Adam J. West

An article concerning Pope John Paul II stated that the pontiff used to flagellate himself with a belt to share in the suffering of Christ. He says he did this to get closer to Jesus. It seems from the article that even Mother Teresa self-flagellated and that it is a commonly accepted and approved practice of the Catholic Church. What does the Bible have to say in this regard?

Why do some celebrities experience a rapid rise to stardom out of relative obscurity, and then simply fade into the backdrop of history, seldom to be remembered? Because popularity is fleeting. An article in the Kansas City Star dated July 29, 2010 titled "A Real Lady" states the philosophy and one of the goals of the singer, Lady Gaga.

The "21 on 21" ritual is a game of "Russian Roulette" – twenty-one shots of alcohol on your 21st birthday. This cultural trend has frightening and destructive implications. What should you know about "21 on 21" so that you can protect your children, or yourself, from this game's potentially deadly consequences?

In 1993, I enlisted in the military. My decision was due in large part to the fact that my best friend Lawrence was already serving and stationed in Oklahoma. He traveled to our hometown often. Together we ran, lifted weights, and did push-ups, all in preparation for my departure for training in mid-August. I could never have predicted the events that followed.

The world continues its toboggan slide into depravity, and, frankly, into the Great Tribulation. This is a stark reality, but one that we must realize and understand fully. We are living in the end times and the signs of this are becoming more evident and poignant with each passing day.