I am shocked, shocked to find that gambling is going on in here.
Your winnings, sir.
Oh, thank you very much.

The ironically humorous exchange with Rick and Captain Renault in the movie Casablanca came to mind as I witnessed the events of today.

I am shocked, shocked…

Truthfully, the modicum of shock I do have is that there’s any shock at all. 

Shocked? Really? At what? Why?

What we are witnessing lies at the very root of the foundation of this and every country that has ever existed. No exceptions.

In the 6th and 7th chapters of the Book of Joshua is the account of God giving clear and specific direction to the behavior of His people. Fast-forward, one person (just one person) didn’t adhere and the ramifications for his misdeed impacted the entire cult.

What was God’s response? I can’t continue with you if you don’t rid yourselves of the cursed things.

I am shocked, shocked…

I believe transformation is possible only when a nadir is reached. I also believe there is no transformation without first acknowledgement and confession. There’s much to acknowledge and confess. Much! And, unless there is a willingness to see the need for change, change will simply be a verbal aspiration, not a transformational reality. In fact, future similar events are inevitable.

Across social media are numerous calls for prayer. That’s a good idea. Still, our God’s directive was very clear, You won’t be able to face your enemies until you have gotten rid of these cursed things.

Categories: Christian Christianity Community Prayer Sedition Washington

Pastor Mark

Mark, the eighth of nine children born to Reuben and Henrietta Meeks—dedicated church planters with nearly 30 congregations established across California’s Central Valley—is a preacher's kid who grew up immersed in faith and service. With over forty years of experience teaching, discipling, and ministering to communities, including the hospitalized and incarcerated, Mark responded to God's call to pastoral ministry. He holds degrees in civil engineering and public administration, as well as a Master’s in Theology from Fuller Seminary, equipping him to serve with both practical insight and spiritual depth.