original worn-out version. In short, variety can bring life to old, worn-out forms and rejuvenate our interest. What are some ways we can diversify the service we offer to God and still offer Him what He wants without letting it grow stale in our own minds?

I’ve been preaching … about the temple of Artemis in ancient Ephesus. All physical beauty fades; God’s temple is not physical.

I’ve been reading … Ode on a Grecian Urn by John Keats. Is beauty truth? Is truth beauty? It depends on your definitions.

I’ve been hearing … women weighing themselves by the “worthy woman” of Proverbs 31 and finding themselves wanting. It’s OK. At least you’re using the right scale.

I’ve been playing … Wingspan. But not since it last appeared on the podcast. Turns out, beauty alone isn’t enough. 

I’ve been preaching … about the woman at the well. The original personal evangelist gives us the pattern: Tell what you know to who you know.

I’ve been reading … Blue Ocean Strategy. Why try to run the denominations’ playbook better than they do? Jesus has a better plan.

I’ve been hearing … online worship is becoming more and more the rule. Instead of fussing, let’s turn that to our advantage.

I’ve been playing … Lorenzo il Magnifico. It and games like it are not for everyone, but I’m coming to grips with that.

I’ve been preaching … about the vision Elisha saw in 2 Kings 6. Those who are with us are truly more than those who are with them.

I’ve been reading … Complete Surrender, by Julian Wilson — the first biography of Eric Liddell I have read, and likely not the last.

I’ve been hearing … Liddell actually fell during a quarter mile race, picked himself up, and won. I thought for sure the movie made that up.

I’ve been playing … Rook. Help is right there, staring you in the face. It just may not be the specific kind of help you are looking for.

I’ve been preaching … about local overseers for local churches. It takes a special man for the task. Thank God for those special men.

I’ve been reading … A Shepherd Looks at Psalm 23, by Phillip Keller. The more we learn about sheep, the more remarkable our Lord looks.

I’ve been hearing … myself and people like me called “Pastor” all my life. And I really wish they would stop.

I’ve been playing … Fields of Green. Sheep are a blessing to their owner. If they are not, the shepherd is likely to blame.

I’ve been preaching … about the crosses we have to bear for Jesus. If that sounds painful, you don’t know the half of it.

I’ve been reading … The Cost of Discipleship by Dietrich Bonhoeffer. Grace that does not lead to discipleship is beneath the dignity of our calling.

I’ve been hearing … excuses, one after another. And they all mean the same thing — “Lord, I just don’t want to.”

I’ve been playing … Otys. Play the game to the best of your ability. But don’t get discouraged if your ability doesn’t amount to much.

I’ve been preaching … about Stephen. He knew better than most, those who don’t learn from history are doomed to repeat it.

I’ve been reading … Animal Farm by George Orwell. Despite all our talk about being equal in Jesus, some of us do seem to be more equal than others.

I’ve been hearing … Jordan Peterson and Ben Shapiro talk about Bible stories. I wish they could take those stories to their logical conclusion.

I’ve been playing … Deception: Murder in Hong Kong. Stories are supposed to reveal important truths. Let’s make sure they do.

I’ve been preaching … about how doing nothing is not inherently safer than doing something. You can’t shop for the perfect fire extinguisher forever.

I’ve been reading … debates between brethren over various issues. The “safest route” argument is not a good one for either side.

I’ve been hearing … “The Prayer,” lyrics by Carole Bayer Sager — a beautiful song, but one that asks God for the wrong kind of safety.

I’ve been playing … Small World. If your goal is to lose very little, you’d better be prepared to lose everything.

I’ve been preaching … about straw men, and trying not to fight too many of them. Easy victories are not really victories at all.

I’ve been reading … Plain Talk, by Robert Turner. I thought I would comment on how he handled the political chaos of his day. Trouble is, he didn’t.

I’ve been hearing … Voctave, the best singing group I’ve ever heard — and especially how the uninitiated respond upon their first hearing.

I’ve been playing … Castles of Burgundy. Occasionally you have to respond to others’ actions, but it’s rarely an excuse for not playing your own game.

I’ve been preaching … about lazy parents. We can’t discipline our children if we aren’t disciplined ourselves.

I’ve been reading … lazy accusations against my brethren. It’s hateful, it’s prideful, and it’s tearing apart the body of Christ.

I’ve been hearing … lazy preachers, feeding themselves at the expense of the flock. I’m looking hard into the mirror here.

I’ve been playing … Silver & Gold, a fun filler game that might have been a staple in our house if the designers had just tried a bit harder.

I’ve been preaching … about “last words” speeches in the Bible. It may not be important to make them count, but you might as well try.

I’ve been reading … Nehemiah. At the end of the work, we will be remembered for something. Let it be for good. 

I’ve been hearing … a new preacher will carry on after we have gone.  And really, it makes a lot less difference than you might think.

I’ve been playing … Amerigo. A new world means new challenges and opportunities.  Predictability can be nice, but it’s probably overrated.

I've been preaching ... about perspective. The definition of "essential" changes depending on circumstances.
I've been reading ... the gospel Paul describes in 1 Corinthians 15. The resurrection is at the core of everything.
I've been hearing ... about Shelley Luther and the world's most famous hair salon. When if ever is it essential to rebel against the government?
I've been playing ... Silver. Fighting off vampires every day can get boring. Changing your tactics keeps it fresh.

I've been preaching ... about the spiritual implications of the COVID-19 lockdown. Whatever you do, do it in love.
I've been reading ... worldly comments on social media. If Jesus isn't in your virtual life, maybe He's not in your real life either.
I've been hearing ...  churches measuring success with numbers. But real concerns don't show up on a spreadsheet.
I've been playing ... Similo. We all make judgments based on obvious factors, and what we find obvious may be disturbing.

I’ve been preaching … about wineskins, and how our attitude can directly affect the gospel’s attempt to change us.

I’ve been reading … The Second Incarnation — A Theology for the 21st Century.” The question is, do we really need one?

I’ve been hearing … polls being quoted everywhere by everyone and for every purpose. I’m inclined to ignore them all.

I’ve been playing … Coloma, a great example of a game that’s just not for everyone. And that’s OK.

I’ve been preaching … about the signs of the times — what they were in Jesus’ time, and what they are today.

I’ve been reading … Revelation. The key is seeing what God wants you to see, not what you expect to see.

I’ve been hearing … the COVID-19 models were off. Way off. And why not? They were made by humans, after all.

I’ve been playing … Grand Austria Hotel.  You can’t know the future, but you can set yourself up for success.

I’ve been preaching … about being born again, the absolute core of what it means to be a Christian.

I’ve been reading … Ezra, and seeing parallels to our current situation that are absolutely stunning.

I’ve been hearing … “Here Comes the Sun,” one of the most beloved Beatles songs of all — and for good reason.

I’ve been playing … Dice Hospital, and now I’m even more grateful that God doesn’t give up on us.

I’ve been preaching … about zero-sum Christianity. God does not need to rob you to give to your brother.

I’ve been reading … more from Wealth: is it worth it? By S. Truett Cathy.  More money does not always make us more generous.

I’ve been hearing … Tax cuts can lead to smaller church contributions. How exactly does that work?

I’ve been playing … Gugong. You can’t give to God more than He has already given to you.

I’ve been preaching … about talents, and a willingness to work with however many you have.

I’ve been reading … Wealth: is it worth it? by S. Truett Cathy.  Do good work and growth takes care of itself.

I’ve been hearing … The stock market is down. Like in 2008, and 1930, and 1893. Don’t panic just yet.

I’ve been playing … Underwater Cities. If you live your life just going turn by turn, you will drown.

I’ve been preaching … About Elisha, a bald man my father can be proud of.

I’ve been reading … Living Above the Level of Mediocrity, by Charles Swindoll. The standard of greatness has definitely changed in 30 years. 

I’ve been hearing … stories about doctors and nurses running into the line of fire. And celebrities giving concerts. Which is nice, too

I’ve been playing … Adventure Land. Eyes forward, always. Remember Lot’s wife.

I’ve been preaching … to the camera for the last couple of weeks. I really thought it was going to be easy. Actually, for me at least, it’s much much harder. I’ll explain why and what I’m doing about it.  

I’ve been reading … a lot less news. Once I thought the news connected me to what was really going on in the world. These days I really believe the exact opposite is true.

I’ve been hearing … about social distancing — both the voluntary and the involuntary versions. I’m tired of complaining about it; now I’m looking for a way to make it work in our favor.

I’ve been playing … Sheriff of Nottingham. Our family got into board gaming to make our entertainment more interactive. And this game is all about interaction.

I’ve been preaching … about the spread of evil, and why holiness doesn’t spread as easily. But wouldn’t it be wonderful if it did? It’s worth a try, at least.  

I’ve been reading … The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, by C.S. Lewis. Children amid the worst horror imaginable find escape, freedom and glory. Yes, it can happen to you.

I’ve been hearing … about virus rebels.  Many young adults are fighting cabin fever by just pretending Coronavirus doesn’t exist or that it won’t touch them. They’re idiots.

I’ve been playing … Not Alone. If you stay too long in the alien world, you will be swallowed up by it. It’s not just a game — it’s your life. 

I’ve been preaching … about the sin virus. It invades, it spreads, and it kills. And we’ve all got it. Thankfully, there is a cure — and best of all, it’s free.  

I’ve been reading … how regular soap and water is the best preventative. So I’ll wash my hands — not because I’m scared, but because I care about other people.

I’ve been hearing … the NBA is in lockdown after Rudy Gobert mocked the precautionary measures in place and then tested positive himself. Don’t mock what you don’t understand. 

I’ve been playing … Pandemic. To millions, it is the ultimate cooperative experience. To me, it’s Whack-A-Mole, the board game. But maybe you are more patient than I am. 

I’ve been preaching … about the appeal of idols. As strange as it may seem to me, clearly people have always been drawn toward idol-worship. Let’s talk about why.

I’ve been reading … Hawaii, by James Michener. Celebrating our culture is fine. But cultures are rarely found in complete harmony with God’s will. At some point, we have to make a choice.

I’ve been hearing … “American Idol” is still on the air. We quit watching it years ago, mostly because the show celebrates everything that’s wrong with our society.

I’ve been playing … Bora Bora, which in our mind steers clear of actually honoring pagan gods. It’s a fine line to walk; I’ll share how exactly I walk it

I’ve been preaching … about how jealousy landed Daniel in the lion’s den. Have you ever been jealous enough to kill someone? And don’t be too quick to answer.

I’ve been reading … more from The Daniel Dilemma.  Satan wants us to adopt the name of his choosing instead of the name God gives us. It is critical that we just say no!

I’ve been hearing … different theories about the Hanging Gardens. It’s amazing how the so-called wonders of the world come and go, but the word of the Lord endures forever.

I’ve been playing … 7 Wonders, in which you try to build the most glorious civilization possible. To succeed, build something of your own; don’t be satisfied with sabotaging your opponents. 

I’ve been preaching … about the jealousy of Daniel’s subordinates, and how it landed him in the lion’s den. Have you ever been jealous enough to kill someone? And don’t be too quick to answer.

I’ve been reading … The Daniel Dilemma, by Chris Hodges. One of the most powerful things Satan can do to defeat us is to adopt the name of his choosing instead of  the name God gives us. Just say no!

I’ve been hearing … different theories about the Hanging Gardens of Babylon. It’s amazing how the so-called wonders of the world come and go, but the word of the Lord endures forever.

I’ve been playing … Dream Home. We work with the material we have, and it’s not always ideal. But if you value the right things, you can build a spiritual house you can be proud of.

I’ve been preaching … about predestination. It’s not a question of whether it is true; it’s a question of what it means and what it doesn’t mean.

I’ve been reading … Atlantis Rising, by Clive Cussler. Some people just think they are better than everyone else. I wish they were all in novels, but they’re not.

I’ve been hearing … Jeremiah 29:11 quoted out of context all my life. If you think God’s plan for your life is marrying the prom queen or getting through dental school, you are aiming way too low.

I’ve been playing … Medici, a game I have never won and likely never will win. I’m coming to grips with that, and I’ll tell you how.

I’ve been preaching … about unity and division. Jesus provides a way for all humans to come together in peace and harmony.  But we have to do it His way. Not ours.

I’ve been reading … What Americans Really want … Really, by Frank Luntz. Honesty is the best policy, especially being honest with ourselves about our real values. 

I’ve been hearing … the impeachment process is really over, and Donald Trump is still our president. We don’t always like the reality that exists, but we would do well to accept it.

I’ve been playing … Coup. Amass influence, assert power, lie through your teeth whenever advisable, and you can overthrow the government. It’s a lot more fun to play than to live through.

I’ve been preaching … about finishing. How you finish something is far more important than how you start. Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs are great examples.

I’ve been reading … two different reactions to the halftime show featuring Shakira and Jennifer Lopez. Which one is yours will depend on whether you value carnal things or spiritual things. 

I’ve been hearing … about female participation, in sports and in every other walk of life. If women want to assume traditionally male roles, fine. But if I were a woman, I would resent the demotion.

I’ve been playing … Pizza Box Football, the best tabletop representation of football I’ve seen. And like in real football, good strategy is no guarantee against bad luck.

I’ve been preaching … about the power of smiles. Joy is meant to be shown and shared. It makes all the difference in the world.

I’ve been reading … the lyrics to “Closed on Sunday,” from Kanye West’s new album. This is why I don’t listen to hip-hop. 

I’ve been hearing … All the local Chick-fil-A employees sing their boss’s praises. And I mean everyone. They’re not brainwashed. They are just made in his image.

I’ve been playing … New York Slice. Like in retail, the only way you can get what you want is by giving other people what they want. I wish some Christians could figure that out.

I’ve been preaching … about leadership. Chick fil-A #01389  trains its employees to be “leaders,” both inside and outside the workplace. And it shows.

I’ve been reading … about Christians withdrawing their support for Chick Fil-A because of changes in their charity policy. We have got to get a grip on who the good guys and bad guys are in this culture war. 

I’ve been hearing … “My pleasure.” A lot. Is there a difference between “My Pleasure” and “You’re Welcome”? I think there is, and I’ll tell you why.

I’ve been playing … Lanterns: The Harvest Festival. When the idea is to get as much glory for yourself as possible, it inevitably means denying it to others. A good game, and a rotten way to live.

I’ve been preaching … about the fear of God in a godless world. Sinners do not fear God; we know that. But there may be a bigger problem — that there is not enough fear of God in us.

I’ve been reading … Faith for This Moment, by Rick McKinley. It is our job as Christians to present the gospel to the world. But if we think it is merely a tool to make the world less worldly, we are missing the whole point. 

I’ve been hearing … the Lord’s church must change with the times to accommodate changes in culture. Funny, I’ve always thought it was exactly the opposite.

I’ve been playing … Mombasa, in which trading companies invade Africa and carve it up for their own self-serving purposes. It’s a fantastic game. But I’d hate to live in a world that was actually like that.

I’ve been preaching … about God-given rights. They are not as “self-evident” as the founders asserted. And they certainly are not as important as the right God actually endowed us with.

I’ve been reading … Epitaph, by Mary Doria Russell. Again. The OK Corral incident was all about gun-control laws. They didn’t work then, and they don’t work now, because they don’t deal with the real problem. 

I’ve been hearing … about the White Settlement shooting. In all the talk about concealed carry permits and church security, we have ignored the real issue. And it’s not gun-related.

I’ve been playing … Bang! The Dice Game. The trick is to shoot the other team and not your own. Trouble is, you don’t always know who is who.  Sort of like in the church.

I’ve been preaching … about The Little Drummer Boy. This is not a beloved icon of the season; it’s an example of everything that’s wrong in the church today, and I’ll be glad to tell you why.

I’ve been reading … A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens. The spirit of giving manages to escape many of us. Surely the story of Jesus should be enough to make us think of someone other than ourselves. 

I’ve been hearing … Baby it’s Cold Outside. And I’ve been hearing the backlash, and the backlash against the backlash.  Well, here’s my backlash against that. 

I’ve been playing … Chicken Foot, a traditional domino game that is a staple at Hammons family gatherings. It’s not my favorite by any stretch of the imagination, but then, that’s not the point.

I’ve been hearing … the good work Terry does in cooperation with Philip Martin on the popular Do the Work podcast. If you’re on Facebook, look it up. It will give some excellent insight in to the work of an evangelist — helpful for preachers and non-preachers alike.

In the “I’ve been Playing” segment, we will discuss Terry’s lifelong obsession with the football program at the University of Tennessee.  He’s had a rough go of things in recent years, but that’s what being a fan is all about — sticking it out through good times and bad.Are you ready? Here we go.

In this special two-part episode, I will be speaking with Terry Francis, who preaches for the Chelsea church of Christ in the Birmingham, Alabama area. 

Terry cohosts the popular Do the Work podcast with his colleague, Philip Martin. I was able to sit down with Terry recently. Here is some of what we talked about:

Terry has been preaching … about the role non-traditional families play in the local church.  Every church craves more young families with children. But the church is here to serve. And often it is single-parent families that need service the most.

Terry has been reading … The Tipping Point, by Malcolm Gladwell.  Human societies feature what Gladwell calls Connectors, Mavens, and Influencers — people who bring people together; people with needful information, and people who persuade. Churches have a need for all of the above; which one are you?

We will discuss what I call “The Magnificent Seven,” Biblical characters that remind me of the heroes from the classic film.

We will discuss Epitaph, by Mary Doria Russell, again. Josie Marcus was determined that the world see her man, Wyatt Earp, as the man she knew him to be. We should be equally protective of Jesus’ reputation 

We will discuss John Wayne’s “The Alamo,” a film he saw as his commentary on freedom and communism. The stand he took, both behind the scenes and on the big screen, should inspire us to stand for Christ.

We will discuss Dicetown, which combines Yahtzee and poker to create a game where, to quote Kenny rogers, every hand’s a winner and every hand’s a loser.

We will discuss placing our faith in government. Only God can give assurance in the matters Christians truly care about.  If that isn’t enough for us, an ineffectual government is the least of our worries.

We will discuss Epitaph, by Mary Doria Russell. There is the Wyatt Earp who played by the rules and lost, and the Wyatt Earp who broke the rules and won. Which one is your hero?

We will discuss the impeachment process, and why people seem to be pursuing an impossible goal.   Turns out, so-called pointless fights say more about the fighter than the cause.

We will discuss Council of Verona, in which the Montague and Capulet clans fight for control. Whether Romeo and Juliet wind up together is only part of the story.

I will give thanks for the assurance we have in our salvation. Balancing confidence and humility is tricky, but thankfully we have Jesus to show us the way.

I will give thanks for God’s presence, as expressed in Aaron’s benediction.  It’s easier to remember our blessings when we remind one another from time to time.

I will give thanks for Charles Schultz. I  plan on watching A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving again this year, and remembering the great opportunities and responsibilities we have in America.

I will give thanks for Between Two Cities, a board game that makes the player pursue his own goals by helping his neighbors pursue theirs. Kind of like the local church.

We will discuss the myth of “priorities.” Thinking we can balance commitments to money and the Lord is wrongheaded, and doomed to tip to the wrong side.

We will discuss Barbarians at the Gate, a book that details the buyout of RJR Nabisco. When making money is the only objective, there’s no limit to how insane the behavior can get.

We will discuss professional athletes and their contracts. Measuring men by their wallets is par for the course in sports. That’s not the kind of role model we need these days.

We will discuss London, a board game in which you are forced to balance a growing economy with the real problems that it creates. Turns out, more prosperity is not necessarily better. 

I’ve been preaching … about loincloths — not the physical garments made famous by Tarzan, the spiritual ones we make to rationalize getting by with the absolute minimum.

I’ve been reading … John, the gospel written specifically to build faith. You can read the gospel and believe, or you can see Jesus in the flesh and disbelieve. It’s about your heart, not your circumstances 

I’ve been hearing … Kanye West is having a spiritual awakening. How sincere it is or how long it lasts is not my concern. I’m just happy to see a high profile figure taking a stand against sin. 

I’ve been playing … Lisboa. This game lets the players help rebuild the capital city of Portugal. Those not prepared to do some heavy lifting need not apply.

I’ve been preaching … about whether you are baptized. Not whether you have been baptized, mind you — whether you are baptized.  There is a difference.

I’ve been reading … Mark, the gospel account that particularly emphasizes the power and authority of our Savior.  Strange that those closest to Him had such difficulty with the concept. 

I’ve been hearing … about my Houston Astros going to the World Series.  I’ll tell you how they made it, and how you can succeed in your faith by doing the same thing.

I’ve been playing … Azul, probably the best of all of the Portuguese board games in our collection.  Believe it or not, that’s saying something. 

I’ve been preaching … about tolerance. We have fits tolerating pain and ill treatment in this life; why do we find it so easy to tolerate sin?

I’ve been reading … Matthew, the first of the four gospel accounts. Matthew is all about the kingdom of heaven. And it’s like no kingdom you’ve ever seen before. 

I’ve been hearing … about the 1619 project and the role slavery has played in creating the America we know today. Is Jesus the problem? Is Jesus the solution? I say, none of the above.

I’ve been playing … Riverboat, in which you farm your lands, put your produce on a boat, and sail it down the mighty Mississippi.  And apparently, that makes you a racist. 

I’ve been preaching … about patience. Patience is a choice, just like every other virtue. The trouble is, patience comes with a price tag we are often unwilling to pay.

I’ve been reading … Tornado in a Junkyard, by James Perloff. If we are supposed to believe something as ridiculous as Darwinism, we really ought to have some proof.  And despite what you may have heard, we don’t.

I’ve been hearing … Antonio Brown still has a job in the NFL. That may change, though. Even in pro football, bad actors will often reap what they sow.

I’ve been playing … Sherlock Holmes: Consulting Detective. It can be exhausting trying to measure up to an ideal standard

I’ve been preaching … about our lost sense of identity. With everyone telling us God is irrelevant or imaginary, it’s no wonder so many Americans feel lost.

I’ve been reading … Three Finger, a biography of hall of fame pitcher Mordecai Brown. He earned his nickname the hard way, then he made it work to his advantage.

I’ve been hearing … soft tissue has been found in dinosaur fossils. Multiple times, by multiple scientists. Evolutionists struggle to explain how that could happen. But I don’t.

I’ve been playing … Fallout Shelter. Being an overseer in an apocalyptic world is a lot like being an overseer in a local church. The more seriously you take the job, the more work you make for yourself.

I’ve been preaching … about the decline of values in a godless society. If you don’t have God defining right and wrong, there is no right and wrong. We’re proving it in America every day.

I’ve been reading … quotations from Mark Twain. All this time I’ve thought I was a big Mark Twain fan. All this time I was wrong.

I’ve been hearing … Carli Lloyd is thinking about trying out for an NFL team. I say, good luck. But seeing is believing, and if Ms. Lloyd is really an NFL prospect, we’ll know soon enough. 

I’ve been playing … Escape: Curse of the Temple. I play games to alleviate stress. When I find a game that causes stress, I just say no.

I’ve been preaching … about the servant.  Isaiah 53 shows us what the true servant of God looks like. Fair warning — you won’t like what you see.

I’ve been reading … Some people actually believe the Babylon Bee. Maybe instead of blaming  the news, or fake news, outlets, we should put the blame where it belongs — on the readers.

I’ve been hearing … “My Pleasure” at Chick fil-A. Does the culture create the behavior, or does the culture create itself simply by existing as an option for like-minded individuals? 

I’ve been playing … The Resistance. The difference between lying and telling the truth is obvious; it is only confusing when you listen to people who want to feel better about their lies.

I’ve been preaching … about how our conscience is not our guide. God’s word is our guide. It is never wrong, and our conscience often is.

I’ve been reading … about moral facts, and whether they exist. Our children are being taught that they do not, and that explains a great deal about children today.

I’ve been hearing … Beethoven’s 3rd symphony, the Eroica. It’s a story about heroes — the ones who let you down, and the ones who push through adversity and achieve greatness.

I’ve been playing … Isle of Skye. My preconceptions were keeping me from playing my favorite board game designer’s most popular game. Now I know better.

I’ve been preaching … about submitting. Any Christian can form an opinion based on the Bible; it takes a special breed to know when to let it go.

I’ve been reading …Fallen Founder, by Nancy Isenberg. Maybe there really is another side to the Aaron Burr story, but a book like this one isn’t likely to convince me.

I’ve been hearing … there’s a racism problem in the Lord’s church. I don’t doubt it’s true. But I doubt the best solution is to label thousands of strangers as racists.

I’ve been playing … in game cafes. Play for hours on end in a safe, clean environment, and all I have to do is buy something? Count me in.

For this special episode of Citizen of Heaven, I am pleased to share with you my conversation with my friends Kris Emerson and Reagan McClenny.  

Kris preaches for the Lindale church of Christ in Lindale, Texas. He is the host of the popular Excel Still More podcast. Subscribe at https://excelstillmore.life/.

Reagan preaches for the Timberland drive church of Christ in Lufkin, Texas. You can hear his sermons by subscribing to the Timberland Drive podcast and through their website: https://www.timberlandchurch.org/.

Kris and Reagan help organize the annual Gospel Preachers Golf Association golf tournament in East Texas, which is where and how we met up. For information about the 2020 GPGA tournament, please follow the link provided: https://ukalumni.heliohost.org/gpgagolf/.

We will hear Kris and Reagan tell us what they have been preaching and reading.  And since golf brought us together, we will throw in some faith lessons from our antics on the golf course as well. 

I’ve been preaching … about Asa, king of Judah. Is it possible to be blessed too much? There’s every reason to think the answer is yes, and that we should take warning.

I’ve been reading … Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God. Jonathan Edwards is often cast as believing in a God searching for opportunities to destroy us. The truth, and Edwards’ actual message, are quite different.

I’ve been hearing … Work-Life balance is a myth. Kudos to Time Magazine for publishing something that the Bible has been teaching us all along.

I’ve been playing … Newton. If the game, or God, sets you up for success, it would be tragic not to take proper advantage.

Paul has been preaching … about the blind man in John 9. Just like Jesus brought light to the eyes of this man, so also He brings light to the world — if the world will open its eyes to Him.

Paul has been reading … Gulliver’s Travels, by Jonathan Swift. Exactly how advanced is human society? It depends on how honest we are willing to be with ourselves.

Paul has been hearing … Alabama has criminalized abortion — but that doesn’t mean the culture war has been won, even in Alabama. 

Paul has been playing … MMOs — massive multiplayer online games. Leveling up is a lot tougher to measure in our walk with Christ, but that doesn’t make it any less important.

I have been preaching … about making plans. If you can plan for a family vacation or a comfy retirement, why not also plan to grow your faith?

I have been reading … Psalm 88, arguably the saddest chapter in the Bible. But even though the psalm doesn’t say so, there is a reason for your suffering. In fact, there may be several.

I have been hearing … Game of Thrones is done after 8 seasons — and unlike some Christians, I actually think that’s a good thing. 

I have been playing … The Voyages of Marco Polo, and it makes me wonder whether superheroes ever get jealous of one another.

I have been preaching … about Jesus’ anger, and about how the things that angered Him typically have very little in common with what angers us.

I have been reading … The Contemporary English Version, or CEV, and all things being equal, I’d rather be reading the Bible.

I have been hearing … Transgender athletes keep entering and winning youth athletic events. The need to win has officially gotten out of hand, and I mean for everyone. 

I have been playing … Cryptid, a game that pits my intelligence against my ego — and if I had more intelligence, I’d try to have less ego.

I have been preaching … about wrestling with God — in a good way, like Jacob did, as though your faith depends on it, which it does.

I have been reading … different versions of the Bible, and it’s reminding me of what distinguishes one translation from another, and which distinctions are more important than others.

I have been hearing … Vivaldi’s Concerto for Lute in D Major, RV 93 — and I have to say, I think it is best the way the master wrote it. 

I have been playing … Dead of Winter. I probably couldn’t survive a zombie apocalypse, but I think I could find purpose fighting one battle at a time.

I've been preaching ... about mountains and valleys, and how God rules in both despite what we sometimes think. 
I've been reading ... Undaunted Courage by Stephen Ambrose, and as amazingly effective as the Lewis and Clark expedition was, it seems they underutilized one of their greatest resources. 
I've been hearing ... nurses spend a lot of their work hours playing cards. I'm pretty sure that's not right, and I'm also pretty sure there isn't someone out there who hasn't at some point contracted foot-in-mouth disease. 
I've been playing ... Istanbul, with two of its expansions. I'm not a big fan of expansions generally, but with Istanbul, the more game the better.

I've been preaching ... about the natural man, and how serving Jesus the way we would choose on our own is certainly wrong. 
I've been reading The Corporate Coach, by James Miller, which emphasizes service in the corporate world -- which both resembles and differs from service in the Lord's kingdom. 
I've been hearing about the bombings in Sri Lanka -- and I am neither afraid nor angry. 
I've been playing King of Tokyo, which makes a distinction between playing to have fun and playing to win.

I've been preaching ... about rendering to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and to God the things that are God's. 
I've been reading ... America's Prophet, by Bruce Feiler. 
I've been hearing ... people want to build a wall to keep the bad people away.
I've been playing ... No Thanks, a game far more entertaining than its simple appearance would indicate.

I've been preaching ... about how living in fear can make you fearless.
I've been reading ... Plain Talk, and learning how to be a mentor.
I've been hearing ... preachers are using new techniques to improve.
I've been playing ... games that don't depend entirely on luck.

Since I had some extra bandwidth, I included as a bonus this month my sermon from Psalm 46. I think this directly addresses some issues of faith that have been brought to the surface because of the current crisis. I hope it is an encouragement to you.

We will discuss the authority given in the New Testament for local congregations. Simply put, you can’t go it alone, and Jesus will not permit you to try.

We will discuss The Bridezilla of Christ, by Ted Kluck and Ronnie Martin. It is tough to adopt a “you first” mentality in a “me first” culture. But we will kill the church if we don’t try.

We will discuss what it means to be led by the Spirit.  Some Christians use the Spirit as an excuse to disobey Jesus. And they ought to be ashamed of themselves.

We will discuss Shadows over Camelot, a game in which King Arthur and his knights cooperate to achieve a common goal. Or not. Sometimes traitors live among us, and they can be difficult to identify. 

I’ve been preaching … about being born of the Spirit.  The Holy Spirit makes a powerful and unmistakable impact on the souls He touches.  If you don’t know what I mean, maybe that should tell you something.

I’ve been reading … Luke, the gospel account that presents Jesus as the Master Teacher.  But no matter how great a Teacher He is, it will do us no good if we do not listen. 

I’ve been hearing … Kobe Bryant is coaching youth girls’ basketball, and they’ve come a long way in two years.  The apples are not falling too far from the tree. 

I’ve been playing … City of Spies: Estoril 1942. If you were recruiting people to join Jesus in His resistance against the forces of evil, which approach would you use?  I say, why not all of them? 

I’ve been preaching … about our storm shelter. You can embrace the danger, ignore it, hope to escape it, or seek a shelter that guarantees your safety. You choose.

I’ve been reading … Miracle at the Higher Grounds Café, by Max Lucado, Candace Lee and Eric Newman. If you could ask God anything, what would it be? I might ask, “Why aren’t Christians satisfied with reading the Bible?”

I’ve been hearing … Greta Thunberg’s diatribes about climate change. Children should not be allowed to talk about serious matters in public. If that makes me a grumpy old man, so be it.

I’ve been playing … La Isla — a game in which you capture animals thought to have been extinct.  What do the animals want? Who cares? They’re animals! 

I’ve been preaching … God’s lists of requirements. The fact that they differ so much doesn’t mean I get to pick and choose; it just means I have extra reading to do.

I’ve been reading … about Union Theological Seminary. You could search for God in a place where they confess sins to plants, or you could search in the Bible. You won’t be surprised which one I recommend.

I’ve been hearing … the Carter Scratch. We can argue all day about the greatest lead guitar player ever. But we can all agree that the first one was a poor country housewife from rural Virginia.

I’ve been playing … Museum. There’s a difference between a good move and the best move. When I properly grasp that concept, maybe I’ll start winning this game.

I’ve been preaching … about the joy we find in Jesus. And maybe that’s the problem with unhappy Christians — they aren’t really “in Jesus” in the first place.

I’ve been reading … Hosea — a book about a man determined to make his marriage work despite his wife’s best efforts. Fidelity is a word seldom used and seldom practiced today, it seems.

I’ve been hearing … people don’t like Brie Larson. I’m trying to stay neutral, but she certainly doesn’t seem to care how she comes across. Reminds me of some Christians I know.

I’ve been playing … Architects of the West Kingdom. Find a strategy, and stick with it. It’s what I’ve done all my life as a Christian; I’m not sure why it took so long for me to do it in board games.

I’ve been preaching … about the rise of violence in our godless society. The world reacts radically when situations do not suit them. People of faith should know better.

I’ve been reading … prophecies about the downfall of empires. Sometimes it seems God is disconnected from the affairs of history. But He isn’t. Just ask any Assyrians or Babylonians you run across this week.

I’ve been hearing … traffic noise in the background of this podcast. Sorry, I can’t fix it. I can only hope you can come to ignore it like I do. 

I’ve been playing … Fortune and Glory: the Cliffhanger game. Beating up Nazis and getting famous in the process sounds like a game that can’t miss.  But it did, at least in our house.

I’ve been preaching … about wasted grace. Hezekiah is a great example of faith, but he’s also an example of how we can squander the greatest gift we could ever receive.

I’ve been reading …ICR.org. If you want information about harmonizing Biblical teaching with actual scientific data, this is a great website to visit.

I’ve been hearing … about another mass shooting, this one in Gilroy, Calif. We are sure to hear an abundance of theories as to who the real villain is. Me, I vote for the shooter.

I’ve been playing … golf. God gave us a beautiful world, and He gave us the power and the mandate to mold it to suit our purposes. Let’s make sure those purposes are noble.

I’ve been preaching … about the evolution of Christians. Christians beget Christians after their kind, just like dogs and cats. But there is a limit to the diversity this process will allow.

I’ve been reading … How to Lead When You’re Not in Charge, by Clay Scroggins. It’s difficult to command when you’re not at the head of the table, but you can be a good example from any seat.

I’ve been hearing … the 50th anniversary of the moon landing is approaching. Imagine how famous Neil Armstrong’s words would be if we had heard what he was actually trying to say.

I’ve been playing … Yokohama. Both in the game and in life, your ability to act effectively depends on the trail of influence you leave behind.

I’ve been preaching … about intoxication. Proverbs 23 describes two kinds of drunkenness, literal and figurative — and they both start before the first sip.

I’ve been reading … Jonathan Edwards, by Iain H. Murphy. I’m no Calvinist, but I dare say Edwards could have taught some of my brethren some things about the sovereignty of God.

I’ve been hearing … Religious dissidents in Chinese prisons are being executed and their organs harvested. Give it to the Communists: they’re all about efficiency.

I’ve been playing … Euphoria: Building a Better Dystopia.  Keeping your people happy and ignorant may seem like a good plan for spiritual leadership today, but Jesus has a better one.

I’ve been preaching … about the one thing. If you could ask God for only one thing, what would it be? You might be surprised what David asked for.

I’ve been reading … How to Think Like Leonardo Da Vinci, by Michael J. Gelb. Again. Becoming a genius sounds like a lot of work. Maybe I’ll pass.

I’ve been hearing … Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge will open soon at Walt Disney World. If I were given free tickets on the space shuttle I would sell them on Ebay; yet I am pretty excited about leaving the galaxy for a few hours.

I’ve been playing … Catan, a game in which you can pridefully go it alone and lose, or learn to play well with others and have a chance to win.

I’ve been preaching … about faith in adversity. The key is not finding a kinder, better life; it’s finding the strength to cope with the life you have — and finding it in God.

I’ve been reading … How to Think Like Leonardo Da Vinci, by Michael J. Gelb. I would love to be as good at one thing as Leonardo seems to have been at absolutely everything.

I’ve been hearing … Whataburger, the legendary Texas burger chain, has been sold. All my friends in Texas are panic-stricken, and I totally get it.

I’ve been playing … Carpe Diem, a game that succeeds despite the best efforts of the art department.

I’ve been preaching … about God’s plan for you. Psalm 114 is a great reminder of the extremes to which God will go to glorify you. It would be a shame to get in His way.

I’ve been reading … Start With Why, by Simon Sinek. And I’m more convinced than ever that a large number of Christians have no idea what it really means to be a Christian.

I’ve been hearing … Kawhi Leonard, one of the best basketball players in the world, has had trouble relating to teammates who needed help. I can relate to him. Sort of.

I’ve been playing … Wingspan, and if you don’t think artwork is a significant element in board games, this game will change your mind.

I’ve been preaching … about being perfect — how it’s possible, and how it’s impossible, and how that isn’t a contradiction.

I’ve been reading … The Sushi Economy, by Sasha Issenberg. Japanese wholesalers are willing to spend $100,000 for a single fish — and that’s not even the crazy part of this story.

I’ve been hearing … Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. may have been guilty of numerous reprehensible behaviors. I don’t approve, but that doesn’t mean he isn’t still a hero of mine.

I’ve been playing … Reworld, in which earthlings abandon an uninhabitable planet to start over somewhere new. It’s a great idea — probably because God thought of it first.