ISSUE EIGHTY-THREE

WHY JESUS IS THE PERFECT CARPENTER

SEPTEMBER-NOVEMBER 2020 WORD ON THE STREET READWOTS.COM/PHILIPPINESWORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE 1 Street Level Ministries’ Magazine We’re a global magazine with versions published in the USA, Amsterdam, South Asia, and the Philippines. WOTS is available throughout Cebu City at the UV-Main Campus Library, the Cebu City Public Library, and the Street Level Ministries Headquarters.

As a publication of Street Level Ministries, check out how you can become a part of it by visiting streetlevelministries.com/cebu.

Word on the Street (WOTS) Magazine is written, laid out, and printed by young adults who love Jesus and want to write about God, life, and college. We hope this magazine is helpful, challenging, and thought-provoking as it encourages you to pursue a strong relationship with Jesus. WOTS is released four times a year and has been published since 1999.

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MAGAZINE LOCATIONS

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WHAT’S INSIDE... 08

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EXPLORING THE BEAUTY OF WHY JESUS IS THE PERFECT NORTHERN CEBU CARPENTER 0202—SEEING GRADUATION FROM A DIFFERENT ANGLE

04 FOLLOW JESUS IN COLLEGE HOW JOINING A CAMPUS MINISTRY LIKE STREET LEVEL

COULD CHANGE EVERYTHING 16

05 ONE GIRL’S TRUE STORY ASKING GOD TO TRADE YOUR “WHY ME’S” FOR “USE ME’S”

10 LETTER TO A JUNIOR TEMPTER THE DISTURBING PERSPECTIVE OF DEMONS

5 THINGS I LEARNED WHILE LIVING 15 AMERICAN MADE THROUGH A PANDEMIC IF IT DOESN’T HAVE CHEESE IT AIN’T AMERICAN

17 UNFORGETTABLE JESUS IN REVELATION 1 IT’S NOT THE END, IT TIES IT ALL TOGETHER

18 BOOK REVIEW WHY DOES GOD CARE WHO I SLEEP WITH? AND

7 MYTHS ABOUT SINGELNESS

ONE SON SETTING 22 COFFEE & ITS HISTORY THE CAPTIVES FREE A RAMBLING ON GOD’S CREATION

23 NEWS UPDATE 20 BURNING DOG RADIO TAKES OVER STREET LEVEL RADIO

WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE 3 HOW JOINING A CAMPUS MINISTRY LIKE STREET LEVEL COULD CHANGE EVERYTHING

ollege is a weird place. It reaches beyond the smallness accepting the conventional wisdom of the day.4 We set out to of the barangays we grew up in and offers a playground allow the Bible to inform and guide our thoughts about life, love, that sets us free from the jurisdiction of parents. It’s a and the world at large. Otherwise, the subtle pressure to achieve realm where anything is possible, and even probable, a passing grade or conform to the majority opinion will always which means self-discovery is a frequent occurrence here. In no subtly eat away at our ability to think for ourselves. So, are you other place will we ever again change into the people we are ready to stop being told what to think, and instead learn how becoming as much as in this place. to think?

All the while, the question of, “What to do about God?” lies Through this ministry, be prepared to be challenged and pushed. dormant under the surface. Some of us have had the advantage It’s not youth group anymore where you sing a few songs and of hearing the truth about God from a young age. In church or listen to a pleasant talk for an hour a week. We build each other youth group we heard that He loves us, wants to know us, and up to be Jesus followers who radically oppose societal pressures gives us an opportunity to entrust our lives to Jesus, His only Son, to act a certain way. We exist to live out our lives and who died for us.1 Those with such privilege already know the commitments together by doing tangible things that grow our answer: “Come, follow Me.”2 The choice, then, is to allow or not faith and make a direct impact on the kingdom of God. So, rather allow God complete access to shape our future hopes and than just talking about Jesus, we serve Him with our hands and dreams, as well as our present day-to-day decisions. feet. We have opportunities like writing for this magazine or being a DJ for our college radio station, Street Level Radio. In Others of us did not have such an advantage. addition, we reach out to students on our God was not part of our upbringing. And yet, campuses and throughout the city together, the question remains the same: “What to do spend our free time together, and dream about about God?” There is no shaking it. God life beyond college together. promises such. He made us, and He put the idea of “eternity” into our hearts.3 The Anyone college-age can join us for our weekly way we respond to this question will meetings for a free meal and Bible discussion. change everything. Located at the SLM Headquarters (201 K&J Bldg, J. Llorente St. near National Bookstore Street Level Ministries is made up of people Mango), it’s intended to provide time to get to who are responding to this question. We are know God, ask questions, and learn how to a campus ministry for university students, follow Him. Take a chance and come meet us. recent graduates, and other college It just might change your life. campuses across the globe. Our goal is to provide opportunities to learn about God and For more info about meetings (online & in grow closer to Him alongside other person), text 0928.430.5307, find Street Level Christians. We seek to learn what it’s like to Ministries Cebu on Facebook or visit have God change us, instead of lazily streetlevelministries.com/cebu.

1 John 3:16 2 Matthew 4:19 3 Ecclesiastes 3:11 4 Romans 12:2 4 WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE discomfort of my helpless state the only way I knew how: with food. For much of elementary and middle school, my eating habits were ridiculously unhealthy. As young as six years old, I hated what I saw in the mirror.

I battled my self-loathing with a profound devotion to reading, TV shows, and music, all of which helped me to escape my bleak reality. Meanwhile, deep down nestled an insatiable and ashamed desire to be “good enough” in all that I did, and according to my standards, I always fell short. I wondered why God made me this way and allowed my circumstances to be so grim.

But little by little, I made some positive changes. When I began high school, I became physically active, adopted healthier eating habits, and further developed my love for music and Jesus. For the first time ever, everything seemed to be going my way. Everything except the reality of my father’s declining health.

I don’t clearly recall a lot from the last few times I spent with him, but then came the night that I learned he was found dead and alone in his home, and I won’t soon forget that. I thought I knew regret before that November evening in 2015. “Why had I pushed him away?” “Why hadn’t I been more loving and understanding throughout his addiction?” “Why me?”

Asking God to Trade Your I dwelled a lot on my regrets, but I finally came to accept “Why Me’s” for “Use Me’s” the truth: God is not abusive. He took no pleasure in my pain; instead, He was patiently waiting for me to come This testimony is from Lita, a member of Street Level Ministries running into His arms, much like how a daughter comes to Twin Ports (Duluth, Minnesota and Superior, Wisconsin) her father!

Do you ever feel guilty for asking God, “Why me?” Have you It was in my anger that I began to lean on the truth that ever wished you were dealt the cards of a more happy-go- God sent His Son Jesus to die on the cross for someone as lucky life? I know I have. As someone who grew up with an broken as me, so that my sins may be forgiven. Forgiveness alcoholic father, I spent much of my childhood years stuck in isn’t usually easy, but that’s why God says we can ask Him a whirlwind of sadness, confusion, and bitterness. for the strength to forgive. After surrendering my grudges to the Lord, I can finally say that, almost five years after my To say that it was hard or sad to have a front row seat in father’s death, I decided to visit his grave and say aloud, “I witnessing my gentle, loving father succumb to the addictive forgive you.” grip of alcohol would be a gross understatement. The guilty acknowledgement that consumed me when I began to I spent so many years asking God, “Why me?” that I never dislike being in the same room as the man who used to pray took the time to thank Him for using my circumstances as a at my bedside every night was unbearable. Gradually, his way to bring me closer to Him. Now, I long to help others nighttime prayers were traded for nighttime drunkenness, who are experiencing trials like the ones I have been and my family was never the same. through. That is why I have been asking God to help trade my “why me’s” for “use me’s.” When my parents divorced and my father’s alcoholism raged on, I was forced to accept the horrific reality that I had no control over the situation. At a loss, I combatted the

WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE 5 A Bittersweet Graduation

As I was about to leave for school, I had to pause for a moment 0202—SEEING GRADUATION FROM and wander around the boarding house, which had already A DIFFERENT ANGLE become a home to most college students. I glanced at the hanging graduation picture frames of former boarders, and I told myself, “Hang in there, you’re almost done.”

*Tik-ti-la-ok! *Tik-ti-la-ok! *Tik-ti-la-ok! This one old rooster The sun radiates so much heat that I could feel my body dripping seems to have a big responsibility in waking up people in my with sweat as I walked toward the school. When I was coming neighborhood. The owner must have been fully aware of how near the gate, I can see how long the queue was outside of it. most of the tenants are from different provinces so it was a The only possible reason for this, I thought to myself, might be great idea to get a rooster. Waking up early by the sensational strict security checks for every student coming in. But then I saw sound of the rooster while interrupted by the tingling sound of one of the security guards pointing an infrared temperature gun the alarm clock, I realized how little sleep I had. Five hours is not at everyone's forehead. The feeling of nervousness after walking bad for an ordinary graduating college student. Children and under the heat did not help, so I tried to calm myself and parents are getting ready for school and work. Hearing the breathe normally so that my temperature would drop to normal. sizzling of fried eggs and smelling the aroma of the coffee, I have to admit that I missed morning routine in the province.

And I passed the temperature test. Phew! While walking through my college building, I heard murmurs about a new The clock ticktocks until I finally hear the booming voice of the virus spreading all over the world. Rumors about class taho vendor. How exciting it is watching the taho vendor pouring suspension due to this news were discussed by some group of out the taho mixture into my regular coffee mug which made me students I passed by. One afternoon shortly afterwards, the wonder how tough it must be for him to prepare for work every president declared the unfortunate news that classes should day in order to feed his family and send his children to school. be suspended. Some leaped in joy for a two-week-long suspension, yet I felt the opposite.

6 WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE Everyone who is from the province returned immediately to The education process changed like a snap of a finger because of each of their houses. Every van and bus terminal was filled with an unforeseen circumstance that altered our view on living life people coming home to provinces, most of whom carried big however challenging it gets. The situation revealed the heart of bags ready for a long break and wearing their face masks as they every student’s consistency and determination despite the low left the city. Not only were classes cut off but also small internet connection and the invisibility of human interaction. businesses closed because of the strict implementation of social When my group’s thesis presentation was canceled, the distancing. And then suddenly, the city went silent. graduation rites were next, and so the feeling as a graduating student became increasingly strange.

I wonder how does it feel to be nervous and at the same time excited about defending a thesis study. I wonder how beautiful it gets seeing my parents and friends leap for joy as I march through the stage wearing my graduation cap and gown with a big smile shaking the hands of the instructors. But all of these dreams will only remain in my imagination. Sometimes unexpected circumstances lead to a purpose better than anyone’s plan and it will only make sense if we learn to accept the change that is constantly working through our lives. Whatever dream we hoped for in the future is brought by perfect timing and has already been planned out.

Sincerely yours, Graduate of Batch 2020 *Kriiiing *Kriiiing *Kriiiing… A message popped up in a notification box from my instructor asking for an update of our I closed the only notebook I was able to bring home as I thesis study. The long-distance communication between both glared at the heat outside, and yet the trees and plants my thesis partner and adviser is causing too much delay in were so peaceful. Looking up at the sky, which is painted finishing the task. Even amidst the situation of the worldwide by the most magnificent color of blue that was filled in by pandemic and overwhelming social crisis, many students the dancing softness of clouds, I could hear the birds including me now had the opportunity to learn new skills and at chirping, resonating in harmony with the music I played. the same time regain some rest while staying at home. Highways are still empty and only a few people come out Regardless of the difficulties brought by the pandemic, we did of their houses. I stared outside realizing how much not cease to continue our task as a student. Rather, we change had happened for the seemingly two weeks of encouraged one another to pursue the dream we have been school break that eventually turned into two months. wanting to achieve this year.

WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE 7

unrise is no stranger to this place. Its Bantayan is composed of three ethereal beauty scintillates not only municipalities: Santa Fe, Bantayan, and from the thin horizon that separates Madridejos. The nearest one from the port earth and heaven. It reaches deeper than is Santa Fe. Most of the tourists come to the sleek blue ocean as the boat travels. visit the beaches of Santa Fe and the most The first time I landed my feet on the sands famous spot there is "The Ruins." Nipa of Bantayan, I knew already that the houses can be seen along the side of the richness of the island extends even to the road before the historic St. Peter and Paul souls of the people living there. Parish is reached in the municipality of Bantayan. It is one of the oldest Roman Waiting is non-existent the moment I grasp Catholic churches in the Philippines. Not the dry, balmy air welcoming me to the only that, you can also find the church exciting tropical trip. The smiles that form where I grow up and go to up until now. the faces of the jeepney drivers anticipate This church helps people to know God my entrance to their humble ride to the deeper, considering you as one of their paradise of the locals who call themselves family. We call it Christian Life Church. Bantayanon. It is a smooth journey before I see more trees revealed along the road. Bantayan is also known to have mangrove People are waving and cheering for the forests. One famous destination for tourists visitors as if we belong to one family. It is is found in Omagieca Mangrove Garden. true somehow; we are all part of God’s Located in Barangay Obo-ob, it is one of the family. The same Creator who made this most prominent nature abiding places in immaculate island also built the places I Bantayan Island. The place was built with have been and lived. the help of students who were fond of tree planting. It is an academic priority to train Folklore suggests that the name of this students to embrace and protect the place was derived from its valiant role long importance of the ecosystem, which is why ago. There were 18 watchtowers built on tree planting is a monthly necessity. the islands and they served as sentinels for the incoming vintas (Moro pirate vessels). The municipality that is farthest north is The local term “Bantayan sa Hari,” means Madridejos. This municipality is the main “Watchtowers of the King” in English. producer of dried fish in public markets all

8 WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE DEAR LAURA, A lot of people think that miracles are just fiction and not compatible with a scientific viewpoint. Do you think miracles are real and why? – Wondering in Cebu

DEAR WONDERING IN CEBU: First off, let me start by defining the word miracle as an intervention of God into the natural order.1 Since miracles are a sign of God’s power, it is not surprising that doubts about them prevail since it directly relates to believing God exists. In the 1700’s, systematic mistrust of the Bible began with the entitlement belief that miracles cannot coexist with a modern, rational view of the world.

From Old Testament verses that speak about the creation of the world in six days and the global flood, to New Testament verses describing the conception of Jesus Christ with the Virgin Mary and the multiplying of food, there are ample descriptions of the miraculous in the Bible. Matthew 28:17 says, “When

they saw Him, they worshipped Him; but some doubted.” This means some of Jesus’ own disciples did not believe in the miracle of the resurrection, which sounds like many people today.

Science by its nature cannot discern or test for supernatural cause. It is not able to explain why a grubby caterpillar morphs into a stew before transforming into a beautiful, delicate butterfly. John Macquarries, a Scottish-born theologian, throughout the island. Whenever I am looking for a good spot philosopher, and priest argued that, “Science proceeds on the where scenes of orange and red of the half-naked sun seem to assumption that whatever events occur in the world can be splatter around the dark hovering clouds to wave its goodbye, I accounted for in terms of other events that also belong within am confident that it is in Madridrejos. A perfect sunset can the world.”3 Because God is not confined to this world, science always be seen from the shores of Kota Park. does not have a category for the concept of miracles.

There is so much I take on for myself in a day before this trip is Timothy Keller summed it up well in his book The Reason for over. This is not an ordinary place. This is where I most likely God, and I agree with him: “If He created everything out of picture myself when I close my eyes to praise God. As I run my nothing, it would hardly be a problem for him to rearrange fingers on the cold sands to draw out my name, I spot the parts of it as and when He wishes. To be sure that miracles uniquely beautiful twilight. I never imagined how daunting cannot occur you would have to be sure beyond a doubt that blue is. It is unlike any other. Here in Bantayan, it feels like God didn’t exist, and that is an article of faith.”4 everyone and everything have found their purpose in details and gratitude. There is the misty flowing wind coming from the - Laura sea reminding me of who I am and why I was created. Should I ever run out of reasons to worship, I station myself back to this place, where God’s creations simply collide in sweet harmony If you have a scientific or philosophical question for of His glory. Dear Laura, send them to [email protected].

1 Keller, Timothy. The Reason for God. 88. 2 ibid. 3 ibid., 89. 4 ibid., 89-90. WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE 9 FICTION Recently, there was a breach in Demon Intelligence. From what we can tell, the following correspondence comes from a Senior Devil named Slipnoose to his nephew, a Junior Tempter called Mugwort. Proceed with caution, reader, as demons are not particularly cordial folk, and it’s easy to lose your bearings in their warped perspective. To them, right is wrong, good is bad, and God is the Enemy. However, we hope that this letter may provide insight into the forces at work in your own life and ultimately help you overcome them.

So, your boy is going to university. You do right want is for your boy to catch on. He cannot to worry. It seems that up until now you’ve know about our kind. He cannot realize the been successful in keeping him loosely danger he’s in. Let him believe in some vague involved with the Enemy’s pathetic followers thought of what the Enemy is like, a passive in a way that quells his conscience without jolly old man in the sky, that’s all well and making any real impact on him. Good show, good, but do not let him find out what’s truly young devil, but your true work as a Tempter at stake here. Those who belong to the Enemy actually begins now. snooping about in his affairs put our entire operation in jeopardy. Do whatever it takes to We have lost many a soul during these keep them away. precarious years. They’re pushed right out from the wonderfully dulling influence of their Instead, might I suggest luring him towards parents, forced to think for themselves, and those embracing their newfound “freedom?” before we’ve even had a proper chance to Find others about his age who’ve thrown their lead them astray, He’s made Himself known to parents’ secondhand morality to the wind and them. And I will tell you this, which I’m sure entice him to join in. In the current age, it’s you remember from your time at the quite vogue for humans to believe that the Tempters’ Training College: Once the Enemy absence of self-control will make them happy. lays His clutches on one of their filthy little Silly to you and I, yes. For them, we know that hearts, He doesn’t let go, no matter our best pursuing freedom from all restraint can be as efforts to rip them away. Heed my words, much of a trap as tight-fisted rule-following. nephew. You must act wisely now or you will I’ve led many down this road, to “follow their have much to answer for and much to suffer if hearts.” And then I’ve relished the clown show you do not succeed. that followed as they flopped about in life like gasping trout removed from their water. But However, before you lose your courage your boy doesn’t know that this will happen. altogether, let me also remind you that this is Play on his naiveté. an absolutely opportune time to largely win over this pitiful creature to our side. While you While I must nearly stifle a yawn due to the can never be truly sure about your boy until he lack of creativity in my next piece of advice, it expires and passes into our realm, there is is a tried and true tactic for most of his age. much you can do now to bind him on a Lure him with alcohol. If you can lead him to trajectory that leads him right to us, where he the right group, you won’t even have to lift a belongs -- in Hell. So, I am happy to share with finger to ensure his inevitable addiction to the you my wisdom on the methods that can best stuff. Many humans don’t even know how to secure his hopeful damnation. enjoy themselves without it. These are the “friends” you should be sure to put in his path. First and foremost, I advise that you keep him If there’s any sense in him and he resists, play away from the Enemy’s motley crew of misfits, on his horror of being inferior in the eyes of his the Christians, at all costs. You know the sort I peers. Make life outside of what they call the mean. Particularly the unimpressive weak ones “party scene” seem as tedious and gray as who put no stock in their own ability. The possible. If you’re lucky, you may even be able Enemy just adores their idiotic reliance on His to trap him in a lovely cycle of binge-drinking, incessant help, which makes them nearly self-disgust, and then more drinking that can impenetrable to us. This lot understands last for years and years of misery to come. reality as it actually is, and the last thing you

10 WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE Speaking of peers, keep your eyes peeled for a decently he thinks is particularly noble instead. This can be an immoral female that you can torment him with. Let him excellent way to increase his smugness. The most think that having her will cure all his woes. This is a obvious pursuit would be his schoolwork. A sport could particularly fun game since no amount of sex or attention be another avenue if he’s not the studious type. from another human being can ever fill the void in the Whatever it is, paint a glorious future that he thinks he them that exists by His design. The Enemy intends for could achieve if he does well enough at that thing. After them to share in a grotesquely intimate connection with that, his self-righteousness and anxiety will practically do Him, and they can’t truly be settled by anything less. Best your job for you in tormenting him. your boy never finds that out. Convince him that a woman will satisfy his deepest longings. When she I will offer you this one last warning, as well: Keep him doesn’t, lead him onto the next one. from hitting rock bottom. We can’t have him start identifying himself as a complete and utter failure. When If your man isn’t the “sex, drugs and rock and roll” type, people get to that spot they are at the greatest risk of that’s just fine. Get him to devote himself to something admitting their need for help and, therefore, of being helped by Him. His bleeding heart for the weak and needy is unbearably nauseating. The game is to make your boy think he could get himself out of whatever mess he’s in if he just tried a little harder. This shouldn’t be too difficult a task. Humans deplore admitting failure because it exposes the reality of their total inability. What they do not realize is that some of the most miserable failures in the human realm have gone on to become some of the greatest and most honored in the Enemy’s forces. We can’t have this happen with your man. Prepare yourself for what’s ahead and keep your wits about you, Mugwort. I’d hate to see what would happen to you if we lose another one.

This piece was inspired by C.S. Lewis’ book The Screwtape Letters. This book features a collection of satirical letters from a Senior Demon named Screwtape to his nephew and Junior Tempter, Wormwood. Read it online here: bit.ly/2MufQBR

WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE 11 dear friend recently confided in me: “I’m really happy with the weight I’ve lost on this diet over the last year. But, it’s really hard for my mind to A catch up with the changes on the outside. I still see myself as the same person I always was. Sure, I get told I look great, but what people don’t know is that the problems I’ve struggled with on the inside have not gone away.”

My friend isn’t alone. We all are guilty of thinking that behavior modification—if I start doing this or stop doing that—will fix the turmoil at the center of our soul. We may find temporary relief from time to time, but isn’t it true that the restlessness eventually comes back?

BROKEN TOOLS

Life is really hard, really messy, and quite unpredictable. It seems like once we overcome one obstacle, it’s not long before we trip over another. Though our problems may differ from person to person, we all struggle with something. Hardships, issues, tough times—whatever you want to call them—are innumerable, but the biggest categories include: relationships, finances, planning for the future, regretting the past, our appearance, our character, our secrets, and more. Some of our problems are small and annoying like a fly buzzing around our ear. Others are massive, like a heavy weight slowly pulling us down as we struggle through life. Whatever the case may be, we look to many things to alleviate the discomfort.

The first and ever-present source of relief we turn to is our phone. According to an article published by The Guardian, we pick up our phones 58 times per day on average.1 Popular apps like Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, and TikTok are addicting because they have infinite scrolling and refresh with new content instantly. It’s not uncommon to open an app only to find that 15, 30, or even 60 minutes have flown by. Going to our phones for comfort temporarily distracts us from our problems, allows us to dream and scheme about a better life than the one we’re living, and provides mind- numbing entertainment day or night.

Next, we assume that success will solve our problems. We buy the lie that attending a particular school, making a certain salary, and/or marrying the perfect spouse will make trouble less likely to knock at our door. Writer Marshall Segal puts it like this: Success promises to fill holes in our hearts. If you could only ascend this high or accumulate this much, your fears and insecurities will be resolved once for all. Success promises the love of those around us. They will finally give you the respect and affection you crave. Success says it WHY JESUS IS THE PERFECT CARPENTER can cover everything wrong about us. It offers esteem, control, and security—everything we surrendered in our sin. It wears the savior’s costume and presents itself the strong, charming, and trustworthy hero.2

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In addition, we turn to makeshift to that person. If we think getting THE CARPENTER scholars to tell us how to solve our the perfect college degree will save problems by subscribing to the latest us, we will be sorely disappointed Our problems in life and the reasons podcast or YouTube channel for when we don’t land our dream job we turn to idols for help are a direct advice. It doesn’t take much immediately after graduation. result of sin. Every single one of us is perceived expertise for us to treat a sinner who has rejected God.5 someone else’s word as truth. We The Bible has a term for this idea of Throughout the Bible, our natural place people on pedestals if they going to something or someone condition is described as poor, have a degree (or two or three). other than Jesus to save us. It calls naked, blind, unthankful, foolish, While these individuals deserve this idolatry. wicked, immoral, proud, undiscerning, respect because of their knowledge, and unmerciful. Looking deeply at there remains a disconnect: they We may have a stereotypical image our inner selves, at the things no one don’t know us. They offer helpful in our head when we hear that word. else knows, we see why this is true. tips and tricks but leave us to make “Isn’t worshiping idols what the Who could possibly fix, let alone applications on our own. This is like ancients did way back when?” love, people like us? going in for surgery and the doctor “Doesn’t it involve statues of gods leaving you with the medicine, people bowed down to?” Yes, that Thankfully, God was well aware of instruments, and sterile gloves for was part of it, but idolatry is our ugly condition since the moment you to perform it on yourself. something we all are guilty of, even sin entered the world in the third today. Author and Pastor Tim Keller chapter of Genesis. From that point On the surface, all of these things helps explain: “What is an idol? It is on, the entire Bible details His plan look like tools we can use to fix anything more important to you to rescue us. The Old Testament ourselves. They are tools, yes, but than God, anything that absorbs predicts and anticipates a coming broken ones. If they gave us long your heart and imagination more Savior who, in spite of our constant term results, why do we have to try than God, anything you seek to give rejection of Him, would descend one after the other? Why do we you what only God can give.” We go from His high place of honor to come need one more self-help book, one to idols instead of Jesus to fix our and live among us. Then, the New more diet guru, one more glance at problems because they are easy, Testament details the miracle of our phones? It’s because the last one convenient, normal, logical, and Jesus’ birth, His life and ministry, 4 wasn’t enough. indulgent. They provide instant and ultimately His death and gratification. resurrection. All of these events had MAKING THE PROBLEM WORSE to take place so that His perfect life While the immediate relief idols could be a sacrifice and substitution Have you ever attempted to fix offer us seems okay in the moment, for our broken ones. Romans 5:8 something only to further ruin it the Bible warns us that, in the long makes it clear that Jesus didn’t wait beyond repair? If you’ve ever had a run, they only lead to destruction. for us to clean up our act before stain on your shirt, you know that Not only that, but we are too naïve saving us, but rather, “When we rubbing it harshly without soap and to grasp the full extent of their were utterly helpless, Christ came at water only makes it permanent. So consequences. Proverbs 14:12 puts just the right time and died for us too with our lives. When we it plainly: “There is a path before sinners” (NLT). perpetually seek after things that each person that seems right, but it won’t fix us, our problems grow ends in death” (NLT). If we insist on What a wonderful God that He deeper and deeper. The restlessness being seduced by our idols, Scripture would look at our wretched in our hearts only becomes more says that we will be eternally condition with mercy. Author Dane permanent. For example, if we think separated from Christ (Revelation Ortlund writes, “The evidence of a romantic relationship will save us, 22:15). In light of this serious reality, Christ’s mercy toward you is not the more we set ourselves up for let’s call our idols what they are your life. The evidence of his mercy heartbreak as we get more attached and run. toward you is His [life]—mistreated,

WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE 13 misunderstood, betrayed, abandoned. Eternally. In your ourselves, trying to salvage what meager life we once had. place. If God sent His own Son to walk through the valley of Christ gives us brand new life. That is really good news! condemnation, rejection, and hell, you can trust Him as you walk through your own valleys on your way to heaven.”6 At this point, it’s important to address a common That’s just it. If Christ went to such lengths to repair and misconception: accepting Christ’s offer of a new life does rebuild our relationship with Him, we can trust that He is not mean we are exempt from experiencing anymore good and He wants good for us. problems. Because this world is fallen and sinful, we will continue to see sin rise up in ourselves and others. The difference is, Christ will be with us in our trials, and He will use them for our good. The things we go through in life are no longer arbitrary and pointless: they can be used to build our character, and with a renewed perspective, we might even be thankful for them. Ultimately, Christ enables us to look beyond our current circumstances and realize that they are only temporary compared to the eternity we’ll get to spend with Him.

Jesus lived on this earth for 33 years. Of all the professions When we abandon our best efforts to fix things and run to He could have chosen, He was a carpenter. For many years Christ as the only One who can truly save us, life as we know before His ministry even began, He spent His time building it begins to change. 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “How differently and fixing things. Today, He is still the perfect craftsman. we know him now! This means that anyone who belongs to Christ has become a new person. The old life is gone; a new So, dear friend, have hope that He can and He will give you life has begun!” (NLT). We are no longer left to fend for new life, from the inside out.

1theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2019/aug/21/cellphone-screen-time-average-habits 4thegospelcoalition.org/blogs/kevin-deyoung/the-attraction-of-idolatry/ 2desiringgod.org/articles/the-lethal-drug-in-your-dream-job 5Romans 3:23 3Keller, Tim. Counterfeit Gods: The Empty Promises of Money, Sex, and Power, and the Only Hope that Matters. 6Ortlund, Dane. Gentle and Lowly: The Heart of Christ for Sinners and Sufferers.

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Cheese is a staple food in You’ve heard of a loaf of bread, but how America. It comes in many about a loaf of meat? Commonly made varieties and forms. One of the with beef or turkey, this is created when best is to bread it and deep fry you take ground meat, add an egg, and IF IT DOESN’T HAVE it. This is mostly done using a shake in your favorite seasoning. Form CHEESE IT AIN’T cheese curd, which is made the meat into a “loaf” and put it in a pan AMERICAN from cow’s milk. They can be and bake. Some folks drizzle ketchup dipped in many different and brown sugar on the top, and if sauces but ranch dressing is you’re daring you can put a couple of Okay, so Americans eat more preferred. They can almost strips of bacon on it. Generally than just cheese, but it sure always be found at fairs and served with potatoes and a is a popular ingredient, town festivals. vegetable, the meat is especially here in the sliced and served with Heartland where I’m writing gravy and/or from. Americans of course more ketchup. will eat almost everything – we love a good BBQ, curry, steak, rice and beans, and much more. However, below are some foods that are about as American as it gets. We hope you will wrangle a few friends and get inspired to share an American- themed meal together.

Take some cheese, grab some more, and if that is not enough, get even more. The secret to the best grilled cheese is to make it extra cheesy. In a pan, place one No, this dish will not be walking when buttered slice of bread butter side you eat it, but you can be walking down and layer your cheese on when you eat it. It’s generally made by top. Add another slice of buttered taking a smaller single-serving bag of bread. Cook until bread is golden chips and crushing the chips in the bag. brown, flip, and repeat. Serve Then, adding spicy ground meant and Nothing says summer like good with your favorite all the toppings you prefer like cheese, friends and a fire, but to enjoy soup, like tomato. lettuce, sour cream, and salsa. No the complete experience there washing dishes. must be s’mores. Grab a stick, impale a marshmallow, and roast slightly above the flame until golden brown. Break a graham cracker in half, strategically place a piece of chocolate on the graham, ease the mallow off the stick on the chocolate, unite the empty graham together with the rest of the sandwich, and you have These “recipes” were submitted by yourself a great American treat. volunteers of Word on the Street Hint: If a fire is not available, Magazine in Menomonie, Wisconsin. simply roast over a gas stove or Learn more about WOTS in the United States and read the Menomonie some kind of burner. version online at readwots.com/ menomonie WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE 15 5 THINGS I LEARNED WHILE LIVING THROUGH A PANDEMIC

n the beginning, I remember it more, I realized that God commands feeling like being aboard a slowly us to rest in Him all the time, not just sinking ship. Days turned to during a pandemic. There is a weeks, and weeks turned into difference between laziness and Imonths. Months of discouraging news resting, however. God is displeased by headlines. Months of waiting to hear one but commands the other (Exodus what new guidelines and laws were in 20:8-10). When I get busy running place. Initially, I felt paralyzed by around, it is easier to excuse laziness feelings of helplessness and anxiety in my spiritual life because I’m worn while waiting for everything to go back out and think I deserve a break. But to normal. But God was quick to idleness in this area is not true rest. remind me that there is no need to True rest comes when time with Him stay afraid because He, unlike me, is is our first priority. God alone says He sovereign. He’s been reminding me of can give us rest (Exodus 33:14). Lots of truths like this lately, and perhaps you other people and things say it, but will find they resonate in your life too, they cannot fulfill it. so, here they are. 3. FOCUSING MORE ON WHO I AM, 1. I DON’T NEED TO KNOW THE NOT WHAT I DO, IS KEY. It is easy to EXACT DETAILS OF THE FUTURE. I make Christianity a set of actions that have always tricked myself into include Bible reading, going to church, thinking that it is possible to plan for attending weekly Bible studies, and need God's grace and mercy when my what is going to happen. But the truth telling people about Jesus. When I had schedule is empty and I don't interact is, we never have that absolute to stay at home during the worst of with anything but my thoughts. certainty. Who am I to say if I will even the pandemic, I found that I was wake up in the morning? I’ve been unable to prop up my relationship 5. GOD'S WORK ISN’T ON PAUSE. finding myself frustrated and worried with God through church attendance Hibernating until this is all over sure because I don’t know what my church, and other godly activities. When we would be comfortable, but God is still school, work, and social life will look lose sight of why we do what we do, working, and He desires us to have a like day-to-day, but I’m learning I we fail to see the immense grace that role in it. What a privilege it is to join don’t need exact details. I just need to God has given us. Behavior Him! It might look drastically different be faithful to whatever God has for me modification falls so far short of now, but the heart of it is still the right now. allowing God to transform our minds same: loving and serving God and and hearts. those around us. 2. IT’S OKAY, HEALTHY EVEN, TO SLOW DOWN. Before the pandemic 4. THE BATTLE DOESN'T STOP. I have A lot of time has already passed halted everything in my life, I was often blamed circumstances when I between the beginning of the global probably the busiest I had ever been. have a sinful heart and attitude. Isn't it crisis and now. Perhaps you took the Going from a full schedule to almost easy to excuse being short with time to learn a new skill or work on a nothing was a shock. I have heard someone when you're just so busy, or hobby, but hopefully, you’ve also many others voice similar experiences, to ignore someone when you're taken the time to know God better often sharing that God must be simply tired? I have realized that all and know His Word. It would be a wanting them to rest and take a break the junk in my heart is still there, shame if all this time passes and we or something, and I admit, I felt the regardless of circumstances. I still are no closer to Jesus than we were same way. But as I thought about it need Jesus to pay for my sin. I still when this all started.

16 WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE IT’S NOT THE END - IT TIES IT ALL TOGETHER

f you’re not familiar with Jesus or Christianity, you’ve still more than likely at least heard of the book of Revelation in the Bible. It’s the 66th book, the last one, and Ione of the most misunderstood. If you are a Christian, it tends to be either the book we just don’t talk about, or there’s an odd infatuation with it where you trade out much of the true meaning for weird prophecies that only serve to strike fear in people. Then there is option C: taking Jesus for who He is. Everyone is at a different stage in their beliefs, but take some time now to see what Jesus has to say about Himself in this last book. Let’s read two paragraphs from the first chapter of Revelation.

Iio]]]\]\]\]\]\]\]\]\]\\\]REVELATION 1:7-8 NLT Look! He comes with the clouds of heaven. And everyone will see Him—even those who pierced Him. And all the nations of the world will mourn for Him. Yes! Amen! ‘I am the Alpha and the Omega—the beginning and the end,’ says the Lord God. ‘I am the One who is, who always was, and who is still to come—the Almighty One. Who can fully explain and describe He paid a high price for us to have the awe of these verses? John, one of them. Jesus offers us His gift, but it’s Iio]]]\]\]\]\]\]\]\]\]\\\]REVELATION 1:12-18 NLT When I [Apostle Jesus’ disciples, wrote the words we up to us to embrace it. What good John] turned to see who was speaking to me, I just read. John knew Jesus, he are grace and mercy if there is no saw seven gold lamp stands. And standing in walked with Jesus, and he talked face consequence for rejecting Him? the middle of the lamp stands was someone like to face with Jesus. And still, when Some say that’s not fair, but the the Son of Man. He was wearing a long robe Jesus appeared to him here, he was reality is we have no right to decide with a gold sash across His chest. His head and so floored that he passed out. What what directives are fair and which are His hair were white like wool, as white as snow. was different about this Jesus not when they come from the And His eyes were like flames of fire. His feet compared to the Jesus he walked Creator of the universe. If anything, were like polished bronze refined in a furnace, with before on planet Earth? John it’s unfair that He chose to redeem and His voice thundered like mighty ocean had known Him as meek and mild, humans who previously rejected Him. waves. He held seven stars in His right hand, but here He was described as having and a sharp two-edged sword came from His eyes “like a flame of fire.” Jesus is so We must realize how desperate we mouth. And His face was like the sun in all its awesome, He is not capable of being are, or are not, for Him. It’s so much brilliance. When I saw Him, I fell at His feet as if put in a box and completely more than intellectual understanding I were dead. But He laid His right hand on me described and confined. How great and “making sense” of these things. and said, ‘Don’t be afraid! I am the First and the and scary is this? Think of the grace Read the verses above again and ask Last. I am the living One. I died, but look—I Am and promises He makes. They are the God to reveal to you what He’s saying alive forever and ever! And I hold the keys of best gifts able to be given, but they here. This isn’t the end—it’s what ties death and the grave. are not something to take lightly as it all together.

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BOOK REVIEW

7 MYTHS ABOUT SINGLENESS Allberry wastes no time or space confronting common misconceptions that circulate through Christian circles regarding singleness: (1) it is too hard, (2) requires a n a recent conversation, I realized I’ve special calling, (3) means no intimacy, E TO YOU ABOUT ABOUT YOU TO E been single for eight years—the (4) means no family, (5) hinders ministry,

entirety of my twenties, in fact. As the (6) wastes your sexuality, and (7) is easy. words came out of my mouth, I was Each chapter confronts the myth from the Istartled. Has it really been that long? Yeah, roots to the branches, carefully combining it has been. There have been seasons personal experiences, popular examples, where I’ve enjoyed and embraced it, then pastoral insights, and Scripture throughout. there have been times where I’ve been left SINGLENESS AND SEX. SEX. AND SINGLENESS asking, “What’s wrong with me?” In those Within the first chapter, Allberry reminds seasons it has been vital to clean off my us that Jesus was single, and He doesn’t dusty glasses and gain a clear perspective. call others to a standard that He didn’t embrace Himself. He confronts the

THESE BOOKS WON'T LI WON'T BOOKS THESE Two books that have been incredibly misconception that marriage will complete helpful are 7 Myths about Singleness and us, since “He [Jesus] is the most complete Why Does God Care Who I Sleep With? and fully human person that ever lived... Both are written by Sam Allberry, a pastor, the moment we claim a life of celibacy to speaker, and writer. As a man who has be dehumanizing, we are implying that been single for a number of years, I found Jesus himself is only subhuman” (p. 25). him to be relatable, reliable, and witty. These are not like other books on The reader is continually reminded of the singleness that tend to make marriage—or sufficiency of Christ and that “the key to at least becoming someone marriable—the contentment as a single person is not point. Allberry writes honestly, creatively trying to make singleness into something weaving biblical truth with his own life that will satisfy us; it is to find contentment experiences. in Christ as a single person” (p. 142). The

18 WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE author reminds his readers that most worst. In his newest book, Allberry seeks to is fundamentally about giving, and about married people will one day be single again address the issues of sexuality from a biblical giving our whole self to someone” (loc. 615). (p. 14) and puts a spotlight on the biblical standpoint, helping readers—Christian The Bible’s design for sex is not at all truth that marriage is for this life only, not or not—understand God’s design for prudish. For the Christian, it is deeply for eternity (p. 119). The final chapter points sexual union. sacred, and therefore highly honored. out that we all live with uncertainty: “It’s not a problem of singleness; it’s a problem of Far from writing a book that’s out of touch The final two chapters tie it all together with life. The only guarantee is that Christ will with today’s world, Allberry instead an explanation of the bigger and better story never leave us or forsake us” (p. 140). addresses many modern-day issues that behind our sexuality, further explaining why sex is so sacred for the Although he highlights many benefits of Christian. “God has given us singleness, Allberry does not gloss over the this whole dimension in life— difficulties. In fact, he was brutally honest making us sexual beings and about his own anxieties and takes no giving us this instinct towards comfort in the struggles of marriage. He lifelong partnership—precisely stated, “I would choose the lows of to point us to the deeper and singleness over the lows of marriage any day greater reality of his covenant of the week. I think being unhappily married love for us in Christ” must be so much harder than being (loc. 1700). unhappily single” (p. 30). revolve around sexuality. He doesn’t shy Allberry carefully walks the reader through Allberry ends the book with an appendix away from addressing hard topics such as the grand story of the Bible—that God has that offers practical guidance to avoid sexual abuse, consent, and homosexuality. In prepared His people, the Church, as a bride sin, as well as hope for those who have addressing such, he proves that sexuality for their bridegroom, Jesus Christ. Marriage given in to sexual temptation. It is the matters to us all. “If #MeToo has shown us and romantic fulfillment are just shadows of bridge that connects this book to his most anything, it is that our sexuality matters this greater reality. “We sense there is recent work, Why Does God Care Who I profoundly. Its violation leads to the deepest something profound and meaningful that is Sleep With? emotional and psychological damage, quite meant to be discovered...but rather than apart from the physical scars it leaves” (loc. seeing it as a sign of something greater, we 90) and “...the pain of sexual assault is not mistake it for the reality itself” (loc. 1706). the pain of a grazed knee but the trauma of holy space being desecrated. Maybe our Ultimately, the pulse that runs through the bodies are less like playthings and more like veins of the entire book is this: “God cares temples.” (loc. 319). who we sleep with because he cares deeply about the people who are doing the Critics may chastise Christians for being too sleeping” (loc. 51). restrictive about sexual morals, but Allberry points out that all people—including critics—place restrictions on sexual behavior. He says, “What is distinctive about 7 M y t h s A b o u t the Christian understanding of sexual ethics, Singleness is available then, is not the presence of boundaries but for purchase from where those boundaries are located and for Crossway (visit what reason” (loc. 286). For the Christian, crossway.org). the boundaries are coherent and unchanging, whereas the boundaries of our Why Does God Care cultural code are constantly changing. Who I Sleep With? can be purchased from The The heart of the book explains what sex is Good Book Company for. More than just a mere “passage of (visitthegoodbook.com). fluids,” it is a deeply sacred and unifying act Both books are (which, by the way, was God’s idea, not available in print or ours). Allberry writes, “Sex is God’s digital formats. WHY DOES GOD CARE WHO I SLEEP WITH? appointed way for two people to For many, the Christian views on sex—and reciprocally say to one another, ‘I belong specifically what the Bible teaches about completely, permanently, and exclusively to it—seem outdated at best and legalistic at you’” (loc. 522). He goes on to explain, “sex

WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE 19 FICTION

ONE SON SETTING THE CAPTIVES FREE

he wind sent a chill down the neck of the father’s spine as he helped his son out of the car. He never meant for this trip to be necessary and yet here they were, outside the front doors of the state Tpenitentiary. The boy had been quiet for most of the drive, knowing full well the plan for the day only had one outcome.

“Do we really have to do this, Dad?” the boy stopped to ask. “Isn’t there another way?”

The father could do nothing but kneel down and embrace his son. If only, he thought. Tears filled his eyes as he felt his father shake his head. This was the only way. Though he didn’t understand fully in that moment,

20 WORD ON THE STREET MAGAZINE the strength of his dad’s arms around him assured An older man one cell down hovered at his door, the boy that somehow, some way, everything unsure about what lay ahead. He had grown quite really would be alright. The father grabbed his comfortable in his little concrete house. The father boy’s hand and up the steps they went to the red stepped toward him and led the way down the door that waited at the top. maze in reverse. All eyes were open wide as they walked further than they were used to after living The guard inside led them down a maze of narrow their solitary lives. The first of the prisoners made halls, slowing down once they reached a hallway their way to the red front door, hands reaching up that felt heavier than all the rest. A harsh to shield their eyes. The sunlight streamed through fluorescent light rested above each green door the windows, casting shadows around their feet. It with a small window. The father looked into the had been too long since they’d seen the light. The windows of the cells as they walked. He saw men father watched as one man closed his eyes, holding and women sitting alone. Some were quiet and his arms out to welcome the warmth at the top of some were talking aloud. Some came up to their the steps. Streams of orange and gray flooded the windows, making a scene as they passed by. Some, steps as the prisoners arrived at the street below, it seemed, couldn’t find it in themselves to lift their and the father knew it was finally finished. eyes. Most had been there months, others years, even decades. All were awaiting execution. Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down. And we thought The farther they walked, the deeper the father’s his troubles were a punishment from God, a heart sank. Cell after cell, the father locked eyes punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for with the people behind the bars. These inmates our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He were the reason he had come, and nothing would was beaten so we could be whole. change his mind. Despite what they’d done, he He was whipped so we could didn’t see criminals. He saw individuals in need of be healed. All of us, like freedom. Holding tight to his son, he knew it sheep, have strayed away. was time. We have left God’s paths to follow our own. Yet The guard opened the door to a cell at the end of the Lord laid on him the the hall, and the boy stepped inside. His father let sins of us all. go of his hand and looked away without a word. The cell door clanked shut, then, silence. ISAIAH 53:4-6 (NLT)

One by one, the guard unlocked the doors down the hall, and, one by one, the inmates stepped into the corridor. The reactions varied as the father turned to face them.

“Father,” one woman cried, as she fell down before him. His hands met her face as he helped her to her feet.

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eople need to get stuff done. Ethiopian goat herder. Kaldi grew curious late 1680s. In the 1800s, the percolator Whether they enjoy being about the plant after noticing how jittery was invented to create a continuous cycle productive or not, ’it s inarguable and excitable his goats got post-grazing. of boiling water pumped through a tube that there is work to be done all over the Jittery goats? Glorious caffeine was to around the grounds. Brewing methods world. But how can one individual blame! Was coffee used historically before haven’t changed much since the 15th accomplish all that there is to be done? By Kaldi’s discovery? Almost definitely, but as century. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s getting enough sleep each night? you know, all good things take time. that coffee as we know it today began. The Nonsense! Who has time for that? By use auto-drip coffee maker in many ways of performance-enhancing drugs? Likely Once the 15th century hit, people perfected the efficiency of consuming the not. Drugs are illegal for good reason. experimented with eating coffee berries bean because it quickly boiled water and Enter coffee: God’s gift to humans to help (the forerunner to chocolate-covered slowly dripped it through cheap, ground them get tasks finished while espresso beans in my opinion) but that coffee contained in disposable paper, the simultaneously tasting great. Ah, caffeine: proved too bitter for their palates. To American way. the magic inside coffee that makes your combat the bitterness and improve flavor, brain think it’s wide awake regardless of they tried roasting them before Many will argue pour over tastes better; the amount of sleep you’ve had. consumption. This too was ineffective. some think espresso in all its concentrated Naturally, to soften the beans after such a glory is best. It doesn’t matter your This dark, rich nectar has a very bold, roasting, they soaked them in water, only preference, all coffee brewing methods are interesting, and storied history. It predates to find that the water changed to a dirty beautiful. Jot that down. The inevitable humans by three days. Let that sink in brown color. How appetizing! Curiosity creation of flavored coffee has birthed a once. Speculative assumption could argue won out, though, and sure enough, the great divide amongst humans who have that Adam consumed coffee whilst in the stewed bean water was tasted for the first asked, “Should pumpkin spice lattes be garden with Eve. I can’t prove it, but how time. Imagine consuming coffee after years available year-round?” That is a question else could you stay focused on naming all of no caffeine in your life. As your pupils for another article (but the answer is yes, those animals? This begs the question: dilate, time slows down and speeds up they should). would you even need coffee in a sinless simultaneously, and you're suddenly struck environment? Probably not, but hey, God with the urge to focus and get to it! It had The bottom line is that coffee is delicious had it on Earth pre-fall so what does that to be wonderful! and widely consumed. Is it as popular and tell you? That no matter what the storied as tea? No, but that’s okay. It’s not scientists decide next, coffee is GOOD Coffee quickly spread from the Middle East a competition. Coffee is a wonderful and FOR YOU. and Africa around the world as other tasty way to wake up. Remember to thank cultures began experimenting with the God for His delicious creation! delicious nectar. The Austrians were the The earliest recorded discovery of the uses ncausa.org/about-coffee/history-of-coffee th first to add milk and sugar to coffee in the wilanow-palac.pl/jerzy_franciszek_kulczycki_the_founder_of_the_first_caf_in_vienna.html of coffee stems from Kaldi, a 9 century scienceabc.com/eyeopeners/what-is-a-coffee-percolator-and-how-does-it-work.html historycooperative.org/history-of-coffee-brewing/

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re you tired of listening to the same what you’ll hear on the station. Every DJ old songs? Sure, there’s a time and brings their unique personality and skillsets place for the classics that filled up to the station, providing a variety of your high school playlists or the songs that content that will keep you engaged. BDR are currently trending (read: overplayed). also highlights a new featured artist on But I’m here to tell you that a whole new their station every week, which is often an world of music awaits you. A world of undiscovered or underground musician. music... world... Oh! That reminds me, did you know that Street Level Radio has a sister station on the other side of the world? Let me introduce you to Burning Dog Radio.

Broadcasting out of a 19th century brick and stained-glass church in a small American town, Burning Dog Radio is a 100-watt low- power FM station that reaches about 25 streetlevelradio.com or open the SLR app kilometers into the surrounding on your phone from 2-4pm and 11pm-1am countryside. The station may not reach far to listen. on the FM airwaves, but it does reach Now, you may be wondering why I’m deep—deep enough to penetrate the thick telling you all of this when the FM station is Street Level Radio is the official radio brick walls of a nearby university. It’s the only available in a small radius in the station of Street Level Ministries Cebu and only station that students can listen to in middle of the United States when you’re the University of the Visayas—Main the dark caverns of the art and design probably reading from somewhere in the Campus. We are also proudly sponsored by building on the nearby university campus! Philippines. Well, it’s your lucky day. You Teofel Hostel and Roadside Café in can listen to Burning Dog Radio! BDR is downtown Cebu City. Visit us online at With a team of about 10 volunteer DJ’s, taking over Street Level Radio to broadcast streetlevelradio.com, download the SLR eclectic may be the best way to describe its music and content every day. Just go to Android app, or find us on Facebook.

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