Luck of the Horseshoe

A horseshoe hung on a door is a symbol of good luck and protection. This tradition dates back to ancient times and is found in various cultures. The horseshoe is typically hung with the ends pointing upwards, resembling a 'U' shape, to supposedly contain and store the good luck. Some believe that hanging it with the ends pointing downward will have the good luck flow out and bless those who pass under it. The origin of this belief is often attributed to a legend involving a blacksmith and a devil, where the blacksmith created a horseshoe that protected against evil.

When Jerusalem Surrounds Jerusalem: Fleeing to the Mountains in Luke 21:21

Welcome! Today's study will delve into Luke 21:21, a verse laden with urgency and significance. Within its context, Jesus offers stark instructions to his disciples concerning a pivotal moment in history: the destruction of Jerusalem. Let's unpack this verse together, considering its historical context, theological implications, and personal applications.

Setting the Stage (Lk 21:1-20):

Before directly addressing verse 21, it's crucial to understand its surrounding context. The preceding verses paint a picture of Jesus in the Jerusalem temple, observing financial offerings and criticizing the extravagant ornamentation. He then launches into a discourse on Jerusalem's impending destruction, outlining signs that would precede this event. These include false prophets, wars and rumors of wars, earthquakes, famines, and the persecution of believers.

Focus on Verse 21:

Now, let's dissect verse 21 in detail:

"When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies": This is the critical sign signifying the nearness of Jerusalem's fall. Roman armies laying siege to the city would be the visual cue for immediate action.

"Know that its desolation is at hand": This underscores the severity and inevitability of the coming destruction. Jesus doesn't mince words, leaving no room for doubt about the consequences.

"Then those in Judea must flee to the mountains": Jesus offers clear instructions for what his followers should do in this pivotal moment. Fleeing to the mountains symbolizes escape from imminent danger and seeking refuge in safer areas.

"Let those within the city escape from it": This further emphasizes the urgency of escaping Jerusalem once the signs are evident. Remaining inside the city would mean facing the violence and devastation of the siege.

"And let those in the countryside not enter the city": Even those outside Jerusalem were instructed not to return once the siege began. Entering the city at that point would mean entering a trap.

Discussion Points:

How does this passage portray the relationship between historical events and God's plan?

What does Jesus' instruction to flee tell us about his view of preparation and taking action in the face of impending events?

Can this passage be applied to other instances of persecution or danger, beyond the literal context of Jerusalem's destruction?

What personal lessons can we glean from this verse about vigilance, discernment, and seeking safety in times of trouble?

Closing:

Luke 21:21, though specific to a historical event, holds valuable lessons for navigating turbulent times. It reminds us to be observant of warning signs, prepared for challenges, and willing to act decisively in seeking safety and protection. This verse also prompts us to reflect on our relationship with God and trust in his guidance during times of uncertainty and danger.

Further Exploration:

We can explore contemporary interpretations of this passage and its relevance to present-day situations.

We can consider how other scripture passages relate to themes of judgment, warning, and seeking refuge.

We can reflect on personal actions we can take to be prepared for unforeseen challenges in our own lives.

Why the Song "Try That in a Small Town" Isn't Racist

Jason Aldean's song "Try That in a Small Town" has been at the center of controversy, with some accusing it of promoting racism and violence. However, a closer examination of the song's lyrics, context, and the artist's intentions reveals that these accusations may be unfounded.

### The Artist's Intention

Jason Aldean has stated that the song is about the sense of community he experienced growing up in a small town, where neighbors took care of each other regardless of their differences in background or belief[1][2]. He has also emphasized that his political views have never been hidden, and that the song is not meant to promote violence or racism[1].

### The Lyrics

The lyrics of "Try That in a Small Town" address crime and the deterioration of smaller towns, urging people to take care of their own communities[2]. While some lines in the song mention gun ownership and criticize certain behaviors, they do not explicitly promote racism or violence. Instead, they emphasize the importance of community values and taking care of one's neighbors[1][4].

### The Music Video Controversy

The music video for "Try That in a Small Town" initially included footage from the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests, which led to accusations of racism[3]. However, the video was later edited to remove this footage, with Aldean's label citing "third party copyright clearance issues" as the reason for the change[12]. This alteration suggests that the inclusion of the footage was not intended to promote a racist message.

### Conclusion

While "Try That in a Small Town" has generated controversy, the artist's intention, the song's lyrics, and the edited music video all indicate that the song is not meant to promote racism or violence. Instead, it is a reflection of Jason Aldean's experiences growing up in a small town and the importance of community values.

Citations:

[1] Jason Aldean Try That in a Small Town Lyrics, Racist ... https://stylecaster.com/entertainment/music/1617322/jason-aldean-try-that-in-a-small-town-lyrics/

[2] The Meaning Behind Jason Aldean's Controversial Hit "Try That in a Small Town" https://americansongwriter.com/the-meaning-behind-jason-aldeans-controversial-hit-try-that-in-a-small-town/

[3] Jason Aldean's 'Try That in a Small Town' Music Video ... https://people.com/jason-aldean-try-that-in-a-small-town-controversy-everything-to-know-7565407

[4] Jason Aldean speaks out on 'Try That In A Small Town' ... https://www.tennessean.com/story/entertainment/music/2023/07/18/jason-aldean-speaks-out-on-try-that-in-a-small-town-video-backlash/70426819007/

[5] Try That In A Small Town Lyrics - Jason Aldean https://www.azlyrics.com/lyrics/jasonaldean/trythatinasmalltown.html

[6] Jason Aldean - Try That In A Small Town (Official Music Video) - YouTube https://youtube.com/watch?v=b1_RKu-ESCY

[7] Jason Aldean's 'Try That in a Small Town' becomes biggest ... https://ew.com/music/jason-aldean-try-that-in-a-small-town-charts-racial-controversy/

[8] Jason Aldean responds to controversy over "Try That in a ... https://www.cbsnews.com/news/jason-aldean-responds-try-that-in-a-small-town-controversy/

[9] Jason Aldean's 'Try That in a Small Town' controversy ... https://www.npr.org/2023/07/20/1188966935/jason-aldean-try-that-in-a-small-town-song-video

[10] Why is Jason Aldean's 'Try That in a Small Town' so controversial? - The Today Show https://www.today.com/popculture/music/jason-aldean-try-that-in-a-small-town-controversy-rcna95562

[11] TikToker who debunked Jason Aldean's 'Try That in a ... https://www.nbcnews.com/news/nbcblk/tiktoker-debunked-jason-aldeans-try-small-town-video-receives-racist-h-rcna95996

[12] Jason Aldean's 'Try That In A Small Town' video edited ... https://www.usatoday.com/story/entertainment/music/2023/07/27/jason-aldean-try-that-in-a-small-town-video-edited/70473761007/

[13] The outrage over Jason Aldean's 'Try That in a Small Town ... https://www.washingtonpost.com/entertainment/music/2023/07/20/jason-aldean-song-video-pulled-cmt-controversy/

[14] Jason Aldean facing new racism accusations tied to 'pro- ... https://nypost.com/2023/07/24/jason-aldean-facing-new-racism-accusations-for-try-that-in-a-small-town/

[15] Jason Aldean On 'Try That in a Small Town' Backlash https://www.today.com/popculture/news/jason-aldean-try-small-town-backlash-rcna95001

[16] Jason Aldean – Try That In A Small Town Lyrics https://genius.com/Jason-aldean-try-that-in-a-small-town-lyrics

[17] How Jason Aldean's controversial hit song became a ... https://www.pbs.org/newshour/show/how-jason-aldeans-controversial-hit-song-became-a-cultural-flashpoint

[18] Jason Aldean: Try That In A Small Town lyrics and video ... https://www.nationalworld.com/us/jason-aldean-try-that-in-a-small-town-lyrics-video-controversy-blm-4225773

[19] Jason Aldean's 'Try That in a Small Town' music video ... https://abc7chicago.com/jason-aldean-try-that-in-a-small-town-cmt-controversial-song/13522976/

[20] CMT Pulls Jason Aldean Video for 'Try That in a Small Town' https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/19/arts/music/jason-aldean-try-that-in-a-small-town-cmt.html

By Perplexity at https://www.perplexity.ai/?s=m&uuid=4e71b17e-8b47-4884-b27e-08bb489b2278

USFL is Back

Yes, the USFL is back! The USFL announced its re-emergence in 2021 with a return in the spring of 2022¹³. The league plans a minimum of eight teams for its first season and will retain rights to key original team names -- like the New Jersey Generals, Philadelphia/Baltimore Stars³. The USFL will accomplish a feat no spring football league not affiliated with the NFL has reached since the original league that bears its name -- have a second season². The USFL will return for a second season and all eight teams from its inaugural season in 2022 will also be back². I hope that helps! Let me know if you have any other questions. Source: Conversation with Bing, 4/15/2023 (1) The USFL is officially back - New York Post. https://nypost.com/2021/06/03/the-usfl-is-officially-back/. (2) USFL set to return in spring 2022 after being shut down in mid-1980s .... https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/usfl-set-to-return-in-spring-2022-after-being-shut-down-in-mid-1980s-original-team-names-will-remain/. (3) USFL will return for second season, will play in multiple hub cities .... https://www.cbssports.com/usfl/news/usfl-will-return-for-second-season-will-play-in-multiple-hub-cities-with-no-expansion-in-2023/. (4) USFL 2023 season: TV schedule, players to watch, everything to know. https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2023/04/13/2023-usfl-season-how-to-watch-tv-players-to-know/11636218002/. (5) 2023 USFL Opening Schedule: How to watch spring football this weekend. https://sports.nbcsports.com/2023/04/14/2023-usfl-opening-schedule-how-to-watch-this-weekends-spring-football-games/.