After God’s Own Heart

Posted on by charliej373
King-David - Gerard van Honthorst
King David – Gerard van Honthorst

By Charlie Johnston

Dennis Prager observed a few years back that leftists destroy everything they touch, adding that they are not liberals; they are totalitarians. After destroying their target, they offer nothing to replace the function it had.

The fiasco with the Iowa caucuses is yet more evidence of that observation. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz noted that Democrats are the party of government, determined to tell you how to run everything in your life, yet can’t count who stands under which sign in a gymnasium. Just before the caucuses began, Iowa Dems were bragging that they had worked three years to put together this brilliant system. It rivals the Obamacare website in its disastrous rollout. When Democrats say, “We have a plan for that,” we should be terrified.

Not all major cities run by Democrats are hellholes – but all cities that are disintegrating hellholes have been run by Democrats for several decades or more.

The left is inordinately proud of considering themselves the smartest folks in the land – to the point of routinely mocking the “rubes” who are conservative. It’s a peculiar vanity, given that objective tests generally show that conservatives are smarter and better informed than liberals. While the previous link limits itself to vocabulary and linguistic facility, I have seen the same data for economics, history, knowledge of current events and foreign affairs. When it comes to generosity and overall happiness, conservatives have it in abundance, liberals barely at all. Odd, when the left prides itself on being the “compassionate” ideology. Claiming these characteristics seem much more important to the left than to the right. For the left, smarts are vital to their identity, their self-image, while the right tends to regard smarts as a tool by which to accomplish and produce good and useful things. The left insists on being judged by its good intentions, while the right demands actual good results. In the end, the left’s self-image is based on the same foundation of the mean girls’ clique in high school: the mean girls are the coolest in the school because they say they are, evidence and reality be damned. The left is the smartest and the strongest and the noblest because they say they are. I guess it is a survival strategy: when disaster follows in the wake of everything you attempt, you have to have something to assure you that you are not as bad as the consistent results would indicate. This trait would not be so irritating if the left would just confine its pratfalls to their own lives, but they insist that because they are the smartest and noblest and most generous that they should be able to autocratically ruin everyone else’s lives, too. I know misery loves company, but they have enough company already.

Even so, some on the left are very intelligent. The problem is that intelligence, like physical strength, is merely a tool which can be used well or badly. A very strong man might use that strength to help his fellows – or to bully them. Same thing with an intelligent man, but intelligence brings with it a greater danger. Combined with hubris, intelligence can cause a man to badly delude himself. A man can use intelligence to assess what a situation is, in itself, and then prudently considering human nature, craft means to practically alleviate various problems and ills. This is wisdom; to assess a situation accurately, apply means of action that account for human nature, respect individual autonomy and produce actual good results. It requires real humility combined with self-confidence – a willingness to act, along with the resolve to correct course when, inevitably, some approaches simply don’t work. It requires acknowledgement from the start that no one can know everything – and that producing good fruit that will last is what counts, not showing off an imagined superiority.

I think the truth is that it is unchecked vanity that destroys everything it touches. Because it is so fragile, it cannot acknowledge failure or error because that would strike at its very identity. Thus, it is always doomed to ultimate failure, lurching from disaster to disaster like Mr. Magoo -and incapable of the candid self-reflection that would allow it to correct course. Leftism is not so much an ideology as it is a vanity project. Their limited knowledge and unlimited presumption make them like Dostoevsky’s Russian schoolboy – the sort of people who, given a map of the stars, which they had previously never heard of, would return the next day filled with corrections. And now, as a ruling class that has been completely infected with vanity and is crumbling, the left is reduced to smugly insulting the intelligence of those who actually accomplish things for the betterment of all.

It has been a very rough week for the crumbling vanity project that is the American elite. We are seeing the beginning of the end of days for that cohort. They won’t go gently into the night, but average Americans have become “woke” to the danger of indulging elitist fantasies.

*********

One of the most common tropes of leftists against Christians is to demand how we can support a man like Donald Trump.

Up until the late summer of 2016, I was a borderline Never Trumper. He had spent his life as a billionaire playboy of great appetite and a powerful will, which he used to feed those appetites. Beyond that, he had migrated repeatedly and seamlessly between the parties, so I honestly was not sure whether he was a nascent conservative or a lefty in sheep’s clothing. Even so, I knew I would vote against Hillary Clinton even if I could not quite enthusiastically vote for Trump.

The way I and many other Christians saw it was that we had two absolute reprobates as our choice. Clinton promised to persecute us and destroy religious freedom in order to force us all into her brave new world. Trump was not one of us, but he spoke respectfully to us and promised to protect our right to practice our faith. My religious faith has never obliged me to vote for someone who promises to destroy me and people like me – as a vote for Clinton would have been. That, alone, was more than enough to justify Christians’ support of Trump. But in the late summer, I started picking up on something else that might be going on. I started to suspect Trump might be going through a genuinely transformative conversion experience.

I was privy to some details of a private episode that both surprised and heartened me. Then, in the third debate, Trump said that Roe v Wade ought to be overturned, period. No hedging, no nuance, just a confident assertion of his belief. That is stronger than any Republican has spoken on the issue since the very beginning of the abortion on demand era. His statements on almost all issues were not ambiguous, but straightforward and direct. On the most controversial issues, they were the same – with a little bit of a defiant jaw jut when pronouncing them. I really did not expect him to deliver on his promises. His history was to make bold statements and then negotiate down to get a deal. But I did think, “Holy cow. If this guy really works at what he claims to believe, he could end up being spectacular.”

To paraphrase Joe Biden, well son of a gun, Trump has worked as hard as any president in my lifetime to keep his promises. I still suspect that had Democrats not gone off into their insane “resist everything Trump does,” even if it was previously one of their own priorities, the president would have governed as a centrist, focused on getting bipartisan consensus to address major issues. The ‘rule or ruin’ mentality of the left firmly locked Trump into a neo-conservative position – that also rejected failed orthodoxies on the right.

For all of Trump’s trash-talking opponents when the battle is on, his history showed him to be a surprisingly magnanimous man once victory was attained. I frankly feared that, after the Russia Hoax and Mueller assault collapsed, he was going to reach out to the left and let bygones be bygones. (I firmly believe the left’s criminal assaults on the body politic under the guise of politics can only be stopped by heavy prosecution and jail time for coup conspiracy plotters). The impeachment gambit ended that.

When you clear the smoke of Democrat demagoguery, the fact is that Trump was impeached for daring to call for an investigation of Democratic corruption. The shock of this case is that anyone took it seriously in the first place and that it got as far as it did. Any honorable, rational person would have shut it down before it began, if not out of respect for Trump, then in defense of their own credibility. Yet we have pretended for the last three years that making garbage up about Republicans – while treating as an existential offense even mentioning leftist corruption for which there is abundant and compelling evidence – as the new normal. The new normal has failed. What it has accomplished is to convince both Trump and a lot of formerly timid Republicans (who were always suing for peace after being sucker-punched by the left) that modern Democrats cannot be reasoned with or treated as negotiating partners: they are consumed by the ‘rule or ruin’ mentality and the only way they can safely be dealt with is by being completely defeated and routed. That is the Republican mindset today. Whether it can hold is another story. The GOP has a profound instinct to lick the hand of those that beat and abuse it.

Republican criticism of both Barack Obama and Bill Clinton were grounded in what they had been before taking office AND what they remained after taking office. Legitimate criticism of Trump almost all stems from what he was before taking office. Yes, he certainly has a penchant for trash-talking opponents combatively (which may be a left-handed virtue in these times). Hey, even in a conversion, you don’t fully shed the reflexive personality traits of 70 years. On substance, though, Trump has been downright squeaky clean. There are no current bimbo eruptions as there were during the Clinton years; he does not routinely defy court orders as Obama did, however much he fights them; and he does not corruptly set the machinery of government against either his major enemies or ordinary people whose only offense is to disagree with or oppose him.

I think sometime over the summer of 2016, Trump came to see that he could do something truly noble with his life far beyond indulging his prodigious appetites. One of Trump’s subtle strengths even in the bad, old days was that he was secure enough that he was not intimidated or slowed by what people thought of him. His will was undeterred by condemnation. Now his appetite is whole-heartedly for American greatness and his will is to lift up all Americans and open the floodgates of opportunity for them.

I don’t regret being a skeptic of Trump before his election for the same reason I don’t blame early Christians for their skepticism over the conversion of St. Paul after he had spent so long persecuting them. But if someone wants to know how this Christian justifies his support of Donald Trump, it is because I think that with all his virtues and his flaws, he has become at this late stage in his life, a man after God’s own heart, completely devoted to America, her people, and the transformative power of the Christian faith.

*********

Last week, Mark Mallett published a marvelous piece, “This Is Not a Test,” in which he focused on a fundamental disorder of our times: that despite all the growing chaos and disorder, we seem incapable of reading the signs of the times.

It is something that has baffled me. God is, in essence, pointing to our disorder with flashing neon signs, and few are paying attention. Certainly, the culture at large, while busily patting itself on the back over how sophisticated and enlightened it is, is utterly clueless.

The article is a truly great read.

*********

I hope that all here will join in prayers for the great Rush Limbaugh. There is no one like him. He is a fearless advocate for his principals, a gifted political and cultural analyst, AND an amazing entertainer. He speaks boldly without apology or malice. He’s just an amazing man.

In the 80’s, as popular music stations migrated from the AM band to the FM, AM radio was in danger of becoming the junk drawer of broadcast media. It was useful for broadcasting sports events and swap shops – but that did not make for enough programming to keep it anything but a useful afterthought. It was the arrival of Rush Limbaugh on the scene that completely rejuvenated AM radio and made it a viable, broadcasting powerhouse again.

In his early days, as leftists screamed that he was a bombastic racist and such, I am embarrassed to say I accepted their claim. But then someone challenged me to listen to him – and then agree with the conventional wisdom on him. I did, and was astonished to hear this very funny, large-spirited man who was entertaining AND incisive with not a trace of the ugliness that his critics mindlessly accused him of.

God bless Rush. May he live long and prosper – and may this trial just serve to show him in what deep affection ordinary Americans hold him.

208 thoughts on “After God’s Own Heart”

  1. I, too, have seen the conversion of Donald Trump unfolding before our eyes, Charlie, and I still pray that that there are many such stories as we hit the heights of this Storm. God’s Mercy in allowing someone to rise to greatness as s/he moves into such a state is always spectacular to see and heartwarming to discuss.

    Praying for Rush. LOVED the expression on his face when he received the medal. So good.

    Liked by 17 people

  2. I of Donald Trump like the old Testament King David. Many faults but still a king after God’s own heart. In fact I thought that with the picture at the top, that’s what you were going to say.

    Liked by 9 people

  3. Brilliantly conveyed, Charlie. I agree with your assessment regarding Trump, and I tend to blame the complicit media for the fact that so many understand almost none of what you point out. In my entire life I’ve never put a bumper sticker on my car, nor have I ever wanted to…until now. I live in a very blue state and am getting all kinds of dirty looks for the one I just put on. It reads simply “Impeach the Media”. I’m enjoying my silent protest.

    Liked by 13 people

    1. Love it, Tricia! If I find one, I will put it on my old truck. (But my truck is 31 years old – so it would probably reinforce the media stereotype that we Trump supporters are ignorant hicks. Ah well…I love being underestimated, anyway. I’ve always found it to be a great tactical advantage.)

      Liked by 9 people

      1. I’m considering finally buying a newer “outfit” now that I finally have a job. My 25 year old Dakota with 240,000 miles still runs great but safety is a legitimate concern. BUT, I love bombing around town in my rusty old beater just as I like to dress down in jeans and a flannel – blend in with the natives. So if I do buy a nifty, oh, say a silver Ford F-150 with a V8, I’ll hide it in the garage and save her for highway trips out of town. Locals will still see my old truck. I like to be low-key, too!

        Liked by 4 people

        1. Pat,
          I’ve got a “beater” car too. It just fits my equipment for smaller band gigs and I like the idea of it being so low key that no one would case it for a hijack even though I carry about 5K worth of stuff in it!
          During the bigger gigs, I drive my jacked up F-150 pulling a
          matching cargo trailer full of big PA equipment. (it’s a pain to find parking with that rig though).

          Liked by 6 people

        2. I was taught early that a sensible man is known by his beater, among other things. At 17, I paid for a ’69 Ford F250 3/4 ton with lawn cutting and handyman earnings, then completely rebuilt and restored it to a beater in excellent condition. Doesn’t matter that it would be worth around $17,500 these days, I simply wish I would have kept it for the sweat equity and lessons learned that you can’t put a price tag on. Speaking of which, I hear tell that Doug’s little red wagon is a classic, bonafide beater.

          Liked by 3 people

            1. Reminds me of one of the most famous road musician beaters of all time. The Bluesmobile. A ’74 Dodge Monaco sedan, docommissioned Mt. Prospect, IL patrol car with “a cop motor, a 440-cubic-inch plant… cop tires, cop suspension, cop shocks.” Apparently Elwood traded away the previous ride, a ’68 Caddy Fleetwood, for a microphone.

              So what’s all this nonsense have to do with ASOH? Well, in addition to Jake and Elwood being great bluesman, backed by a lively horn section and the greatest rhythm and blues band of all time… wait for it….

              They, too, were on a mission from God.

              Liked by 4 people

        3. I recently found out that my 23-year-old Subaru Outback needed $2,600 of work to keep it going. I have regular access to my mother’s 7-year-old CRV, so it makes no sense for me to put that kind of money into the Green Machine. Fortunately, it has a chance for a longer life, because two friends of mine need a second car and are willing to put the $2,600 in. I’m in the process of selling them my car for the princely price of $1, so they can afford to buy and resurrect it. This is the second time I’ve sold a car to someone for $1 so they could resurrect and love it in my place.

          As for me, I’m going to get rich and buy a Tesla. Why buy a beater when you can get a sports car that will go 0-60 in less than 2.5 seconds? Come on, you guys, you know you want it! :-))) 😀 😀

          Liked by 5 people

          1. But Steve, I want to support a greener environment by burning fossil fuel.  More CO2=more, greener plants.—- Sent from Doug’s Back Pack

            Liked by 5 people

            1. Well, first, I love clean-coal-fired electricity, and I’m also willing to sacrifice by burning more tires bald than I otherwise would. There are lots of ways to grow plants faster. :-))

              Liked by 5 people

              1. Recently, the Union Leader published an article about how growers would pump in extra CO2 in green houses to increase the yield of marijuana.  It really emphasized how ridiculous the whole global warming, green house gas argument is.—- Sent from Doug’s Back Pack

                Liked by 3 people

          2. Steve,
            Golfers have been driving electric vehicles for years and some of us (hunters) know the amazing
            performance of an electric motor if , ahem, properly configured.
            My nephew and I rigged such a motor on our tricked-out “hunting” cart by the addition of a high output motor and relay. As you commented, the instant power is impressive but when used off road, performance is squelched by the lack of traction attained on soil. Large knobby tires help, but they still spin so fast and the cart is so light, traction is still a problem. Alas, it is still fun to know your electric cart can out run your buddy’s 4-wheeler in a drag race (at least off the line)!

            Liked by 5 people

            2. Hold the phone, BD, I didn’t see anything on his listing that precluded barter. As such, i’ve got an avocado, a baseball sock and genuine coconut from south of the border. Obviously that’s a group bid.

              Liked by 6 people

                1. Now you’re just getting silly, BD, but since our bid consortium is intent on the Green Machine we’re willing to sweeten the pot with Phil’s iguana kabob skewer stick. Also, in the interest of full disclosure, the aforementioned avocado is now technically guacamole. An unfortunate mishap, but sadly predictable.

                  Liked by 4 people

                    1. Oh, I’m sorely tempted to take the bait, Phil… connect the dots, tie up loose ends and whatnot, but Mick thinks me incorrigible as it is. Fun fact, Mick: that ’69 F250 was powder blue too, in beater terms, because those older paints tended to fade towards powder blue from the original mix. Your granddaddy’s ’93-’94 was likely Crystal Blue Frost off the assembly line. I was thinking about that last night, but mostly thinking about those youthful days of jumping in the truck bed for a ride. No seats other than a wheel well or open tailgate, no seatbelts, no crash helmets… mostly lazy midwestern country roads with no traffic and a sturdy parent or grandparent at the wheel.

                      Good news is, truck manufacturers eventually improved the paint. Bad news is, the joys of riding in the truck bed are long since gone. As it is, DP, Phil and I are left throwing bologna at the wall to see what sticks. Sometimes we mix it up with an avocado or old sock.

                      Liked by 3 people

                    2. Joys of riding in the truck are replaced with Joys of riding in the red wagon.  There be no stopp’n us when the time comes.  Yes haw!—- Sent from Doug’s Back Pack

                      Liked by 2 people

                    4. I never drove a camera before.  I “shutter” to think what it is like.  What’s it like?  Does it take pictures when you drive?  —- Sent from Doug’s Back Pack

                      Liked by 1 person

            3. 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 You guys are great! 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀 😀

              Liked by 6 people

          5. It’s a very sweet looking ride and that’s a mind-boggling stat, Steve — quicker acceleration than most motorcycles.
            But haven’t they been spontaneously bursting into flames or something? Got some bugs to work out.

            Alas, I’m a truck guy from here on out, I just can’t go back. But if I were to buy a car-like vehicle, I have to admit I was blown away by my aunt’s used Lexus RX SUV. Brilliant vehicle.

            Liked by 3 people

            1. A “car-like vehicle”?! That is too funny, Patrick! 🙂 (By the way, if I could have any vehicle I wanted, it would be a powder-blue 1993 or 1994 F-350, just like the last one that my farmer grandpa had before he passed away.)

              Liked by 6 people

  4. Great piece, Charlie! I am with you 100%. I pretty much decided to just sit back instead of getting my BP up, and have a good laugh at these ppl who seem so misdirected, and can’t find their way out their box. I am utterly dumbfounded that they continue to actually believe their lies, despite that they are shown the constant truth. That said, it is very scary and there but the Grace of God, could I go. One almost wants to ask each of them individually, “where in your life did you have something so wrong happen to you that you gave up your values, truths, and morals?” I listened and watched N.P. after she was questioned about tearing up the speech, and I could not comprehend her answer it was so ludicrous. We gotta get new adjectives, these are not strong enough anymore. And vehemence in her face and voice. She sputtered and could not even get it out. WHOAAA, now that’s a sore looser.
    But yes, our Lord has given much Grace to President Trump, and we owe him a great debt of gratitude. I can not think of any others that have stepped up to be as bold and determined in his dedication to that office or this country as he has been, (not to mention brilliant). Not allowing any deterrents or slurs to get in his way. There were times I thought if this does not make him come apart then…but no, that bunny just kept on tick’n. A PROMISE IS A PROMISE IS A PROMISE!!! And it gave so many others courage and determination as well.
    And Rush Limbaugh has always been one of my favorites, unflappable and right on. We will pray for his health. His humility that evening was very beautiful and God giving. The last part of the Address was beautiful and showed the immense backbone of this country. So many good people who have sustained us in the last 30 years, bu then many that failed and could not rise to the cause. Makes me want to cry! WHERE EVER WE GO…THANK YOU LORD, JESUS! Thank you Charlie for your great piece. I will send this to many others. It says so much of what people are thinking and feeling. Ave Maria, O’Blessed Mother.

    Liked by 13 people

    1. I’m a people watcher..most people are sooo darn cute you just gotta fall in love with them (in an honorable way) if u watch em long enough ..people are amazing

      Liked by 1 person

  5. I listen to Rush every day I can; he has known Donald Trump for a long time and I wonder if he helped persuade him to run for President. He said President Trump wouldn’t take no for an answer when asking Rush to be a guest at “The State of The Union”.

    I am offering my help to Floyd McLendon in Dallas County running for Tx.-32; He was a Navy Seal for 15 years. Dem. Collin A. won against Pete Sessions which was so bad.

    Doradee, get a really good Dr.; I know a Judge who had colon ca. and is perfectly fine today. Praying for you!

    Liked by 11 people

  7. Let us continue to pray for Donald Trump and for our country. I have often seen in myself how when things seem to be going so well that pride can get in there and create problems and blind my judgement . So I have some fears, with our countriy’s history that this seems too good to be true so far. After all these years of losing gradually over time we seem to be making some progress finally. May God help us to continue.

    Liked by 7 people

  8. “…After destroying their target, they offer nothing to replace the function it had…”

    I once argued with a priest who believed that Marxism is one of many legitimate expressions of the Gospel. He stated that, just as Aristotelian metaphysics was once wrongly considered incompatible with the Gospel due to its non-Christian origins, so too Marxism must not be dismissed, on the same basis. I replied that there’s a chasm of difference between Aristotle and Marx, because an idea can be a part of a larger message without contradicting that message. The ideas of Aristotle do not contradict the Gospel, but the ideas of Marx certainly do.

    I told him that Marxism and the Gospel are diametrically opposed, because whereas God creates, Marxism only destroys. The very raison d’etre of Marxism is to divide people against one another—class against class, race against race, man against woman—to incite animosity, and to tear down whatever stands. Only love creates, and Marxism is devoid of love. As Charlie wrote, “after destroying [its] target, [it] offers nothing to replace the function it had.”

    People often ask me why socialism is so popular despite the fact that it is the most well-documented failure in human history. I reply that its appeal lies in its promise to deliver paradise without any conversion of heart. In its essence, it’s a temptation as old as the Garden of Eden. It does not ask us to deny our own almighty will. All one needs is to support the “correct” policies, and heaven on earth will follow, just as certain as night follows day. No effort, no strain, no suffering, no cross.

    When Our Lady of Fatima predicted that Russia would spread her errors throughout the world, I once believed those errors were merely political and economic. It turns out they are far deeper than anything I had ever imagined. The cultural expressions of this “divide and destroy” ideology are found everywhere.

    Charlie’s one line set off all those random musings and thoughts. 🙂

    Liked by 18 people

    1. Marvelous, Victura! When assessing whether there is genuinely diabolic activity behind something, one of the key things I look for is whether something creates anything or whether it merely seeks to destroy. Marxism is incapable of creation. All it can do is loot what others have created in the process of destroying the society it infests.

      It is just a manifestation of the most ancient seduction to destruction: “Eat from it…and you will be like God…” (Genesis 3:5)

      Liked by 11 people

    3. Along with Charlie’s paras above, that’s as good an exposition of socialism as I’ve seen! Thanks, Victura98. I’d only add to “its appeal lies in its promise to deliver paradise without any change of heart” that there’s also the attraction of looking good as well, “virtue-signalling” in the modern terminology. Charlie deals with that also. Thanks again, both. I really need it today when early results from our national election seem to be showing a dangerous trend towards leftist idiocy. Ok, it’s early yet but God almighty, when will we learn?

      Liked by 5 people

  10. I lived in New York for most of my life. Donald Trump and his wife were always in the news during the 1980’s and 1990’s. The reporters of the New York Daily News and the New York Post wrote about them almost daily. Interestingly, almost every Monday there would be a comment that Donald Trump had been seen attending Sunday services at the Marble Collegiate Church. He would be reported there with his children, even though his first wife, Ivana ,was sometimes absent. This made an impression on me which I still remember all these years later. What Donald J. Trump has done in his personal life is between him and God. It is not our place to judge him as we wouldn’t want to be judged ourselves by people who don’t know us. However, if Jesus chose to make Peter the head of the Catholic Church even after he denied Him three times during His final hours, what might Our Lord have in mind for President Trump to carry out as leader of the free world? He is certainly the most Pro-Life President in our lifetime. He acts on what he promises; unlike other mealy-mouthed politicians who utter meaningless words unless it is to destroy American life, society and culture. Coincidentally, when he married our First Lady, Melania Trump, she did not carry a bouquet in her hands but a Rosary! Let us continue to pray for President Trump to accomplish the works God has intended for him and to endure whatever evil is being thrown in his way to prevent doing such.

    Liked by 19 people

    2. That’s very interesting regarding the media coverage in the 80s and 90s in NYC. Thanks for sharing. My parents used to listen to Don Imus in the mornings for years. Donald Trump was a regular guest speaking on issues like trade and immigration and apparently the audience really liked him. His haters seem to have the chronic problem of underestimating him and forgetting that he is adept at managing media attention, to say the least.

      Liked by 4 people

    3. MAJMA, I thank you for your post. I did not know about most of the things you posted. I never really followed Trump in his early days. The fact the Melania carried a rosary instead of flowers is truly astonishing and somewhat of an omen, I think. She has been treated with great disdain by the media. I pray that our Blessed Mother comforts her daily.

      Liked by 4 people

  11. I don’t care what color tie you wear; red-blue-other, the whole caucus debacle was (is) a huge embarrassment to all of us here in Iowa. The reporting app was an epic failure and then the phone system apparently didn’t work. Yeah, because after nearly 145 years of development, they’re still working out a few bugs in that new-fangled telephone thingy.
    Got it.

    Liked by 10 people

    1. I am sure, Christopher J, but you should take comfort that the Republican count was quick and efficient. Even so, this event has become important to Iowans and a source of pride…and I know this had to hurt. I have many friends in Iowa – among them a man who, should I ever need to organize the country quickly, would be a chief go-to guy. It’s a great state and you deserved far better.

      Liked by 10 people

      1. Just curious, Charlie, if you think there’s any advantage of caucus over a primary? We took our kids when they were of age to experience it first hand. However, due to it’s time consuming nature and sometimes rambling discussions, the allure is fleeting even without the current snafus.

        Liked by 3 people

        1. A caucus is unsupervised by any election authorities and is strictly run by party officials. The only role of election authorities is to receive the results the party gives them. So I prefer a primary except, perhaps, in cases where there is no real competition. I also prefer paper ballots.

          But, a caucus can be fun with a lot of social interaction.

          Liked by 4 people

      2. Big talk at boat show today was “shshshshingly Trump 2020 & coronavirus” btw I’m not feeling too hot …lol… again… but one exhibitor said some poor guy today with a red hat on somewhere got beat in the face with an engagement ring just because his hat was Red …eeehhhh ghads😩

        Liked by 1 person

    2. Christopher, I have a suspicion they intentionally did what they did (the Caucasus ) with a very diabolical intent in mind. If we step back…we should realize they are going to put in who they want to put in. And if it goes like it might…HC might be in there somewhere. Now the mess created was not just because they mess everything up, nope I think they do not intend to have an election /or one that is anywhere near honest…and will cause a great riff in this country. Where to start???? of course, at the START. And And don’t think good ol’ Bernie will be anywhere close up front when the end comes. Hey just keep those suckers happy and let them think they all count. Ya’ think? Hey, remember, this is the group that eat their own. These 3 years are just a preview, and our country might be left in the dust, if we are not vigilant. I was listening the day after N.P. did her dirty deed (shredding) , it was Cspan, and some call ins. Let me tell you, there were some very upset Dems, all older and they were leaving the party. Ya gotta wonder…what kept them there all this time? Fear, apathy, greed, fear or was it fear? Well, that is what the left wing media will instill in you, and we terrible conservatives are very vicious and mean people. And as for Bob’s comment posted here…yes, I believe that is “pride before the fall” quote.Good to be reminded to be humble in God’s Blessings upon this nation and remember to help our President fight to abolish abortion and then we might realize His Blessings.

      Liked by 11 people

  12. Charlie, Despite my natural disposition to be hypercritical, I agreed with EVERYTHING you explained here. I had the same experiences with my attitudes about Trump, and Rush too.

    The decaying stench in our major cities run by the Leftist Democrats, from NYC, Baltimore, and Phili, to Chicago, over to LA, San Fran, Portland, and Seattle, reifies your accurate description of their mentality, conduct, and awful, destructive effects.

    I sure wish your writings could be published as Op Eds in the NYT, WP, and WSJ, for starters.

    Liked by 11 people

      1. One of the reasons I love Rush is because he makes me laugh. Here are some of his quotes:

        “If Thomas Jefferson thought taxation without representation was bad, he should see what it is like with representation.”

        “Enraging liberals is simply one of the more enjoyable side effects of my wisdom.”

        “Most people’s historical perspective begins with the day of their birth.”

        “Nationalizing businesses, nationalizing banks is not a solution for the democratic party, it’s the objective.”

        “I’ve been to the Vatican more than anyplace else outside this country in the world. I am mesmerized by it.”

        https://www.brainyquote.com/authors/rush-limbaugh-quotes

        Liked by 6 people

  13. I just remembered something Fr. Ripperger said in a talk he gave in Pine Bluff, WI just a few days before the 2018 midterms. He was talking about how the American left is working under diabolical influence. We can know this because everything they propose and implement is designed to maximize the damage they can do in the context of the power they have.
    One could say that disastrous results are a feature not a bug.

    Liked by 11 people

  14. Thank you, Charlie, for your thoughts on Trump and on the strange times in which we find ourselves. Your words inspired me to finally put in writing my own struggle and journey with the present politics.

    When it became apparent that the 2016 presidential contest was to be between Clinton and Trump I was utterly dismayed. Hilary Clinton was the living confluence of everything wrong in our politics, society and culture. Trump on the other hand seemed an unknown risk. Being a news junkie, I was aware of Trump’s life and many changes of positions on morality, politics and issues. It seemed to me there was no there, there. No discernable center. Did he believe what he was saying or was it all part of the ‘art of the deal’?

    Very soon after Trump was inaugurated a picture appeared online showing Trump, with two of his sons, Vice President Pence and his wife, Supreme Court nominee Neal Gorsuch with his wife and the widow and sons of Justice Antonin Scalia (one of whom is a Catholic priest and who was wearing his clericals). They were praying before Trump and Gorsuch went out to officially announce Gorsuch’s nomination.

    The profound importance of that action, and of the picture being released to the public (Trump actually tweeted it out to his followers.) was immediately apparent to me. Maybe Trump did not believe. Maybe he is an absolute atheist. Maybe the picture was a cynical ploy to gain conservative support. None of that mattered. For the reality is that Clinton would have never posed for such a situation. She would never have published such a photo. Even if Trump did not share the faith of the three families who were with him, he understood its importance to them. Even if he would not have done the same himself, he graciously submitted to the moment and participated in an action that was important to these people of faith. My earlier reticence about Trump largely disappeared after viewing that picture.

    In the past few months I was again surprised at a video coming from the White House. Evangelical pastor Andrew Brunson, who had been recently freed from wrongful imprisonment in a Turkish jail, asked if he could pray over the President. In front of the cameras Trump bowed his head and allowed the pastor to lay his hand on him and to pray for him. I cannot envision Hilary Clinton submitting to such a request.

    There are friends and family in our lives that have complete Trump derangement syndrome. When they taunt me about being a Christian and supporting such an “immoral man” I have two replies. For the more vicious of them, I just say that God used Balaam’s ass to get His point across. He can also use Trump. To the more rational, I remind them that the pagan emperor, Cyrus of the Persians, was led by God to release the Jews from their Babylonian captivity. Cyrus sent them back to Jerusalem with their Temple artifacts and with money to begin rebuilding the Temple. God can use anyone.

    Trump, at a minimum, is a bulwark. At present the power of His office stands against the forces that would destroy God’s people and would seek the stripping of all remnants of Christianity and Western thought and culture from our country. His term of office has given us precious years to grow in faith, to ready ourselves for the battle to come and to worship God without fear of overt persecution. Had Clinton been elected the dismantling of faith and reason would be already much further advanced. I can make no judgement about Trump’s interior faith. I pray that it is real and sincere, or that it shall come to be real. In the meantime, I thank God for this time, for this warrior standing against the storm.

    “For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and you will be commended. For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good.” Romans 13:3-4

    JT

    Liked by 20 people

    1. jtbrannigan, just as you wrote, indeed ” God can use anyone. ” That reminded me of sermonizing from Kim Clement years before Trump even ran for President:
      ” You are here: Home Opinion The Truth About IHOPKC
      How Kim Clement, Chuck Pierce Prophesied Trump’s Presidency Years Before His Election
      10:30AM EDT 6/12/2019 STEPHEN STRANG

      (YouTube/Kim Clement)
      If you keep up with current events at all, you know the left loves to hate President Donald Trump. But no matter how much Democrats rage against him, it doesn’t change the fact that several prominent prophets—including Kim Clement and Chuck Pierce—predicted his presidency years before the 2016 election.

      “American Adversaries Radio” host Christopher Hart recently interviewed me about this topic. (Click here or click the podcast icon in this article to listen.) I told Hart that prophets were predicting Trump’s presidency as far back as 2007, with Kim Clement declaring God was raising up a “disrupter” to become president.

      “God says, ‘The one that is chosen shall go in, and they shall say, “He has hot blood,”‘” Clement prophesied in 2007. “For the Spirit of God says, ‘Yes, he may have hot blood, but he will bring the walls of protection on this country in a greater way and the economy of this country shall change rapidly,’ says the Lord of Hosts. … God says, ‘I will put at your helm for two terms a president who will pray, but he will not be a praying president when he starts.'”

      Clement passed away in late November 2016, only weeks after Trump was elected president. As weighty as his words were, he’s not the only one who prophesied ”
      ( https://www.charismanews.com/opinion/76744-how-kim-clement-chuck-pierce-prophesied-trump-s-presidency-years-before-his-election ).

      Liked by 5 people

      1. Well, Jack, obviously I have become a grateful admirer of President Trump. On these prophecies, though, I have been hearing them since 2016 – but they are always assertions that they were said years or decades before. I have never seen any solid, verifiable contemporaneous evidence, so I remain quite skeptical of that. None of them seemed to surface until late 2015 after Trump had already announced. Of course, in America, we don’t allow ex post facto laws. So far, I have not seen anything that would suggest to me that these are other than ex post facto prophecies.

        Liked by 6 people

        1. Charlie, Yes, I too have wondered about the dating of his sermons, and cannot myself verify their timing. I cite them, however, for their bombast in recognizing Trump’s life before election as a playboy, but that he would be an instrument of God–and Trump surely has been that compared to the Leftists.

          Liked by 2 people

    2. JT, excellent thoughts, and we thank our Lord for sending this strong, determined brilliant man to stand for us, and lead us through this fight. No matter his personal beliefs, he has rallied the troops and for so many given hope where there was none, and gave us time to revamp and become stronger and more focused. It only takes one, remember. Psalms 90:6 “A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand: but it shall not come nigh thee. ” 90:11 “For he hath given his angels charge over thee; to keep thee in all thy ways… [12] In their hands they shall bear thee up: lest thou dash thy foot against a stone… 90:15 “He shall cry to me, and I will hear him: I am with him in tribulation, I will deliver him, and I will glorify him. ..”. Let us keep our President in our prayers, daily.
      Ave Maria, O’Blessed Mother~

      Liked by 8 people

  15. Wow, Charlie, I loved your views about what’s going on with our political parties. The way I see it, the Democrats (most of them) are blinded by the devil. There is no way they will agree with the other side. They are actually incapable of seeing the truth. I, too, was reluctant to vote for Trump, but I, also, did not want Hillary to win. It was by God’s design that Trump won. I am proud of what he accomplished in spite of the hate and animosity shown to him. My husband and I pray the Rosary with “the flame of love” devotion. We must keep praying for those who are blinded by the devil. Thanks, Charlie for your great work. I always look forward to your commentaries. God bless you.

    Liked by 8 people

  16. Charlie you’re just the best. It’s like you translate what I know intuitively to be true into concrete and logical concepts and expression. It sounds silly probably, but this translation of knowing into words has eluded me much of my life. I think your ability doubles as a training/modeling of sorts-sowing more of that skill bit by bit in ppl like me. It’s such a gift bc intuiting truth is not nearly as effective in being a sign of hope as effectively communicating that truth. 😊 (Feel free to insert “duh” here, but it’s been really huge for me). And I agree with Jack on the op-eds. Have you ever submitted? I love Victor Davis Hansen, but think your analysis would be more relatable, succinct and convincing to the average Joe.

    Liked by 12 people

    2. Thanks Irish. I have long believed that my main gift is not to say something new, but to be able to say what people already know in their hearts to be true but can’t quite articulate – but they immediately recognize it for what they already know.

      Liked by 14 people

      2. Oh Charlie, that’s exactly what it is!! You put it into words for us!

        My dearest friend and I had a lengthy exchange this morning about our bishop having spoken at our once Catholic college here in town. My once holy Alma Mater! The professors were cheering his views (climate change is a greater threat than abortion, for ex.) Our founding nun must have been turning over in her grave! That’s where we are these days, as you describe, Charlie. I told my friend that without the Catholic blogs I read, and their writers who are gifted by God, I would be lost in discouragement. You good people let us know that we are not alone! We know who has the victory!

        Liked by 10 people

        1. Dear God, Annie: a Bishop actually said that?? Dear God. The seamless garment is a stained rag. Blood-stained. How much longer will they continue to pasture themselves at the table of the World, and turn away from the smallest of their flock? All the while ignorant that the World still despises them, while using them. It doesn’t even have to try anymore, they run towards it, arms outstretched.

          Meanwhile, in this septic Isle, after our election, we’ve given a majority to a bunch of bolshies, of various hues. Mark Steyn had a great post on it, with which I heartily concur. Not that the two “established” parties (both not so long ago conservative and Catholic) were, or are, any whit better. The one good thing to have emerged is that all of the openly pro-Life reps were re-elected, sadly small though their number is. Still – Joshua and all that?

          As a French Marshal said in 1914,(paraphrasing): “the flanks have retreated, the centre has collapsed: I advance!”

          Liked by 4 people

    3. Irish

      I think that’s the difference between most of us and someone like Charlie…he has the ability to put into words things we recognize as truth, like Victor Davis Hansen, Dennis Prager, Rush and so many others. With their skills at doing so, the rest of us can rally around an idea or cause and actually make some progress

      Charlie’s use of King Davis is an apt metaphor for President Trump…an imperfect man, but one that God can use…I’ve often thought of him in that way

      Lastly, was thinking that the election of DJT is a perfect example of the Catholic concept “sensus fidei”…sooo many people we’re onto him early and often in the lead up to the last election….I didn’t get it til sometime after the election, tho I was convinced by a friend to vote for him

      In retrospect, I finally saw in him what so many did, and that all of the other republicans running at the time would have been just more of the same, and that it was time for a change

      We often hear that the American people are good and smart, and That we eventually get it right….think this was a perfect example

      Liked by 4 people

  17. It’s the Spirit guys.
    He instills in us the Catholic (universal) truths and they make “common” sence because He is the source who fills us with all truth.
    When I first started seriously reading spiritual books I would spend time meditating on what I had read in my quiet time at work. After pondering some truth or another I garnered other insights through the Spirit working within me. Later, as I was reading other spiritual book, some of my ponderings were confirmed as to what I had thought because the exact idea was being discussed there in the book. It was nice to have these revelations corroborated by an authority. I didn’t trust that I was Holy enough to be able to descern such things but I’ve come to realize that the Lord puts His truth in our hearts if we love Him and truly want to know Him. (What father would give his child a snake if he asked for a fish?; Luke 11:11).
    The exact opposite befalls those who reject this Truth. They become darkened in their intellect and become “foolish” -even descending down into subhuman behaviors, acting like lost sheep running head-long towards the cliff while presuming they have everything under control. It’s one of the main reasons the meek inherit the earth, they see the cliff for what it is and so live to see another day. “Remember, therefore, what you have received and heard; hold it fast” (Rev 3:3).

    Liked by 13 people

    1. Yes, precisely because too many make the mistake of immersing in the noise that says “any old thing serves as knowledge and wisdom.” Of course they find only noisy foolishness.

      Watching the sun come up this morn’ in the silence, broken only by some busy bees on the scrub next to me, and my pup busy at pup things. “Sufficient to the day are the evils therein.” An unbidden thought, as I decided to head for the sticks in a bit, without formulating a plan much beyond that. Mostly I just want some quality silence.

      Meanwhile, the pup went after a bee (I did mention she’s terror of small insects), and came away from the interaction with a swollen, irritated eye. An indiscriminate adventure, to say the least. Can’t really blame her because I occasionally swat at bees. Smacked one with my walking stick one day, only to have it dive bomb my cheek and hit its mark.

      Where else is The Silence to be found but in silence? One has to seek wisdom, AND be discriminating about it!

      Liked by 8 people

        2. Apparently it’s contagious, Phil. I’d like to buy a vowel for my Blues Brothers shtick. I need an “e.” And another “e.” Maybe a bouncy “c”… wait, no, I’m good.

          Liked by 3 people

    3. Philip Frank: I remember sometime around 2009/10 arriving at my front door after a shopping trip and taking a few moments in frustration to look up to heaven and exclaiming out loud -“Do you see what’s happening here? Do you see how truth is being destroyed, its meaning being twisted? You need to intervene! We’re a mess! On election eve 2016, I expected Trump to lose. I nearly fainted with astonishment when he won Pennsylvania. (I had participated in the 54 day Rosary crusade leading up to the election. ). Who knew how bad it was? Who knew how corrupt Justice, CIA and FBI had become. None of them believed in the Constitution, the law, the people, the country, had faith in its founding documents or in truth and freedom. So many pitfalls to unravel it all. Thank you, Jesus.

      Liked by 6 people

      1. JOANNE1950,
        The “mystery of iniquity” is revealed and the “remedy” upon us…
        “God will not allow unrighteousness to become eternal. Revolution, disintegration, chaos, must be reminders that our thinking has been wrong, our dreams have been unholy. Moral truth is vindicated by the ruin that follows when it has been repudiated. The chaos of our times is the strongest negative argument that could ever be advanced for Christianity … The disintegration following an abandonment of God thus becomes a triumph of meaning, a reaffirmation of purpose … Adversity is the expression of God’s condemnation of evil, the registering of Divine Judgement … Catastrophe reveals that evil is self-defeating; we cannot turn from God without hurting ourselves.”
        Seek “true faith” (supernatural faith), maintain hope in God’s power, love extravagantly … and believe “with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).
        Fulton Sheen

        Liked by 5 people

        2. The Faithful have lived, pondered and grappled with these things throughout our entire story. Certainly the Bible is clear about the recompense for the Faithful and unfaithful alike. Grace, blessings, peace, abundance, more faithful children, etc. for the Faithful. Strife, war, famine, disease, hunger, pestilence, etc. for the unfaithful.

          We turned yet another corner in the battle as 2020 also brought a flash flood of demonic vomit in the form of commercials. I’ve lost count of the ways LGBTwhatever has perverted the airwaves, the most recent example basically delivering the message that “you don’t need to change your lifestyle, simply get this prescription drug and all is well.” Frankly, I wanted to vomit. I feel revulsion, disgust, anger, etc., at first until I look at Jesus.

          What is it going to take to turn this tide since so few want to turn their face toward Him? Well, I alluded to some of it in the “Godzilla” metaphor, as we can all ‘hear’ the thunder and shaking of the earth at the approach. I tend to agree with Pope Francis in at least this regard: talking in the above vein doesn’t seem to very effective evangelization. Folks don’t really do what we say, they’re more inclined to do what we do… made all the tougher since hypocrisy has reared its ugly head in the Church.

          Oh, the Church! I can imagine Her in Glory, but don’t like to get too far ahead of things. First, it seems that everyone must be brought to their knees, not so much that we can say “I told you so,” but rather that we can see a facet of Grace lost on so many. Not that all the unfaithful will choose to look up at that time, but maybe… just maybe, they’ll look to the authentic Christian on their knees next to them and finally see something. That the Church is not just an institution comprised of mere men. More importantly, it is also the altar on which the Faithful imitate The Savior. With the trust, peace, love and all those things that CAN make a real difference. So I believe, limited imagination notwithstanding.

          Liked by 7 people

          1. I’ve seen hearts changing when people employ a skill set such as those taught through Encounter Ministries, The Anointed Life and St. Paul Street Evangelization – to name just a few dynamic apostolates rising through lay people. Agree 100%, MP, that we must be brought to our knees… and not just “them”… we ALL need a radical conversion. I actually welcome a personal Illumination of Conscience… and similar to one of our dear patrons of this site, St. Therese, who spoke of a daring teaching on purgatory wherein she would use Jesus as her elevator to heaven, I’m simply asking Jesus to reveal to me, a step at a time, what He desires me to work on and I ask this via His promise: “I Am the Good Shepherd… Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart…” I believe, Lord. Heal any unbelief I may not be able to see.

            Liked by 5 people

            2. As soon as you introduced Encounter Ministries it was solidly on my radar. Good thing. Paradoxically, as fast as I sometimes think, I generally move like a turtle. And as much as I never seem to be at a loss for words, I seek and value the silence with a passion. Is the Ministry a fit for an oddball such as this? I think St. Therese often likes to enjoy a good joke at my expense.

              Liked by 3 people

              1. Encounter Ministries is fantastico, MP… yet, to grow in what is being fostered by them, a person must be able to get to Brighton, MI or to their satellite campuses, one in Louisiana and a future one coming to Seattle. I actually reached out to them and asked about online opportunities for those who live a distance away. Their plate is already filled with projects: the schools, the outreach conferences, and the now international presence. I prayed for the Lord to make another way and I ended up on a list of folks who were contacted last year by a wonderful man – Michael Sullivan from Chicago – with great faith and vision who was well schooled in the fullness of the Catholic faith and well developed in the gifts of the Holy Spirit. In reaching out, he wanted to help anyone who was interested to overcome their fears about evangelizing. It took a bit for him to get back to those of us who answered. It was in August that Michael and his wife Kelly launched an online opportunity to study and be activated more fully in the gifts. The Anointed Life Acceleration Community was born and it has been a wonderful support. It’s set up to accommodate people, all manner of oddballs (I certainly qualified.), in ways that they can come into the virtual room when it’s convenient for them and if someone can’t make it, the sessions are taped and uploaded for later viewing.

                So here are a few links to check out as you consider if you wish to proceed with any of this.
                A testimony from Fr. Brian Gross from the Bismark, ND Diocese… A talk by Michael Sullivan st the 2018 Encounter Conference… and the site for The Anointed Life Acceleration Community where you can read more about the goals of life in the community which he leads.

                In the end, we’re a collection of unique individuals with many, varied and unusual ways of being and all are welcome.

                Liked by 2 people

                1. After reading your post on the organization, listening to the talks you link and being “nudged”, I signed up to discern whether or not the community is a good fit for me, and vice versa. My hope was to learn to be a better intercessor, but there is a lot of info to cover on other works…

                  I have had a lot of questions- but I find they are often answered in the next training talk. I’m working my way through my differences of opinion with some of the interpretations of Scripture and doctrine, but am very impressed with the openness to questions of the site personnel and their love and respect for the participants.

                  I would recommend anyone interested to try it out. It’s not for everyone- and they recognize that (another plus), but is worth investigating.

                  Liked by 1 person

                  1. The theology is solid, skeinster. The language expressing it and the emphasis on living the commission of Jesus while striving to develop the gifts of the Spirit create a special focus. In my six months in this community, I have discovered that the background on the other topics, such as our identity as baptized children of God, builds greater confidence in operating in the gifts. 🔥❤️🙏

                    Liked by 1 person

            3. Beckita I prayed a 1000 Flame of love 🔥 Hail Marys today at Miami boat show and because of you begged the Holy Spirit to come and do impartation ??? Is that correct word??? Thought I was asking probably too much but I know God likes us to ask big… love His people but walking home was scary the homeless seemed very aggressive tonight I suppose I would be too if no food or shelter …so many…so sad

              Liked by 1 person

    2. Joyful, I love Father Seelos and am honored to have a relic. He is buried in a beautiful church in New Orleans across the street from the church where I was baptized, and was connected to that church also. (That’s how many churches some cities used to have/ each nationality having its own, even that close together.) Are you from New Orleans? Thank you for the link.

      Liked by 7 people

      1. No, but Fr. Seelos is one of my favorite heroes. He should be canonized. I think I heard about him from Mother Angelica first and I kept coming across information on him. So far, I have three or four books about him. I consider him a saint-to-be for our times.
        New Orleans must be a very beautiful city with all those churches. It also has a very interesting history.

        Liked by 3 people

  20. It’s really not surprising that conservatives are smarter than liberals. The conservative ideology is more logical overall. If you’re a business owner, you hire the most talented people, not people with the most talented skin colors. When there’s weird weather, you should adapt accordingly, not tax people back to the stone age.

    Liked by 8 people

    2. I believe conservatives are smarter than liberals because, generally speaking, they tend to believe in God, worship God and live their lives trying to walk with God. Since God takes care of His own and sends His blessings to His own then we would have to be more clear thinking and recognize devious ways before the left would, if they ever do. So for me, I am going to keep walking with God and hope I am clear thinking! 🙂

      Liked by 9 people

          2. Ha!  I know you are good for it.  Lambzie and I are at the Trump Pense rally tonight in NH.  Look up and to the right and you might see my light blue MAGA hat.  It is the only one of its kind as all the others are red.  Breath of fresh air here.  Lambzie and I may pray the Rosary when he talks.—- Sent from Doug’s Back Pack

            Liked by 11 people

  21. Jesus = Good-News 😉

    https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/pro-life-bills-advance-in-several-us-states-14363

    https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2014/07/07/orson-bean-on-god-america-yesterday-s-hollywood-that-embraced-both/

    https://catholicherald.co.uk/magazine/how-to-admire-protestants-even-while-arguing-with-them/

    https://townhall.com/columnists/wayneallynroot/2020/02/09/is-it-time-to-call-democrats-evil-you-decide-n2561009?

    https://www.dailysignal.com/2020/02/06/pelosi-omits-christians-as-she-lists-religious-persecutions-around-world/

    https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2020/02/epic-facebook-and-twitter-smack-down-pelosis-request-to-delete-trump-video-meme-of-her-tearing-up-sotu-speech/

    https://stream.org/the-high-crime-every-impeachment-manager-favors/

    http://www.floppingaces.net/2020/02/07/the-week-in-radical-leftism-2-7-2020/

    https://www.americanthinker.com/articles/2020/02/forget_about_impeachment_heres_a_legal_case_that_actually_matters.html

    https://www.newsbusters.org/blogs/nb/kristine-marsh/2020/02/07/chris-cuomo-defends-buttigieg-ugliest-lies-claim-dems-are-extreme

    https://www.citizenfreepress.com/breaking/what-exactly-are-you-threatening-to-do-ayannna-pressley/

    https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2020/02/facebook-bans-gateway-pundit-article-about-their-censorship-of-right-wing-network-that-is-home-to-yiannopoulos-loomer-biggs-and-mcinness/

    GOD SAVE ALL HERE!

    Liked by 8 people

    1. CrewDog, thank you for including the article about Orson Bean. I didn’t realize till these past few days that he was Andrew Breitbart’s father-in-law, and that he had encouraged Andrew to consider conservative principles. I remember Mr. Bean from game shows years ago, but most recently from watching DVDs of “Dr. Quinn, Medicine Woman,” with a 102-year-old friend (RIP) who loved the show. I also did not know that the actress who played one of Dr. Quinn’s sisters was Orson Bean’s wife.

      Prayers for all. ❤

      "All is passing, Love alone abiding, Love alone sustaining."

      May he rest in peace.

      Liked by 8 people

        1. Thank you, Beckita. She passed away in October 2017. Those of us who tended to her in her last years often get together to remember that great adventure. I believe that the Lord made Himself known to her, and that she accepted His extended hand.

          Liked by 3 people

    1. It has been a while since Mick has commented, Kim, but she’s faithful as ever with clearing comments and I emailed her last week and all seemed well. It seems for all of us there are seasons when we comment less due to whatever is filling our plates.

      Liked by 7 people

  23. Charlie, great article. The Evangelicals were on board with Trump from day one and maybe before. They recognized him from the old testament. As he says “the best is yet to come”. Hoping any disruption will be short or none. The US must have some protection now with Trump first moving the capital to Jerusalem, then showing up at the pro-life march, and, now, signing an EO allowing prayer in public schools.

    Liked by 11 people

    1. Agree with your observation, Patricia, about the influence of the President of this country employing his authority to support and declare laws which honor God’s Laws.

      Liked by 4 people

    1. That is technically correct, but there is a proviso. All are NOT children of God. Rather, God gives all men power to become children of God (John 1:12). Those who revile or oppose Him are not children of God and He does not count them among His own. The left has become overwhelmingly anti-God. They are NOT His own because they have chosen not to be. Now, 50 years ago it was quite common for a liberal to be God-fearing, but it is almost impossible today. Even so, there are some liberals who do fear God (not leftists – a fundamental principle of leftism since Marx has been to deny God). To the extent that your comment means that political leanings do not determine Godliness, you are entirely correct. To the extent that it is a vapid assertion that what you do or say has nothing to do with whether you are God’s own it is entirely incorrect.

      Nonetheless, we must avoid hubris, for Jesus makes it very clear that not everyone who calls on Him will be numbered among the saved, but only those who DO His will. (Matthew 7:21).

      Bottom line: all are given power to become His own, but all can choose NOT to become His own. God will deny those who deny Him before men.

      Liked by 16 people

      2. Jesus even said some were of the devil and not of God…..
        They answered him, “Abraham is our father.” Jesus said to them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doing the works Abraham did, but now you seek to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God. This is not what Abraham did. You are doing the works your father did.” They said to him, “We were not born of sexual immorality. We have one Father—even God.” Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and I am here. I came not of my own accord, but He sent me. Why do you not understand what I say? It is because you cannot bear to hear my word. You are of your father the devil, and your will is to do your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, and does not stand in the truth, because there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks out of his own character, for he is a liar and the father of lies. But because I tell the truth, you do not believe me. Which one of you convicts me of sin? If I tell the truth, why do you not believe me? Whoever is of God hears the words of God. The reason why you do not hear them is that you are not of God.”(John 8:39-47)

        Liked by 8 people

      4. Hi Charlie,

        I was reflecting on the idea, that all are made in the image and likeness of God and that all of us have a soul.

        I agree with what you said here “Bottom line: all are given power to become His own, but all can choose NOT to become His own. God will deny those who deny Him before men.”

        I think that it is amazing that His saving grace is offered to all even up to the moment of death. “The good thief” on Golgotha is an example of that.

        Liked by 5 people

      6. Nonetheless, we must avoid hubris, for Jesus makes it very clear that not everyone who calls on Him will be numbered among the saved, but only those who DO His will. (Matthew 7:21).

        Charlie, how can we know if we are doing Gods will? I worry about that because of divorce/remarriage/ sought out annulment thinking I’d let God decide what to do and was granted an annulment to my surprise really .. and beyond that how does one surely know daily you are living God’s will??? For I call upon Him often…yikes

        Like

    2. Jesus said, “blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” He said a great many other things as we know, and it’s important to ponder all these things in our heart and do everything He tells us to do.

      I can understand how it may seem like a bit much when adversarial shortcomings and flaws are laid bare through so many channels. I think CJ and others do a great job because it’s essential to be clear-eyed in the world’s murky atmosphere.

      I think it’s really coming down to a battle for our own freedom of thought. Not content to muck things up and control every facet of our lives, some of these lunatics are after our very thinking, so the peacemakers have to be the most clear eyed of all.

      That said, I’d like to hear a little more about the ‘peace plan,’ and a little less about the lunatic left, but that’s more of a matter of me fine tuning my listening. The air is not just murky. It’s noisy too.

      Liked by 9 people

      1. Visine for the soul is needed.  A good antidote can be found at the end of the Epsitle of Jude.  My smart phone will not let me copy and paste.  So I have to retype it here, “But you, beloved, build yourselves up in your most Holy faith; pray in the Holy Spirit.  Keep yourselves in the love of God.  Look forward to the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life.  And have mercy on some who are wavering; save others by snatching them out of the fire; and have mercy on still others with fear; hating even the tunic defiled by their bodies.  Now to him who is able to keep you from falling, and to make you stand without blemish in the presence of his glory with rejoicing, to the only God, our savior, through Jesus Christ, our Lord, be glory, majesty, power, and authority, before all time, and now and forever, Amen.”—- Sent from Doug’s Back Pack

        Liked by 12 people

        2. St. Paul cuts right to the chase. You know what else is Visine for the soul? Psalms. Well, all of The Word of God is Visine for the soul for that mattter, even if it stings for a bit when those drops hit parched eyes.

          I mention Psalms because of King David’s contribution and the current discussion on “(a man) after God’s heart.” If I’m going off Trump’s “tweets” as a source of comparison, I’d say he has the lament down pat, but I’d like to see more of the hymn and thanksgiving to balance things out. Other things have to be considered, of course, so I was happy to see some of that in the recent SOTU.

          At any rate, comparisons only go so far, considering the uniqueness of every soul and the stories they ultimately leave for posterity.

          Liked by 7 people

          1. And may the POWER operating in all the Visine for the soul come down on us daily, the very power which raised Jesus from the dead… inspiring, heartening, strengthening, empowering – in the best of ways – every next right step to which we’re called that we grow in deeper intimacy with Him and powerfully demonstrate His Love in all the little ways possible in each day.

            Liked by 11 people

  26. Last week I sent angels to Chief Justice Roberts, this week I am sending angels to Sen Mitt Romney. May God continue to guide and bless all here as the brown gewy stuff gets ever closer to the rotating vanes.

    Liked by 10 people

      1. Imagining either of these visuals as plausible would be nearly impossible if not for the fact that most of us had kids. Don’t know about the rest of you, but in addition to the fan, both parents in this household got peppered with all kinds of kid strafe. Hm. Do you suppose a parent came up with that expression?

        Liked by 3 people

        1. Probably because, for fun, I would throw things in the ceiling fan to see what happens; this in front of the kids too.  So can’t say I was a good example.  Never threw anything that would splat though.—- Sent from Doug’s Back Pack

          Liked by 1 person

          1. We threw socks and and other dirty clothes into the fan well into young adulthood. Object was to see who could land them in the goal (dirty clothes basket) via the serve (usually a changeup) and mid-mashie (fan blades)… so, clearly it counts as a sport rather than us being lazy or childish. I’m thinking of reviving the league, but my wife isn’t that sporting (he says in his best deadpan voice).

            Only concern I have now is convincing “B” that this is you and me spreading Hope. I say it is!

            Liked by 4 people

            2. Yes, yes, yes!  Socks are the best for throwing in the fan!  Now using a laundry basket to catch them, that’s creative genius!—- Sent from Doug’s Back Pack

              Liked by 2 people

            1. That is much more direct, JAS, but I can’t say I prefer the imagery over the other two options.

              In between takes I flipped on Fox for a quick soundbite, which happened to be Hillary bashing Bernie. Click… click… next thing I landed on was the reboot of “Godzilla,” and it instantly struck me that THERE was some apt imagery for Charlie’s storm. With all the other monsters sprung and on the loose it had all come down to Godzilla… sorta your pal as far as bringing all the other monsters to heel… ok, maybe not your pal, but apparently necessary. Oh, man, did he leave a swath of destruction in the process, nearly flattening the entire town. Of course the remaining folks were all thoughtful, teary-eyed, relieved (maybe even a hint of thankful) and whatnot as he gave a final roar, turned his back, and returned to the ocean depths.

              No small wonder the Japanese could conceive of such a story.

              Liked by 3 people

            2. Things will get worse before they get better. The satan is marshalling his forces and their response is growing. The satan is getting drunk on his success and is convinced that he is poised to win and but for the sake of God and the intercession of Our Most Blessed Mother, it looks like he would. His cohorts are ready to celebrate their victory. Even they are convinced they will win. Pray and watch, watch and pray, TRUST in the Lord. Our salvation is at hand.

              Liked by 10 people

              1. JAS, I have to agree with you. Someone above mentioned “turning a corner”, and we can feel that happening. It was felt on Sunday night. I had no desire to watch the Oscars, but hubby had a different opinion! He’s a channel flipper, so we only watched part of it, who some winners were, small parts of speeches. It was quite enough that at the end I said, “Well, that was unpleasant.” I felt quite disgusted and even dirty, as though I had been in a location with evil spirits. Nothing entertaining at all, as previously there was some tidbit that could be called ok or humorous. Sorry to be negative, but just passing on my opinion, and most of you probably did not even watch – good for you!

                Praying so hard every day!!! Archangel Gabriel give us your strength! Mother Mary and Holy Spirit, take away fear! Holy Spirit, hurry! Don’t know what I would do without all of you!

                Liked by 8 people

        1. Good point!  New game:  throw avocado into ceiling fan, stand around with nacho chips and catch the guacamole, eat until satisfied 😎—- Sent from Doug’s Back Pack

          Liked by 4 people

          1. It’s interesting to see how the “natives” eat the indigenous food compared to how we do.
            I’ve been to Mexico and Trinidad and saw how the natives eat coconuts and avocado.
            In Trinidad, instead of using the Americanized tool of a ceiling fan to open coconuts, they used a machete but interestingly only on “green” coconuts. They chop off one end to allow the “milk” to be drunk then open the nut part just enough to scrape out the still gelatinous coconut pulp with a thinly sliced piece of the shell. Delicious!
            In Mexico, avocados are mostly used as bait to catch unsuspecting iguanas which maw on the fallen ones under the trees (this is why iguanas are green) and thus converted, the aviguana (or iguanicado) is slow roasted to a golden brown perfection on a spit. Yummy!

            Liked by 5 people

  27. Jesus = Good-News 😉

    https://www.crisismagazine.com/2020/your-father-your-friend

    https://cnsnews.com/article/national/michael-w-chapman/ri-bishop-tobin-are-pro-lifers-not-welcome-democratic-party

    https://stream.org/this-vatican-and-its-american-allies-loathe-trump-his-voters-their-values-a-series/

    https://www.catholicleague.org/western-europe-balks-on-religious-liberty/

    https://www.churchmilitant.com/video/episode/vortex-liars-and-killers?mc_cid=5277e9e0ba&mc_eid=2a0b6c7ef6

    http://www.floppingaces.net/2020/02/09/the-democrat-party-is-sliding-towards-oblivion/

    https://cnsnews.com/commentary/allen-west/bergdahl-manning-vindman-heroes-progressive-socialist-left

    Let US Hope & Pray the “Plug” has been pulled on The DC Swamp and Obama’s Dept. of Just-Us returns to Equal Justice for ALL ….. and in all the rest of the Fed Alphabet Agencies lots & lots of “Cleaning”!!!

    https://amgreatness.com/2020/02/09/the-once-and-future-scandal/

    https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2020/02/reminder-joe-biden-john-kerry-mitt-romney-the-clintons-nancy-pelosi-and-george-soros-all-have-connections-to-the-ukraine/

    https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/washington-secrets/bigger-than-vindman-trump-scrubs-70-obama-holdovers-from-nsc

    https://dailycaller.com/2020/02/10/report-white-house-identified-firing-anonymous-new-york-times/

    https://thefederalist.com/2020/02/10/senators-ig-fisa-abuse-report-misled-public-about-crossfire-hurricane/

    GOD SAVE ALL HERE!

    Liked by 10 people

  28. I am mesmerized by the swirling of this tempest.
    There are no words to describe the terribly perfect actions of Providence

    So much good, so much lost, so much hope
    We are so un-used to winning,
    They are so un-used to losing.

    Day by day Trump grows, and our cause grows
    and the left grows in fear, awe and disbelief
    They want to destroy us
    But Gods jolt may yet awaken many before the gap is too wide.

    Liked by 13 people

    1. I am not used to God being “in Charge”.

      My entire life, minus the blip of Reagan, Thatcher, John Paul has been observing (and to my shame and regret, participating in and contributing to) moral decay.

      It feels good to catch this God-wave and I look forward to surfing it as a moral man ought.

      Charlie wrote that God is inserting Himself back into world affairs; the feeling , what he did not write is how noticable and refreshing it would be.

      The Spirit of the age has changed .

      As you write,

      “We are so un-used to winning,
      They are so un-used to losing.”

      God bless you

      Liked by 12 people

  30. Not at all to draw fear, for what use is that to us? But to say what is before us as most may already perceive: we are in a very difficult scenario with the coronavirus and it’s not simply the illness itself (albeit that alone is sobering), but an impact on our own health system as well as on any country which depends on Chinese manufacturing for health supplies. Tucker Carlson spoke of it last evening and Rod Dreher wrote of it: https://www.theamericanconservative.com/dreher/the-plague-pushes-china-to-breaking-point-coronavirus/

    I believe, among other dimensions of what we’re called to do in Christ’s Name, ours at ASOH is a ministry of encouraging and calming those around us – wherever in the world we may be – as we take each NRS before us.

    Liked by 14 people

  31. Just read this, Beckita, and it is believable. I believe Dreher is trustworthy. We know China cannot be trusted; it’s a godless, Communist regime. Why would they give us truthful figures on victims. All we can do is pray, but also think ahead to be protected in some way. I often wonder what will happen with my hubby’s heart meds if there is a crisis. It is ALL in God’s hands.

    Liked by 7 people

  32. JESUS = Good-News! 😉
    https://www.crisismagazine.com/2020/the-gaze-of-st-michael

    https://www.ncregister.com/blog/pattyknap/mexican-city-sees-stunning-drop-in-violence-as-adoration-increases?

    https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2020/02/how-to-grow-a-date-tree-from-2000-year-old-seeds/606079/

    https://www.campusreform.org/?ID=14360

    GALLUP POLLS… & Bad News for Dems 😉
    https://news.gallup.com/poll/285563/socialism-atheism-political-liabilities.aspx
    https://news.gallup.com/poll/246602/americans-confidence-finances-keeps-growing.aspx

    https://stream.org/pastors-plea-trump-could-lose/

    https://www.crisismagazine.com/2020/babylon-is-falling

    https://www.dailysignal.com/2020/02/06/in-florida-banks-choose-lgbt-agenda-over-students-futures/

    https://www.breitbart.com/sports/2020/02/11/nike-joins-effort-block-bill-designed-protect-girls-competing-against-transgender-athletes/

    https://freebeacon.com/issues/pregnancy-center-files-religious-discrimination-suit-against-n-y-over-compulsory-hiring/

    https://stream.org/love-your-enemies-doesnt-mean-bless-your-heart-or-even-thank-you-sir-may-i-have-another/

    https://www.churchmilitant.com/video/episode/vortex-catholic-battlegrounds

    https://townhall.com/columnists/derekhunter/2020/02/11/progressives-find-new-ways-to-discriminate-against-conservatives-n2561095

    GOD SAVE ALL HERE!!

    Liked by 4 people

  33. Yeah finally to Miami … miracle… beautiful people down here God is good and I think I just just just figured out how to put ASOH on my new phone🤓love ya all

    Liked by 4 people

  35. JESUS = Good-News! 😉

    Sadly ;-( The below is not News to most here. We quite simply have a Pope & his “Special Friends” who have an aversion to The USA as Founded and willingly cast their lot with the Party of UNLIMITED abortion, sexual perversion, illegal alien invasion …. plus godless Socialism ….. and the dismantling of Our Constitution/Bill of Rights!

    https://www.churchmilitant.com/video/episode/vortex-heating-up-early?mc_cid=de7c44b408&mc_eid=2a0b6c7ef6

    Now!! Am I discouraged and depressed? Absolutely NOT!! God is running The Show and even Divine Plays must have Bad-Guys. The Vatican, like Democrats, can’t seem to figure out that there is a whole new world of communication Out-Here 😉
    Am I going to be around for The Final Confrontation or just the end of the beginning?
    “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead.” Adm. Farragut, Mobile Bay 1864

    To put this horror into some kind of historical perspective, the death toll of these babies is almost, exactly, the same as the Sailors & Marines killed at Pearl Harbor. Since 1973 we have murdered more people than lived in the USA in 1890 ;-(

    https://www.foxnews.com/us/thousands-of-fetal-remains-found-in-illinois-are-buried-in-indiana-horrifying-to-anyone-with-normal-sensibilities

    Civil War II
    https://theconservativetreehouse.com/2020/02/13/the-fbi-corruption-is-far-worse-than-we-currently-imagine-president-trump-authorized-his-own-surveillance/

    https://www.crisismagazine.com/2020/the-little-sisters-are-headed-to-the-supreme-court-again

    https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2020/02/how-is-this-fair-roger-stone-jurors-included-a-former-doj-hack-linked-to-russia-hoax-a-former-democrat-candidate-and-a-huge-beto-donor/

    https://cnsnews.com/blog/michael-w-chapman/rev-graham-register-vote-otherwise-we-will-lose-our-country

    GOD SAVE ALL HERE!!

    Liked by 6 people

    1. “Damn the torpedoes! Full speed ahead.” That was an oft quoted line in one of my favorite old movies–“The More the Merrier”. It was sometimes misquoted in the movie by Charles Coburn, one of my favorite character actors who was one of the stars in the movie. It was made in 1943 and was set in the World War II era. In the movie, Coburn is walking around D.C. and comes upon the statue of Farragut and that quote engraved there. I love those old patriotic, morally upright movies!

      Liked by 3 people

      1. Yes Kim,
        I like those old movies and Coburn too. Those 30s-50s movies remind me of my Folks, good times and all the old expressions/words that they/ I grew up with …….. GONE WITH THE WIND ;-(

        GOD SAVE ALL HERE & HAPPY SAINT VALENTINES’S DAY to ALL the Ladies 😉

        Liked by 5 people

  37. Gosh, CD, the conservativetreehouse.com article about FBI corruption “far worse than we thought” is horrifying, but we should not be surprised. It just verifies so much else that we read whether referring to governments or the Church. We know Who gives us Victory, but oh my, getting there!!

    BTW, it’s written by “sundance”, whose name I’ve heard. Any relationship to “Q”? I assume “sundance” remains anonymous.

    Liked by 3 people

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Published by charliej373

Charlie Johnston is a former newspaper editor, radio talk show host and political consultant. From Feb. 11, 2011 to Aug. 21, 2012, he walked 3,200 miles across the country, sleeping in the woods, meeting people and praying as he went. He writes on cultural, global and political issues from an orthodox Catholic perspective. He emphasizes that we find God most surely through the ordinary, doing the little things we should with faith and fidelity. His constant refrain is that, to live real joy, we must acknowledge God, take the next right step, and be a sign of hope to those around us. He lives in the Archdiocese of Denver in the United States.