Compromised
By Brian Harris
It has been almost one year since the Republican party obtained a majority in the U.S. House of Representatives. Many of us had high hopes that a change in leadership would bring about a course correction before the proverbial bus drives over the cliff.
Yet here we are on the eve of 2024, and the status quo is still in effect. The border is still wide open. Illegals are getting all kinds of “free” stuff at taxpayer expense. The Department of Homeland Security is still facilitating human trafficking. Funny money is still being sent to Ukraine to fund a war most of us don’t support. And still no articles of impeachment for “the Big Guy.”
Why has nothing changed? Tennessee Congressman Tim Burchett recently said the quiet part out loud, “The uni-party runs this town.” It doesn’t matter what party label an elected representative carries if they are compromised. The slave will do the bidding of his master. The politician will vote as he is told.
When discussing reluctance on the part of D.C. politicians to release Epstein’s flight logs and client lists, Burchett boldly told the truth. Many of his colleagues have been compromised by sexual blackmail or other unethical financial inducements. Those with real money and power will protect their interests, and owning a politician makes good business sense.
“They love their portfolios, and they love their money more than they do anything else,” Burchett said. “You know, the old honeypot? The Russians do that, and I’m sure members of Congress have been caught up.”
“You’re visiting, you’re out of the country or out of town, or you’re in a motel or at a bar in DC and, whatever you’re into, women, men, whatever, comes up, and they’re very attractive and they’re laughing at your jokes. And you’re buying them a drink. Next thing you know, you’re in the motel room with them naked, and next thing you know, you’re about to make a key vote, and what happens?”
“Some well-dressed person comes up and whispers in your ear, ‘Hey man, there are tapes out on you. Were you in a motel room on whatever with whoever?’” He described how the honeypot scheme works. “And then you’re like ‘Oh.’ and [they] said, ‘You really ought not be voting for this thing.’”
If you think Representative Burchett is crazy, you don’t know your history. Do call girls and Watergate ring a bell? How about the Kennedy escapades? How about the Quorum Club, which was operated by LBJ lackey Babby Baker? FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover reportedly had the place wired. Hoover had dirt on everybody in D.C., and that dirt gave him power. No president could get rid of him. Hoover had his own skeletons, too, and the mafia had the dirt on him.
Corporate special interests and the permanent Washington bureaucracy (i.e. intelligence community) have a lot to gain by getting politicians into compromising situations. To quote Senator Chuck Schumer, “Let me tell you: You take on the intelligence community — they have six ways from Sunday at getting back at you.”
Burchett noted that the extent of compromise reaches down to local politics as well. This should alarm all of us.
We must be hyper-vigilant about who we elect to represent us at all levels of government. Then, we must hold them accountable. The problem won’t fix itself. It is up to us.
Aligning COSA Initiatives with God’s Purpose
By Jim MacDonald
In preparing to lead significant gatherings such as a COSA meeting or a Biblical Citizenship class or addressing esteemed audiences like those at the GOP breakfast often triggers overwhelming apprehension. The fear of faltering, stumbling over words, or failing to deliver the intended message can loom large.
Reflecting on my life's journey, I vividly recall yearning for my father’s respect during my formative years. Whether on the baseball field, tackling household chores, or even attempting to excel academically (though that area wasn’t my forte), earning his validation was paramount. Similarly, as a parent, I reveled in witnessing my children’s achievements seen by my parents, longing for their pride in the younger generation.
Many of us share these experiences—finding profound joy in exalting our loved ones to those we deeply respect. Yet, amidst these interactions, an essential truth shines through: God’s delight in us.
The Bible beautifully illustrates this divine delight: “He does not delight in the strength of the horse; He takes no pleasure in the legs of a warrior. The Lord takes pleasure in those who fear Him, in those who hope in His steadfast love.” —Psalms 147:10-11
To “fear” the Lord isn’t about trembling in fear; it signifies a deep reverence for His greatness, transcending even our closest relationships. It’s a reverence rooted in understanding His sovereignty and cherishing His unfailing love.
When faced with daunting situations—be it addressing a crowd or approaching potential volunteers—the focal point should be God. Remember, when aligned with God’s purpose, His delight in us blossoms.
I recall the sense of longing for my father’s approval. Today, I boast about my children and grandchildren to him, seeking his pride and affirmation. Yet, in the grand scheme of things, God’s delight in us surpasses these earthly desires.
Amidst challenges, discouragement, or moments of paralyzing fear, recognize that you are divinely placed for a purpose. Embrace the assurance that God takes immense pleasure in His children who passionately pursue His calling.
As I navigated through life’s endeavors, I discovered that confidence in God’s purpose grants the strength to face fears head-on. It’s the realization that when we step beyond our comfort zones to fulfill God’s plan, He takes joy in our obedience.
Therefore, in those moments of trepidation, shift the focus from fear to faith. Trust that God’s delight rests upon you as you courageously fulfill His calling. The insecurities and doubts may linger, but remember, God’s pleasure in His children engaged in His work eclipses those uncertainties.
Just as I sought my father’s approval in my endeavors, let us seek God’s pleasure in our pursuits. Allow His delight in us to fuel the courage needed to stand before crowds, share our convictions, and lead with unwavering confidence.
In the midst of life’s challenges, remember the profound truth: God delights in His children who embrace their roles in His divine plan. As you confront your fears, may the knowledge of God’s delight in you serve as a guiding light, illuminating the path toward fulfilling His purpose.
Reader’s Note: This article is Part 3 of a three-part series. Please refer to the previous two newsletters for Parts 1 and 2.
The Unholy Union of the American Judiciary and Executive Branches – Part 3
By Craig Wills
In our current political situation in America, we are witnessing a charade of justice taking place as the DOJ continues its indictment campaign against former President Trump, supported and encouraged directly by the Office of President. At a November 9, 2022, press conference following the mid-term elections, Biden commented:
“We just have to demonstrate that he will not take power if he does run, making sure he — under legitimate efforts of our Constitution — does not become the next president again,”3
In these words, Joe Biden gave unconstitutional permission to the DOJ to seek ways, through the courts, to stop a political opponent from taking office. Do not be thrown off by — under legitimate efforts of our Constitution — because those words are a sham. They are more of the left’s twisting of truth because their interpretation of how the Constitution works is much different from how our founders intended. Moreover, as we saw in McCann’s article included in Part 2 of this series, this process began with Obama. Biden is simply accelerating the dismantling of American justice.
This shameful joint effort between the Judiciary and the Executive branches incarnates Hamilton’s warning, “And it proves, in the last place, that as liberty can have nothing to fear from the judiciary alone, but would have everything to fear from its union with either of the other departments…” The colloquial expression best suited for this unholy alliance is, “they are in cahoots,” and this union is a significant danger, not just to President Trump, but to every American. If this corrupt union continues to stand, we will become a nation of men instead of a nation of laws, and the First Amendment will evaporate, taking with it the inalienable rights Americans hold today. Tyranny would rule, and “We the People” will lose.
Summary
Therefore, in Hamilton’s words, every American has everything to fear because the Executive branch and the Judiciary branches of government now seem to operate as one. Their goal: eliminate any political opposition. The precious tenant of “equal justice under law” scribed on the Supreme Court building in Washington D.C. becomes pretense if the American judiciary is allowed to be twisted and used as a hammer to suppress opposition. Liberty vanishes, and tyranny materializes in its place. Dr. Martin Luther King once said, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.”4 If this unconstitutional and improper defilement of justice continues, none of us will escape the consequences.
What do we do?
Our first line of defense is always to pray. Many of those pushing the leftist agenda think themselves to be gods. They are not. There is only one God, and they are not Him. They are drunk on power, and we must pray that their plans do not succeed. We must pray that they do not gain control of all three branches in 2024. At times, the issues we face appear to be giants, but God is a giant killer. Just ask Goliath. God made man to be free. 1 Corinthians 7:23 says,
“You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of people.”5
We do not have to knuckle under. Liberty is too precious to give it away. Pray for President Trump. Whether you like him or not is not the issue. Whatever the outcome of his trials, it sets the precedent for every American.
Commit to learning your rights by studying the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. Unfortunately, too many Americans do not know their rights. If we do not know them, we cannot defend or assert them.
Support a group that is fighting hard to retain the America we all want to keep. For example, become a volunteer with Convention of States (https://conventionofstates.com/ ) and sign the petition supporting that movement. We can use the Constitution to change the Constitution by implementing a Convention of States as outlined in Article 5.
Step out of your comfort zone and become a Constitution Coach through Patriot Academy. You do not have to be an expert to become a coach. All you need is a willingness to speak the truth and to share the truth of America’s founding with those around you. There are Americans within your sphere of influence that do not know the truth about America’s founding, which other coaches may not be able to reach.
Get to know your representatives and senators at the state and federal level and make your voice heard by writing them and sharing your position on the issues. Believe it or not, from personal experience, I assure you they do read those letters and emails. Moreover, I might add it is perfectly okay to become a consistent and insistent (i.e., a nag) constituent through your letters.
Become involved in local politics. Maybe your calling is to run for office, work in the campaign of someone you support, or become active in the local and county political apparatus to help bring it back to conservative and biblical values.
Vote at every opportunity provided to you, but I implore you to research the candidates and/or the issues before entering the voting booth. Become an informed voter by doing your due diligence to ensure you use your God-given right to vote (Exodus 18:22) in a wise manner worthy of the gift God gave you.
John Adams, our second President, once said,
“Liberty, once lost, is lost forever.”6
I agree with Steven McCann that we are perilously close to national disintegration.2 We must ensure that the Judiciary and the Executive branches disengage from their alliance, restoring equal justice to the American people. If we lose our liberty because of this tyrannical and unholy union, we will never get it back.
3 https://thehill.com/homenews/administration/3728174-biden-suggests-trump-will-not-take-power-again-if-he-runs-in-2024/
4 https://www.azquotes.com/quote/528824 (Letter from the Birmingham Jail, April 16, 1963)
5 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1%20Corinthians%207%3A23&version=CSB
6 https://www.happybetterwiser.com/quotes/john-adams-quotes/
Mason’s Trail of Wonder, Discovering Washington’s Destiny
By Jim MacDonald
Samantha and Mason wandered through the woods; their steps synchronized with the rhythm of Mason’s storytelling. He eagerly continued the fascinating tale of George Washington, his voice carrying the weight of history as they navigated the forest trails.
“Mason, tell me more about that encounter in the woods,” Samantha urged, her curiosity piqued by the story of the Indian chief who foretold Washington’s destiny.
“Sure, Mom!” Mason exclaimed, adjusting his backpack as he delved deeper into the narrative. “So, fifteen years after that battle, where Washington miraculously survived, he found himself traveling through these same woods near the Great Kanawha River and the Ohio River.”
Their footsteps crunched on the fallen leaves, the woods around them seemingly eager to listen as Mason painted a picture with his words.
“Washington was accompanied by Dr. Craik, his close friend, when they stumbled upon an old Indian chief,” Mason continued, excitement lacing his words. “Through an interpreter, the chief addressed Washington, revealing that he was a ruler over his tribes and had traveled a long and weary path to meet the young warrior of the great battle.”
Samantha’s eyes widened with fascination, her attention fully captivated by Mason’s storytelling skill.
“The chief recounted that on the day when the white man’s blood mixed with the forests’ streams, he had seen Washington, tall and daring, leading his men fearlessly,” Mason recounted, his voice resonating with his admiration for the historical figure. “The chief had ordered his men to aim their rifles at Washington. And after seventeen fair shots, they couldn’t bring him down. It was as though a power greater than their own shielded him.”
“Apparently so, Mason, since you mentioned earlier that all the officers on horseback were killed except for Washington. And he even lost two horses under him and had four bullet holes in his coat.”
Mason nodded, his eyes shining with enthusiasm. “The Indian warrior even declared that Washington was under the special guardianship of the Great Spirit and that he would become the chief of nations. He believed that Washington could never die in battle.”
“Wow, what an incredible moment,” Samantha remarked, her imagination vividly painting the scene Mason described. “To have someone foresee such a grand destiny for Washington must have been truly remarkable.”
As they ventured deeper into the woods, Mason’s storytelling intertwined with the natural beauty surrounding them, creating a tapestry of history and wonder. The echoes of George Washington’s resilience and the Indian chief’s prophecy lingered in the rustling leaves and the dappling sunlight, leaving Samantha and Mason in awe of the relationship between destiny and the human spirit.
The woods seemed to resonate with the tales Mason shared as if the trees themselves whispered their agreement to the extraordinary story of a man whose fate connected with the birth of a nation. And amidst this tranquil setting, Samantha and Mason found themselves immersed in nature’s embrace and the timeless tales of valor and foresight that echoed through the woods.
Your Call to Action…
Let’s rally the American spirit! Our nation stands at a pivotal moment, echoing the values our Founders held dear. It’s time for every Patriot to make their voice heard.
The Convention of States is a beacon of hope, a platform granted by those visionaries who built this great nation. It’s a chance for every American-loving Patriot to step up and shape the future, safeguarding the liberties we cherish.
We are the guardians of freedom, entrusted with the duty to ensure that our nation remains a bastion of liberty, opportunity, and justice. Click the link below, join the movement, and be part of a historic effort to preserve, protect, and defend the very essence of what makes America exceptional.
Click: Join our Movement to be part of our Volunteer Team. We've got a country to save!
Tennessee on the Move...
Patriots from Ashland City, TN.
Patriots from Dayton, TN.
Patriots from Gallatin, TN.
Patriots from Hixson, TN.
Patriots from Maryville, TN.
Patriots from Rutherford County, TN.
Patriots from Tullahoma, TN.
Upcoming Meetings and Events
Dayton, TN. Thursday, January 11th, 2024, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. at Monkey Town Brewery 287 1st Ave., Dayton TN. 37321 Jay Walling
Hixson, TN. Friday, January 26th, 2024, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m. at 5435 Hwy 153, Hixson, TN. 37343 - Meet and Greet - Jay Walling
Jamestown, TN. Saturday, January 13th, 2024, from 9:30 to 11:00 a.m. at Fentress County Courthouse, 101 N. Main St, Jamestown, TN. Larry Wilke
Murfreesboro, TN. Saturday, January 20th, 2024, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Unity Freewill Baptist 1901 Florence Rd. Murfreesboro TN. 37129 Richard and Linda Black
Nashville, TN. Surge Day, January 9th, 2024, at the State Capitol in Nashville. All COS Volunteers are invited. All day event…come for an hour or stay all day!
Powell, TN. Saturday, January 13th, 2024, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. at Shoney’s on Emory Rd. Powell, or second Saturday of each month, Anne Martin and Dan Mobley
Sevierville, TN. Saturday, January 20th, 2024, from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. King Family Library 408 High St. Sevierville, call Christine Solomon at 832-868-3674 for more information
Springfield, TN. Thursday, January 25th, 2024, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Contact Location to follow...Nancy Parkinson at 815-988-7209
Sumner County GOP Breakfast, Saturday, January 6, 2024, 8:00 am to 11:00 am. Jim and Debbie MacDonald, guest speakers. Topic will be Saving America with tools from the Founders. Location to follow.
BattleCry, Join Mark Meckler for the BattleCry every Sunday night at 8:00 p.m. EST on Facebook and Rumble.
For the most up to date schedule, go to the calendar on our Tennessee website: www.conventionofstates.com/tennessee
