Turn to God and Live!

I was privileged to attend Liberty University’s graduation last weekend. For the past four years LU has served as a haven for me to escape to for a few days to visit friends and absorb the Christ centered atmosphere. Many of my friends just graduated so it was a fun opportunity to see them all again before they leave. The commencement speaker this year was Fox News commentator and personal political role model Glenn Beck. I’ve been a fan of Beck for a while now as anyone who knows me well can vouch but have only seen him share from a political standpoint. To hear him speak of his faith, share his testimony, give spiritual advice…my admiration for the man went through the roof. The concern, affection, and guidance that was so passionately displayed was very inspirational and clearly reflected the love of Christ. The spirit of shepherding that he clearly demonstrated is highly indicative of his character and is a comforting witness to fellow believers. I’m going to take a minute to kindly slander the media. This liberal community who selfishly and dishonestly portrays an inaccurate picture of Beck is only embarrassing itself (once again) when the truth is presented. I’ve seen multiple excerpts from Beck’s shows that are taken way out of context but the ignorance of many will take it and run with it regardless. I hope his commencement speech makes its way around Youtube and other networks as fast as these “excerpts” do. For those of you who have something against Glenn because of something he said I encourage you to quit being so narrow minded and watch the entire episode vice a 45 second Youtube clip posted by some lib who doesn’t even know left from right (pun intended). Also- check out his story, see where he’s coming from, and you may see that his theories are consistent with…truth. I'm not writing this merely to praise Beck but to expose a figure and message that's been twisted. I wa s honored as well as the students and staff of Liberty were honored to have him speak.

My friend, Chris, joined me on the road trip to LU and attended the ceremony. The following Sunday as he was leading worship he mentioned a line from Beck’s speech, “Turn to God and live” (regarding the turmoil in our nation now) and sited Beck as the author. Chris was recently emailed and criticized for quoting Beck in church. Are you kidding me!?!? Are we copy writing mere phrases now!? Beck also quoted scripture! Is the Bible now inert text that we can’t use in Church!? Look- I’m not the biggest fan of the man running the show in DC right now but I certainly wouldn’t discredit wise judgment merely because it came from him! This is the problem folks! We need to look at the big picture here. I've attached links to the commencement ceremoney if anyone would like to watch below. They're in chronological order. Enjoy!

“Someone you meet today is afraid and suffereing. Find them, find them everyday and comfort them” –Glenn Beck, Liberty University’s Graduation Commencement Ceremoney 2010

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NoFYUCKLkc

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4k1UUcPIxZI

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Poj1OaSRf0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4rwEEGbGu4