The Arts

No one is ever happy when they get scammed.  Just the other day I received an e-mail from a friend of mine who supposedly wrote on my facebook wall.  The message said something like this: “Did youu know that your default image is being displayyed on tabmodule.com?”  There was a link to the tabmodule “site.”  Now before you judge me, it seemed trustworthy because it came from facebook and was from a well trusted friend (even though I thought the spelling was striking).  Nonetheless I clicked on the link “tabmodule.com” and was brought to a site.  In the background of the site you could make out hazy pictures of people.  The site asked for various personal information which I didn’t provide and the various questions and ads went on and on.  Later I talked with a friend about this issue and was told that his myspace page was hacked into and that he had the same message as well.  Apparently these hackers break into your myspace/facebook account when you click on the e-mail link, and then uploads your contacts, and then sends them a phony message from you.  Each time someone clicks on the provided link their contacts are uploaded and the message is sent out to their friends.  Do not click on the link provided!  This seems to be an advertisement scam in hopes of making money but one never knows.  I changed my passwords the following day to secure my information.  I hope that your travels through the internet are more safe and that these culprits would learn that their skills and talents could be used for good rather than evil.

First off take a look at his name in pig Latin…pretty impressive.  Secondly he has a blog in which he posts about fascinating subjects such as “Why I am not Home schooled”.  Thirdly he mixes his own techno songs which are uniquely creative.  Fourth, this man has helped me to pursue blogging, recruited me for his wally ball team, and challenges me to live a life sold out for God.  Life is all about relationships and when those relationships deepen and turn into friendships then your world seems somewhat complete.  Christian friendships are even better!  Drew Maust has encouraged me to continue to think critically about the world around me from a Christian perspective and I thank him for that.  Many of you may never meet Drew but I would encourage you to read his blog because you will find many helpful insights and encouragements for daily living.  You can click on this link to visit Drew’s blog: “Kata Drew“.  My prayer is that more Christians will rise up and take a stand for Christ as Drew Maust has done.

Mark Driscoll never ceases to surprise me with his titles.  Talk about getting your attention, if this doesn’t catch your attention I don’t know what will.  Driscoll is the pastor of Mars Hill church in Seattle and has a passion to reach this generation with the gospel of Christ and combat false philosophies.  In his desire to assist and disciple the people of God Driscoll has put out a free e-book entitled “Porn-Again Christians: A Frank Discussion on Pornography and Masturbation for God’s Men”.  A few of the chapter headings are “A Theology of Pornographic Lust”, “The Fear of the Lord”, and “Pornography and the Slippery Slope of Ted Bundy”.  I hope every man, whether battling with these issues or not, will humbly pick up and give this book a read.  Mark is currently working on the last few chapters of the e-book which when finished will be available for PDF download.  Until then you can still read and print off the individual chapters (up to chapter 9).  The 10th chapter is due out October 27th entitled “Organized Crime and Corruption”.  You can find the free e-book by clicking on this link: “Porn Again Christian“.  Hope you give it a look!

The world is becoming more global and therefore territorial distinctions no longer play such a large role in defining certain cultures but rather multiple cultures are built now within many nations.  In America there is the hip hop culture which defines the life of many Americans especially those between the ages of 18-30.  The Christian faith is flexible and must be flexible to meet the cultures of our day with the gospel of Jesus Christ.  Christianity has to intellectually engage these cultures such as the hip hop culture.  Lecrae Moore, known as Lecrae in the industry, has emerged as a theologically sound and creative hip hop artist.  I have recently purchased his album “Rebel” from Amazon and have been greatly encouraged, challenged, and inspired by the words of Lecrae.  Lecrae has recently been interviewed by Pastor Mark Driscoll of Mars Hill in Seattle (click here for interview).  Lecrae gives his powerful testimony, speaks of his mission, and discusses Christian doctrine.  My favorite song is “Don’t Waste Your Life” based on John Piper’s book “Don’t Waste Your Life”.  I would encourage all Christians to give Lecrae a listen even if you don’t enjoy hip hop.  Lecrae’s message of Christ is blunt, truthful, and loving.

“Free Fallin”

“Mercy” - Duffy

“Say” - Music Video From the Movie “The Bucket List”

“Daughters”