Christmas Quake?

VanDusen:VanCity Buzz 2015

Stanley Park: Picscristmas 2015

BCIT: 2015

Lumiere Festival Vancouver: 2015

CBC December 29-30

Cited

'B.C. earthquake wakes up Vancouver, Victoria-area residents Quake, 4.3-4.8 in magnitude, centred 20 km north of Victoria at 11:39 p.m PT Tuesday but no damage reported'

'B.C.'s South Coast was hit by an earthquake that shook many people from their sleep just before midnight, in what one seismologist called the largest quake in the region in years.'

'Some people near the epicentre northeast of Victoria reported their homes shifted, and others were knocked off their feet. "The house moved seriously to the right, came back, it was loud. The aquarium had a mini-tsunami and overflowed. We were in the kitchen and got tossed into the counter," wrote one commenter on the CBC website.'

End citations

I had just arrived home from a day's work when at between 23:30 to 23:59, I heard a very large, big bang. But, I could see no interior damage to the condominium.

I however, did not think it was an earthquake or Christmas quake immediately because my good friend, Mr. Rogers friendly neighbour, retired famous East Maple Ridge natural bodybuilder the one and only Mr. Bobby Buff, may have dropped one of his dumbbells during his workout...

One gets used to such living in proximity to a living legend...

How To Win Friends And Influence People?

This week in Toronto as taxi drivers protest Uber...

I am sympathetic to both taxi and Uber drivers attempting to make a living.

Please do not misunderstand.

However, the gentleman speaks like my friend, Indian co-worker and trainer 'Sandy'.

But the video is a comedy classic. As is the one from the Ukraine.

More Mysterious Postal Mail

Google+

Related October Post

Birthday Chuck: Tom Jones Commentary

Maple Ridge about two years ago exactly, on a local walk

Tom Jones, The Star, April 2015

Trish Crawford author

Cited

'Tom Jones — The Life, beyond the knickers, open shirts and gold chains'

'Tom Jones, the singer known for his exposed chest, swivel hips, sexual escapades and deep, strong voice, has always wanted to be respected as an artist, according to a new biography.'

End Cited

Here was have (satirically) a possible Biblical connection with the fine singer, Mr. Tom Jones.

Perhaps Tom Jones' chest hair made him 'like Samson' in regards to his Delilah?

 

Satire & Security?

Late night/early morning dinner at a restaurant, after the end of the work week...

I am greeted by an approximately 6 foot 1 inches in height redhead and very friendly hostess.

Paraphrased

Hostess: The weather here (Metropolitan Vancouver) is nothing like California, like I was told it would be (Vancouver weather would be like California weather).

Me: True, the Okanagan has summer weather somewhat like California, but the winter would be much colder (In the Okanagan).

Hostess: I came out here from Toronto because my boyfriend did, and so I followed him. I thought like, what the hell.

Me: So, it must be pretty serious? (The relationship)

Hostess: No, it is nothing too serious.

Me: Vancouver is like California in that the people (generally) are liberal.

(I could not resist making the philosophical connection)

Hostess: Yes!

She was sort of ditzy and smart...

The previous time we chatted she mentioned that after her shift she had to get a ride home from a taxi because her boyfriend was drunk and could not provide her transportation home.

Interesting secular perspective on romantic relationships and life, in contrast to a Biblical view.
---

A perspective from work and a few employees...

Being above average (attractive looking) is not the same as being 'hot' (beautiful looking).

A colleague and I were reasoning a few people need some attitude adjustments.

(I am neither above average or beautiful, in my opinion, by they way)

One's looks are not primarily self-caused, so one should be humble in any case.
---
I state this is a moderate conservative, but one thing philosophically confirmed to me being in the corporate world for two years is that many corporations have money as their God.

This is of course contrary to Scripture (James for example).

James 5:1-6 New American Standard Bible (NASB)

5 Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries which are coming upon you.
2 Your riches have rotted and your garments have become moth-eaten.
3 Your gold and your silver have rusted; and their rust will be a witness against you and will consume your flesh like fire. It is in the last days that you have stored up your treasure!
4 Behold, the pay of the laborers who mowed your fields, and which has been withheld by you, cries out against you; and the outcry of those who did the harvesting has reached the ears of the Lord of [a]Sabaoth.
5 You have lived luxuriously on the earth and led a life of wanton pleasure; you have [b]fattened your hearts in a day of slaughter.
6 You have condemned and [c]put to death the righteous man; he does not resist you.

Footnotes:
James 5:4 I.e. Hosts James 5:5 Lit nourished James 5:6 Or murdered
New American Standard Bible (NASB) Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation

Wealth is not inherently wrong, but its misuse is...

The needs of the shareholders and top executives take precedent over everything else in many cases, including employees, ethics and morality.

Now of course I had my complaints with the academic world and academic 'dictatorships' as well...
---

A fellow security officer informed me that our employer, a security company, is for sale for...

1 Billion (Canadian I assume)

The corporation we are contracted for onsite is worth approximately 2.7 trillion (US) worldwide in assets. According to Wikipedia.
---
The other day at work I took mandatory company security courses (as opposed to the different mandatory site corporation courses which I have to do more often).

As an academic it appears to me the courses were rushed after the 'Paris' terrorist incidents.

There were numerous spelling mistakes and the section on Workplace Violence even had many questions with the answers in red provided in the question.

(Note, I realize I make mistakes on my sites, but when I see them I fix them as soon as possible)

As well, with my weapons training and the MMA-Street Fighting online course I am presently working through, red flags were raised; many of the photos shown where a security officer was to defend self have the officer in the line of attack with a gun or knife.

Any substantial weapons training will demonstrate that one is to stay off the line of attack, in other words be to the side of the weapon in defending. This is the case with outside blocks and even inside blogs required as the stance and defence should begin from the outside heading in with a block (or hold) and a severe strike needs to be used simultaneously.

This is where elbow strikes are very useful, as one can use elbow strikes while holding the attacker's arm, keeping him/her off balance.

Low kicks can also be useful in this context, especially a roundhouse.

It is essential to not face the attacker and weapon directly.

I also mentioned the courses to the new site corporation area security manager, a former Australian commando and trained terrorism expert. We agree that in close combat a knife is more difficult to defend than a handgun. The knife having more 'points' of attack. He also stated that no one gets away without being cut in a knife fight and that is quite reasonable, whereas it is easier, if one is close enough and knowledgeable to at least disarm someone with a handgun.

A gun from a distance against one unarmed requires one to run and or hide.

There was one main gross company video (dramatized) by the way as one of the opening scenes shows the bloody results of a female employee being shot in the head...

Vancouver

Tattooed Microwave Glass Tray

Mission, British Columbia

Turkies

Regardless of one's views in regards to the West being involved outside of the West...this is sad.

The Greece @ Turkey friendly match, was none to friendly to victims of the recent France terrorist attacks.

Along with booing, whistling and other verbal messages from the Turkish crowd, "Allahu Akbar," was heard, meaning God is great, or God is greater from the Arabic to the English.

My moderate conservative position, religiously and politically is cautious of Western involvement is non-Western affairs. I personally favour a very strong Western military alliance, such as NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization), but more so for defensive purposes and defensive war.

When non-Western nations are interfered with as in via Western military, a rational response from the masses such as democracy is better than different types of dictatorships, therefore, Western influence is good and appreciated, to mould a dictatorship toward democracy, should not necessarily be expected from the masses.

This Western approach although somewhat rational, seems to me to overlook the human and national pride aspect of non-Western peoples.

This corrupted within sinful human nature. (Romans 1-6 in general terms).

Many in the masses will non-rationally,  support THEIR tyrant or like, over a Western foreigner.

That being stated, I reason there is no excuse or good rational and ethical reason to support terrorism in any form.

Shame on the Turkies...

(Note: November 21 via Facebook an article was linked to me and by second hand knowledge it was stated that the crowd may have not been supporting the terrorist act, but were in disagreement with the terrorists and/or Western foreign policy. I found some other articles with other views and this is a questionable position. Some may have been making noises for other reasons but this is still disrespectful. And that is only some, please see comments section).

As noted in a recent post on my other blog, even in a state of War, I view killing civilians and non-combatants as immoral and unethical.

As well, even though I have a Biblical Christian worldview and not a secular one,  I strongly support the Western objective (Romans 13) to protect itself, its nations, as in maintaining law and order.

As well, I of course do not believe in the Islamic God, which to me is a cultural creation hundreds of years after Christianity and in disagreement with central Christian theology, such as the Nature of God, The Trinity, The Deity of Christ, The Atonement of Christ and Salvation By Grace through Faith Alone. That being unto good works (Ephesians 2) and not in any way, by good works.

The events at the match also makes me ponder...

I can accept that many Western Muslims do not support radical Islam and terrorism.

However, what about the Turkish population?

A member of NATO.

Should the European Union (for which I am an overseas citizen) allow Turkish membership?

Over Turkey: Travel+Leisure/Facebook

WOTT: Waste Of Time Theory

Facebook

Boundless

Cited

'Host: Lisa Anderson

GUESTS: Candice Watters

[3:22] - He's much older than she. He keeps asking her to do things with his friends. She's not interested, but doesn't want to hurt his feelings. Is there a way to let him down kindly, but once and for all? Candice Watters offers advice.'

End Citations

I am not looking for conflict here, I am reviewing in an academic context and seeking truth, not in perfect objectivity but seeking objectivity.

After emailing Focus on the Family, I was placed on their email list and it links to this interesting site and program. As well, I have emailed both the host and guest counsellor separately on this issue in general terms.

I admit, I reason I can learn from the site and program.

As with other books and audio I have commented on there is agreement and disagreement.

I very much agree with the host and guest counsellor that a person not interested in a relationship, a relationship of any kind, should not be further pursued.

In the story presented, the man should back off permanently.

I also agree with the host that women should not show mixed signals to men that have showed interest in them.

A rejection, if necessary, should be final and one should not dabble with the person rejected in thought and action.

Even if in secret.

If in Christ, a rejection was made in haste and there is rejection remorse still months and years later, then a prayerful reconsideration of the rejection may need to take place

Perhaps repentance.

All Christians, including myself need to repent at times.

It should be no surprise that some in Christ need to repent in the area of romantic interest, at times, in light of the inner and external spiritual darkness associated with romantic love.

No surprise at all...

The Boundless guest counsellor was very annoyed that men twenty years older would even show interest in younger women.

(By the way, in contrast, in all the Christian counselling I took at Columbia Bible College, I was taught that the counsellor should remain rather objective and non-emotional when counselling.)

It can be deduced this would be the case in every instance with the guest counsellor's view, not just the case discussed where the man seemingly was not accepting rejection.

The guest counsellor stated this incident placed her almost over the edge.

The guest counsellor stated the act by the man was creepy.

Many readers from a Western context would connect the act with the man and view him also as creepy.

A creep.

Is a single man twenty years older necessarily committing a creepy act by pursuing someone younger that is a legal adult and of child-bearing age? (1 Corinthians 7, Matthew 5).

Is he a creep?

Where is the evidence?

(She just assumes--ass u me, as was taught to me by my trainer with my first insurance job.)

Where does the Scripture state this view?

Or is this more an American, North American and Western philosophical and cultural construct?

The guest counsellor view seemed at least to some degree:

Unbiblical
Unbalanced
An overreaction

The pre-set bias of at least some of the Focus On the Family counsellors and psychologists is demonstrated here.

By my deduction and reasoning, a typical American Evangelical perhaps fundamentalistic, Focus psychologist would state in regard to a younger woman in a potential relationship to a man 10+ years older, the problem would be a lack of similar relationship experience, interests and life goals.

Even if there was mutual spiritual, intellectual and romantic attraction.

Therefore, the relationship should not be considered. 

However, if I could object with the counter...

My relationship experience is limited and therefore similar to someone much younger, and I may have similar interests and life goals as someone younger.

For example, I still want to be married with a family in a Biblical model. God willing.

Therefore, the relationship should be considered, where there is mutual spiritual, intellectual and romantic attraction.

I reason this would be largely ignored by Focus professionals, due to pre-set bias and views and could be countered with...

Anyone, 35 years of age+ that does not have significant relationship experience must be significantly psychological, perhaps spiritually, flawed.

(This may be alluded to and not clearly stated.)

The person under review needs counselling.

(By the way, I have friends in counselling and psychology and no one that knows me well has seriously criticized my views.)

(It is only some rare outsiders that do.)

Therefore, the relationship should not be considered.

But I would counter...

This a mere assumption.

The post-Christian era is among us.

Christianity and the Church in decline.

Numbers of Christians low, especially in BC and Canada.

The Evangelical church has lost its ways theologically in many cases.

The number of available committed, theological Christians of any age is significantly limited.

Biblical Christians should consider more reasonable, Biblical options.

Therefore, the relationship should not be rejected as a possibility due to lack of relationship experience of the older man.

Now, I do not want to use an accident fallacy.

Generally most younger women will not be attracted to older men.

I hold to:

'WOTT'

Waste Of Time Theory

In other words, I do not believe in wasting my time pursuing any kind of relationship where the other does not show significant mutual interest.

Interestingly, I just connected again with a Christian friend I had not seen since 1986 and so I also reason that situations can change over time.

Business Insider October 23 2015

Cited

'9 ways to start a conversation with absolutely anyone'

Cited

'Ask a hypothetical question. These can be great conversation starters, but try to tie them into something happening at the event or in current events to avoid seeming too random. You might say something like, "I just saw this movie where all the laws were revoked for one day. What would you do if there were no laws for a day?"'

Seriously?

A philosophical question in regard to law and ethics?

We might as well just do the tie in to the free will and determinism debate as icebreaker...

Canada v America On Freedom

From documented article

US News and World Report

Cited

'This Is the Freest Country in the World Sorry, America.'

'By Lauren Boyer Nov. 3, 2015 | 10:54 a.m. EST'

America is the Western democracy with the world's largest and most powerful military.

America having the largest and most powerful military within Western democracy does not necessarily equate to being the most free country.

Canada v America: It is interesting that the United States had an armed revolution against the United Kingdom to achieve its type of freedom, whereas Canada remained under British control to achieve its type of freedom.

Therefore, was armed revolution, which seems to read as unBiblical from Romans 13, necessary to obtain Western democracy?

The United States is perhaps the greatest (quantitative) country ever to exist and it is also a propaganda machine.

As a professor of mine at Columbia Bible College once told me, all nations have mythology and therefore I would deduce, propaganda.

Ironically, that institution also had its own form of Mennonite non-resistance mythology and propaganda, but I digress.

Cited

'America may call itself the "Land of the Free," but it's hardly the freest nation in the world, according to a new report from the Legatum Institute, a London-based think tank.'

I am not stating that any of these reports can dogmatically and certainly document which country is the most free. I would reason that some categories are chosen for review and some are not and this effects results, statistics and conclusions.

This becomes a complex endeavour and ranking nations is questionable and not certain.

America may be the most free country according to some results, statistics and conclusions.

When I completed questionnaires and statistics at MPhil and PhD research theses level, I certainly with United Kingdom/European academic standards had to aim for as high level of objectivity as possible, but still some questions were asked and some were not.

But, I find it interesting that the United States of America is now behind Canada for the third time in recent articles I have posted on my sites.

However, as an outsider I am not going to make truth claims in regard to these reports, but they offer research to consider.

Humen Freedom Index

In regard to freedom, as I noted previously, I ponder if the large military and intelligence structure in the United States, which admittedly within NATO protects not only America, but also the Western world and other, can also work against the freedoms of Americans.

Because of its 'world policeman' status, perhaps the freedoms of those in other countries are also effected at times.

Increased surveillance of citizens, due to potential Islamic terrorist threats is one hypothetical example that I list that may limit freedoms.

My second country and birthplace of my Father, the United Kingdom, is ranked at twelve.

Cited

'The group's annual prosperity index, which ranks the prosperity of 142 countries, has ranked Canada the best country in the world for "personal freedom."

According to the study, Canada is the most tolerant of people from other countries, with 92 percent of Canadians thinking the country is a good place for immigrants. In addition, about 94 percent of Canadians believe that they have the freedom to choose the course of their own lives, the study says.' 

Cited

'America, on the other hand, ranks 15th for frezedom, just behind Costa Rica and the Netherlands. The best countries for personal freedom are: 1. Canada 2. New Zealand 3. Norway 4. Luxembourg 5. Iceland 6. Ireland 7. Sweden 8. Denmark 9. Australia 10. Uruguay



Crazy drummer; he is a like a real life 'Animal'.

Columbia: One of my best entertainment purchases...

No Prince Charming...Audio

Saudi Arabia: Macintosh

I was out for a dinner a couple of times this weekend, but I am home tonight rather than deciding to go out dressed as Bobby Buff attempting to earn Maple Ridge candy...

Cited

BY BIL BROWNING OCTOBER 23 2015 1:24 PM EDT

Advocate October 23

'Saudi Prince Dodges Felony Charges, But Faces Lurid Lawsuit'

Cited

'Saudi Prince Majed Abdulaziz Al-Saud avoided felony charges after a bloodied woman scaled the wall of his Beverly Hills mansion and accused him of sexually assualting her earlier this year. But now three female employees have filed a lawsuit that outlines more of what they claim happened at the compound, including new accusations that the prince had sex with men.

Gay sex is illegal in Saudi Arabia and is punishable by life in prison, castration, or even death. Gay men are regularly arrested and severely punished in the conservative Muslim nation.'

Cited

'The case made national headlines when Al-Saud, the son of the late King Abdullah, was arrested in September after police rescued a bleeding woman screaming for help as she tried to climb an 8-foot wall to escape the prince's rented $37-million mansion. The woman claimed he had tried to force her to have oral sex, according to the Los Angeles Times. Prosecutors later said they didn't have enough evidence to charge Al-Saud, and he was released on $300,000 bail.

Now three former female employees have filed a lawsuit against the prince, claiming he attacked them in the mansion over the course of several days.

The lawsuit, filed on Thursday, seeks unspecified damages. They claim they tried to escape three times before the police arrived and arrested the prince. Al-Saud has denied the charges, claiming the women are trying to extort money from him. The women say the prince forced himself upon them at drug- and booze-fueled parties, including forcing the women to watch as a male aide masturbated the prince and another aide bent over to "break wind" in the prince's face.'

Cited

By RUTH STYLES FOR DAILYMAIL.COM PUBLISHED: 13:02 GMT, 26 October 2015 | UPDATED: 13:17 GMT, 26 October 2015

Daily Mail October 26 2015

Cited

'EXCLUSIVE: Perverted Saudi prince ordered his entire staff to strip naked at his Beverly Hills mansion's pool'

Cited

'Alleged that he had male aide break wind in his face to order and that he was also pleasured by the man - gay sex is punishable by death in Saudi'

Cited

'The claim is made in legal documents laying out details of the civil case against Prince Majed bin Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, 29, who was arrested in Los Angeles last month after neighbors spotted a crying, bleeding woman attempting to scale a wall of his compound.

He is also accused of failing to prevent aides from mistreating three female members of his domestic staff – with the result that they now also face charges, although Prince Majed remains the lead defendant. The women, who all allege sexual harassment and say they were imprisoned at the mansion against their will, have filed a civil claim '

Cited

'One of the most eye-catching incidents came shortly before Prince Majed's arrest on September 25th and saw him demand that his entire household go down to the pool and strip off.'

Cited

'He also threatened to kill one of the women if she refused to 'party' with him and jumped on top of another and began rubbing himself against her in a 'sexual and aggressive manner'.

When asked to stop, he allegedly then yelled: 'I am a prince and I do what I want. You are nobody!''

End Citations

Contrast

'When asked to stop, he allegedly then yelled: 'I am a prince and I do what I want. You are nobody!'''

Philippians 2: 3

English Standard Version

Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves.

New American Standard Bible

Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves;

1 Peter 4: 3

English Standard Version

For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry.

New American Standard Bible

For the time already past is sufficient for you to have carried out the desire of the Gentiles, having pursued a course of sensuality, lusts, drunkenness, carousing, drinking parties and abominable idolatries.

Galatians 5:20-21

English Standard Version (ESV)

20 idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, 21 envy,[a] drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God.

Footnotes: Galatians 5:21 Some manuscripts add murder

Galatians 5:20-21

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

20 idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, [a]factions, 21 envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you, just as I have forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. 

Footnotes: Galatians 5:20 Or heresies

But Is There A Good Point To This?

Express.co.uk

Daily Mail October 24

By APP

Cited

'Huge crowds of black-clad Shiite faithful massed in the Iraqi city of Karbala Saturday, crying and beating their chests to commemorate the 7th century killing of the prophet's grandson.

The holy day of Ashura was marred by attacks in Pakistan and Bangladesh but unfolded peacefully in southern Iraq, where last year's security fears have given way to political grievances.

Gathered under the golden dome of Imam Hussein's mausoleum in Karbala, devotees clutching paper tissues wailed and wiped their tears as they listened to accounts of Hussein's death.'

Cited

'The dirge cantor himself repeatedly choked back tears as he sang the praise of Hussein, whose 680 AD killing by the armies of Caliph Yazid lies at the heart of the Sunni-Shiite schism.

Many Shiite worshippers travel from neighbouring Iran and other countries each year to visit the shrine, which lies about 80 kilometres (50 miles) southwest of Baghdad.

Millions of others across the Shiite world, from Lebanon to south Asia, hold processions in their home towns, performing a variety of rituals, many involving flagellation.

Some beat their backs to a drumbeat using chains or blades. Others beat their heads with a sword until their faces and their white mourning robes are covered in blood.

Karbala and other cities hosted traditional reenactments of Hussein's martyrdom, complete with horseback warriors and the torching of the camp where the third Shiite imam and his vastly outnumbered followers made their last stand.

The 10th day of the mourning month of Muharram has been marred by attacks in the past and Iraq deployed tens of thousands of security forces across the country.'

End Citations

From a Christian perspective, I would point out that non-Christians can definitely be spiritual but the human being and human spirit is of a sinful nature (Romans 1-8) since the Biblical fall (Genesis 3). Spiritual does not necessarily equate with connection to the true God in a direct sense.

Although I acknowledge in a Western societal context the rights of other law abiding worldviews to exist and do so publicly, I would state that Islam and Shiite Islam has a different worldview and different core theology than does Biblical, New Testament Christianity which also uses the Hebrew Bible for historical and religious support.

1 John 1:5-10

English Standard Version (ESV)

5 This is the message we have heard from him and proclaim to you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.

6 If we say we have fellowship with him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth.

7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.

8 If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.

9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

10 If we say we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.

Verse 7, the blood of Christ Jesus Christ cleanses those of Christ from sin.

In other words, the atoning work of Christ, covers and is applied to the sins of those that are in Christ, those that believe. This also connects to the resurrection of Christ and the future resurrection of believers (1 Corinthians 15, Revelation 21-22).

Another New Testament example

Hebrews 9:18-22

English Standard Version (ESV)

18 Therefore not even the first covenant was inaugurated without blood.

19 For when every commandment of the law had been declared by Moses to all the people, he took the blood of calves and goats, with water and scarlet wool and hyssop, and sprinkled both the book itself and all the people,

20 saying, “This is the blood of the covenant that God commanded for you.”

21 And in the same way he sprinkled with the blood both the tent and all the vessels used in worship.

22 Indeed, under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.

Jesus Christ was both perfect man, that did not sin (1 Peter 2: 22) and was God incarnate (John 1, Colossians 2: 9).

Therefore there was a reasonable and meaningful eternal point to the shedding of his blood.

The atonement.

However this Islamic Shiite ritual is in my mind misguided spirituality. The core views on God and theology are in error by a theological system that arose hundred of years after the New Testament in a different era, from a different group of persons in a different part of the world. Islam and the Qur'an, not in reality connected to the religious history of the New Testament and Hebrew Bible although claiming its own connection with its own newer revelation.

The gospel rejected.

But, I do acknowledge within a Western context, the need for lawful exercise of religious and intellectual freedom, private and public.

Possibly Turkey: Facebook and Travel+Leirsure

High Hopes, High Profit

My nooks.ca

I just heard this story on Denver via Albert Mohler: The Briefing.

In Canada with the new Liberal government, it will be interesting to see what occurs here...

Denver Post October 20

Quote

'Your nose isn't lying: One in 11 industrial buildings in central Denver is full of marijuana'. 

Cited

'Between 2009 and 2014, the industry's appetite for real estate was voracious, with marijuana cultivation gobbling up more than a third — 35.8 percent — of all industrial space leased in Denver during that five-year period.'

Cited

'"It really kick-started the recovery of the industrial market in Denver," said Jessica Ostermick, director of research and analysis for CBRE in Denver.'

End Citations

This (economic reasons) in Western societies is philosophically a key in any discussion of marijuana being illegal, legal, or somewhere in between as in de-criminalized. 

Cited

'"It's a new and disruptive industry," he said, "one that's making a huge impact, some positive, some negative, to mainstream businesses."'

CBC October 21

Cited

'How legalized marijuana could change Canadian cities

Advocates hopeful prime minister-designate Justin Trudeau will act on vow to make pot legal'

Cited

'Trudeau has already said he's not comfortable with marijuana being sold at local corner stores, stressing that any changes would need to make it more difficult for minors to get their hands on the drug.

He insists legalization would make it tougher for minors to buy pot and would also keep the profits away from organized crime.'

Cited

'Similarly, it will likely be up to the provinces to determine whether the sale of marijuana will be done through a provincial Crown corporation, as is the case for wine and spirits in Quebec, or through private businesses, as is the case for alcohol in Alberta, he said.

Some jurisdictions may even choose to ban the sale of marijuana outright, he said. One thing is for certain — there will be an added sales tax on marijuana.

"It comes down fundamentally to tax collection," Greenblatt said.'

End Citations

There is another key with the marijuana issue as in taxation opportunities for City and local, Provincial (State) and Federal governments.

Cited

'The trick, he said, will be to keep the tax low enough so that marijuana users don't turn to the black market. Some of the revenue, he suggested, could be used to raise awareness among teens about some of the risks of using marijuana.'

Cited

'The Liberals have said Colorado, which last year became the first U.S. state to legalize marijuana for recreational use, could be used as a model for legislation here in Canada.

In Colorado, an individual over the age of 21 is allowed to possess up to about 28 grams of marijuana for personal use.

The Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police has been pushing since 2013 for officers to have the ability to ticket people found with 30 grams of marijuana or less. 

Mario Hamel, the association's vice-president and the chief of the Gatineau police, said legalizing marijuana could free up officers to address other issues. But his association has other concerns. 

"Organized crime is there to make money," he said. "The opportunity could shift to other drugs — maybe cheaper drugs, chemical drugs."'

End Citations

In the end, profits for business, growth for economy, a growth of GDP/GNP and more taxation for governments will place legalized marijuana as normal in most, at least, Western societies.

These issues will take precedence over concerns of marijuana being produced and distributed by organized crime, an argument often used by many pro-marijuana supporters. And after all, there are still all kinds of other drugs, some more dangerous that organized crime can be involved with as in production and distribution.

These economic issues also in at least, most Western societies, will take precedence over health and social concerns often raised by those that hold to anti-marijuana views. At least for recreational use.

I realize that marijuana can be used for medical purposes which should be considered differently than recreational use.

Personally, I hold to the idea of seeking a sober mind, in the spiritual, intellectual and physical context.

1 Peter 5:8 ESV

Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.

1 Peter 1:13 ESV

Therefore, preparing your minds for action, and being sober-minded, set your hope fully on the grace that will be brought to you at the revelation of Jesus Christ. 

1 Peter 4:7 ESV

The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers.

Therefore, I would abstain from marijuana, and because of sleep apnea, although being less of an issue because the condition has become less. 

I would not smoke anything.

I consume alcohol rarely and always in moderation, perhaps one drink on special occasions.

Thankfully Not What Work Is Like

Cascade Regional Park: Deroche BC

My two academic Blogger blogs, not the Facebook blog page, now feature new modern templates.

Stat Counter, now having very helpful technical support, informed me finally after many years of Elvis Presley dead silence that my classic templates were unable to work properly with Stat Counter as far as reading mobile pageviews.

I have therefore made attempts at customizing the modern templates which I hope are at least good and somewhat colour wise like previous classic templates, which I did not think were visually outdated at least.

I spent several years with HTML code developing those sites with classic templates into a look I really preferred and in reality they are not much different than the present custom templates. The previous templates were custom as well, just now outdated.

Well, I actually hope the new custom templates are excellent, but I am male and happen to like solid and dark colours; therefore my templates will not be everyone's cup of tea...



Thankfully Not What Work Is Like

I presently work in corporate security for a multi-trillion dollar asset corporation and so far the worst thing I have had to do is yell at some man for urinating near the corporate sign.

And of course stay away from the teeth of the K-9 unit with an attitude.

Quite a funny video in places. I do not know if they are all non-fictional. I sense some theatre...

Facebook

I never attempt to be offensive on my blogs, but I think there is some truth in the above Dos Equis parody. Those who have read through the blog comments section, yes, few people, will realize that I have shared a like philosophy.

By the way, I think Dos Equis beer is very good, but as I drink little, I have not had one in several years.

Internet trolls are abusive.

Internet trolls intentionally cause negative environment.

Therefore, internet trolls can be reasonably blocked or deleted.

---

Worldview, theology, philosophy, cultural and social issues can be discussed intellectually.

Worldview, theology, philosophy, cultural and social issues can be discussed academically.

Worldview, theology, philosophy, cultural and social issues can be discussed objectively.

Worldview, theology, philosophy, cultural and social issues can be discussed in non-personal terms.

Therefore, a block or deletion is not reasonable.

Further

I am not stating one should not share Christian faith as well as philosophy, but I am stating that it can be discussed objectively as opposed to subjectively as in person versus person.

Personal issues could also be discussed without becoming a person versus person debate.

A block or deletion shows weakness by the blocking or deleting side.

Is the blocking or deleting side afraid the other side may be right on some points?

Is the blocking or deleting side afraid that the other side may provide points that may influence one to have to consider changing their views?

Trillion dollar points to consider...

Unsolicited Textbooks: So Is Someone Sending Me A Message?

Apologies for the sound quality which is somewhat distorted. I turned the system volume down but I still needed to be too close to the camera microphone in order to open the book wrapping. Also, although the Wonder Share text size varies with the videos, it is too large here...

Therefore I provide the original Microsoft version as well.

So, is someone sending me a message?

trekearth-Vancouver

I Was Invited To A Party Tonight And Nobody Was Home

Starbucks/Indigo buys. as the party changed sites

A girl phoned me the other day and said... 'Come on over, there's nobody home.' I went over. Nobody was home.

Rodney Dangerfield

Read more at

http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/quotes/r/rodneydang154022.html#zMfJUZrqqd6Ht9S4.99

More Regrets The Older One Gets?

Facebook

Vancouver

The longer one lives the more facts can be known, if one is wise  

This reminds me of one of the most profound things my former Pastor stated, for me anyway, and I have shared this on the Blogger blogs previously.

He stated that when one is twenty years old they have few regrets, but by the time they reach forty years old they have more regrets, and by the time they reach sixty (his approximate age) years of age they have even more and greater regrets.

I know that human beings being finite, need experience to learn, but it seems to me by being open-minded to facts and wisdom it can save one many regrets.

Theologically from a Biblical perspective it places one more likely in God's perfect will as opposed to God's permissible will.

Public Relations Assist On The Way

VR-Zone & Facebook: Volkswagen Hippy Van Cooler 

My satirical take on this photo is that Volkswagen needs all the public relations assistance it can receive at this moment in history and it was therefore rather interesting that this image suddenly appeared at this time.

On a more serious note, I view Volkswagen as a quality vehicle and automotive manufacturer.

Incidentally, my Mother used to own a Volkswagen Beetle when I was very little, which was a high quality vehicle.

The Volkswagen reputation, much like Toyota and Honda is admittedly very good worldwide.

Satirically, here is some further public relations assistance for Volkswagen, one of the largest automotive manufacturers in the world.

I did some research and I can confirm what I have heard and that is that Volkswagen was founded by...

Wikipedia

Cited

'Volkswagen was originally created in 1937 by the German Labour Front (Deutsche Arbeitsfront).[3]'

Wikipedia

Cited

'The German Labour Front (German: Deutsche Arbeitsfront, DAF) was the National Socialist trade union organization which replaced the various trade unions of the Weimar Republic after Adolf Hitler's rise to power. Its leader was Robert Ley, who stated its aim as 'to create a true social and productive community' (Smelster, 1988).' "

The flag of the DAF

Cited

Deutsche Arbeitsfront" by Oren neu dag (talk) Data from Davis/Mc Gregor: "Flags of the Third Reich" Part 3, London 1994, ISBN 1 85532 459 8 - self made

This vector image was created with Inkscape.. Licensed under Public Domain via Commons.

Wikipedia: DAF

Adolf Hitler

Hope this helps...

More Twisted In Regards To Commandments

Vancouver: New flag

I viewed this short, trashy type, hockey-related article on Facebook news while relaxing after work. But even though it is a trashy news story, there are some theological benefits that can be taken from the story.

Yahoo September 21

Cited

'Model Tries to Extort $2,000 From Jaromir Jagr With Post-Sex Selfie, Fails'

Cited

'Recently, 43-year-old NHL legend Jaromir Jagr slept with an 18-year-old model. And while that's really NBD—and none of our business—the story took a weird twist and became public knowledge after the girl that Jagr slept with took a picture of him sleeping after the deed was done. The woman—or someone associated with the woman—then threatened to sell it to the media unless he paid $2,000. She was prepared to do what other women have done to pro athletes in the past (hi, Julian Edelman and James Harden!) if he didn't pay up.

'Just one problem...he's single so he didn't have to try to hide the post-sex selfie from his wife or girlfriend. As a result, he had just one response for the blackmailer when she said she was going to put the photo up on the Internet for all to see: "I don't care."'

End Citations

This led to a photo of the affair being published online.

I provide the link for proper reference, but I am not at all interested in sorted affair photos on my blogs; I am interested in theological and philosophical lessons perhaps with a satirical angle for this website.

Biblically commandments of God were broken, adultery took place or more specifically and accurately for our 21st century context, fornication. Biblically, fornication would be under the umbrella of adultery as adults were most often married within Biblical era cultures.

The woman was also coveting money from the older man.

There was obviously no love for neighbour as self.  (Matthew 22, Mark 12).

National Hockey League great, Jaromir Jagr will be commended by many for not yielding to a blackmailer, but he also demonstrates as does the younger woman, no shame or remorse in the fornication and in particular fornication outside of loving, committed relationship.

It is typical in this modern age for people to be commended for doing sinful things, because at the same time they stood up to something else sinful.

This blog therefore has material...

I will not stand on a soapbox here regarding the commandments and sexual sin (Exodus 20. Matthew 5, 1 Corinthians 7) as I have commented on my sin with thought issues although I seek God's perfect will, but will stay consistent as I do acknowledge fornication as sin without judging human motives as that is up to God.

For those who dwell on the 25-year difference in the story, I would comment that it is not the main problem. Yes, she is now with someone closer to her own age in a relationship. according to the source. My research demonstrates that most people relate better to persons their own age.

Some exceptions being highly intelligent, intellectual types with a wider social range. So, for example, a 60-year-old male scientist in basically, good physical condition and youthful, may relate with a 20 (+) years old female science student, who finds many, not necessarily all, men closer to her age, immature and difficult to relate too. The same could be stated for those interested in religious studies.

Having a shared worldview would often be essential for successful relationships.

An older man (youthful man) seeking his first family is also a consideration.

A secular relationship coach and Facebook friend that I emailed with, he was never my coach, agreed with my reasoning that for committed religious people having the same worldview was often essential. This can make a large age difference reasonable and workable in actuality, even with societal and social norms pointing elsewhere.

I would also add that even though the younger woman in this story had perhaps, if she was indeed involved in the blackmailing, as it seems likely as she posed for a photo, wrong motives in the affair, the two of them even though 25 years apart still had enough significantly in common, perhaps worldview, to have a type of romantic relationship, even though short term.

In other words, if the age difference was such a huge difference why did they even get together at all?

Would not at least one person, reject the other?

Yes, the younger woman can fake a relationship for potential financial gain.

Yes, the older man can fake a relationship for sexual benefits.

The classic story for millennia...

It is also more societally and socially acceptable to be in a relationship with someone close to her age. This point should not be underestimated with regard to actions.

The age issue would not be a Biblical command or significant issue, however.

But it is also reasonably possible the couple in this story connected to some degree because as the saying goes..

'Birds of a feather, flock together'.

The real issues of concern in this article are those regarding sin, blackmail, fornication and lack of significant love.

But many will twist and spin this story as per usual.

This website, therefore, has material...

Vengeance v. Reproof: Mathew 5 Brief Audio

Daily Mail: Over Syria

Notes from audio

At church today the pastor spoke on Matthew 5 38:42

New American Standard Version Matthew 5:38-42

New American Standard Bible (NASB)

38 “You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’
39 But I say to you, do not resist an evil person; but whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn the other to him also.
40 If anyone wants to sue you and take your [a]shirt, let him have your [b]coat also.
41 Whoever [c]forces you to go one mile, go with him two.
42 Give to him who asks of you, and do not turn away from him who wants to borrow from you.

Footnotes: Matthew 5:40

Lit tunic; i.e. a garment worn next to the body

Matthew 5:40

Lit cloak; i.e. an outer garment Matthew 5:41

Lit will force

I agree with his basic argument that Jesus is forbidding vengeance for self, revenge for self, but this does not cancel out the need for a) legal justice b) divine justice

I would add that

Legal justice belongs to the authorities (Romans 13, 2 Peter 2).

Divine justice eventually occurs (2 Peter 5, Revelation 20, 2 Corinthians 5, Romans 12).

However, although a Christian and follower of the Biblical God is not sanctioned to seek vengeance for self, this does not prohibit standing for others and standing for concepts, principle and truth.

2 Timothy 3 has the concept and theology of Scripture being profitable for reproof, therefore one can reproof others, Biblically.

Jesus took Biblical and theological stands throughout the Gospels. To the Hebrew religious teachers, to his own disciples and to whomever God the Father willed.

The Apostle Paul stood up to the Apostle Peter in Galatians 2.

Paul defended his Apostleship in his letters, such as in, for example 2 Corinthians, also notably, 1 Corinthians and Galatians.

ELLISON, H.L. (1986) ‘Matthew’, in F.F. Bruce (ed.), The International Bible Commentary, Grand Rapids, Zondervan.

FRANCE, R.T. (1985) Matthew, Grand Rapids, IVP, Eerdmans.

Mahavishnu V. Beethoven

Hohenschwangau Castle, Bavaria, Germany+Facebook & Travel+Leisure

Columbia

Discogs

Cited

'Mahavishnu Orchestra Profile:

One of the premiere fusion groups, the Mahavishnu Orchestra was considered by most observers during its prime to be a rock band, but its sophisticated improvisations actually put its high-powered music between rock and jazz. Founder and leader John McLaughlin had recently played with Miles Davis and Tony Williams' Lifetime. The original lineup of the group was McLaughlin on electric guitar, violinist Jerry Goodman, keyboardist Jan Hammer, electric bassist Rick Laird, and drummer Billy Cobham. They recorded three intense albums for Columbia Records during 1971-1973 and then the personnel changed completely for the second version of the group.

In addition to McLaughlin, the 1974 incarnation of the band consisted of violinist Jean-Luc Ponty, Gayle Moran on keyboards and vocals, electric bassist Ralphe Armstrong, and drummer Narada Michael Walden; by 1975 Stu Goldberg had replaced Moran and Ponty had left. John McLaughlin's dual interests in Eastern religion and playing acoustic guitar resulted in the band breaking up in 1975.

Surprisingly, an attempt to revive the Mahavishnu Orchestra in 1984 (using Cobham, saxophonist Bill Evans, keyboardist Mitchel Forman, electric bassist Jonas Hellborg, and percussionist Danny Gottlieb) was unsuccessful; one Warner Bros. Records, Inc. album resulted. However, when one thinks of the Mahavishnu Orchestra, it is of the original lineup, which was very influential throughout the 1970s.'

End Citation

From my reading and listening, Mahavishnu Orchestra is primarily considered of the jazz fusion genre, or jazz rock, being mainly jazz and secondarily rock and classical.

The first two bands were phenomenal, but the third band, 1984 and onward sounds more to me like modern jazz than jazz fusion or jazz rock; therefore it lacked the originality of sound.

Quote

'John McLaughlin's dual interests in Eastern religion and playing acoustic guitar resulted in the band breaking up in 1975."

Mahavishnu is by far primarily, instrumental and without vocals and lyrics. Even so the very name itself is religious and much of the music, at least, has religious purpose.

Mahavishnu

Cited '

Mahavishnu (Devanāgarī : महाविष्णु) is an aspect of Vishnu, the Absolute which is beyond human comprehension and is beyond all attributes.'

End Citations

A fundamentalist Christian perspective may be in many cases that a band such as Mahavishnu Orchestra should be avoided.

This would be considered by some as spiritually and intellectually dangerous, or potentially spiritually and intellectually dangerous, even if from a listening Christian perspective there is disagreement with the Eastern religious views.

This is often a fear of the spiritually unknown and how it may effect the Christian believer, spiritually and intellectually.

I prefer to deal with the reasonably known with the use of faith and reason in God's guidance.

Note two recent articles.

Philippians 4:8

Philippians 4:8 II

As a theological Christian I can disagree with the Eastern religious views of Mahavishnu Orchestra and at the same enjoy the musicality.

At the same time I can intellectually learn from the music in regards to the need for technical excellence, creativity, innovativeness and open-mindedness in my own life work.

I own all the five albums already but am buying the collection at a reasonable price for eight bonus tracks.

Again to 'appease the Christian fundamentalist types'; I readily admit that my previous CD purchase was more traditional, and may be considered culturally Christian acceptable.

Decca

This includes that classic historical track by Beethoven Choral Symphony: Ode To Joy.

By far musically my least favourite track on the disc...

However, Beethoven may not pass the fundamentalist Christian musical test much better than Mahavishnu Orchestra.

Hollowverse:The religions and political views of the influentials

Cited

'Ludwig van Beethoven was born and grew up in Bonn, Germany.

Beethoven was raised a Catholic, and his baptism records still exist to this day,1 though it seems unlikely that his was a religious family. Beethoven’s father was an alcoholic and his mother died when he was a teenager.

And it is widely agreed upon by historians that Beethoven didn’t attend Mass very often,2 nor did he claim allegiance to any church as an adult.3

However, Beethoven seems to have turned to religion when it might serve him. For example, one of his lifelong patrons and cheerleaders was Archduke Rudolph, the Cardinal Archbishop of Olmütz.4' Cited 'Religion Beethoven was born a Catholic, but except for a few instances, didn't appear to be very devout.'

Cal Tech

Cited

'From historical evidence, today’s scholars know that Beethoven did not attend Mass regularly, and from that they inferred that he was not an orthodox Christian. His actual religious beliefs are not clearly defined, but references in his letters imply a firm belief in an ultimate, benign, and intelligent Power.'

End Citations

Beethoven was documented as likely nominally Roman Catholic, not Protestant, and he may have believed simply in a higher intelligent Power.

Time to toss out those Beethoven CDs?

After all, who knows what spiritual and intellectual damage might be done through his mainly, like Mahavishnu, instrumental music?

I just purchased mine, and although not a huge fan with only one Beethoven CD, I am keeping it for musical and intellectual growth and interest.

Live Snakes Taste Like Chocolate?

News Zimbabwe.com

Daily Mail July 20, 2015

An article from July, but I saw this on my Facebook feed this week.

From Jane Flanagan

Cited

'Penuel Mnguni, 27, told parishoners live snakes would taste like chocolate

Police arrested self-styled 'Prophet' after by animal charity SPCA saw the disturbing pictures of worshippers eating rare, protected snakes

'Miracle worker' Mngungi also turned one parishoner into a horse and rode on his back, fed another a purple rag 

Pastor faces charges for animal cruelty after he caught the Striped Skaapsteker in Shshanguve near Pretoria'

Cited 

'A priest in South Africa is facing trial for animal cruelty after he fed his congregation live snakes in a bizarre ritual to test their faith. Penuel Mnguni quoted verses from the Bible as he told his followers that mouthfuls of the reptiles would taste like chocolate. 

In extraordinary pictures the controversial priest, 27, performed 'miracles' by turning one parishoner into a horse and climbing on his back, he fed a young girl the hair of another worshipper and put a purple rag into the mouth of another.'

Cited

'Mnguni calls himself 'Prophet Penuel' and his congregation boast he is a 'man of God' with the power to perform miracles. They said he has the power to put worshippers into a trance and turn them into horses - and turn live snakes into chocolate.

The self-styled 'prophet' was arrested after South Africa's biggest animal charity, the SPCA tipped off police.

SPCA inspector Andrew Kekana said that Mnguni had caught protected snakes from the bush near the End Times Disciples Ministries Church in Shshanguve, north of Pretoria, South Africa.

Cited

The protected species, which grows to around of 60cm, is indigenous to South Africa and does not pose a threat to humans.

On the church's Facebook page, there are disturbing photos of worshippers performing humiliating acts to prove the strength of their belief.

On the site one parishoner wrote: 'Those with little faith eat only vegetables but the ones with a great faith eat everything. '

During the service the Man of God commanded a snake to change into a chocolate and it obeyed. People ate it and enjoyed it.'

Cited

'But the 'Prophet' has been accused on social media of being 'satanic'.

Morongwa Thapelo Chiloane wrote on Facebook: 'Eating a snake with a holy Bible in your hand? Satanic.'

Calvin Mokabane added: 'This young man is out of his mind. We should condemn this kind of satanic behaviour.'

Gift Murwisi added: 'You mustn't call him a pastor. People just want to be famous even if it means working with the devil. Jesus fed the hungry using common food. These people need spiritual food not snakes.'''

Cited '

'Following a brief court appearance, Mnguni was released on a bail of £75 and will reappear at a later date.''

New Zimbabwe.com

From Learnmore Zuze, September 5, 2015

Cited '

'Enough said; in the last months, there has been an on-going frenzy of bizarre miracles that has gripped southern Africa precisely. We have heard of ‘Atmosphere for miracles”, “Miracle centres’ and ‘Miracle clinics’, the list goes on. In essence, miracles have become the watchword with self-anointed apostles, bishops and prophets are now using their purported anointing in ways that are truly repugnant to the Bible.'

Cited

'It would appear a very critical and basic thing is being omitted in the purported miracles as preachers pursue the elusive dollar. People who teach the Bible have a duty to rightly interpret it. From a biblical perspective, nearly each miracle Jesus performed was done to meet a need and that is fundamental. No miracle was ever performed for the fun of it. Even when he was tempted to perform miracles on the mountain (by the devil) as a show-off, Jesus Christ resisted that temptation (Matt 4:6). Miracles that have no semblance to meeting the immediate needs of the people are ungodly and no different from the exploits of a magician entertaining high school children.

However, despite it being clearly at variance with the Bible, it would appear that it is becoming more fashionable to show off miracles.'

End Citations

Learnmore Zuze states: 'In essence, miracles have become the watchword with self-anointed apostles, bishops and prophets are now using their purported anointing in ways that are truly repugnant to the Bible.'

Self-anointed, yes. repugnant to the Bible, yes.

Biblical miracles met needs of persons, but I hold to the theology that they were also used by God to demonstrate divine power and foreshadow and demonstrate the complete future healing within the culminated Kingdom of God (Revelation 21-22).

'No miracle was ever performed for the fun of it. Even when he was tempted to perform miracles on the mountain (by the devil) as a show-off, Jesus Christ resisted that temptation (Matt 4:6). Miracles that have no semblance to meeting the immediate needs of the people are ungodly and no different from the exploits of a magician entertaining high school children.'

Yes, Jesus Christ resisted the temptation of the devil...

Matthew 4: 1-7 and Luke 4: 3-12: Jesus was tempted by the devil to perform miracles as a test of his divinity as the Son of God and Jesus rebuked the devil stating that the Lord your God should not be put to the test.

Luke 4 has a parallel account.

The miraculous was done Biblically within God's divine will in the promotion of the Kingdom of God and not in the context of divine test and not in the context of human fun. Jesus Christ resisted the temptation of miracles for personal human gain in this present realm, which quite obviously seems the very opposite motives of the extremely likely pseudo miracles of the South African 'Pastor'.

And I thought my newish primarily fruit and vegetable diet, breakfast and lunch, Monday to Friday was extreme...