Review: 2026 Eschatology of the Prophets Conference

I was invited to speak at this year’s, “Eschatology of the Prophets” Conference which was held at the Toddhall Retreat Center in Illinois just a few weeks ago.

You can gain full access to the conference videos, Power Points, and more at the following link,

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My presentations:

An Eschatology That Delivers & Changes Everything

Church: The Endgame

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My Initial Review of the Conference

Bible texts mentioned & examined – Gemesis 1; 15; Numbers 25; Deuteronomy 25:5-10; 32:5, 16-18; 34:1-2; Joshua 21:43-45; 1 Kings 4:20-21;  Psalm 45; 102:18; Hosea 2:18; 13; 14:4-7; Micah 4;  Isaiah 2; 19:24-25; 25; 26:1-3; 51:4; 66:8;  Jeremiah 31; Ezekiel 16:60-61; Matthew 12:41-41; Luke 11:45-52; 20:36; 21:34;  Acts 4:34-37;  Romans 4; 1 Corinthians 11 & 15; Galatians 3:17-19, 24-28; 4:25-30; Ephesians 1 & 3;  Hebrews 1:8-13; 7:11-15; 8:13; 12:22; 2 Peter 1 & 3; Revelation 20:11; 21-22 

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Public Health & Youth Incarceration: Recent Event Notes

Last Tuesday, June 16th, I attended the ‘From Harm To Healing: Rethinking Youth Incarceration Through A Publlic Health Lens’ event at The City University of New York (CUNY) hosted by Youth Justice NY. Reggie Chatman, of the Fortune Society, and Dr. David Bell, a nationally recognized physician leader with more than 25 years of experience in advancing the health and wellness of adolescents and young adults, were the main presenters. A panel discussion was also hosted with other advocates/organizations:

• Gamal Willis, Avenues For Justice
• Belinda Ramos, Community Connections For Youth 
• Isaiah Smith, a recently released carceral advocate 
• Angelique Williams, Youth Collective Empowerment 
• Jose Perez, Children’s Defense Fund 

Defining Public Health & Youth Incarceration 

“Public Health” which was defined as ‘the science of protecting and improving health in our various populations’.

Talking about “Youth Incarceration” in the context of this conversation, specifically health, is to be understood as recognising “that emerging young-adult peoples ages 18-25 have unique needs and tremendous potential…which provides for effective, age-appropriate interventions to move young people out of the criminal legal system and into education, stability, and economic opportunities”. 

Discussing Public Health & Youth Incarceration 

The discussion between Reggie Chatman and Dr. Bell developed the evidence regarding youth incarceration and it needing to be viewed as a public health issue not just criminal justice issue. Health is all about providing support for human growth and development, maturity into healthy adulthood. Neuroscience is finding that adolescence, specifically individuals between the ages of 18-25, are living amidst “transit immaturity” and are in-development regarding how they are wired, how they are interpreting their lived experience, and the need for a broad array of positive experiences. The effort of finding justice and correction through incarceration is not limited to the justice system, or social work, rather this is public health issue. And we can be assured that incarceration (jail/prison) are not the best experiences and this is often exasperated by separation from the support of family and impactful adults. Unfortunately, the imbalanced perspectives regarding proper care for our adolescent population in areas of education, health, and incarceration, demonstrate all too clearly that, as Dr. Bell stated,  “This country doesn’t care about poor children, and has no mind for adolescence”, especially as we see that “sometimes the structures of the system don’t help them”. 

Here are two resources (an article & a podcast) that highlight this discussion: 

https://imprintnews.org/opinion/youth-incarceration-is-a-public-health-crisis/271885

https://open.spotify.com/episode/14UZzcSkupu83R7RGnI6RU?si=2nby_I4hRCiIzKZo02fGPA

Offered Solutions 

In talking about solutions for those who already see the writing on the wall, “Youth Incarceration As A Public Health Crisis” and/or are desirous to do the work, namely engaging carceral reform for the benefit of adolescence, many areas of necessary involvement were mentioned. A layer of trust must be established across disciplines (medical (public health system), mental health, educational, social work/ community organizations, criminal justice system, advocacy work, religious groups, entertainment, and other socio-economic structures)  and can best be fostered through networking/ mutual sharing of information (as allowed) & resources. There needs to be a fostering of continuity and relationship with medical professionals (“keeping connection & communication”). Passage of the New York State “Youth Justice & Opportunities Act” (S.4330A/A. 5293A). As we consider these things and work toward their reality, we believe this will help those who were put into incarceration because they seemingly acted in a negative way, to re-integrate back into our communities in a positive way.

Discussions were had considering positive reinforncement and prescription to work against crime and negative behavior. Here is an article that talks about that, https://mymodernmet.com/museum-prescriptions-continue-to-grow/

Also, Dr. Bell recommended reading for those who want to understand the generational differences, the book, Generations: The Real Differences Between Gen Z, Millennials, Gen X, Boomers, and Silents–And What They Mean for America’s Future, by Gene Twenge. 

The panel (of individuals and organizations that I detailed at the beginning of this blog) highlighted that we must invest in our youth, and rather than seeing that as a risk, we find that it is a resource. Investing in the youth includes, but is not limited to, mentorship (“handholding” if need be), ‘forming bridges and creating anchors’ in regards to individual interests and desires, and ultimately creating a ‘continuum of wellness’ for positive lives. We must care and show that we care. The need to channel the energy our young people have to positive experiences was discussed, even asserting that we often talk about our kids doing bad things together in groups or gangs, “why can’t they do good things together”?  After all, as Belinda Ramos asserted, “If redemption is not possible then accountability has no purpose”. 

Engaging Carceral Reform in New York State, On Long Island 

I was able to do some networking at the event and met Hernán Carvente-Martinez, the Executive Director of Alianza For Opportunity (https://alianzaforopportunity.org/). Hernan also mentioned Just Leadership USA (https://jlusa.org/) as an interesting resource that he benefitted from. I also met Gregory Ellis who is the Youth Development Coordinator for Youth Represent (https://youthrepresent.org/). Lastly, I met Khalil Cumberbatch from Council on Criminal Justice (https://counciloncj.org/) and enjoyed conversation with him regarding carceral reforms and efforts of support being established in Suffolk County. 

These networks and the various efforts being made are important to criminal justice reforms happening all over New York State, surely here in Suffolk County. Unfortunately their has been much hubris from Suffolk County elected officials regarding these reforms, such as Suffolk DA Ray Tierney and Suffolk County Executive Ed Romaine.  See following article, Suffolk Officials Decry Proposed ‘Reform’ Package, 

https://lilifepolitics.com/news/politics/suffolk-officials-decry-proposed-reform-package/

Also, Senator Dean Murray has joined these men in creating and/or fostering a false dichotomy between victims and criminals. Sen. Murray specifically said in a Facebook post sharing an article regarding the new law that sentencing judges must visit jails once a year, “Once again, New York makes it all about the “poor criminals””. 

With those sentiments all around us here on Long Island, I am so grateful for those who engage the work of caring for those dealing with, supporting/empowering those being released from, and advocating on behalf of those impacted by, incarceration. I think immediately of New Hour LI For Women & Children (https://newhourli.org/), Communities Not Cages (https://www.communitiesnotcagesny.org/), and especially, the Sayville book store, Tiny Racoon Books (277 Railroad Ave., Sayville). 

Belinda Ramos’ following words had a mighty impact on me at the recent event. She said, “Who does harm when they feel safe & at peace?” Instead of hubris, I hope to embody that sentiment and do the work that makes it reality. 

Through my preaching and teaching at The Blue Point Bible Church, I have sought to foster a Spirituality of humility, calling for giving of grace, to ourselves and others – second chances (even 3rd and 4th), all the while leading efforts of personal growth, enrichment, and accountability. Over the last year, we launched the “Hub of HELP” which has proved to be a communal effort of mutual aid of needs and resources. I have recently been hired as the Youth Education Facilitator/Counselor for Sound Justice Intitiative and will be given the privilege and responsibiity of mentoring and educating our justice-involved young-adult populace in the county jails on Long Island. 

Through this learning experience and all of these networks, you can expect more for justice-involved and justice-impacted individuals in Suffolk County. More meeting of minds, more activities, more advocacy, and more resources. 

Thoughtfully Submitted By,  
Michael Miano, pastor

Cell: 239-603-5695
Email: PastorMikeMiano@yahoo.com 

BOOK REVIEW: Kabbalah and the Founding of America

As I read Brian Ogren’s book, Kabbalah and the Founding of America,  the quote that stuck with me and encouraged my reading (and thus my thinking) was, “Indeed, there is no such monolith as the early American ethos, and understanding of the foundation of religious sensabilities must consider a tapestry of divergent threads”. I totally agree and believe this to be of utmost importance as we outline any historical perspective or interpretation of religious thought, including but not limited to American history. 

Brian Ogren chose a particular thread, speaking to the period of the mid-1680’s to mid-1780’s, highlighting early Quaker and thus Kabbalistic  influence within Christianity, and American thought. Five particular folks were focused on, a prominent Quaker (George Keith),  two important Puritans (Increase Mather and Cotton Mather), a convert from Judaism who taught at Harvard (Judah Monis), and a renknown revolutionary-age intellectual, who also was the president of Yale (Ezra Stiles). 

In the book it was detailed that there are various “paths that led non-Jewish American thinkers toward Kabballah” such as studies with Kabbalists, particular attention to current events amidst Messianic stirrings, the idea of coupling Kabbalah and Biblical exegesis, as well as the influence of the Republic of Letters. The Republic of Letters proved to be an interesting study and learning for me. 

The author asserted that “…perhaps the oldest American case of treating Jewish esoteric lore and mining it for diamonds of wisdom, belongs to George Keith”. As I ponder this thread of influence upon Christianity, which I believe if evidentary so, I will look into each of the aforementioned names, including Gorge Keith. 

The idea of the book seems to be that these men and their influence fostered a sort of “Christian Kabblah” within Christian circles, what was being seen as “A revolution of the soul”. Yes, this seems to have had a major impact on many-a-Christians understanding of the Bible (hermenutics & paradigms are largely influential). I could not help but think of many Christian “testimonies” that sound exactly like what Brian Ogren described as, 

“…conversion through mystical and eschatological Judaism…moored within an American sense of apocalypticism.”.

I did find two sentiments that Cotton Mather asserted that I’d like to lean in on and explain what I hsve discerned as true soteriology (details of salvation). 

Cotton Mather asserted, “If your foundation stand sure, it would follow that all honest pagans, Jews, and Mahometans are in Christ as well as you”. I have met some Christians who belive so firmly in fulfilled eschatology & sovereign grace that they would agree with this. I disagree. While the gift of grace and salvation are available to all, only few will walk that narrow road and obtain what has been offered. “In Christ” is a position God sovereignly & providentially chooses & calls folks to. However, I’d agree that “Some have been and may be saved, to whom the Gospel is not outwardly preached, nor the history of Christ outwardly known”. God has His work and we have ours. 

I did enjoy thinking through many points the book brought up, and enjoyed the margin notes (as the book was lended to me). I took notes and saw it important to write this review. The book was a hard read through. I did find an interview of Brian Ogren on YouTube that further fleshed out the ideas in and around the book. 

Miano – Bondar Debate: The Existence of God

Michael Miano & Alan Bondar are hosting a 4-day debate/discussion regarding Christianity & Atheism. The 1st night of discussion was had on Wednesday, May 13th and can be reviewed on YouTube. The 2 nights of debate will be had on Saturday, May 23rd & Sunday, May 24th. Then on Tuesday, May 26th, they will offer Closing Statements at 6pm.

(Links as available to be provided below)

Opening Discussion

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Debate Night 1

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Debate Night 2

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Closing Remarks

Jesus Stands In The Midst Of His Church

On “Resurrection Sunday” I preached that the power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead, is accessible today and is found where Jesus is, where Jesus stands. Jesus stands in the midst of the Church, though not readily-realized and under-appreciated. As we seek to learn of and live in the mystery of the ages, the fulfillment of Bible prophecy, we must discern the presence & purpose of God, the very power of God that is found in the Body, the Body being the Church. As we have “healthy engagement with the Church, She (the Church) and we (individually members of Her), manifest the fullness of God. 

Resurrection & The Power of God 

On Resurrection Sunday 2020, I explained to us that “…the resurrection of Jesus Christ put on full display the powers that have been given to the Church, we are essentially superheroes in and through Jesus Christ. Yes, I said it, we the Church are essential, and our essential existence is to be seen through our corporate cohesion and individual accountability. This is how we demonstrate the power we posess to bring healing to the nations through the Gospel” 

This is detailed for us in Romans chapter 6:4-10 (consider the corporate & individual application); “Therefore we have been buried with Him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we too may walk in newness of life. For if we have become united with Him in the likeness of His death, certainly we shall also be in the likeness of His resurrection, knowing this, that our old self was crucified with Him, in order that our body of sin might be done away with, so that we would no longer be slaves to sin; for the one who has died is freed from sin. Now if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with Him, knowing that Christ, having been raised from the dead, is never to die again; death no longer is master over Him.  For the death that He died, He died to sin once for all time; but the life that He lives, He lives to God.” 

In the sermon review from a few Sundays ago, which I mentioned at the beginning of this message, I explained that Jesus stands in the midst of the Church, thus the power of God, found in and through Jesus Christ, has been deposited in the Church. This was based upon citation of Job 19:25 and Ephesians 1:8-10, 13-14, 18-23. I’ve also written a blog explaining that idea, titled, The Church As a Deposit of His Life.

2026 Resurrection Sunday Sermon Review – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-ODnOF9620

The Church As The Deposit of His Life blog – https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2019/04/23/the-church-as-the-deposit-of-his-life/

The Presence of Jesus Christ – Sitting & Standing 

I rather appreciated that aa brother in the faith, a Facebook friend, one who seemingly might disagree with me as much as he agrees with me, responded. He inquired as to how I can assert and teach that Jesus Christ stands in His Church today. 

Please allow me to detail a few things. 

The phrasee “sitting at the right hand of the Father” is a declaration of power, a position, not a location that Jesus Christ is physically sitting. To miss this is to misunderstanding the way the phrase is used in the Old & New Testament. 

As per, Ephesians chapter 1 (among a host of other Biblkical texts) the goal of the ages was for all things to be summed up in Jesus Christ, the power of God to be declared/ made known, which possession, privilege, & resposibility was given to the Church. 

There are “proof texts” of Jesus present in the Church, even standing(see, Revelation 1:9-20. 

I even took the liberty to ask Google AI and here was a bit of the response; 

“Jesus is seen as actively present within the Church today, standing in the midst of congregations to guide, correct, and encourage them, as described in Revelation 1:9-20. This presence is not physical but spiritual, with Christ as the head, navigating imperfections to support, heal, and work through his followers…Jesus stands among the “lampstands,” which symbolize the churches, offering both encouragement and necessary correction, even when churches have imperfections…Jesus is considered the center of all things, including church life, rather than being on the periphery…He is depicted as seated at the right hand of God, actively interceding for his people, advocating for them, and strengthening them in their spiritual lives.
Through His body, the Church, Jesus still brings restoration, delivers people from fear, and works through his people.  This presence means that despite challenges or cultural shifts, believers believe Jesus has not abandoned the church and remains central to its existence.”

Also, I did some Bible study by going to Bible Hub and looking up cross-references for Job 19:25. Here were some of the correlating verses which require studying out and establishing their “Spiritually-discerned” fulfillment in Jesus Christ.

Isaiah 26:19 – Your dead will live; their bodies will rise. Awake and sing, you who dwell in the dust! For your dew is like the dew of the morning, and the earth will bring forth her dead.

Daniel 12:2 – And many who sleep in the dust of the earth will awake, some to everlasting life, but others to shame and everlasting contempt.

Psalm 16:10 – For You will not abandon my soul to Sheol, nor will You let Your Holy One see decay.

Psalm 49:15 –  But God will redeem my life from Sheol, for He will surely take me to Himself. 

Psalm 73:24 – You guide me with Your counsel, and later receive me in glory.

Hosea 13:14 – I will ransom them from the power of Sheol; I will redeem them from Death. Where, O Death, are your plagues? Where, O Sheol, is your sting? Compassion is hidden from My eyes.

Isaiah 53:11- After the anguish of His soul, He will see the light of life and be satisfied. By His knowledge My righteous Servant will justify many, and He will bear their iniquities.

I also found the New Testament citations to be further evidence for things I have already taught regarding the past-tense, corporate nature of the “resurrection of the dead”, see

1 Corinthians 15:20-22, 42-44, 52-54;  2 Cor. 4:14; Romans 8:11, 23; Philippians 3:20-21: 1 Thessalonians 4:14. 

https://biblehub.com/job/19-25.htm

I have explained before that In the OT, we find the “Hope of Israel”, what has come to be known as the “resurrection hope”, outlined for us. I have explained, even publicly debated, that I have come to understand that hope as fulfilled namely through clear time-texts and historical happenings described by and about Jesus Christ, as well as through Spiritually-discerned application of the things hoped for found in and through the Church. Resurrection texts point to Jesus’ resurrection and our resurrection in Him, so as I have said before, when it comes to the fulfilment of Bible prophecy we are not watching & waiting, but possessing and increasing in the things of God. This is something that requires a proper understanding of cultural & historical context coupled with actual Bible study to fully prove. However doing so will show that  in the New Testament, there is often a necessary “corporate reading and reality” that must be understood. The “Corporate Body View” (which I advocate for) runs against individualistic readings & understandings. Also, is also helps establish the fact that  power of God is found in and through healthy church engagement (something I have also continued to be an advocate for). As Ephesians 3:10 so clearly states,  “His intent was that now, through the church, the manifold wisdom of God should be made known to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly realms”.

Jesus Stands In the Midst of His Church 

As I began to read and research, Jesus standing in the midst of the Church, I was further encouraged that not only is this what the Bible is teaching, it is not all that odd to assert. I found an article by Rick Renner, whom I would disagree with about much, especially Bible prophecy, yet he utilized the assertion that Jesus stands in the midst of the church despite its flaws and He is present throught it. I totally agree and appreciate this sentiment. I’d go on to say that we must also stand in the midst of the church, His Church (which surely takes time, attentiveness, & Spiritual-discernment), but stand we must. 

Rick Renner article  – https://renner.org/article/jesus-is-not-ashamed-of-his-church/#:~:text=Christ%20was%20so%20close%20%E2%80%94%20so,Church%2C%20and%20He%20never%20will%20

Conclusion 

I had concluded the aforementioned recent sermon by exhorting the congregation that Jesus can only stand in the midst of His Church, those who have died to themselves and live in the resurrection of Jesus Christ – newness of life. An every day reality, or as is Biblically called, Eternal Life. This is an individual and corporate reality. We must examine ourselves, walk in wisdom, walk worthy, make the most of our time and resources, and be a light to “outsiders”. 

The Biblical case can be made for Jesus standing in the midst of His Church, but what matters is the demonstration of that in the world today, our ‘healthy engagement with the Church’, makes manifest the fullness of God. Commit to healthy engagement with the Church, this season ahead and forevermore. 

More Than A Second Look At Second Chances

I have the privilege & the burden of living a life that testifies to the power of second chances. The privilege is that I was once living one way, manifesting wickedness, and through the work of God, opportunities & resources, and personal choices I am now living another way, manifesting blessings. The burden is that there are many who if they could and would receive a second chance, namely by their prison sentences being given a ‘second look’, they too would be manifesting blessings. As I heard a law professor say a few weeks ago, “People are capable of change and our laws must change to reflect that as well”. 

With those privileges and blessing before me, I have put my hand to the plow to engage carceral reform.

 While in prison back in 2005, I experienced a change of mind and heart (which I attribute to the work of Jesus Christ). Much of the remainder of my time in prison from that time forward (about another year) was spent studying religious, political, and social theory and dreaming with other prisoners of living out the changes we felt happening in our minds and hearts when we went home. I left many of those positive-minded individuals behind as I was released in September 2006, never intending to forget about them though. Within a short period of time after my release. I became immersed in Christian theological circles, eventually I published a few books, I participated in public debates, and for over a decade now, I have served as pastor of a local church and as Director of a Christian movement. More recently, I have found opportunity to see the merging of my life experience, religious convictions, and social/political activity, not limited to but namely on behalf of those in prison in need of better care, consideration, and a “second look”. Again I’ll say, I have the privilege & the burden of living a life that testifies to the power of second chances. 

Second Look Symposium 

A few weeks ago, I attended the Second Look Symposium hosted at CUNY School of Law. 

It was noted from the outset that we are dealing with “a crisis”, as we have over 30,000 incarcerated individuals in New York state, 3 our 4 are racially black and brown, and thousands of these individuals are serving decade-long sentences. Law professor Steve Zeidman, explained that we need to see the appellate courts move from overturning cases based merely on unlawful matters (during the arrest or case) and see more overturned cases “in the interest of justice”, and he further explained that “it is not a radical concept”. 

The Second Look Symposium included a panel-based talk with Judge Rowan Wilson, Judge Joseph Zayas, and Percy West (a prison reform advocate). Also, there were presentations given by aforementioned law professor Steve Zeidman (Second Look Project), CCA (Center for Community Alternatives) Fellow Patrick Stephens, and NYS Assembly-member Latrice Walker. We heard from Charisse Peace and watched a video presentation from and about her brother, Shawn Peace. 

You can watch that video at the following link, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fDii7iUwk-g

Beyond the fact that many in New York criminal courts are simply penalized for exercising their right to trial, I appreciated the sentiments that were shared highlighting the “reflective redemption” that is often found in prison and was inspired by hearing a judge assert the stupidity of keeping people who have demonstrated life-change in prison. This was explained as “stupid” for restorative justice reasons and the amount of money that is spend by the state to keep individuals in prison. Judge Rowan Wilson explained, “I don’t like stupidity”. 

Speaking to the power of restorative justice, Patrick Stephens exhorted us regarding “the tentacles of the Second Look Act”, explaining that “If these men are having impact on lives behind bars, imagine what they will do when released, on our streets”. As a man who was impacted and encouraged by fellow prisoners to live out the changes that were happening in my mind and heart, I could agree more, and repeat the demand that, “It behooves us all to reconsider how we are approaching all of this”.  I also agree with Mr. Stephens that engaging such work and “being around people of good will…is like being in Church”. 

Ahh, the privilege & the burden of living a life that testifies to the power of second chances.

It’s Dangerous to Feel This Desperate: How to Ease the Chaos in New York’s Prisons 
Article written by John J. Lennon 

Speaking of the Church, earlier this week, I traveled to Albany to join with the NYS Council of Churches to do advoacy work with our NYS lawmakers regarding criminal justice reforms. As I traveled to Albany, I took time to read an article regarding the Second Look Act. Before sharing with you some insights from my trip to Albany, I’d like to highlight some points made in the aforementioned article. 

“COs and prisoners both have lower life expectancies and higher rates of PTSD, suicide and depression than other people in society. An inhumane living environment for us is also an inhumane work environment for COs.”

In early 2025 there was a New York state prison guard strike to protest dangerous working conditions, chronic understaffing, and mandatory, extreme overtime. They demanded the reversal of the HALT Act, which limits solitary confinement, and resisted increased scrutiny following in-custody deaths, resulting in thousands of firings. In the article, Mr. Lennon details that, “During and after the strike, reform advocates called on Hochul to use her clemency power to decrease the prison population, consolidate us all into fewer prisons, and make better use of her guards.” And he asserted, “If one or both of these (prison reform) bills had been passed with HALT, I doubt we would have had the uptick in violence, the killings, or the strike.” Yet, “Despite a statehouse full of Democrats and a prison system in crisis, none of the bills aimed at reducing the population were even put to a vote before the last session ended in June.”

Mr. Lennon concluded by explaining, “In large part, I blame New York lawmakers, and the governor, for their ineptitude and indifference, and their failure to offer hope to people living and working in the state’s prisons”. “It’s New York lawmakers who need to do something.”

Article link – https://www.themarshallproject.org/2026/03/03/it-s-dangerous-to-feel-this-desperate-how-to-ease-the-chaos-in-new-york-s-prisons

NYS Council of Churches Advocacy Days 

Empowered by my testimony and thoughts I’ve shared thus far, I felt called to be a part of the NYS Council of Churches Advocacy Days. I found myself headed to Albany to meet with NYS lawmakers March 10th, 2026, the 13th year anniversary of my being the pastor of The Blue Point Bible Church. A ‘justice-impacted individual’ advocating for ‘justice-impacted people’, specifically the power of second chances (Second Look Act), the ills of unhealthy solitary confinement (HALT Act), and the importance of proper care for pregnant incarcerated individuals and their rights (CARE Act).

I joined the rally & press conference for NY4ALL which is is proposed state legislation designed to protect immigrant communities by prohibiting local law enforcement and state agencies from using resources to assist federal immigration authorities (ICE/CBP). 

I met advocates, Rev. Jim Ketchum (NYS Chaplaincy Certification Coordinator) and Cidra Sebastien, and we met with various lawmakers & their teams. Ms. Nora Obiri-Yeboah, a senate fellow serving in Senator Jeremy Cooney’s office, listened with seeming compassion and took copious notes as we shared different perspectives regarding the Second Look Act, the HALT Act, the need for a fully staffed parole board (perhaps with a bit more diversity), and the Fairness & Opportunity for Incarcerated Workers Act. Ms. Mia Tucker, serving in Senator Lea Webb’s office, also listened with an encouraging compassion, sharing her studies in Criminal Justice, and allowing each of us to share our perspectives. We met and had ample discussion with Ms. Janine Acquafredda, the Legislative Coordinator for Senator Stephen T. Chan, and an aide named Daisy. In talking about the call for a fully staffed parole board, Janine asserted that, “Civilian oversight has to be defined in a bill”. A lot of talk was had regarding Senator Chan’s law enforcement background, however, Janine was more than willing to listen to each of our perspectives, even encouraging my testimony and expressing appreciate and dialogue with each of our points. 

There were a few lawmaker’s offices we simply visited and dropped off information to. I made time to stop by Assembly-member Rebecca Kassay’s office, someone I appreciate having partnered with for common good on Long Island, to leave a door hanger and reminder regarding previous discussions regarding the CARE Act. I do plan to follow up with discussions with the Suffolk County Sheriff regarding the methods and manners in which they have implemented proper care of pregnant incarcerates individuals and how the state might learn from the testimony some have given. 

Our day concluded with a sort of debriefing and encouraging word with Senator Cordell Cleare, who strongly encouraged us from a faith-based perspective. She also mentioned that the Governor has a faith-based department and encouraged us to engage it. 

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Of course, the work is not done. There is a planned End Mass Incarceration Rally at The Well in the NYS Capitol on Monday, March 16th. Also, there is another Second Look Symposium planned for Friday, May 8th, 2026 to be held at Brooklyn Law School. 

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For more information pertaining to these things I have shared and future events, consider learning more about the following organiziations through their websites and social media; 

NYS Council of Churches – https://www.nyscoc.org/

New Hour For Women & Children – https://newhourli.org/

Communities Not Cages – https://www.communitiesnotcagesny.org/

Center For Community Alternatives – https://www.communityalternatives.org/

Reviewing Daniel Anthony’s Presentations on Resurrection

Back in April/May 2025, I had the privilege to review Daniel Anthony’s presentations at The Kingdom Movement Conference and interview him. You can review our discussions, notes, and other resources at the following link, https://powerofpreterism.wordpress.com/2025/05/08/4-29-pph-w-daniel-anthony/

As the second annual Kingdom Movement Conference is being planned for late-February 2026 in New Mexico, and Daniel Anthony will be further expoundinng on the resurrection as oulined in the Scriptures, I found it important to review my notes from last year…and share. You can review his resurrection presentations at the folllowing link, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wN02S2_UuRA&list=PLea8XP7G9CTSkOYE52lH-Ao2KnW1WeStn

PT. 1 – The Apostles Expectation 

Daniel started out with the exhortation, “I want to be excited about what Jesus was excited about – the Kingdom!” “What were the Apostles excited about?” and cited 1 Corinthians 15:51-52 & 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17 as proof texts. 

In speaking about 1 Corinthians 15, “This chapter is about the resurrection of Jesus Christ”. (natural then Spiritual) 
v. 20 – “But He did resurrect” 

(My response would be that I’m not sure that this corresponds with what I have discerned to be the issue at Corinth (what about the dead ones?). I do not believe the issue what about Jesus Christ’s resurrection). 

John 11:21 – “He will be raised on the last day” 

Daniel Anthony explains that, “The righteous who physically died before the last day, were in a place called sleep – physically dead, Spiritually unaware…at the last day, God was going to bring them to Spiritual awareness, not a physical change”. At AD 70, “Everyone was changed…when they would physically die, they would not go to the place of Spiritual unawareness”. 

We ponder: 

• ‘How did Martha know about the resurrection? 
• What does Daniel chapter 12 tell us regarding the The “hope of Israel”? 

(My thoughts – Only those who had opportunity to profess Christ could be numbered as righteous in that terminal generation; Old Covenant dead are dead (awaiting judgement), I’d also put those who had not professed Christ in that terminal generation as ‘dead’ and awaiting God’s judgement, almost like a last day grace – this should bring us to discussions regarding the last day judgement. Verses like John 3:18 come to mind – what is the judgement of those who do not believe?!?!). 

In speaking about the Kingdom, Daniel Anthony preached, “The Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. Please don’t try to represent that as a miserable existence…But I would submit to you, that if you are miserable in this existence, you might not be in the Kingdom…or you certainly don’t have a revelation of the Kingdom, your living beneath your privilege”. 

PT. 3 – Expectations Debate (CBV v. IBD) 

CBV asserts that there was a 40 year period of waiting for the forgiveness of sin. 

• “Already, but not yet” – Daniel Anthony says this is a created system. 
• Think – atonement, Most Holy Place
• Hebrews 9:28 – second time to bring salvation (to who?)

Daniel Anthony asserts that, “1 John 3:2 doesn’t talk about a covenant change, doesn’t talk about a physical body change, it’s simply a revealing of what already was” cf. 1 Peter 1:9; 

(I wonder – What was? Doesn’t the text say ‘they do not know’? How would what they did not know be revealed?)

Regarding Daniel Anthony’s comment, “So I don’t accept that a rapture happened in 70. I don’t believe that anything changed from physical body into Spiritual body. Nor do I believe their standing with God changed in 70…Calvary was not a failure, Pentecost worked perfectly, they were not waiting for that…they were waiting for physical rescue which also vindicated them as children of God.” 

I believe I’d agree with this point. I do believe their is a necessary distinction between the living, the dead, and the asleep. The physical rescue would be the ‘change’ the living experienced, while those who were asleep would experience change by being awakened, and the dead would be raised and judged – eternal life or eternal condemnation.  

Resources: 

Resurrection Talk & dealing with the distinction of living, dead, and asleep. 

“Resurrection Talk” – Explained & Reviewed

The Judgement of God & Preterism 

The Judgement of God & Preterism

A response to a discussion on judgement 

A Day In The Life, Resting In A Full 2025

It was Steve Jobs who said, “Some years you win. Some years you build character”. 2025 was both for me, filled with wins and plenty of opportunity to build my character. Dare I say, much of that winning and opportunity is found in keeping with the vision from 2024 to maintain patterns and practices in my life (and of course a patient wife and a loving family). The vision I put forth for 2025 was to “Be Present & On Purpose” and I know I and others who surely walked worthy. Also, the idea of the “Hub of HELP” became a successful reality that will carry into the new year. Glory to God! This year did bring quite a bit of disappointment, dismay, and loss (from the natural), however the ‘renewing of our mind’ as a constant act of Spiritual worship, thinking on things above, increasing trust in God’s presence & purpose, always allows for a blessing. And oh what a blessing we are expecting early in 2026 (here comes “Baby K”,a baby boy!). Lastly, I must acknowledge I did not keep up with my commitment to read at least a book a month (though I do provide some book reviews below).

Let’s review the year.
Enjoy the details, provided resources, & pictures.

JANUARY 

The very first podcast listen of the year I was encouraged & challenged with this thought, “How do you engage your audience? You can have so much information but if you don’t know how to communicate that information and make it real to people, it doesn’t matter and then you are not being of service”. – Vanessa Baird- Streeter on The Champion’s Circle 

• NYC Trip to Abbysinian Baptist Church 
• I learned what DEI is 
• Gospel of John Sermon Series (on YouTube)
• Continued The Chosen on Wednesday Nights
• Online Teaching about Preterism & Evangelism 
• Heaven Bible Study (Adult Sunday School)
• Dr. Martin Luther king Jr. Day (Bellport Country Club)
• Kaiden had his 1st soccer practice on Jan. 21st 
• BPBC Annual  Meeting 

BPBC on YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@bluepointbiblechurch2059

Preterism & Evangelism 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/01/17/preterism-evangelism/

Notes from Abbysinan, Mission Possible Pondering Dr. King’s Legacy & Trump’s Inauguration 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/01/23/mission-possible-pondering-dr-kings-legacy-president-trumps-inauguration/

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FEBRUARY 

• Vision Sunday
• The Measure of Spiritual Maturity Adult Sunday School 
• Fundraising – Pastoral Plunge 
• Visited Powerful Word Church 
• Advancing The Faith Interviews on the Preterist Power Hour 
• Read Paul’s Letter to American Christians by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

Vision Sunday Sermon – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DulaQAaewRw

Genesis Review Sermon Outline
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/02/14/another-valentines-day-reviewing-genesis/

Clarifying IBV Blog 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/02/22/clarifying-ibv/

The Power of Preteterism Network (Preterist Power Hour) YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@thepowerofpreterismnetwork6385

Paul’s Letter to American Christians by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 
https://kinginstitute.stanford.edu/king-papers/documents/pauls-letter-american-christians-sermon-delivered-commission-ecumenical

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MARCH 

• My Birthday (Church & Korean BBQ) 
• 75 Hard 
• Lent Madness 
• Women’s History (book reading & church celebration)
• Pastor’s Wives Appreciation 
• Jay Copper passed into Eternity 
• Rachel Wrue passed into eternity

The Cost of Discipleship Sermon & Book Review 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/03/06/discipleship-preparation-participation-challenge-engagement/

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APRIL 

• Sesame Place with Family (Philadephia) 
• Kehlani’s 2nd birthday party at condo 
• Berean Bible Church Conference (online) 
• Holy Week (Passover, Palm Sunday, Good Friday & Easter) 
• Passover – Make Your Own Matzo Ball Soup @ BPBC
• Good Friday Fish Fry & Worship Service @ BPBC
• Led Sunrise Easter Service with BUMC
• Easter Breakfast @ BPBC 
• Keke & James Wedding Ceremony 
• Earth Day @ BPBC 
• 12 Years in Pulpit (podcast & blog) 
• A great discussion with Daniel Anthony on PPH 
• Began pondering the idea “Act Apostolic”

Interview with Daniel Anthony on the Preterist Power Hour
https://powerofpreterism.wordpress.com/2025/05/08/4-29-pph-w-daniel-anthony/

12 Years In The Pulpit podcast recording 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ole5WhuNA0

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MAY 

• A Proverb A Day 
• Mother’s Day Celebration & Luncheon 
• Conference at Word of Truth Church
• Rachanda’s cousin Gary’s wedding 
• Launched “Hub of HELP” 
• Church Rummage Sale Sermon Series
• Uplift Our Streets (Brentwood cleanup) 
• The Murph Challenge 
• Participated in an online men’s group from March – May 

Who Made The Last Supper: Book Review 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/05/03/flashbackfriday-womens-month-book-review/

Is Your Heart Pure? Study Outline
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/05/23/is-your-heart-pure/

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JUNE

• Kaiden’s 2nd grade field day
• celebrated Father’s Day 
• Watched a film for Juneteeth @ BPBC  
• Duck’s Game for Kaiden’s school singing
• Kaiden completed 2nd grade 
• Kistiah & his family visited from India 
• BPBC Bonfire 
• Semi-Annual Meeting 
• Hymns By The Bay 
• Color Our World Color Run, Summer Book Reading, & Suffolk Library Tour 
• Summer Bible Reading (along with the Sermon Series) 

A 500 Year Outline of History of The People of God 
https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=3893

Rummaging in Eden Sermon Notes – https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=3895

The Flood of Noah’s Day Sermon Notes – https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=3918

Fatherhood & Noah Sermon Notes – https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=3908

Enoch & Covenant Context Sermon Notes – https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=3906

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JULY 

• Celebrated 4th of July at a family bbq 
• Rachanda’s Birthday
• Our 3rd Wedding Anniversary 
• Give Us A King…Online Bible Teachings 
• Kaiden hosted Lemonade Stands 
• Angels of Long Island Fundraiser for “Hub of HELP” @ BPBC
• Save The Sea Turtles kayaking event 
• Montana Conference (reviewed online) 
• Attended & prayed at His Coalition Fundraiser 
• Attended ‘prison letter writing’ at Tiny Racoon books & learned of New Hour 
• Started working with Bayport Methodist Church Missions Comittee for “Hub of Help” 

Entering The Land Sermon Notes – https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=3925

A History of the Arab Peoples: Book Review 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/07/02/a-history-of-the-arab-peoples/

Give Us A King Online Teaching Series 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/07/19/give-us-a-king-online-teaching-series-through-kings/

Eschatology of Genesis Conference Review (Pt. 1) 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/07/29/reviewing-the-eschatology-of-genesis-conference-pt-1/

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AUGUST 

• “Baby K” Announcement @ BPBC (due January 2026) 
• Visited & Recorded with Burros of Berea in North Carolina (family trip) 
• August hike in Lakeland Park with Kaiden & Kehlani 
• Ended the Preterist Power Hour (spoke to the change of The Power of Preterism Network) 
• On The Wings of Hope event @ BBP Library
• International Overdose Awareness Day Fundraiser Luncheon @ BPBC
  (Great South Bay Coalition joined us)
• Visited Church Unleashed for afternoon worship
• Completed Parenting Group certificate 

Rummaging The Period Prior To The New Testament Sermon Notes
https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=3941

Eschatology of Genesis Conference Review (Pt. 2) 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/08/06/reviewing-the-eschatology-of-genesis-conference-pt-2/

Eschatology of Genesis Conference Review (Pt. 3) 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/11/12/reviewing-the-eschatology-of-genesis-conference-pt-3/

Act Apostolic Shared Thoughts 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/08/11/from-a-d-70-to-a-d-312-act-apostolic/

A Field Guide To Fundraising: Book Review 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/08/20/a-book-report-about-fundraising/

Burros of Berea Interview & Details 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/09/20/diversified-disenfranchised-community-talk-with-the-burros/

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SEPTEMBER 

• Participated in & prayed for the Islip Goes Purple event at Heckshure State Park 
• Attended (showed up late) to the Brookhaven Goes Purple Traincar lighting 
• Voddie Baucham passed into eternity
• Charlie Kirk passed into eternity  (I didn’t know much of him prior to his death) 
• Church At The Crossroads Event (Livestream @ BPBC)
• Attended the volunteer fair at Sachem Public Library 
• Kaiden began 3rd grade 
• Completed the Church Rummmage Sale Sermon Series 
• Met with Stony Brook Social Work (Leah) regarding the “Hub of HELP” 
• Attended Celebrate Recovery at Christ Church UMC 
• Kehlani & I participated in the Gabby Pettito Run/Walk 
• Kaiden’s 8th Birthday Party at video game place in Selden 
• Presented about the “Hub of Help” to committee online at LICH 
• KPop Demon Hunters movie night with the kids. 
• Completed the Hot Ones Challenge w/Rachanda 
• Began recording soldiers stories from Hebron online 
• National Daughter Day (Kehlani helped at “Hub of Help” all day)
• Attended a seminar that detailed ‘faith-based grants’
• Completed Anger Management group certificate 
• We survived the “rapture” (again) 

Conclusion to the Church Rummage Sale Sermon Series
https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=3969
Weeping With Jesus Blog 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/09/17/weeping-with-jesus/

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OCTOBER 

• Began the Church Renewal Sermon Series 
• Participated in 3 Parks/1 Day (only wandered 1 park with Kehlani though)
• Attended LIMIC meeting with Rachanda (New Beginnings) 
• Had a walk through at Long Island Coalition for the Homeless (LICH) & met the director 
• Attended Theology Beer Camp (online) 
• Began Saturday (twice a month) “Hub of Help” 
• Online discussion about Full Preterism with Tristan Gabriel 
• Spoke at the GSBC “Meet & Greet” about the “Hub of HELP” 
• Spoke at “No Kings” Rally about Palestine 
• Showed a domestic violence film (Power & Control) at BPBC 
• Attended New Hour Town Hall (“From Harm To Healing”) 
• Showed “The Letter Still Speaks” (The King Center) Livestream at BPBC 
• Attended the Sound Justice Initiative at Suffolk Community College 
• Halloween stuff w/ the kids (South Country Library; Bayport UMC; trick or treating)
• Watched Hocus Pocus & made Halloween Brownies with the kids 
• Food Drive with Harmony Cafe at “Hub of Help” @ BPBC 
• Fall Soup Social at BPBC
• Discussion with Tim, Steve, & Don about the 2026 Eschatology of the Prophets conference 

Reformation Sunday Sermon Review – https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=4018

Full Preterism Talk with Tristan Gabriel link & resources 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/10/24/full-preterism-talk-review-resources/

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NOVEMBER 

• Attended a local Green Party meeting 
• Attended the Blue Point Boyscouts spagetti dinner with Kehlani & Rachanda 
• Attended the Middle Island Veteran’s Day event 
• Began engaging the ‘criminal justice’ world a bit more (video, emails, introductions, etc) 
• Moved BPBC Wednesday Night Study Online 
• Offered the daily reading of the prophets idea (a fail) 
• Pray For The Children (God Loves Gaza) Livestream at BPBC
• Dedication of the Dr. Victoria Chua Fellowship Room at BPBC
• Coat & Clothing Drive with Harmony Cafe 
• Community Not Cages Day of Action at County Building 
• Andrew Maloney passed into eternity
• Glenn Hill passed into eternity 
• Ricky & Nyasia’s unborn twin’s passed into eternity 
• BPBC Annual Harvest Dinner
• Pre-Thanksgiving Thanks @ BPBC
• Thanksgiving celebration with family
• Thanksgiving meals outreach
  

Isaiah & Hermenuetics Bible Study – https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=4034

Dedication of Dr. Victoria Chua Fellowship Room Press Release
https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=4052

Engaging Justice Reform 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/11/22/justice-a-bit-more-care-4-justice-impacted-lives/

A Glenn Hill Resource 
https://powerofpreterism.wordpress.com/2025/12/05/a-glenn-hill-resource/

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DECEMBER 

• Rachanda & “Baby K”’s Baby Sprinkle 
• Participated & Spoke at the Keys For The Homeless Conference (hosted by LICH) 
• Attended Suffolk County Legislative Meetings (online) 
• Attended LIMIC (Abundant Life) 
• Advent Season Candle (Devotional ideas for self & kids didn’t go as planned)
• Completed the Church Renewal Sermon Series at BPBC
• Went to Winter Wonderland with Kehlani at BPP Library 
• 5th Annual “Under The Tree” Christmas Outreach at BPBC & adopted families 
• Christmas movies & snacks with the kids (Nightmare Before…, Home Alone (1 &2), The Grinch, ELF) 
• Volunteered with New Hour to give children gifts at Yaphank jail 
• Interviewed with Tim Martin regarding the 2026 Eschatology of the Prophets Conference 
• Listened to Tiziana’s podcast – Notes From The Other Side 
• Christmas Eve Worship Service at BPBC
• Attended Christmas Day Worship Service at Holy Trinity Lutheran 
• Celebrated Christmas with my family  
• Post-Christmas Pre-New Year’s Party at BPBC (morning & evening) 
• Attended (though late) a Human Right Rally with Kaiden & Kehlani at the federal courts 
• Midnight on Main with Kehlani for New Year’s Eve (face-painting) 
• Brought in the new year relaxing with Rachanda & Kehlani (enjoying food & watching the ball drop)
  

Harvesting Our Spiritual Maturity Sermon Review – https://www.bluepointbiblechurch.org/?p=4073

Interview with Tim Martin about 2026 Eschatology of the Prophets Conference
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqM5srjYgZg&t=2578s

Between Babel & Beast: Book Review 
https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/12/31/between-babel-beast-empire-studies-book-review/

Between Babel & Beast (Empire Studies): BOOK REVIEW

Back in 2022, Tim Martin sent me a book, Between Babel & Beast: America And Empires in Biblical Perspective by Peter J. Leithart. Tim sent me this book because of our seeming shared mind regarding the nature of the political engagement of the Church & America. I knew this would be a blessed and astounding read, as Tim has always been a true teacher, encouraging, empowering, and shaping the mind around the details he shares, and my familiarity with Peter Leithart enhanced the expected blessing. Not to mention the topic being something I have talked about and talked though for years. Simply put, the Church’s particularity as God’s provided solution, and while distinct from American politics, there should be engagement in politics – a delicate balance indeed). For that very reason, knowing what I was in for in reading the book, I let the book languish on the shelf for years, only recently picking it up and taking months to read through and having to return to reading through it. This is not to be misunderstood as the book being boring, rather each salient thought required stepping away and processing what I was thinking (for me atleast). Thanks Tim! 

Talking through these things could be referred to as “Empire Studies”. I’ve engaged this a bit in that, as I mentioned, in my teaching and discussions (in person and on social media)  the Church’s particularity as God’s provided solution, and while distinct from American politics, there should be engagement in politics’. I’ve often said that my political position is a “Kingdom of Godian”, which is not a disengagement with politics, just engagement of a different kind. Shane Claiborne’s book, Jesus For President surely shaped and encouraged my perspective of Christian engagement with politics. I think of Walter Bruggerman, Pete Enns, and others who have also contributed to my perspective of ‘Empire Studies’.  

In the introduction to the book, Peter Leithart explains that this is important to think about, namely in “the importance of knowing who who are ansd whom you belong to”. As Christians, our Holy Nation, is the Church (see, 1 Peter 2:9), not America. Jesus Christ is to be 1st and last in all we think and do. As American Christians we must remember, “America itself is a part of the city of man”. 

I loved and have to make mention the dedication of the book. Peter Leithart writes, “I dedicate this book to my unborn grandchild in the hope that his or her love for the Lord Jesus will put every other love in its proper place” and he went on to write “…that my little effort will have made the the world a marginally better place for him or her (his unborn grandchild) to enter and inhabit”. 

Essentially, the Bible is the tale of 2 “imperialisms”. We find the contrast between the city of man (nations of the world) and the nation God is building (God’s people). As Leithart explains, “Israel is the first form of that Abrahamic Empire, and in Christ the Church is Israel’s fulfilment”. Notice fulfilment, not replacement. Leithart further explains that “Israel’s particularism does not contradict her universal purpose since it is in her ‘particular’ function and calling…that Israel is truly universal” (See, Isaiah 2:2-4; Isa. 60:10-11).

Leithart provided some examples of the prophetic hope of Israel and how that affected the world around them; 

• “Given Israel’s centrality, even before the nations streamed to Zion, Yahweh governed the nations by governing the representative nation, Israel”. 
• “Israel formed “the land” at the center of the world, like the land that emerges from the watery chaos during the creation week. All other nations were part of the turbulent sea that threatened to overwhelm the land and turn the world back to confusion”. 
• “This Zion-centric topology and cosmology is essential for understanding the New Testament and the interaction of the Apostles with the Greco-Roman world”. 
• “…not a nation imposing its will on other nations but the center of a unified world community under God’s rule. This was inherent in Israel’s hopes, since they envisioned not peace in isolation, but a peaceful international community gathered around Zion”. 

“The key question for Scripture is ‘How does this political entity treat the people of God?’; 

One of these three options: 

• Babel’s impose a pattern (uniformity)
• Beasts that devour the saints & drink their blood 
• Guardian of the people of God 

BABEL 

Leithart explains that “Babel, a prototype (social, political, religious, etc) of all ‘Babels’ that appear later in the Bible was intolerant of linguistic, cultural, and especially religious difference.” Clearly, “The Babel narrative provides a virtual definition of illicit empire”. We find that Babel aimed for name (pride, ego), inspired by false eschatology, with no where to go & not knowing what to do.  Leithart explains Babel as “…an implicit assault on Yahweh Lordship” and marks out that “They succumbed to the serpents temptation to become like gods (see, Isaiah 14:13-14)”. 

This is important for us to consider and discern because “…Yahweh Himself admitted that unified Babel would be able to achieve almost anything, we need to be careful not to underestimate the nearly omnipotent power of Babelic empire”. The good news though, even as we see many a ‘Babelic Empires’ around us, “…in the long run, no Babel will succeed”. 

BEAST 

If Babel is about social order, the Beast is about violence. Beasts devour, bring harm, and find power by way of fear. The bad and the good news about beasts is that as Leithart noted, “Those who consort with beasts might become bestial, and beasts do not survive long”. 

AMERICANISM 

In explaining what Americanism might be, Leithart asserts, “If we are to access American power, if we are to determine whether if it is Babel, Beast, or something else, we need to pay some attention to the inner dynamics of the American character and American polity”. He goes on to explain that “Empires are not static. Babels can turn bestial…America is not a beast, but Americanism can adapt itself to bestial idealolgies”. Unfortunately, what has captivated many is “The heresy of Americanism which acts as a shield that allows us to act like Babel while convicing ourselves that we are fulfilling a divine mission on behalf of the human race”. Leithart highlights that “Christians do not check American power because American Christians are widely devotees of Americanism” and “Sects proliferate and proliferate with the result that Christian witness to America is fragmented and diffused”. 

CHURCH 

And that’s ultimately where we land – the responsibility of the Church to get it together. Leithart rightly notes that, “The cult of America blinded leaders on both sides to norms of justice that might transcend the nation” and furthermore, Christians (or “American Eucharists)  have done little to nurture an alternative empire of martyrs to resist the unjust demands of the nation”. Rather, Americam churches offten come off as social clubs, wherein “Augustine, Calvin, and Luther would have a hard time identifying American churches as churches at all”. Simply put, “As far as Christians are concerned, the only appropriate response is to repent of Americanism”. 

Leithart goes on to expound that “American churches need to teach and preach from a de-Americanized Bible, one that understands that the imperium of the Church not American hegemony, fulfills the hopes of Israel”. Rather than seeing and striving for America to be the ideal of God, “Churches should instead encourage Christians to discuss ways to turn American power toward justice, peace, and charity”. Churches “need to work on the practicalities of a eucharistic politics;”

• “end of sacred warfare”
• “formulation of an international ecclesial imperium that includes as Christians”
• “the cultivation of the virtues of the martyrs”
• “forging of bonds of brotherhood that would inhibit Christians from shedding Christian blood”. 

Leithart offers the conclusion to be “As the fulfilled Abrahamic empire, the Church was an unprecedented social and political form, and it burst the bonds of all prior political categories…peaceable as they were, they were a subversive force in ancient political life”. We must find our way back to this. Our way back to being like Jesus. N.T. Wright said it well, “…Jesus was a prophet of the mind of Jeremiah and Daniel. His stance toward Rome was the stance of faithful exiles in Babylon. Cordial conversations with Roman soldiers…complimented the Roman centurion, tax collectors…though He shared some of the tactics of the powerless, He went beyond the foot dragging and petty subversions of peasant resistance…This was revolutionary, but it was a revolutionary way of being revolutionary”. We, Christians, must demonstrate this revolutionary way of being revolutionary. We must witness and work toward the destruction of modern day Babels and Beasts. 

CONCLUSION 

In conclusion to this review, I bring your thoughts back to something I said previously, “The key question for Scripture is ‘How does this political entity treat the people of God?’; 

One of these three options: 

• Babel’s impose a pattern (uniformity)
• Beasts that devour the saints & drink their blood 
• Guardian of the people of God 

I mentioned a few resources which I will provide links and more information to below. Also, as I recently mentioned in an interview, I plan to expound on much of this, more specifically the prophetic & apostolic function of the Church, at the Eschatology Of The Prophets Conference happening in 2026. Lastly, I hope imagine that my lived experience and shared exhortations manifest these realities, namely my discerning my call as a Christian and an American. 

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RESOURCES: 

Mission Possible Musings about Al Sharpton & Trump 

https://mianogonewild.wordpress.com/2025/01/23/mission-possible-pondering-dr-kings-legacy-president-trumps-inauguration/

The Early Christians In Their Own Words by Eberhard Arnold 

https://www.plough.com/-/media/files/plough/lookinside/e/earlychristiansenlookinside.pdf?la=en

2026 Eschatology of the Prophets Interview 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqM5srjYgZg&t=3568s

Pete Enns podcasts

(1) https://open.spotify.com/episode/3i8oZYEMKe4py8Brls1i73

(2) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RoBbAfkYShM

Justice & A Bit More Care 4 Justice-Impacted Lives

As Restorative Justice Week 2025 draws to a close, I am glad to have found myself calling for justice and showing a bit more care regarding justice-impacted individuals. Of course, beyond this week, I will continue to speak out and about the call for justice and showing a bit more care in these regards as well. Simply put, much of the restoration we look for in society and in our world is reflected through the way we go about demonstrating justice and showing a bit more care for justice-impacted individuals. 

As a follower of Jesus Christ, I am often reminded of Jesus’ admonishment regarding those who helped Him or failed to help Him when He manifests Himself in the guise of one who in in prison. Those in prison are exampled as “the least of these” because of the inhumane disparities and dehumanization that surrounds the ideas of carceral systems, including but not limited to what we see on the federal, state, and county levels in the United States (see, Matthew). Also, more often than not, the carceral mindset of the West finds its root in and breeds misunderstanding – in areas of race, disability, poverty, and more. As a Christian I compelled to see the carceral system as ‘a walk in the wrong direction’ when it comes to overcoming evil with good and having faith in the power and effect in doing so. 

In the following video I explain my recent encouragement to engage the world of carceral reform – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-j_mNJP31I

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This past week, my daughter, Kehlani, and I attended the Communities Not Cages rally that was held statewide in various locations (we were at the New York State Building in Hauppauge). I want to share some thoughts that were shared and you can view some pictures below. 

Ismael Diaz, the organizer of the rally and for Center for Community Alternatives spoke about the the need for reform and highlighted that “This is our moment…we must act now”. He detailed that  “Mass incarceration is ineffective and costly” and what we find is that the carceral system is “warehousing our loved ones without opportunity to change”.  

We are asking for the passing of 3 specific bills; 

Marvin Mayfield Act: This bill would eliminate mandatory minimum sentences, allowing judges to consider the individual circumstances of a case rather than being forced to hand down a predetermined sentence. Advocates argue that mandatory minimums give prosecutors too much power and pressure defendants into plea deals.

Second Look Act: This act would enable individuals serving long sentences to petition judges for a review and potential reduction of their sentence after serving a certain period, such as 10 years.

Earned Time Act: This bill would expand and strengthen opportunities for incarcerated individuals to earn time off their sentences by participating in prison programs, such as education, vocational training, and treatment. 

See the following links for more details about each of those Acts, https://www.communitiesnotcagesny.org/our-demands

Jossie Matthews, another member of Center for Community Alternatives, spoke with conviction and passionately  about all that has already been done in NYS carceral reform and she remarked, “We must pick up where we left off, not picking up at the starting line..next year (alluding to elections), it is time to finish what we started”. She detailed how the carceral system has “devastated our communities for generations” sharing statistics like –  3/4 of the women incarcerated are mothers and 105 children in NY have a parent behind bars.

Jossie highlighted that ‘women are the backbone of the carceral reform movement’ and regarding “…policies that punish instead of heal. We are not asking for favors, we are demanding justice. We are not waiting for permission, we are claiming our power”. That demand is that NY lawmakers must prove that they care by passing the Acts that are in front of them. This will demonstrate that  “New York believes in 2nd chances and the humanity in us all”. 

Jayette Lansbury, another advocate and the mother of a son who deals with mental illness while being incarcerated, spoke about her deep belief in the humanity of every individual and the need for greater compassion, respect, and the use of first-person language. She explained that supporting ‘Community Not Cages’  provides a chance to restore families and build community.

Caroline Hansen from Release Aging People from Prison (RAPP) emphasized that  “families are collateral damage of the incarceration system”. She mentioned that because of the obvious short-staffing and overcrowding in the NYS carceral system we must “Decarcerate now”! Demand the pass of the Acts in legislature now! And “We need unity”!  

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You can find a host of resources, some of which I have alluded to in this blog and others, at the links below; 

Community Not Cages – https://www.communitiesnotcagesny.org/

Center for Community Alternatives – https://www.communityalternatives.org

Release Aging People from Prison – https://rappcampaign.com/

New Hour For Women & Children – https://newhourli.org/

Consider reviewing the most recent podcast New Hour published regarding The Bail Project. You can review the podcast on YouTube at the following link, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FazoImmGeKU

Upcoming events to engage: 

If you have read through this, thank you for your mind and heart. May God go before us in these efforts as we continue to serve “the least of these”. 

Sincerely, 
Michael Miano 

P.S. – If you are a justice-impacted person and are looking to engage a support group of similarly impacted individuals and or carceral reform, please get in touch with me through email at PastorMikeMiano@yahoo.com