Commentary

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.

Years ago, the "Beatles' guru"—Maharishi Mahesh Yogi—declared that he had a plan to destroy world terrorism. Maharishi was known to have made the appeal that "with $1 billion he could train 40,000 expert meditators"—who would generate enough "good vibes" to save the world.

The Bible contains many warnings against an abhorrent practice of the Canaanites, who had previously possessed the land God gave to Israel. One such admonition: “You shall not let any of your descendants pass through the fire to Molech” (Leviticus 18:21). “Passing through the fire” was an abominable practice in which people sought to appease the heathen god...

’Tis the season—a time for beautiful music, lovely pageantry, parties, fun and family time—and, of course, the annual bedlam in shopping malls, specialty stores, discount houses, and online shopping carts. Much of the world is caught up in what is called the “spirit of the season,” evidenced by a gift-buying frenzy that often puts the purchasers deep into debt...