t’s a big summer for Harry Potter fans. In Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, the struggle between good (the Order) and evil (Voldemort) has begun, but not everyone is convinced that evil is afoot. This week LinC looks at the ongoing spiritual conflict that affects us all and explores ways to participate in God’s victory over evil. Key Scriptures: 2 Kings 6:8-23; Luke 10:17-20; Ephesians 6:10-18.
As Barry Bonds moves ever closer to breaking Hank Aaron's hallowed all-time home-run record, speculation about performance-enhancing drug use has raised questions about the legitimacy of Bonds's accomplishment. Of course, Bonds is by no means the only high-profile athlete to be accused of cheating. The pressure to become bigger, faster, and stronger and the allure of glory—along with big contracts—have tempted many sports stars to cut corners. Christians are also tempted to cut corners for personal gain by ignoring God's commandments; but the rewards of ethical living are far greater than anything we can gain by cheating.