Today marks the one year anniversary of the launch of this blog. At the outset, the aim has been to provide information, inspiration, prayer practices, insights from the sciences, and sound theology. The quirky title reminds us that a sexual tsunami has slammed our shores and the Body of Christ needs to be equipped to help the survivors.
But is addressing the various elements of sexual brokenness worth the effort? Our culture has changed so much in just two years.
So many vexing problems now flash before our eyes. The fractured political landscape has both conservatives and liberals becoming bewildered moderates. “Narratives” are carefully scripted and managed, sending every story spinning to the left or the right.
Other matters perplex us as well. Is totalitarianism on the horizon? Are the polar icecaps becoming sea salt slushies? Will the pandemic flare up further or fizzle out?
While LGBTQ rights are still part of the cultural cacophony, it seems that sexual issues per se are nearly passé.
Perspective by Contrast
Almost exactly three years ago, the late Sy Rodgers posed a good question while teaching in Chattanooga: “What would the world look like if each of us obeyed the Lord in the area of our sexuality?”
Think about that a moment. What if everyone followed the teachings of scripture?
Sex-trafficking, sexual abuse, pornography, adultery, abortion, STD’s, broken homes—all of these evils and many more would disappear IF everyone made Jesus Christ Lord over their sexuality.
OK, that’s not going to happen this side of heaven, but it simply illustrates by contrast how pervasive the effects of sexual brokenness are.
And so, yes, despite current chaos and confusion, the Church needs to be aware and equipped in this ministry.
Missionary Work
Why not help get the word out?
You may have mentioned to a colleague an article that was posted. Go the extra step of forwarding it to her or him. Last week someone subscribed because they saw a quote on someone’s Facebook feed.
Tweet it out. Facebook it. Use whatever means at your disposal. But encourage friends to subscribe.
Maybe purchase paid subscriptions for people you mentor.
Paid Subscriptions?
If you receive the freebies, consider moving up to a paid subscription. For five bucks a month (or $50/year) you will be able to leave comments and interact with other subscribers. Some articles are more controversial or intense, so are limited to those who are invested.
And we attempt to Zoom quarterly as paid subscribers, learning from each other and gaining, in some cases, an international perspective on the issues. Here’s what a few paid subscribers think . . .
I heartily encourage paid subscriptions to Mark Ongley's blog Tsunami Surfing. This further enables Mark's ongoing research into current societal trends and how they impact healing ministry for sexual wholeness. It also fosters mutual accountability for growth and ministry in this arena.
Richard from Pittsburgh, PA
Mark Ongley has dedicated his life to researching and understanding sexual issues, especially as they relate to faith. He takes a compassionate perspective toward all those who struggle in these areas. Although our views may differ at times, I have found Mark to be utterly sincere in his desire to help those who are suffering. I would recommend his blog to anyone who is willing to go deep into issues that are disputed even among sincere Christ-followers. If you are willing to go to those uncomfortable places, Mark's blog will inform and challenge you along your journey.
Heather from Rockwood, PA
Please consider a paid subscription to Tsunami Surfing. What Mark writes is definitely worth the reading. The upgrade is certainly worth much more than the minimal cost. Your subscription helps support Mark’s valuable work. I am blessed by having a subscription.
Eric from Wellsville, NY
Covid and Cancel Culture have many churches in survival mode. Church history, however, reveals how the Church has shined its brightest in the darkest of times. Let’s continue to speak truth, show compassion, and be the healing hands of Jesus for those caught in the wreckage of the Sexual Tsunami.