Curiosity Unalived the Cat

February 2, 2026

I once watched a video post on Instagram where the commentator kept using the word “unalived.” He was describing a historical event – the Revolutionary War – and repeatedly used unalive or unalived to refer to soldiers who had died in battle. Never mind that this was commentary about the Revolutionary War.

At first it felt strange, even a little absurd. But the longer I watched, the more I understood why he was doing it.

We are living in an era where the most dangerous thing you can do online isn’t violence – it’s vocabulary. Say the wrong word, and suddenly your post is quietly escorted into algorithmic witness protection. So, creators adapt. K*lled becomes unalived. Fight becomes disagreement. And that’s when it hit me: if we’re rewriting language to keep our content alive, what happens to all those old–fashioned sayings that were never designed to survive a content moderation bot?

Once you hear it, you can’t unhear it. Every familiar phrase starts to feel like a potential violation waiting to happen. Entire categories of idioms – especially the darker ones – suddenly sound like they’d need a disclaimer, a rewrite, or a quick meeting with the compliance department.

So, in the spirit of survival, here’s a modest attempt to help them adapt.

  • “Curiosity unalived the cat.” – (The OG, obviously.)
  • “Two birds were gently deactivated with one stone.”
  • “Let sleeping dogs remain… uh… asleep.” – (Because “lie” feels risky now.)
  • “Live by the sword, get permanently logged out by the sword.”
  • “Dead men tell no tales” – “Offline men share no stories.”
  • “Beat a dead horse” – “Continue engaging with an already unresponsive horse.”

Or, these perhaps:

  • “Skeletons in the closet” – “Archived personal complications.”
  • “Grave mistake” – “Significant learning opportunity.”
  • “Dig your own grave” – “Create long–term accountability issues.”
  • “Nail in the coffin” – “Final confirmation of an already declining situation.”

All of this might sound like harmless fun – just wordplay to keep content alive online. But there’s something else happening underneath it. Sometimes phrases don’t just get rewritten. Sometimes they outlive the world that gave them meaning.

Take the old saying, “A penny saved is a penny earned.” – Benjamin Franklin.

That phrase may soon need its own algorithm–safe update, not because it’s offensive, but because the penny itself is disappearing. No new pennies. No small copper reminder that saving something small, consistently, actually matters.

Years ago, I took part in a Christian Heritage trip along the East Coast. One stop was Benjamin Franklin’s grave at Christ’s Church in Philadelphia. His headstone is simple, set behind iron bars –  and completely covered in pennies that visitors toss through the gaps. It’s meant as a tribute. A nod to the quote.

Standing there, what struck me wasn’t the number of pennies, but the irony. Most people tossing them couldn’t tell you what Franklin actually meant. The phrase doesn’t celebrate wealth. It isn’t about hoarding. It’s about stewardship. About small, faithful choices adding up over time. The penny wasn’t the point – it was the practice.

The words survived. The meaning . . . not so much.

Language has always evolved, but this might be the first time it’s done so under the constant watch of an invisible referee. Idioms that once carried weight now arrive padded, sanitized, and approved for feed distribution. Maybe that’s not entirely bad. But when words change too much – or outlast the things they were meant to point to – we risk keeping the phrase while losing the wisdom. One day, we may laugh that “Curiosity unalived the cat” ever sounded normal. The bigger question is whether we’ll still remember why curiosity mattered in the first place.

Perhaps this is why I’m writing about all of this in the first place. I’m an Okay Boomer, and as of today, I’m another year older. February 2 – Groundhog Day – has been my birthday for a long time now.

Boomers are known for being curmudgeons. Even the Okay ones. And watching language shift, soften, and occasionally lose its footing can make it tempting to grumble about “how things used to be.”

But this isn’t really about nostalgia. It’s about meaning. Words matter because they carry history, context, and intention. When we keep the phrases but forget what shaped them, we risk trading understanding for convenience – whether we’re appeasing an algorithm or just repeating something we’ve always heard. And for the record, yes, I did see my shadow. My apologies to anyone hoping for an early spring.

Five Thousand

Five loaves. Two fish. A crowd of thousands.
This moment from John 6 reminds us that Christ is never limited by what we see – only by what we’re willing to trust Him with.

Distant Healing

Jesus didn’t need to arrive to bring life.
One word spoken… and everything changed.
 
This moment from John 4 reminds us that faith doesn’t wait for proof —
it walks in trust before the evidence appears.
 
More church-ready visuals at
www.StevenStoops.com

Revive Me

The world moves fast.
Your soul still needs life.
 
“Turn my eyes away from looking at worthless things.
Revive me in your ways.” — Psalm 119:37

Our Inheritance in Christ

In Christ, nothing is lacking.
“In Him we have obtained an inheritance.” — Ephesians 1:11
 
Our future is secure because our life is hidden in Him.

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Happy New Year!!

“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make straight your paths.”  –  Proverbs 3:5-6

As we step into a new year, I don’t come with bold predictions or sweeping resolutions. What I bring is simpler – and steadier – a quiet trust in the God who has already proven Himself faithful.

We recently spent a few days with our son, his wife, and their daughter, and the time together reminded me of a principle I’ve long tried to live by: to leave the world a little better than I found it. It’s not a dramatic calling, but it’s a faithful one, shaped by daily choices and small acts that add up over time.

I know my reach is limited. I don’t shape the world at large, but I can tend the piece of it God has placed in front of me. I can choose to trust Him with each step, acknowledge Him in the ordinary moments, and let Him straighten the path as I move forward.

This has been an aspiration of mine long before I became a Christian – and if I’m honest, I haven’t always lived it out well, even since coming to faith. But a new year reminds me that God is not finished with us yet. He continues His work, refining, correcting, and guiding us as we place our trust in Him.

My prayer for the year ahead is that these small, faithful efforts – mine and yours – might make the world incrementally better, and that together we would move into the days ahead trusting the One who watches over us from beginning to end.

Happy New Year.

New

As we step into a new year, we don’t do so empty-handed. We carry with us the memory of God’s faithfulness – how He has watched over us, guided our steps, and continued His work in us. This short video is a reminder that the same God who sustained us through the past year is already present in the year ahead. As the fireworks fade and ordinary days begin to unfold, we move forward trusting Him to lead us – and to use our small, faithful steps to make the world around us just a little better, from beginning to end.

A New Year invites reflection – and trust. This text-based video, set over a looping fireworks display, points us back to a simple truth: God has been faithful before, and He will be faithful again. As His people, we step forward confident that the One who watches over us will continue His work in the days ahead.

Merry Christmas!!!

Nothing long to read today, just a heartfelt Merry Christmas and one new video.

Where Heaven Touched Earth

Advent

Hello all; as Christmas neared, I wanted to create videos for the Advent Candle lighting. One for each Sunday of Advent, plus an introductory video. I had great plans.

Those plans didn’t quite unfold the way I imagined. I was nearly a week late on the first candle, and by the time I finally sat down to work, the season was already moving faster than I was. Christmas has a way of doing that – slipping in quietly while life keeps us busy.

Maybe it’s just me, but I used to feel so prepared. I’d have everything ready by Thanksgiving. Now, with kids grown, grandkids running around, work pulling in every direction, and a calendar that never seems to slow down, Christmas tends to catch me off guard. Some years I feel like I’m scrambling all the way until December 24.

But even in the middle of it all, I try to keep one thing in focus: gratitude. God has given us the greatest gift – Jesus – and Advent is a chance to let that gratitude breathe again.

The first video in the series, an introduction to the candles themselves and the meaning behind each one.

The Candles of Advent (Introduction)

Advent has always invited God’s people to slow their pace and lift their eyes. It’s a season that helps us prepare room in our hearts for Christ – not just remembering His birth, but renewing our anticipation for His return.

For many churches, the Advent wreath becomes a simple weekly reminder of that journey. Each candle carries a theme drawn from Scripture, and with every Sunday the light grows brighter. By Christmas Eve, the center candle is lit, and the room is filled with the glow of the story coming to completion.

This introduction video is meant to help frame that journey. Before we step into each week’s theme individually, this first video looks at all five candles together – their colors, their meanings, and the message they proclaim as one.

1. Hope Candle – Intro

The first Candle of Advent is the Candle of Hope. It is purple, and this video is set to The Carol of the Bells.

The first candle reminds us of God’s promises and our hope in Christ.

Purple sets the tone of expectation – looking ahead with trust that God keeps His word.

2. Peace Candle – Intro

The second Candle of Advent is the Candle of Peace. It is purple, and this video is set to Silent Night.

The second candle points us to the peace Jesus brings into a restless world.

Purple reflects the calm, steady preparation of Advent – waiting with confidence that Christ brings true peace.

3. Joy Candle – Intro

The third Candle of Advent is the Candle of Joy. It is pink, and this video is set to Beethoven’s Ode to Joy.

The third candle celebrates the joy that broke into the night when Christ was announced.

Pink marks the shift in Advent – a bright reminder that joy has come near.

4. Love Candle – Intro

The fourth Candle of Advent is the Candle of Love. It is purple, and this video is set to O Come All Ye Faithful.

The fourth candle reflects God’s unfailing love shown in sending His Son.

Purple reminds us of the depth and dignity of God’s love – a love that draws near to us in Christ.

5. Christ Candle – Intro

The final candle of Advent is the Christ Candle. It is white, and this video is set to the hymn Blessed Assurance.

The Christ Candle celebrates Jesus, the Light of the World.

White represents purity, fulfillment, and the brilliance of God’s promise completed in Christ.

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Falling

With the holidays closing in, I’ve fallen a bit behind. I actually had a blog post ready to go and then completely forgot to publish it. I know – classic Boomer move. But I am an OK Boomer, so that one shouldn’t have happened. You can read that post here:

Why Do I Need to Be Reminded to Endure… When Our Dwelling Place Is So Peaceful?

Speaking of Boomer life, I managed to hurt my back last Saturday – there, I said it. I wasn’t doing anything differently than I would have ten years ago, but one small twinge turned into not being able to stand up straight by Sunday morning. That meant missing church, but the tech team handled everything flawlessly. As I get ready to be out of town more often on weekends, that’s especially encouraging. We’re hoping to spend more time in Chico with our granddaughter – and her little brother, who’s set to arrive in April!

There’s plenty to be thankful for here in the mountains. Heating pads, for example, feel like a gift from above. I spent most of Monday and all of Tuesday at home, unable to make it to work. Thankfully, I had already scheduled Wednesday through Friday off, and Lord willing, I’ll be moving around normally again soon.

I’m grateful for so much: a wonderful wife, kids who make me proud, and grandkids – most of whom will be here in the mountains for Thanksgiving.

And as the holidays approach, I’m thankful for the simple joy of doing something I love: bringing photographs to life. With Christmas coming that means turning mountain cabin photos into warm, festive “Christmas Cabins.” I know – it’s quirky. I start with a cozy cabin interior, then add elements, like a fire in the fireplace, snowfall outside the windows, and Christmas décor. It’s not just dropping in elements; I have to think about reflections in windows and on hardwood floors. Here’s one below – tell me what you think in the comments.

2025 Christmas Cabin Countdown

A mountain cabin comes to life.

With all the family gathering, I asked one of them what her favorite Psalm was. Psalm 51 was her answer, she thought that a narration of Psalm 51 set to a background of Lake Almanor. I thought it would be a great video, so I prepared both a narrated and a text version of Psalm 51.

Psalm 51 – narrated version

Psalm 51 is one of Scripture’s most honest prayers — a cry for mercy, cleansing, and a renewed spirit.
Set to the stillness of Lake Almanor, this reading invites you to pause and let the words sink in.

Psalm 51 – text version

Psalm 51 is one of Scripture’s most honest prayers — a cry for mercy, cleansing, and a renewed spirit.
Set to the stillness of Lake Almanor, this reading invites you to pause and let the words sink in.

Some days we feel the weight of things we can’t name, like chains we never meant to carry. But Jesus speaks a different Word—one of healing, release, and steady, unshakable freedom. Paired with a quiet forest river and the gentle movement of The Swan, this video is a reminder that the One who frees us also holds us. Sit with it for a moment. Let the peace settle in.

Sweet Freedom

True freedom doesn’t start with us – it starts with Jesus, who breaks every chain and restores every heart.

One response to “Falling”

  1. MB Avatar
    MB

    love this ! Just shared with my mom

    Like

    Reply

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Why Do I Need to Be Reminded to Endure… When Our Dwelling Place Is So Peaceful?

It’s a fair question, isn’t it?

If God is our refuge – our dwelling place, our home – why do we still need reminders to endure?

You’d think that resting in His presence would silence all doubt. That knowing He holds us would make perseverance automatic. But life has a way of testing even the most peaceful hearts.

Endurance isn’t needed when everything feels calm; it’s needed when the rain starts to fall.

Even in the shelter of His hands, the storms still come – but so does His peace.

When we abide in Christ, endurance isn’t about gritting our teeth or bracing for impact. It’s about remembering where we live – and who holds us there.

Our strength to endure flows from knowing that we are safe, known, and never forgotten.

“The eternal God is your dwelling place.” (Deuteronomy 33:27)

So yes – we still need the reminder to endure. Not because He moves… but because we do.

And every reminder is really a gentle call home – back to rest, back to trust, back to Him.

Endure

It’s a small word that holds a lifetime of meaning.

When I first wrote the script for Endure, I wanted to capture the quiet strength that comes from staying close to Jesus – the kind of endurance that doesn’t shout but simply holds fast. That message became the voiceover version of Endure, spoken over imagery that (I hope) reminds us that He brings us through the crucible.

But endurance also has a visible side – the kind that glows through the fire.

That’s what inspired the text version of Endure, where words burn across the screen to contrast faith that perseveres with faith that fades.

Two perspectives.

One truth.

We endure because Christ abides.

Endure (Narrated Version)

Strength doesn’t always roar.
Sometimes it simply abides – quietly, faithfully, in Christ.
Watch “Endure” – a reflection on the steady power of abiding.

Endure (Text Version)

Endurance is forged in the fire – not destroyed by it.
Watch “Endure” – a visual contrast between faith that holds and faith that fades.

There’s a quiet kind of peace that only comes when we stop running and come home – home to the One who made us, knows us, and welcomes us.

In this short reflection, Our Dwelling Place, we’re reminded that the eternal God isn’t just our refuge – He’s our home. A place of safety, honesty, and rest for the weary heart.

Set against the simple sounds of a crackling fire and falling rain, this piece invites you to slow down and remember where your soul truly belongs.

Our Dwelling Place (no music)

The eternal God is your dwelling place. – Deuteronomy 33:27
A quiet reflection on finding rest, safety, and belonging in Him

Our Dwelling Place (w/Music)

The eternal God is your dwelling place. – Deuteronomy 33:27
A quiet reflection on finding rest, safety, and belonging in Him

There’s something powerful about knowing that endurance isn’t just about holding on – it’s about being held.

After reflecting on endurance through Endure and the peace of belonging in Our Dwelling Place, I was drawn to Isaiah 49:16 – “See, I have engraved you on the palms of My hands.”

That verse became the heart of my video, Engraved.

It’s a reminder that we are not forgotten in the struggle to endure, nor lost when life feels uncertain. Our names are permanently etched into the hands of the One who made us.

The fire may test us; the world may shake us – but we remain engraved. Secure. Remembered. Loved.

Engraved

Engraved – Isaiah 49:16
 
You are not forgotten.
You are not lost.
You are engraved on His hands.
A quiet reminder that God’s love never fades.

Real growth begins where striving ends – in the quiet place of abiding. When we stay close to Christ, His life becomes our life, and growth happens naturally.

Real Growth is a simple, text-based reflection that reminds us that true maturity doesn’t come from doing more, but from remaining rooted in Him. It’s not about accomplishments, but about connection – allowing His Word to shape us, His Spirit to strengthen us, and His love to overflow through us.

In a world that measures success by results, this short piece calls us back to what matters most: staying in step with the One who makes growth possible.

Real Growth

Real Growth happens when we stop striving and start abiding.
Watch “Real Growth” – a quiet reminder of what it means to stay rooted in Christ.

The Church was never meant to be confined to walls, stages, or Sunday schedules. It’s a living body – people gathered in faith, scattered in love, and united by purpose.

More Than a Building is a visual reminder that the Church is not a place we go, but a people we are. It celebrates the simple beauty of connection: worshiping together, serving others, and living out the Gospel in daily life.

This short film calls us back to what matters most – being the Church wherever God has placed us.

More Than a Building

More Than a Building
The Church isn’t where we gather.
It’s who we are.
Watch “More Than a Building” – a reminder of what the Church was always meant to be.

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The Five Solas – A Reformation Reminder for Today

Every October, the world lights up with pumpkins, costumes, and candy. But October 31 isn’t just Halloween – it’s also Reformation Day, the anniversary of a moment that changed the church and the world.

More than 500 years ago, a monk named Martin Luther took a hammer to a church door in Wittenberg, Germany. What followed wasn’t rebellion for rebellion’s sake – it was a rediscovery of the simple, powerful truths of the gospel. Those truths became known as The Five Solas – five “onlys” that still shape how we live and worship today.

That’s the heartbeat behind our new video, The Five Solas – a short, visual reminder of what the Reformation was all about, and why it still matters.

Why I Created This Video

If you’ve followed my work here or on AnOKBoomer.com, you know I love creating content that helps churches see truth in a fresh way. My video work is all about telling timeless stories through modern visuals – from seasonal openers that reflect God’s faithfulness to short reflections that center our hearts on Christ.

This project, The Five Solas, was born from the desire to give churches something meaningful to show on or around Reformation Day. It’s not flashy or argumentative – it’s reflective. It’s about pausing to remember the foundation of our faith and giving glory where it belongs.

The Five Solas – Simple Truths, Deep Roots

Here’s a quick refresher on what each “sola” means:

Sola Scriptura – Scripture Alone

God’s Word stands above every tradition, opinion, or trend. It’s our anchor in an age of noise.

Solus Christus – Christ Alone

Salvation is through Jesus Christ – not through effort, reputation, or ritual. He’s enough.

Sola Fide – Faith Alone

We are made right with God by faith, not by works. It’s trust, not transaction.

Sola Gratia – Grace Alone

Everything we have in Christ is a gift – unearned, undeserved, and completely free.

Soli Deo Gloria – Glory to God Alone

All of life – every breath, every act of worship, every creative work – is for His glory, not ours.

These five short phrases flipped the world upside down in the 1500s – and they still turn hearts right-side up today.

Reformation Day vs. Halloween

I don’t have anything against a fun fall night, but it’s worth remembering that October 31 first meant something far richer than costumes and candy. Long before “All Hallows’ Eve” became Halloween, it was the day Luther’s hammer struck that Wittenberg door – a spark that lit the torch of biblical faith.

That’s why I see Reformation Day as a moment for reflection rather than fright. It’s a chance to thank God that the gospel isn’t hidden behind rituals or earned by performance – it’s proclaimed openly and received freely.

Why This Still Matters

For church creatives, pastors, or anyone who wants to help people worship with understanding – the five solas give us language and direction. They remind us that every sermon, every song, every video, and every ministry moment is rooted in God’s truth and grace.

That’s exactly what I wanted to capture visually in this video – the simplicity of faith, the clarity of grace, and the beauty of God’s glory woven through it all.

Watch The Five Solas

You can watch the full video below – it’s short enough to use as a church service opener, small group reflection, or personal meditation for Reformation Day.

The Five Solas

Closing Thought

The Reformation wasn’t just a historical event; it was a spiritual awakening. And that same awakening can still happen today – in every heart that returns to the simple truth of Scripture alone, Christ alone, faith alone, grace alone, for the glory of God alone.

May this video remind you – and your church – that what was true in 1517 is still true in 2025.

Here are a few more videos for your viewing pleasure:

Abide (Narrated Version)

Many believers struggle to grow not because they lack access to truth, but because they don’t slow down to meditate on it. God’s Word is like ripe fruit within reach, but it must be taken, chewed, and savored to bring life.

Abide (Text Version)

Many believers struggle to grow not because they lack access to truth, but because they don’t slow down to meditate on it. God’s Word is like ripe fruit within reach, but it must be taken, chewed, and savored to bring life.

Faultless

Until that day when we see Jesus face to face, let’s rejoice even now—lifting our voices in gratitude and worship, echoing David’s joy before the ark, as a preview of the praise we’ll one day offer before the throne.

The Road Home

We walk with confidence, knowing that the same God who called us will keep us safe all the way home. And only those held by Christ will ever reach that home.

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Are You Happy, Now?

I recently created a short video called Are You Happy, Now? – and the truth is, it’s something I need to take to heart as much as anyone else. Happiness doesn’t come from an easy life; it comes from belonging to God. But there’s another layer to this that’s been on my mind: gratitude.

Psychologists and medical researchers have been studying thankfulness for years, and their findings all point in the same direction. People who practice gratitude – even simple habits like writing down a few blessings or pausing to thank someone – consistently report more happiness, less depression, and greater resilience in hard times. Gratitude even shows up in physical health: better sleep, lower stress, improved heart health, and stronger relationships. It seems that a thankful heart really does make for a healthier life.

But I don’t need a study to convince me. Who has more reason to be thankful than I do? God has blessed me with a wonderful wife, children who make me proud, and grandchildren who light up my world – even the ones I don’t get to see very often. Add to that the gift of belonging to Christ, forgiveness, adoption into God’s family, and the hope of eternity . . . I could spend a lifetime giving thanks and never run out of reasons.

Gratitude doesn’t erase difficulties. Life is still messy, and some days are heavy. But thankfulness reframes how I see the world. Instead of focusing only on what’s broken, I remember what God has done, what He is doing, and what He has promised. That alone brings joy.

So, as I think back on my own video about happiness – you can watch it below, I realize it’s not just a message for others – it’s a message for me. Gratitude fuels joy, and joy reminds me of the One who gave me every good gift. Let this encourage your heart today.

Happiness can feel slippery in a world that measures it by comfort, success, or circumstances. But for those in Christ, joy runs deeper. In Are You Happy, Now?, we look at what it means to be God’s own people—adopted into His family, secure in His promises, and carried by His Spirit. The truth is, Christians are not the most joyful because life is easy, but because we belong to God, and His love places eternity in our hearts.

Are You Happy, Now

Are Christians really the happiest people? This short film explores why joy isn’t found in an easy life, but in belonging to God. Rooted in Scripture and the promises of Christ, it’s a reminder that even in trials, we are loved, adopted, and eternally secure in Him.

We often hear Jesus’ words in Matthew 17:20 explained as a call to have even the smallest amount of faith – “faith the size of a mustard seed.” And that’s true, but there may be more to the picture than we usually imagine. Mustard plants weren’t admired in Israel; they were considered invasive. Once they took root, they spread wildly and were nearly impossible to control. That may be exactly the kind of image Jesus had in mind: not fragile faith, but faith that refuses to stay contained. In this video, I explore what it might mean to have faith that grows, spreads, and multiplies until even mountains must move.

Mustard Seed Faith

What if Jesus wasn’t just talking about the size of our faith, but its nature? Mustard plants grow wild, spread quickly, and can’t be contained. In this short reflection, discover how faith that grows like that can move mountains.

Sometimes the best lessons come from the simplest stories. Gideon’s army didn’t win with strength or numbers—they won by breaking pitchers, letting their light shine, and sounding the trumpet. That picture still speaks to us today. I recently created the video, “Breaking Pitchers, Sharing Light” set against the backdrop of a beautiful sunset at Battery Point Lighthouse in Crescent City, CA. My hope is that these visuals and words remind us to let Christ’s light shine in our lives and to share His good news with clarity and courage.

Breaking Pitchers, Sharing Light

Simple words, timeless truth. “Breaking Pitchers, Sharing Light” pairs Scripture with the beauty of a Crescent City sunset to encourage us to let our lives reflect Christ and share His message boldly.

Bad news seems to dominate our world. Headlines scream fear, conversations spiral into worry, and our own hearts can feel the weight of uncertainty. Yet Scripture reminds us, “He will not be afraid of evil news. His heart is steadfast, trusting in Yahweh” (Psalm 112:7). As Christians, we’re called to a different response – one rooted in trust, steadiness, and the confidence that God is always at work.

I created two versions of this message – one text-based and one narrated. Both explore what it means to face life’s hardest moments with unshaken faith, remembering that in Christ, even the darkest headline never has the final word.

Bad News? (Text Ver)

“Bad News?” — a text-only reflection video reminding us that in Christ, our anchor is not in circumstances but in Him. Calm, steady hope shines through each statement, ending with the promise of Romans 8:28.

Bad News? (Narr ver)

A narrated journey through Scripture and real-life imagery that contrasts fear with faith. From the Red Sea to today’s chaos, this video reminds us that in Christ, bad news never has the last word.

What does true freedom look like? For many, freedom means living without limits or restraints. But the Bible shows us something deeper: freedom in Christ is not fragile, temporary, or based on circumstances – it’s permanent, abundant, and secure. In Him, we are free from guilt, free to rest in God’s promises, and free to come boldly to the throne of grace. This video, True Freedom, is a visual reminder that the liberty Christ gives is unlike anything the world can offer – it is rooted in His love and guaranteed by His Word.

Real Freedom

True Freedom is a short reflection on Galatians 5:1 and the promises of God that set us free in Christ. Freedom in Him isn’t fragile or temporary – it’s lasting, abundant, and secure.

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Butcher, Baker, Candlestick Maker

On Wednesday evening, September 10, 2025, I began praying for a woman and her children – people I have never met and probably never will. Every night since, I’ve gone to bed praying for them, and every morning I’ve woken up doing the same. Their lives were shattered when an assassin’s bullet took away a husband and a father.

The news was so jarring I wanted to write immediately, but anger clouded my thoughts. How could someone murder another human being simply for holding different beliefs? So instead of writing, I prayed. I prayed for Erika and her children. I prayed for the assassin. I prayed that justice would be done. I prayed.

Senator Bernie Sanders (I, VT) was one of the first to respond. And on this, he was absolutely right: “Political violence, in fact, is political cowardice.” I couldn’t agree more. There was a time when Americans could argue passionately and, if no agreement was reached, still walk away agreeing to disagree. My only concern is with some of the other terms he used in his statement, which I believe miss the mark.

But words matter. And this is where the senator, and many others, go wrong – usually purposely. He used the words “democracy” or “democratic” six times when anyone who has ever said the flag salute knows; this nation is a “Republic.” He labeled January 6th an “attack,” when what actually happened was a riot – had it been an attack they wouldn’t have left their firearms at home. I don’t excuse vandalism or violence, but exaggerating or twisting language feeds the very problem we face.

That’s what I call the “long enough and loudly enough” strategy. Say something often enough and loudly enough, and people start to believe it. Call a man like Charlie Kirk – a man who gave the opposition a microphone – a fascist, and sooner or later, some unstable person will believe it – and believe that killing a human being is a public service. On one of the bullet casings left behind, the assassin had etched: “Here fascist, catch.”

That is the danger of mislabeling. Fascists silence opposition; Charlie Kirk gave the opposition a platform. But journalism, like one of many hit pieces from The New York Times, painted him as a fascist, a misogynist or an antisemite, later adding a correction only after the damage was done. (https://dailycaller.com/2025/09/12/nyt-correction-false-claim-charlie-kirk/). By then, people had already formed their opinions.

So yes, I am thankful for (most of) the Senator’s words, his final sentence especially, “Political violence, regardless of ideology, is not the answer and must be condemned.”

Even more troubling than the mislabeling were the celebrations of his murder. Screenshots circulated online of people rejoicing that a man had been shot dead. Butchers, bakers, candlestick makers – HVAC repair people. Some brushed it off: “It’s just regular people online. They don’t matter.” But if the butcher, the baker, or the candlestick maker is gleeful over murder, do you want them serving your family? If an HVAC repairman cheers at an assassination, do you want him in your home?

And what about the gatekeepers – teachers, professors, judges, politicians? These are people in positions of trust and have now proven themselves to be untrustworthy. If they celebrate violence, they should be reminded that there is no place in society for people who cheer for murder. Civilization cannot survive if those entrusted with influence display such callousness.

So, what is our response? Not more violence. Never that. Our greatest weapon is prayer.

  • Pray for Erika Kirk and her children.
  • Pray for the assassin – it isn’t easy, but it’s necessary.
  • Pray for leaders who condemn violence in one breath but carelessly fuel it in another.
  • Pray for those people who were in the audience and were forced to witness this horrific act.
  • Pray for all who hold influence, that they would repent of celebrating death.
  • Pray for our nation – and our world – that we would see violence for what it is: a false and destructive answer.

Because in the end, only God can heal hearts that celebrate death. And only God can turn us back toward life.

I’m praying; please pray with me.

Here is Senator Sanders (mostly) great response:

Lastly, I want to link to this article by Duane Patterson (the link is below the videos), “That’s just five examples. I could share thousands posted on X alone. God is moving right now in people’s hearts. It’s awesome and incredible to watch. And it’s transcending ideological politics, as one would hope and expect.”

Originally, I had decided to not share any videos, but realized that my videos are my praises to God. So, in the end, here are three that I created over the last couple of weeks.

Creative Faith is a short inspirational video based on Mark 2:4, where four friends refused to let obstacles stop them from bringing a paralyzed man to Jesus. Their determination—even breaking through a roof—shows us that true faith is bold, inventive, and willing to risk discomfort for the sake of others. In the same way, God calls us today to use creativity in prayer, service, and love to reach people who need Christ. Whether through simple acts of kindness or fresh ideas for ministry, this video invites us to consider how we might step out in daring, creative faith.

Creative Faith

Faith doesn’t stop at obstacles—it finds a way. Creative Faith is a reminder that God calls us to bold, inventive love that brings others to Jesus.

Life can feel like a maze of choices, twists, and wrong turns. But Psalm 73:24 assures us that we’re not left to figure it out alone. God’s Word is more than advice—it’s a compass pointing us in the right direction and reminding us of His steady hand guiding us home.

God’s Guidance (Text Version)

God’s Guidance – When life feels uncertain, remember this: God’s Word is your compass. His counsel is steady and sure, leading you every step of the way.

When life feels uncertain, God’s Word is our compass. Psalm 73:24 reminds us that His guidance is steady and trustworthy, leading us step by step until the day He receives us in glory. This short reflection reminds us that we are never left to wander—God’s hand is over us now and always.

God’s Guidance

God’s Guidance – We don’t have to guess our way through life. God’s counsel is steady, reliable, and loving. His Word is our map and compass, leading us safely home.

https://hotair.com/generalissimo/2025/09/15/this-is-what-spiritual-revival-looks-like-n3806799

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The Importance of Arrows

Psalm 127:4-5  “As arrows in the hand of a mighty man, so are the children of youth. Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them. They won’t be disappointed when they speak with their enemies in the gate.”

There’s a lot of debate online about what “quiver full” means. Some argue it means large families. Others try to figure out exactly how many arrows an ancient quiver could hold. I know many large families raising their children in “the fear and admonition of the Lord,” and that is a wonderful thing. But even an only child, raised in that same way, still fits the picture.

The real answer, I think, is in the purpose of arrows. What are arrows for? They’re not defensive – they’re offensive weapons. That’s worth repeating: arrows are for offense, not defense. When we raise children “in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” (Ephesians 6:4b WEB), we are preparing and sending arrows into the future – offensive weapons for God’s kingdom.

Picture an ancient battlefield. If you’ve seen movies like Braveheart or The Lord of the Rings, you can imagine it. The arrows go first. They strike from a distance. Then the close combat begins – swords drawn, shields raised. But you’ll never see a warrior swing a gate in battle. Gates are for defense. Arrows, like our children, are for offense. And our sword (and, Lord willing, the swords of our children) is the Sword of the Spirit (Ephesians 6:17).

That makes Jesus’ words to Peter even more striking:

“Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.

And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.”

(Matthew 16:17–18 ESV, emphasis mine)

Gates are defensive. The Church – our children, grandchildren, and future generations—are on the offense. They are the arrows shot forward into God’s future work.

This thought came to me last Sunday as we set up for church in the park. I shared it with someone on the praise team while talking about the importance of arrows. Later that day, we headed out on a short trip – my wife and I, our daughter, her 4-year-old daughter, and her 6-month-old son.

On the drive, our granddaughter asked her mom to play some music. The first song was Praise by Elevation Worship (link below if you’d like to hear it). As I drove, I heard her little 4-year-old voice singing along – every word.

Twenty years from now, I may well be with the Lord, but she will still be here – an arrow, sent ahead, a weapon for God’s work in her generation. That thought gives me hope!

Here are some of my recent video creations:

Cedar trees stand tall and unshaken through every season, a living picture of God’s work in the life of a believer. Just as He planted and sustains the cedars of Lebanon, so He plants, nourishes, and protects us. Our strength, our endurance, even our flourishing in hard times, is not from ourselves but from Him. This short reflection reminds us that everything in our lives – from beginning to end – rests in God’s faithful hands.

The Planting of the Lord

Like the cedars of Lebanon, we are planted, sustained, and sheltered by God alone. Watch this short meditation on His care and strength in our lives.

We live differently when we remember the cross. Forgiveness frees us, gratitude grounds us, and love overflows from us. Love Lived Out is a short reflection on what it means to respond to Christ’s sacrifice — not only with joy in our hearts, but with love in action. Set to the soft strains of Come, Thou Fount of Every Blessing and the quiet beauty of sunrise at the cross, it’s an invitation to pause and let grace shape your day.

Love Lived Out

Love Lived Out is a sunrise meditation on the joy of forgiveness and the call to live in grateful love.

When life feels fragile, it’s easy to forget just how steady God’s love really is. Scripture tells us His mercy never runs dry, and we can see evidence of it everywhere – in the healing of our wounds, the forgiveness of our sins, and the daily grace that sustains us. Like a flower that unfolds in the light, His steadfast love continues to bloom in our lives, no matter the season.

Forever and Ever

A gentle reflection on God’s unfailing love—always present, always enough. Timelapse flowers remind us of how His mercy unfolds in countless ways, bringing forgiveness, strength, and peace that never fade.

This video, Ascribe All Glory to God, invites us to humility, worship, and gratitude. Through Scripture and reflection, it reminds us that life is not about our strength or accomplishments, but about Christ in us. As Paul writes, “Yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me” (1 Corinthians 15:10). May we daily live in that truth, giving Him the honor His name deserves.

Ascribe All Glory to God

“Ascribe to the Lord the glory due his name.” (Psalm 29:2)
Every gift, every victory, every moment of strength comes from Him. This video is a call to humility and worship, reminding us that all glory belongs to God alone.

I didn’t forget, here is the song that my beautiful granddaughter was singing:

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