"Saturday Sermon" and "Doctrinal Commentary" The Genesis Account Genesis in unique among ancient creation stories. The Genesis is poetic and beautiful. It is sophisticated and inspirational. In Genesis mankind is God’s masterpiece. Men and women are the crown of creation. Humans are made in the very image of God. The Genesis author’s theme and purpose … Continue reading Genesis is Unique Among Ancient Creation Stories
"Court Case Friday" I spent 10 years as a D.A. prosecuting criminal cases and over 30 years as a judge presiding over them. Most of the thousands of cases I dealt with are very routine, like shop lifting, DUI, and drugs. So, I get excited when something new comes up. One morning, during my misdemeanor … Continue reading Case of the Illegal Hog Farm in Urban Irvine
"Sunday Sermon" President Russell M. Nelson has given inspired and inspiring counsel to the saints and the world. As the living Prophet, we must hear him and follow him, as he hears and follows the Lord. "In this, there is safety and peace." Those who "follow the prophet" are always blessed. Here are some of … Continue reading Words of the Prophet – Russell M. Nelson
James Weldon Johnson (1871-1938) was an African American writer, poet, and civil rights activist. He was a leader of the NAACP, and the first African American professor at New York University where he taught creative literature and writing. President Theodore Roosevelt appointed him as U.S. Consul in Venezuela and Nicaragua. (As with most of my … Continue reading “The Creation: A Negro Sermon”
Christmas Sermon -- Doctrinal Commentary BYU Religion Professor Robert Millet recalled That before leaving from Louisiana on his mission, he asked his LDS father, "Dad, what does it mean to be saved by grace?" He answered quickly, "We don't believe in that." "We don't?" I said. "Why not?" Without any hesitation he replied, "Because the … Continue reading Grace and Works
"Great Quotes" Too many of my friends, family, church buddies, and love ones have hurt themselves, and others, spiritually, socially, and emotionally by being offended. Their reaction to insults is within their control, and the harm caused is largely self-inflicted. Choose Not to be Offended “To be offended is a choice we make; it is not a condition inflicted … Continue reading Great Quotes: “Choose Not to be Offended”
"Court Case Friday" I was presiding over a misdemeanor jury trial. The young woman prosecutor was a dressed in an cream-colored silk blouse, and expensive tailor suit, with a charcoal pinstripe coat and a matching skirt. This was her first trial, and she wanted to make a big impression on the jurors. We resumed … Continue reading D.A. with Skirt Tucked in Her Panties
"Sunday Sermon" Lessons from my Personal Struggles My lifelong struggle with anxiety and depression has taught me a few things. I learned what is means to “endure to the end,” to choose life over suicide and death. (“To be, or not to be -- that is the question.”)My depression gave me a glimpse of “outer … Continue reading Ten Tips for Dealing With Anxiety and Depression
Commentary In grade school, there were students who took sadistic delight in shattering the hopes and dreams of younger children by announcing, “There is No Santa Clause.” These students felt intellectual superior. “I know something you don’t know.” Those infected with the “There Is No Santa” Syndrome grew up to become contemporary bubble-poppers, nitpickers, and … Continue reading “There Is No Santa” Syndrome
Inside the back hallways of the Newport Harbor Justice Center are historic photos of South Orange County. I thought I would share them with you. First Laguna Beach City Jail Back Bay Salt Mine Newport Dory Fleet Irvine Sugar Beet Facility Fashion Island Under Construction Downtown Laguna Beach World Jamboree 1953, Future "Jamboree Road" Laguna … Continue reading Historic South Orange County (Photos)
The London Edition 