Anil Anwar CEO / Editor In Chief Charles Lingerfelt Managing editor & Senior Associate Publisher Editor Matt Snape Editorial Member David Clarke Raven Youngblood
CHRISTIAN TIMES MAGAZINE
ISSUE 37 / DEC Published in United States of America Copyright Š 2019 by Christian Times Magazine (CTM)
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ISSUE 35 - SEPTEMBER 2019
CONTRIBUTORS Paul McCabe / David A. Colbert / Chris Grahn Howard / Charles Lingerfelt
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Inside
www.ctimesmag.com
YOUR GUIDE TO ISSUE NO.37
FLOYD MCLENDON – PERSON OF THE YEAR 2019 SPECIAL INTERVIEW WITH FLOYD MCLENDON
14
MY MESSAGE TO THE SYRIAN KURDS By Charles Lingerfelt
DEMOCRATIC-CONTROLLED HOUSE IMPEACHMENT OF TRUMP SETS THE STAGE FOR A TRIAL IN SENATE CTM News
20
10 19
MAKE AMERICA ONE NATION UNDER GOD AGAIN By David A. Colbert
Inside
www.ctimesmag.com
YOUR GUIDE TO ISSUE NO.37
23
REFLECTIONS AND PREDICTIONS By Chris Grahn Howard
25
REGRESSIVE RHODE ISLAND By Paul McCabe
I ONCE HEARD, “SOME ARE BORN GREAT, SOME ACHIEVE GREATNESS AND OTHERS HAVE GREATNESS THRUST UPON THEM.”
31
30
THE GATE OF HEAVEN: A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE – TRUE STORY FROM WORLD WAR II
CTIMESMAG.COM
PAGE 10
Floyd McLendon – Person Of The Year 2019 Special Interview with Floyd McLendon
CHARLES: Please Tell Us About Yourself
FLOYD:I am a Christian, conservative with a strong faith
in
God.
I
am
husband,
and
a
father
of
four
wonderful boys. I am a military veteran of 25 years with a passion to serve my fellow American brothers and sisters. I am avid about physical training and I love going to the movies. The little free time I have while running for Congress is spent with my wonderful wife,
Melinda,
to
nourish
our
souls
through
physical
exercise, attending church, going to the movies, reading, and prayer.
CHARLES: Give Us a Brief Summary of Your Life?
FLOYD:
Born in 1973 to two, southern rooted parents
who sought Chicago as a place of opportunity. I grew up on the south-side of Chicago, IL. I am the youngest (and biggest) of five. Four siblings; three brothers, and a sister. Graduated high school, Harold L. Richards, in 1991 and joined the U.S. Navy in 1992, became an Electronic Technician,
specialized
in
Radar
and
Satellite
Communications. In 2005, after six years of preparation and training, I became a U.S. Navy SEAL. My 25 years of
military
service
consisted
of
five
deployments,
spanning over five continents and 24 countries. In 2017, while serving my last year in the Navy, I was a military, legislative fellow for a North Carolina Congressman in Washington, D.C. Upon completion of my fellowship, I retired
to
the
great
state
of
Texas.
My
first
year
of
retirement, I traveled, as a professional speaker, across the
country
talking
to
various
professional
teams,
collegiate athletes, and corporations about the importance of mental conditioning. Afterwards, I served 15 months as the Executive Aide to the Texas Attorney General. A few months ago, I departed the Office of the Attorney General – Texas to run my Congressional campaign full-time.
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PAGE 17
CHARLES: Why Are You Running for the Position of
CHARLES: What prompted you to Join The U S
US Congressman?
Navy?
FLOYD:I believe it is a natural progression from my
FLOYD: After my first year of college, I realized the
previous
our
only reason I went was to get away from home and the
country. As a legislative fellow in Washington D.C., I
streets of Chicago. I had no academic vision or plan, and
saw first hand the good Representatives who are there for
it was reflective in my grades. The Navy gave me an
the right reasons: represent the people, create and pass
opportunity to not go back home, provide financially for
legislation that is conducive to the continued success of
myself, and mature to find my purpose in life.
life
and
military
experiences
of
serving
our country. But there are too few of them. I want to join them in the fight, increase our numbers and support to
CHARLES: In Your Opinion, What best qualifies you
defeat the Democrats’ false ideologies for the
to be a congressman?
direction of our country. FLOYD:
Before anyone leads, it is best they first serve.
CHARLES: How long have you lived in Texas and
As a veteran of our military, for 25 years, I served the
District 32?
American people, and our country. As a husband and father, I serve my family. As a Christian, since I was a
FLOYD:
Texas: 2 years, 4 months. - District 32: 6
months
little boy, I have and continue to serve God. My life, personal and professional, experiences as a servant has culminated into this moment, which I believe is most
CHARLES: Please Tell Us Some of Your Experiences
suited to be the voice in Congress for District 32 of
as a U S Navy SEAL:
Texas.
FLOYD: Humility – When I chose the profession, I did
CHARLES:
not know how to swim. Committing to something I knew
Congressman Than Your Opponent?
very
little
about
and
having
no
experience
with
Tell
Us
Why
You
Will
Be
A
Better
the
required preparation, enforced a humble attitude. Because
FLOYD: I am the one authentic, grassroots conservative
the amount of time and effort needed to improve and be
in this race. I have a 25+ year record of service to
successful taught me the true meaning of hard work,
country, and causes greater than self. I have sacrificed for
perseverance, and pain.
freedom, and am willing to do so again.
Growth Into Service – Each day was built on the days
CHARLES: Why Do You Call Yourself A
before
Constitutional Conservative Republican?
and
the
complexity
of
my
actions
were
increasingly scrutinized because, in the unlikely event I fell short, the ramifications would severely affect my teammates, team, and country. My thoughts, words, and actions were no longer my own. I grew into thinking, speaking, and acting in the best interest of the men and women
who
entrusted
their
well-being
to
me.
As
Congressman, I will continue to do the same. Faith – Most days, in training and real world operations, I didn’t know if I would be standing at the end of the day. It
FLOYD: Our Constitution is sacred. It’s what binds us all together as Americans and creates the rule of law that protects our citizens every day. We must stick together as Conservatives to fight against those who want to limit our free speech and prevent our right to bear arms. When I am Congressman, fighting for our Constitution and our rights as American citizens will be central to my core objectives.
required blind faith in God, blind faith of trust in my teammates to keep me safe, blind faith that I prepared enough to contribute to a successful mission, and blind faith,
in
the
unlikely
event
I
fell,
that
my
family,
teammates, team, and country knew I served them well.
CHARLES: Why Are You Running As A Republican?
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FLOYD: Individual Responsibility. Republicans fight for
FLOYD: Impeachment is a distraction and a sham. The
the individual and for freedom of choice in our daily
Democrats are using it to avoid the fact that their entire
lives. We believe in a system that provides equal
policy
opportunities for all, rather than a select protected few.
resonate with the majority of the country. Since they can’t
We believe that individuals should have the choice as to
win the debate, Democrats are using impeachment to
how to spend their hard earned paychecks, rather than
disrupt our duly, elected President and interfere with his
redistribute it through the government. Individual
mandate to govern this country. As Congressman, I will
responsibility is how I survived as a Navy SEAL, and it’s
fight for the President and fight for the policy issues he
what I look forward to fighting for in Congress.
stands for.
CHARLES: What Will Be Your First Priorities When
CHARLES: What Can We Do To Stop The Bitter
You Are Elected?
Partisan Divide in America?
FLOYD:
FLOYD:
Making sure our fellow Americans are safe
platform
is
built
on
stale
ideas
that
doesn’t
The American people are most influenced
and our country is secure. This encompasses securing our
through visual actions of the leaders in our country. As
southern
leaders, we must show the American people that we can
border.
Currently,
our
open
borders
are
the
gateway to human, sex, and drug trafficking. Through
respectfully
teamwork
without personally attacking one another. We need to
with
fellow
Conservative
Representatives,
implement an improved comprehensive healthcare legislation
affords
American
other’s
perspective,
encourage, through our respectful actions towards one another, social media and TV to focus on unification, not divide. Most importantly, the people are the pulse of our
and
country and individual responsibility is paramount. Each
healthcare
people
each
healthcare provider options, less restrictions on doctors, costly
the
with
more
less
that
disagree
premiums.
Build
a
communications bridge between the civilian sector and
of
us
are
military veterans to eliminate misunderstanding about
another.
responsible
for
loving
and
caring
for
one
military veterans and their perceived role in corporate America.
CHARLES: How Can you Defeat The Democrats in Dallas County in 2020?
CHARLES: What Is Your Assessment of President trump's Administration So Far?
FLOYD: We need courageous Conservatives who draw bright
line
distinctions
with
the
progressive
left,
not
FLOYD: What you won’t read in the news is that this
milquetoast candidates who blur the differences. Voters
Administration has several notable achievements that
need to know the clear differences, that they have a
have promoted this country and elevated Conservative
choice, and that choice is more jobs and more money in
principles. Take China for example. Unlike the previous
their pocket versus socialist schemes that spend all their
Administration, President Trump has the courage to take
hard-earned money on failed, big
on China, a country that many believe is America’s most
government ideas.
formidable adversary. From foreign policy and trade to immigration, taxes, and the economy, this Administration
CHARLES: Are You In Support of President
has strengthened our nation and enriched the lives of
Trump's Border Wall?
millions of Americans across the country. FLOYD: Absolutely! Securing our southern border will CHARLES: Do You Feel That the Democrats Are
be my first priority as Congressman. The border wall is
Focusing Too Much On Impeachment So Far? Why?
only part of the solution. We must provide the necessary manpower, training, and resources for our border patrol
FLOYD: Impeachment is a distraction and a sham. The
agents to ensure they are efficiently and effectively
Democrats are using it to avoid the fact that their entire
capable of their duties.
policy platform is built on stale ideas that doesn’t
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PAGE 13
CHARLES: What Is Your Favorite Achievement of
CHARLES: What Was Your Greatest Achievement
President Trump So Far?
As A U S Navy SEAL?
FLOYD: President Trump doesn’t back down from
FLOYD: To have served with some of the finest men
foreign leaders. He isn’t beholden to special interest
and women who selflessly put themselves in harm’s way,
groups, and he fights to protect hardworking Americans.
who trusted in me to fight along side them, and had faith
If I had to select one item, it would be immigration. As a
that I was prepared mentally, physically, and spiritually
border state, Texas bears the brunt of the violence and
to perform my duties as a war fighter for this great nation.
hardships associated with illegal immigration. President Trump understands the problem and is the leader we need
CHARLES: Who Was/Is Your Greatest Role Model?
to cut through the bureaucracy and party politics to secure the border. Millions of Texas are grateful for his efforts to
FLOYD: My mother, Maxine McLendon, is my greatest
secure the border and protect Americans, and I look
role model. We lost her to liver cancer in 2001. In her
forward to assisting these efforts in Congress.
mid 20’s, with only $20 in her pocket, she took the bus from Mississippi to Chicago. It took an enormous amount
CHARLES: When You Become a U S Congressman,
of courage to trail blaze such a path for her children. The
Will You Be a Consistent Constitutional Republican
sacrifices and perseverance I witnessed her endure to
Congressman, and Not Waiver From Your Standards
provide a better situation, a better moment for those
in Washington - No Matter The Opposition?
around her humbles me to this day. For decades, she put her dream of becoming a nurse on hold until her kids
FLOYD: Yes! As a military veteran, U.S. Navy SEAL,
were grown and out of the nest. She never lost sight of
husband, and father, the consistency of standing firm on
her dream and became a nurse. After her passing away, I
principles rooted in God, Constitution, and Conservative
learned she persevered through immense discomfort and
values, in the face of adversity, has been proven for
pain for years, suffering with cancer. Out of necessity, in
decades.
the last couple weeks of her life, did she share this particular journey. My mother walked the life of a servant
CHARLES: Are You A Pro Life Candidate? Why?
to others and things greater than herself. If I accomplish half of her achievements, I will consider
FLOYD: Human life is a sacred gift from a loving Creator. Scripture says He knew us before we were in the womb, that he has knitted us together perfectly. We need to protect unborn life, promote alternatives to abortion such as adoption, and appeal to the hearts and souls of the next generation of Americans to choose life.
CHARLES: Are You a Strong Believer In The Second Amendment? Why?
FLOYD: Yes, I believe Americans have a constitutional right to defend themselves, and no laws passed at the federal, state or local level should infringe on that basic right. Gun control laws give advantages to criminals who refuse to obey laws. Every law-abiding citizens should have the right to own and possess firearms in furtherance of their self-defense.
myself blessed beyond measure.
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My Message to The Syrian Kurds By Charles Lingerfelt, CTM Associate Publisher On 7 October 2019, the American Troops began to pull
poolside and those two families told me who they and
out of Northern Syria at the request of their Commander-
their ancestors were. I listened, and I learned. I was “all
in-chief, President Donald Trump of the United States.
ears.”
There had been a small contingency of troops there for a number of months, and the President felt that it was time
In all my travels to Kurdistan: ‘the land of The Kurds,’ I
to “bring the troops home.”
have traveled to and through the Southeastern parts of Turkey. Cizre is one of those places I’ve gone through,
At first, it disturbed me quite a bit; and it did many
including the province in which it exists. I have seen
thousands of American citizens as well. We felt that it
hundreds of Kurds who live there, and have talked with
was not a good move for the president at this time,
many of them. And I have always been
especially while we are in an election period. And then
treatment they have received from the Turks. For much of
too, it would be viewed by The Kurds around the world
the time, the Turks do not even treat the Kurds with
as
human dignity and care. It’s shameful how the Kurds are
“just
another
backstab!”
Backlash
followed
his
decision and the Troop “pullout” almost instantly and
shocked at the
treated in that part of the world.
even many Democrats came aboard to ‘gang-bang’ the president; although we Americans believe the Democrats
All of the above is presented so that you, the reader, may
don’t give him credit for ANYTHING he does!
know and understand who The Kurds really are – and from whence they have come.
As many of our readers know, I have worked among the Kurds for many years and have established very good
The Ottoman period of time has always been of keen
relationships with them around the world.
interest to me because my paternal Grandfather fought in Turkey during World War I and used to talk with us
I have traveled extensively to the Middle East since June
grandkids about his time in the U S Army. He had a few
1980
black and white photos of him and his buddies while they
-
building
relationships
with
people
in
Israel, and
were in Turkey with British troops “pulling down” the
Dubai. I have been a close friend to the Kurds for more
Ottoman empire. When Sultan Selim I, after defeating
than 32 years and I have made 24 trips(as of 2018) to
Shah Ismail I in 1514, annexed Western Armenia and
Kurdistan since 2006. All of these trips have been to
Kurdistan, he entrusted the organization of the conquered
build
the
territories to Idris, the historian, who was a Kurd of Bitlis.
people in the Middle East. By so doing, there could be a
He divided the territory into sanjaks or districts, and,
development of greater understanding of the people in
making
America. It is my opinion that there could be an ongoing,
heredity, installed the local chiefs as governors. He also
viable foreign relationship to prevent misunderstandings.
resettled the rich pastoral country between Erzurum and
It has become my pleasure to know and be friends with
Erivan, which had lain in waste since the passage of
many hundreds of people from The Middle East; and
Timur, with Kurds from the Hakkari and Bohtan districts.
thousands of Kurds around the world.
For the next few centuries, from the Peace of Amasya
Lebanon,
and
Jordan,
Syria,
establish
Iraq,
Iran,
long-lasting
Doha,
Qatar,
relationships
with
no
attempt
to
interfere
with
the
principle
of
until the first half of the 19th century, several regions of I first became friends with The Kurds in the summer of
the wide Kurdish homelands would be contested as well
1987 when I met two Kurdish families right here in North
between
Dallas. Prior to that, I had never met Kurds and I didn’t
successive Iranian dynasties (Safavids, Afsharids, Qajars)
know who The Kurds were. That day we sat by the
in the frequent Ottoman-Persian Wars.
the
Ottomans
and
the
neighboring
rival
C T I M E S M A G . C O M
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The Ottoman centralist policies in the beginning of the
Today in 2019, The Turks yet have not learned to relate
19th
to
century
aimed
to
remove
power
from
the
The
Kurds
very
well
and
The
Turks
still
feel
principalities and localities, which directly affected the
‘threatened’ and intimidated by them. The relationship is
Kurdish emirs. Bedirhan Bey was the last emir of the
not very good between the two of them at all. To put it
Cizre Bohtan Emirate after initiating an uprising in 1847
lightly, The Turks have for years maintained a HATE
against the Ottomans to protect the current structures of
against the Kurds, and really want to “wipe them out!”
the Kurdish principalities. Although his uprising is not classified
as
a
nationalist
one,
his
children
played
In 1987, when I met the two Kurdish families, which I
significant roles in the emergence and the development of
spoke about earlier, they carefully took time with me and
Kurdish nationalism through the next century.
educated
me
a
great
deal
about
the
Kurds
and
the
traditions of the Kurds. I walked away that day with a The first modern Kurdish nationalist movement emerged
great love and appreciation in my heart for the people,
in 1880 with an uprising led by a Kurdish landowner and
their traditions and culture. I have never forgotten them,
head
and never will; because it was on that day that God
of
the
Ubeydullah, outright
powerful
who
Shemdinan
demanded
independence
for
family,
political Kurds
Sheik
autonomy
as
well
as
or
‘opened my eyes’ and gave me a love and appreciation
the
for these people who have endeared themselves to me and
recognition of a Kurdistan state without interference from
my family – and me to them.
Turkish or Persian authorities. The uprising against Qajar Persia
and
the
Ottoman
Empire
was
ultimately
As we talked together, the two Kurdish families and me,
suppressed by the Ottomans and Ubeydullah, and along
they
with other notables, were exiled to Istanbul.
happening in The Middle East at that time. There was a
communicated
to
me
more
clearly
what
was
war going on then, between Iraq and Iran. To me, it was Kurdish nationalism emerged after World War I with the
just another “Middle Eastern war;” or so I thought up
dissolution of the Ottoman Empire which had historically
until that time. The Kurdish families were able to give to
successfully integrated (but not assimilated) the Kurds,
me a different perspective of what was happening.
through use of forced repression of Kurdish movements to gain independence. Revolts did occur sporadically, but
In
only in 1880 with the uprising led by Sheik Ubeydullah
conversations I have had with many hundreds of Kurds
did
since
the
Kurds
as
an
ethnic
group
or
nation
make
my
own
2006,
personal
I
believe
opinion,
there
were
based
upon
all
WMDs(Weapons
the
of
demands. Ottoman sultan Abdul Hamid responded with a
Mass Destruction) and were secretly moved into Syria
campaign of integration by co-opting prominent Kurdish
just before the beginning of The Iraq War(2003).
opponents to strengthen Ottoman power with offers of prestigious positions in his government. This strategy
If you truly want to know, without any doubt whatsoever,
appears
loyalty
IF
during
Iraq, just ask a Kurd.
to
displayed
have
by
been
the
successful
Kurdish
given
Hamidiye
the
regiments
there were “Weapons of Mass Destruction,” found in
World War I. Further yet, allow me to take you to my dear young The Kurdish ethno-nationalist movement that emerged
Kurdish friend, whose family was gassed at Halabja, but
following
she survived the attack, and You can ask her if there were
World
War
I
and
the
end
of
the
Ottoman
Empire was largely a reaction to the changes taking place in
mainstream
secularization, abhorred,
to
threatened
the
Turkey, which
the
primarily
the
strongly
centralization local
‘weapons of Mass destruction’ in Iraq.
radical
Muslim
Kurds
She was less than 10 years old at the time of the gassing
authority,
which
and only survived because she lay on the ground, in a
Kurdish
hiding position – and the wind blew the smells of the gas in an opposite direction from her. Her family perished
nationalism
that day at Halabja.
the
of
the
autonomy. And it threatened as well the rampant Turkish in
power
of
to
new
chieftains
Turkish
and
Republic,
obviously threatened to marginalize them.
which
C T I M E S M A G . C O M
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In March 2003, on the Saturday after the Wednesday of
On the one hand, I am so very proud of our troops, who
the
I
constantly have paid a terrific price for their dedication
founded in 1998, NORTH TEXAS FREEDOM RALLY,
and constant service to this nation and our Commander-
conducted a rally in downtown Dallas. It was a “Support
in-chief. Too, our troops are constantly helping other
the
people and their quest for liberty and freedom. In that
start
of
Troops
The
Iraq
Rally”
War,
and
the
was
organization
attended
by
which
over
3,000
persons who came to show support for our Troops who
search, they have always remained true!
were ‘called up’ to war in Iraq. It was attended by more than 1,500 Kurds, mostly coming from all over North
Then on the other hand, I feel this tug in my spirit: a “pull
Texas. It was a great day of support for our troops and
at the strings of my heart,” which has been loyal to my
was covered by every TV/NEWS outlet in DFW. An
sweet friends, my loving friends in the Middle East - The
AP(Associated Press) reporter came up to me afterwards
Kurds. They’ve been my friends for many years! And
to interview me and said, “Mr. Lingerfelt, are you aware
when you have friends, devoted as they are and loving as
that there were over 3.000 people here today in your
they are, you just don’t ”give up on them!”
Rally?” And I said, “No, I wasn’t aware of the number – but I knew we had many here.” He finished his interview
I have had this deep love for the Kurdish people for such
and told me he would be posting his article later in the
a long period of time that you just don’t “turn your backs
afternoon.
on your friends!“ My friends are Kurdish families, their children and youth, and the Peshmerga: Generals, officers
During the rally, it rained on us, but no one cared, and we
and all. I have worked with their Kurdish Education
all remained there standing in the rain in support of our
Department, their colleges and universities; and it is so
Troops who were enduring much more than rain in Iraq.
difficult to write and speak these words right now because my emotions have been so raw!
The Kurds know me and trust me – and I know them and Trust them as well. They are our friends in the Middle
But I awoke this morning with a new faith and vigor, a
East. They love us – They love America, and they love
new hope that God was leading our president, and that
Americans. They helped our Troops in the fight against
God was yet in control in the Middle East!
ISIS. They actually became “Our Boots on the ground” in
how you feel about the current situation, and no matter
the fight against ISIS! They are a reasonable and open-
what you think - our trust just Has to be in God and in
minded people. They are dependable people and I have
Him alone.
found
it
easily
to
build
relationships
with
the
No matter
Kurds
through the years.
We
absolutely
MUST
TRUST
HIM
with
every
circumstance and each situation! We have said for many When the modern Middle East was carved out, following
❤
years, ‘In God We Trust!’ Now, Let’s Do It!
the fall of the Ottoman Empire and mapped anew at the end
the
I am reminded of a verse of Scripture I learned many
mountainous Kurdish region was divided by the borders
of
World
War
I
by
the
British
and
French,
years ago as a teenager: “Some trust in chariots and some
of Turkey, Syria, Iraq, and Iran. The Kurds lost out on
in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our
those nation-stakes. There is no Kurdistan on the map,
God.”(Psalm 20:7)
and this is a continuing factor in Middle Eastern politics, as the Kurds have been rebelling against this status now
There is a Prophecy in The Old Testament of The Bible,
for nearly a century.
in
Isaiah
17,
which
speaks
of
‘The
Destruction
of
Damascus.’ I believe that destruction is very soon “at the What I specifically want to say to The Syrian Kurds now
door.”
That’s
why
I’m
calling
on
You,
My
Syrian
is this: “Get out of Damascus and get as far away from it
Kurdish friends, to “Get Out of Damascus, and take all of
as you possibly can!” It is for Your very own safety that I
your families with You.”
tell you this! I have mixed emotions as I view this photo below. It is a photo of our American troops departing
I believe the vengeance of The Turks and Erdogan is
from northern Syria on 7 October 2019.
about to be unleashed against Northern Syria. And when
C T I M E S M A G . C O M
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that happens, our president, President Donald Trump is NOT going to like it and he is going to react with anger – and “all Hell is going to break loose!” It is best for You, my dear friends to leave Damascus and get totally away from ‘The Hellfire.’
My love for You ALL is real and intact. I Love you with the Love of God. We are
Praying for You and Your safety! Please take care of yourselves and your families. Remember, God Loves You and I Love You too!
Sincerely,
Mr. Charles Lingerfelt Dallas, Texas On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charles.lingerfelt1
Merry Christmas
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Democratic-controlled House impeachment of Trump sets the stage for a trial in Senate
PHOTO SOURCE CHELSEA STAHL / NBC NEWS
The impeachment of President Trump in the Democratic-controlled House on charges of abuse of power and obstruction of Congress sets the stage for a historic trial next month in the Republican-controlled Senate on whether he should be removed from office.
The mostly party-line votes on Wednesday in the Democratic-controlled House came after long hours of bitter debate that reflected the partisan tensions in a divided America and made President Trump the third U.S. President to be impeached.
GOP argued that Democratic Party was using a rigged process to nullify the 2016 election and influence President Trump’s 2020 re-election campaign, while Democrats lawmakers said President Trump’s actions in pressuring Ukraine to investigate former vice President Joe Biden, a leading Democratic presidential contender, were a threat to U.S democracy.
The Senate’s top Republican Party, Senator Mitch McConnell, has predicted there is “no chance” his chamber will remove President Trump. Speaker Nancy Pelosi said after the vote she would wait to name the House managers, who will prosecute the case until she knew more about the Senate trial procedures.
CTM NEWS
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Make America One Nation Under God Again By David A. Colbert In this Country today lies appear to have become the
violence will continue, because nation without God is out
norm. The last few months and years in portions of our
of control. In the news lately we have had to endure an
government. The lie is too easily accepted. Unfortunately,
impeachment inquiry from the far left Democratic Party.
this tells us that the father of lies Satan is gaining more
This attack on President Trump will end soon with a vote
and more ground in the USA.
in the Senate, but I predict we have not seen the last of the Democratic Party Antics.
The recent fiasco in the House of Representatives proves that they are in the need of Jesus to guide them to the
The process we have recently seen in Congress reminds
right
me of when I was not a believer in who Jesus was. I tried
path
as
our
Nation’s
Representatives;
especially
those in the Democratic Majority.
to dismiss those who told me about him as weak minded people. I was wrong, but the same stubbornness I had
I have lived in the USA for all of my life and I have never
against the truth is the same stubbornness I see in the
witnessed anything like this present Impeachment attempt
House of Representative.
on a Duly elected President with no supporting evidence. I feel that the Democratic house has lost
touch with
reality.
What I believed did not change who Jesus was, and neither will anyone who tries to overcome the truth. If you refuse to believe the truth, then all that’s remains is a
As we prepare to vote in the 2020 elections, I believe as
lie. The facts are that nothing will change the lie, no
the
matter how many times you repeat it. At the end of the
American
people
we
need
to
be
educated
and
informed. We need to know what is occurring in our
day it will still be a lie.
government. We need to vote our conscience. I am excited about the upcoming 2020 election year, and I
have
been
amazed
at
the
hatred
displayed
against
Lord willing I will be here to enjoy. I expect that by
President Trump. You would think he deliberately hurt
February of next year the Democratic Party will have
somebody. I think the Democratic Party is afraid of his
some new horse to ride in on, for their attack against
influence with the American people.
President Trump.
We need to start bringing back God to our schools and
Since the Democratic Party has turned their case over to
places of business. We wonder why there is so much
the House Judiciary Committee. They have started their
violence in our schools and workplaces . We need to
assault on the American people with their socialist style
return God to his rightful place in the school districts and
bills they are trying to send to the Senate for passage.
our governments. I know in the coming year we are going to see a lot of I feel optimistic about this upcoming year. I believe He is
new issues coming down the pike from the Democratic
going to do great things in the USA and around the
controlled House. I believe the Republican Party will be
world. I am growing weary of those who want to write
ready after the Impeachment fiasco.
God out of our educational systems. God will not stay where He is not wanted. If you reject God then theÂ
President Trump poised and ready for anything they
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throw his way. I am looking forward to see the fruit from the new USMCA as well.
The Christmas season is upon us and with the improved economic conditions retailers can expect a banner year. It is good to see so many people back to work.
I noticed something that was overlooked by many. The Democratic Party is
trying their best to force recession, but it is not working thanks to President Trump’s commitment to Make and Keep America Great.
I will be watching in the coming year the good things a working President will have done now, and in his next term.
The Democratic Party wants to unseat him, but he has won again over another impeachment sham. I am encouraged that we finally have a President who believes that he has been placed in office by the people, for the people and he is of the people.
I think that we will see a lot more plans and programs for the good of our country in the near future. He is cleaning the swamp, and he is going to help Keep America Great. Thank you for reading this article. Please tune into Straight Talk With David Colbert on CTM News-The Voice of Truth Monday thru Friday at 8:15pmET .This is David Colbert saying God Bless America and The World
davidcolbert624@gmail.com (Leave your comments and I will read them)
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Reflections and Predictions By Chris Grahn Howard Last month I wrote on the planned impeachment of the
and keep moving and hitting back. Two, despite the best-
President. The hearings are over, and the report is being
timed
issued...
opponents
there
aaaaaand‌.nothing.
would
Honestly,
I
had
thought
never
seem
to
land
a
clean
Trump, shot
on
his him.
was
this time and time again.
Democrats
the
of
warfare. I have written on this before, and Trump proves
the
that
defenses
would last longer into the primary cycle. The truth? There there;
there...there,
lowered
Finally, Trump wages asymmetric and unconventional
little
more
and
hearings
so
be
shots
could
not
even
accomplish that. Will they vote to impeach? I think they don't want to go there but have no choice now. They will
Imagine if the republicans and Trump have the goods on
vote to impeach. They will make the best of it. They, as
the democrats and use the impeachment trial to unload?!
do we, already know the outcome. The real question here
Every day there will be a new revelation, accusation, and
is, who does the most damage to the other side?
condemnation by the President of his many accusers. The national Press will not be able to keep up and will have
Trump will be made to look bad and may look wrong.
no choice to try, to report and to comment on the trial.
However, Trump will win this battle on more than one
Could
front. Legally, most importantly, he will win. There is no
elections for the democrats? Ironic when one considers
proof of quid pro quo. There is no, has been no proof of
that every republican consultant is convinced that 2020
any
even
will be a bad year for the GOP despite what most believe
honestly attempted such. Trump will win, he will have
will be a Trump win in November. Right now, many
the final word, and the democrats are in a real quandary.
Republicans are not raising money or even considering
They know they have already lost. The newest polls show
running due to the "Trump effect," ‌which will prove to
the majority of the American people have little or no
be a positive and not a negative.
collusion
and
no
proof
that
the
President
this
be
the
worst-case
scenario
for
the
2020
interest in impeachment and believe it is all political. Worse, the majority of people are waiting to see what the
"It's the Economy ‌Stupid" this was the mantra of the
President has to say in rebuttal. Now, people who see
'90s
themselves as Democrats are not going to support Trump,
American politics and will be for some time to come.
but that does not translate into support for impeachment.
Being the case, Trump is looking good going into 2020,
and
the
Clinton
era.
It
is
a
universal
truth
of
and this may prove to have added some "coattails" for The greatest fear for the democrats is that in the trial, the
congressional
republicans in the senate will not just vote down the
upcoming
articles of impeachment outright. The real fear is that
against this tenant of politics. That my friends is a bad
there is a senate trial and that the President has his day in
bet, please keep in mind that the democrats are mostly
court.
The
tables
and
are
the
betting
headlines for the democrats every single day during the
not socialists and are more likely to be the deciding factor
tough
in any national election.
every
could
democrats
about
but they are not the majority. Most independents are also
that
trail
The
worrying
NOT socialists, and that wing of their party may be loud,
Imagine
the
cycle.
are
be
period.
turn,
election
who
running full tilt during February and setting up negative
primary
could
candidates
day,
the
President, who will be at his very best performance, will be hitting his opponents and their actions with his very
As predicted, the current economy defies expectations.
best blows. Pardon the boxing reference here, but Trump
The recent jobs report has far exceeded expectations as
has proven several things. One, he can take the punches
well as other economic indicators. Now, there are threats
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of a recession hitting after the first of the year. I believe
Trump's accusations. Additionally, Trump will benefit, as
this is based on the same faulty models that predicted a
well. No matter the outcome, 2020 will be in many ways,
recession this fall. I point this out to reaffirm that the
one of the most exciting Presidential campaign years in
Trump economy is strong and shows no signs of a real
history, not to mention just the potential for the impacts
slowdown.
of
the
Trump
change Peace! Well, we shall see; however, there appears to be a
with
agenda. another
Think year
of
of
how
a
our
growing
world
will
economy,
denuclearization of North Korea, honest and fair trade
slowdown in ISIS activity. That could be a result of the
with
recent raid. You know the one where Trump faked out
President Trump could have a breakout year in 2020
ISIS by stating he was pulling out of Syria and Baghdadi
leading into November. If, if Trump wins reelection and
let his guard down. What we may see is an uptick in low
has the noted successes...the world will be a much better
lever attacks by these thugs, not the higher-level terrorist
place for everyone.
attacks of the past couple of years.
I think Elizabeth warren may break out of the Democrat pack and gain the nomination. She appears, at this point, to
have
the
best
functioning
operation/ground
game
going. Crazy Uncle Joe has just imploded, and the others have run too far to the extreme left. I am not trying to say that Warren is a centrist in any form or fashion. I am just stating what many are seeing on the ground.
The good news here is that Trump will beat Warren. Warren cannot play asymmetric warfare the way Trump does and will. Trump will get in her head, force her to make extreme statements, or just poor ones. Trump, other than the obvious, will have many advantages going into the
election.
The
economy,
relations
with
China
and
NoKo, the slowdown of ISIS and other terrorist groups, and most of all‌I expect even more people will vote for this populist President because of the fatigue from the political doublespeak. The average working American is just tired of the game.
Speaking of games, the American people have endured so many politicians that have used the doublespeak method of
communication.
Trump
is
still
refreshing,
even
if
frustrating to most Americans. The Press, the Democrats, and the GOP establishment will have to be on their best behavior in 2020. Why? Trump will continue to call out any so-called "Fake News."
Interestingly enough, there are enough documented cases of
severe
falsehoods
and
misrepresentations
that
now
force the Press to be more accurate and more aware of the potential
distortions.
Ironically,
if
the
Press
positively, the Press will benefit from the years of
reacts
China,
growing
chances
for
mid-east
peace.
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Regressive Rhode Island By Paul McCabe
Gaspee. marked
This the
event
first
and
acts
of
others
in
violent
Narragansett
uprising
Bay
against
the
British crown's authority in America. On May 4, 1776 Rhode Island was the first of the thirteen colonies to declare its absolute independence from England.
Two and a half centuries later, the outlook is much less glorious. After decades of control by the D party there is a long record of mismanagement, failure, and corruption.
The world’s most famous chicken and official state bird: the Rhode Island Red
In one of the saddest examples the local Pawtucket Red Sox, the Triple-A affiliate team for the Boston Red Sox,
After recent articles discussing the disastrously-run blue
announced last year that it was moving across the state
states of New York and California, my attention now
line to Worcester. This happened after years of botched
turns to my home state of Rhode Island and Providence
negotiations
Plantations. It is the smallest state but has the longest
stadium and incentives. In 1981, the Paw Sox played in
name.
and
Texas
Republican
is
221
times
Presidential
larger.
candidate
The
won
last
the
time
state
a
was
won
history,
with
the
a
the
longest
33-inning
state
government
game
affair
in
about
professional
against
the
a
new
baseball
Rochester
Red
1972. (It was Nixon’s landslide against McGovern when
Wings. But now it’s bye-bye baseball, a RI hometown
the President took 49 states.)
feature for fifty years.
This little portion of America has a long and glorious
Since
history. A Protestant minister in 1636 rebelled against
Raimondo, plagued by allegations of financial misdeeds
Puritan orthodoxy in the new Massachusetts Bay colony.
in the state pension fund, at Point Judith Capital where
Soon he walked 30 miles with his flock and found a
she was on the board, at the Ocean State Investment Pool,
felicitous
and at investment company Oaktree.
spot
where
two
rivers
joined.
There
Roger
2015
the
first
female
Governor
has
been
G.
Williams said “It is Providence which has brought us here.”
Thus
right
from
the
start
RI
was
a
center
of
In
June
2019
she
succeeded
in
passing
one
of
the
religious tolerance. Williams established the first Baptist
country’s most radical abortion laws. This is the most
church
Catholic state in the country, whose immigrants came
on
the
continent.
His
principles
concerning
separation of church and state were enshrined in the US Constitution
more
than
a
century
after
his
death.
from
Italy,
Providence
Ireland, Bishop
Portugal, Thomas
France, Tobin
and
called
Poland. the
bill's
America’s first synagogue was established at Newport in
passage "profoundly disappointing, a very dark day in the
1763 and still functions there.
history of our state." Planned Parenthood applauded the new
law.
Raimondo
eagerly
signed
the
bill
within
the
minutes of approval by state legislators and claimed it
Continental Army, Nathanael Greene, was a native son
was “about protecting and providing health care.” Both
whose statues stand in Washington DC, Savannah GA,
the Senate and House leaders voted against the new law.
George
Washington’s
deputy
commander
of
Greensboro NC, and of course Providence. In 1772, more than a year before the Boston Tea Party, Rhode Islanders
Her predecessor L. Chafee got his start in politics when
attacked and burned a British navy ship called HMS
the D governor appointed him to the Senate seat vacated
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by his well-known father, who died in office in 1999.
(RICO), normally used to indict members of organized
Since
crime.
then
he
has
changed
from
Republican
to
He
favors
the
radical
“green
new
deal,”
Independent to Democrat to Libertarian. Chafee briefly
Obamacare, abortion, and a commission to “uncover the
ran for President in 2016 before vanishing from view.
war crimes” of the Bush administration. In September 2019 he published another bizarre op-ed in the same
His
Through
leftist newspaper with the ludicrous title “The Supreme
Peace”. During TV debates he emphasized the adoption
oddball
Court Has Become Just Another Arm of the GOP.” He
of the metric system. He voted against funding the war in
seems too young to be senile. So the explanation must lie
Iraq
elsewhere: a D driven to ridiculous levels of partisanship
in
platform
2003
and
was
called
endorsed
“Prosperity
Obama
in
2008.
Local
reporters called him “Governor Gump” and “Governor
by
Trump
Derangement
Syndrome
Grinch”. Before entering politics he trained in Montana
many in the nation’s capital.)
(which
afflicts
so
and pursued a career as a farrier. “I think I put shoes on 5,000 horses,” he said. (No, I am not making this up.)
My
own
Congressman
1995-2011
used
to
be
Patrick
Kennedy, son of the notorious Teddy Kennedy (D-Mass.) The senior Senator now is J. Reed, in office since 1997
I always voted for that blithering nitwit for sentimental
and in the House before that since 1991. Despite years in
reasons: once upon a time I worked for his uncle Bobby.
the US Army, he now takes leftist positions on issues like
Eventually he left Congress following a scandal in 2006
abortion,
and
where he crashed his car at 2:45 am on Capitol Hill after
unionization,
unemployment
funding,
increased gun
Medicare
and
he had taken sleeping pills. Two days later Kennedy got a
illegal immigration. Like his colleague Chafee he voted
control,
energy
use,
show of support when the RI Democratic Party officially
against funds for the invasion of Iraq. In 2010, he turned
endorsed
down Obama’s offer to become the Secretary of Defense.
program at the fancy and expensive Mayo Clinic. He
Apparently Obama sought a dove like Reed to head up
went to rehab again in 2009 and did not run in 2010.
him.
Then
he
entered
a
drug
rehabilitation
the huge Defense Department. In 2014, Reed won reelection 71% to 29%.
He must run again next year or he
can retire at age 71.
The junior Senator S. White House has a name that sounds like it is from a political satire but it isn’t. To enter the Senate he defeated “Governor Gump” Chafee in 2006
by
national
27,000 TV
Kavanagh’s
votes.
White
year
during
last
nomination
to
House the
the
got
himself
hearings
Supreme
on
on
Brett
Court.
As
thousands of his voters watched, he used his time to discuss school
flatulence yearbook
with he
Judge
closely
Kavanagh,
examined
whose
and
high
excoriated.
This jaw-dropping drama enthralled none who saw it. White House embarrassed himself, the Senate, and his home state by such weird questions and behavior. Shame
This vacancy allowed the ex-mayor of Providence, D. Cicilline, to succeed Kennedy in the 1st district seat. The new
Congressman
had
become
mayor
following
the
arrest and conviction of the colorful and criminal mayor
on him.
V. “Buddy” Cianci on a racketeering conspiracy charge In 2007 the National Journal ranked him as the 2nd most left-leaning senator. Since then he has veered further left, like
much
of
the
Washington
leadership
Post
of
the
editorial
D
party. in
In
a
2015,
WhiteHouse advocated prosecution of members of the energy
industry
under
the
Corrupt Organizations Act
Racketeer
Influenced
and
in 2002. Eight others also were convicted then on various Federal charges. Originally Cianci had run claiming to be the “Anti-Corruption Candidate” after more than 30 years of corrupt Irish mayors. Of course in RI both Italians and Irish are leaders of the D party. While Cicilline was still mayor in 2008, his brother John pled guilty to Federal charges of conspiracy, obstruction of justice, and making
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false statements. He went to prison. John was indicted along with J. Bevilaqua Jr., son of the infamous ex-Judge.
In 2011, Providence City Council Finance Chairman John Igliozzi accused the previous mayor of raiding the city’s cash reserves without the approval of the city council. He said Cicilline hid the scope of the city’s fiscal woes through “illusory revenues, borrowing, and other tricks.” But
Mayor
Congress
Cicilline
in
already
Washington.
had
Others
escaped were
to
stuck
the
US
with
the
municipal financial wreck he left behind.
jerk “populist-leaning liberal”. With no background in foreign affairs, he loudly criticized President Trump’s historic meeting with the North Korean Kim and opposed John Bolton as National Security Adviser. (Under the Constitution the House has nothing to do with either of these
matters.)
supports
He
is
“sanctuary”
a
strong
cities,
anti-gun
advocate
government
funding
and of
abortions, and open borders.
a
motley
collection
of
about
100
whiny
left
wingers who regularly howl their unrealistic proposals about raising taxes, climate change, abolishing the Patriot Act, increasing welfare payments, etc., ad nauseum. In fact the group is made up of retromingents disguised as progressives.
Local
TV
station
WPRI
reported
that
“On
policy,
as well as a relentless and caustic critic of President Trump.” His other D leadership positions include co-chair the
LGBT
Equality
Caucus
and
vice-chair
of
the
House Gun Violence Task Force. He has been a strident and unreasonable voice calling for impeachment of the President. In September 2019 he criticized the President’s “obstruction of justice, abuses of power, and corruption” and insisted that his “voters care” about this.
since 1793 that RI would have just a single seat in the House of Representatives. Good job, Democrats!
“Ye
are
a
factious
crew,
and
enemies
to
all
good
government. . . Ye are grown intolerably odious to the whole nation. You were deputed here by the people to get grievances redressed, are yourselves become the greatest grievance. . . Go, get you out! Make haste! . . . -- Oliver Cromwell to the
Rump Parliament in London, 1653
To be fair, corruption in the state did not start with the D party. For decades the regional boss of the New England mafia
was
Rhode
Islander
R.
Patriarca,
whose
reach
covered all six states. A real-life Godfather, he had a wide influence in organized crime nationally too. In 1970 he was convicted of conspiracy to murder and sentenced to 10 years. Patriarca continued to run his “family” while in
My home state also distinguished itself in another way. In 1986 the Chief Justice of the state Supreme Court J. Bevilaqua resigned under pressure during impeachment proceedings. Numerous problems centered on his long association with “Nicky” Bianco, successor to Ray “The Man” Patriarca as crime boss, and with other organized
representation
in
Congress
following
in the state House of Representatives where he was a lifelong member of the D party. No doubt Rhode Island gets Olympic gold in graft, fraud, payoffs, and extortion. No
other
state
can
challenge
this
level
of
official
corruption.
What is the outlook for the future of this little state of about a million people? A survey in August this year by the Princeton Review ranked the University of RI as the 3rd from the top nationally in terms of marijuana use by students and faculty. A recent CBS News story said that
Like other highly-taxed blue states, RI is in danger of losing
representative instead of two. It would be the first time
crime figures. Judge Bevilaqua rose in politics as a leader
Cicilline has carved out a reputation as a leader on the left
of
is coming up fast. Voters may have to elect a single U.S.
prison.
He is the Vice Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus,
will decline too, from four to three. The election of 2022
In the name of God, go!”
Cicilline has established himself in Congress as a knee-
2 7
the
2020
census. Recent press reports indicate that it is likely that RI will lose one House seat due to declining population. Now it ranks 44th in population and the numbers are trending down. In that case its number of electoral votes
RI has among the highest consumption rates of cannabis (more than 14% of the population). Governor Raimondo (D) will call for legalization in her next budget proposal, according to the local Providence Journal. Moreover, the National Institute of Drug Abuse reported on its website that in 2017 RI had almost double the national rate of opioid-involved overdose deaths (mainly due to fentanyl).
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In July this year, CNBC released its annual ranking list called Top States for Business. RI was last (50th) for both business climate and infrastructure.
In the category of economy, it was ranked at 48. These rock-bottom numbers
represent a new low achieved after several decades of D control.
Taxpayers and voters are fleeing the messes created by the job-killing D party and its endless congeries of tax-and-spend policies. The economy and the population are shrinking. But many of those staying behind will be too intoxicated to notice the state sinking into debt, drug use, financial problems, and unemployment. On the lovely state flag the optimistic motto says HOPE. But today in 2019 the place, badly led by dozens of Ds, seems to be declining deeper into a dreary quagmire. Reluctantly I am reminded of the stark and somber images in Dante’s famous Purgatorio.
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I once heard, “Some are born great, some achieve greatness and others have greatness thrust upon them.” By Charles Lingerfelt Deep inside of me, I don’t think it should be our total
byproducts of His love and His influence in this universe.
desire to seek to be great! I think we should, with all our
We are not here on this earth by chance, circumstance or
heart, seek the full measure of the completeness of God’s
haphazardly. We are His divine creation; and as long as
love within, so that we may be ‘an instrument in God’s
we understand who God is, and who we are and why we
Hand’ to be a revelation to this world of His love and care
are here, then we will certainly have an understanding of
for all.
one another.
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God,
And that, my friend, is so important for us to know today!
that
There is so very little understanding of one another in this
ye
present
your
bodies
a
living
sacrifice,
holy,
acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
world today! And because of the lack of understanding, great
2
And
be
not
conformed
to
this
world:
but
be
ye
and
serious
problems
persist
in
our
society
constantly.
transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect,
“You are from God, little children, and have overcome
will of God.”(Romans 12:1,2)
them; because greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world."
In the wisdom of the great and powerful King Solomon, who wrote over 3,000 Proverbs, we are admonished, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” (Proverbs
Now get up and get out there and start mirroring the reflection of God’s love from within your life.
4:7)
Each year, during this season, there is much “giving and receiving.“In the words of Jesus, we are taught that “it is more blessed to give than to receive.“
Don’t ever allow it to be said of you that you are not bearing a full reflection of godly living with your life because you haven’t loved the least, the last, the lost and the unloveable.
But all of us know exactly what it is, and what it means to “get and receive.“ We will experience this in a few days.
I want to remind you, and myself as well, of Solomon’s
Get out there and “Be a reflection of the understanding of The Miracle of The Season: God’s love.” ❤ ❤ ❤
choice words: “With all thy getting, Get Understanding.”
It is of utmost importance that we truly understand who God is and why it’s important that we put Him first in our lives. And it is also very important that we remember His specific influence upon this world in which we live; God is not just some small byproduct of someone or some thing
in
our
world.
He
is
the
Creator
of
universe that we live in. And we are simply the
this
entire
Merry Christmas, Charles Lingerfelt, Associate Publisher CHRISTIAN TIMES MAGAZINE
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THE GATE OF HEAVEN: A CHRISTMAS MIRACLE – TRUE STORY FROM WORLD WAR II By Robert Summers Sergeant James Dunn was awakened early in the
this I know for the Bible tells me so. Little ones to Him
morning by a loud voice calling his
belong. They are weak, but He is strong.” “What the …….!” he exclaimed as he jumped into his
name. “James, wake up! Don’t you know what
Army
today is?” his warrant officer friend was sticking
trousers
and
rain
boots.
He
ran
outside
and
discovered a band of island natives carrying gardening
his head in James’ small tent. James stirred in his
tools and singing. “Yes, Jesus loves me…”
cot and managed a disinterested reply. “I have no idea,” he answered.
James ran to stop them. “Where did you learn that song?” he queried, looking for one who spoke English. Several
“It’s Christmas!” his soldier friend persisted. “Christmas, James.” Christmas! James really had not thought about it. He actually had lost track of the date. He did not jump right up. In fact, he lay there for a moment thinking of Christmas back home in East Texas. Mother would
Letters
rarely
came.
James
was
Presbyterian Missionaries come to our island. They tell us about Jesus and teach us songs.” “Where are the missionaries?” James shot back “They gone,” came the reply of the islander who appeared to be in charge. He
have the table set for family dinner. He remembered his sweetheart.
of the singers replied in broken English, “We Christians.
basically
without address, always on the move with the front lines.
had tears in his eyes. “Soldiers come take them away,” he explained. “Japanese say this island now Japanese island. No
missionaries!
They
take
away.
We
had
church.
Japanese say they will burn it. We take it down and hide In
December
of
1944,
James
was
stationed
in
the
Admiralty Islands of the South Pacific with the US Army
in sand at beach. We go today to dig it up for Christmas. We happy people. We sing!”
1 st Cavalry Division. The unit had moved in and taken the island from its Japanese Imperial Army occupiers in a month-long bloody battle. The US Army Corps of
The commander was moved by this report. “Let’s get the
Engineers had recently improvised a bulldozed jungle landing
strip.
James’
tent
was
at
the
runway’s
James ran to the mess tent to tell his company officer.
end
because he kept a complete log of the manifests of flown-
wench
truck
and
the
bulldozer
and
help
them,”
he
announced. “James, get a patrol of men to help you. Tell them I said so. Tell them Merry Christmas”.
in war supplies and the dead and wounded flown out from the airstrip.
Every GI on the island wanted to help. They soon had excavated
As James lay still on his cot, a wave of despair swept over him. He feared never seeing home, mother and his sweetheart again. In the heat of battle, he had just about lost all hope and faith. Christmas lights and love were a million miles from his war-ravaged island of Arawe.
building
all
was
the
little
erected
chapel’s and
pieces.
nailed
back
By
noon,
together.
the The
company Chaplain called for a Christmas day dedication. Every soldier who owned a camera took photographs. The little chapel was known by its Biblical name, The Gate of Heaven. According to James, many of the GI’s had tears in their eyes as the Chaplain prayed. All seemed
He remembered he had prayed as a boy in Sunday school. James prayed quietly this morning. “God, if you really are real, if you’re still Lord, still love me, then somehow show me.” James thought he heard singing. Yes, he did hear voices singing a familiar tune. “Jesus loves me
to have their hopes renewed that peace would come soon and that they could go home to the ones they loved. They had experienced a Christmas miracle. They had stood at the Gate of Heaven. Postlog: James came home after the
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war and married Yvonne Lundsford, his sweetheart. In the early 1950’s he taught a junior boys Sunday school class. He told his story every Christmas. I was in that class. Over the years my wife JoAn and I visited the Dunns. James lived to be 99. I ministered the Dunn funerals. His grandson, Adam Dunn was a well known baseball pitcher for several National League ball teams. James wanted me to have the original
snapshot of the native church “The Gate of Heaven.” That name is taken from Jacob’s encounter with God at Bethel: “This is none other than the house of God and this is the gate of heaven” Genesis 28:17