Wake Up, Look Up

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the consequences of dishonesty, using a recent political news story to illustrate how lies eventually come to light. He explains why truthfulness is essential to the Christian life and encourages believers to pursue honesty, repentance, and integrity in every area of life. Pastor Zach reminds listeners that while deception may seem effective for a moment, God's truth always prevails.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores what our clothing communicates about the people and occasions we value. Reflecting on a growing trend toward casual attire, he considers how the way we dress can express honor, humility, and love for others. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to view even everyday decisions through the lens of putting others before themselves, as Scripture calls believers to do.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on Vice President JD Vance's argument for a more Christian America and explores how faith has shaped the nation's values throughout history. He discusses the challenges of describing America as a "Christian nation" while emphasizing the importance of recognizing the God-given dignity and value of every person. Pastor Zach encourages believers to thoughtfully engage cultural and political conversations through the lens of biblical truth, love, and shared moral principles.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach examines the recent Supreme Court ruling on transgender athletes and discusses what it means for Christians engaging today's cultural conversations. He explores why speaking God's truth should always be paired with love, emphasizing that biblical truth is not discriminatory but life-giving. Pastor Zach encourages believers to communicate truth with both conviction and compassion, trusting that God's truth has the power to resonate with hearts and set people free.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores a Wall Street Journal article on solo aging and the growing number of Americans navigating later life without a spouse or children. He reflects on both the challenges that can come from isolation and the importance of building strong, meaningful relationships before reaching that stage of life. He then points to Jesus’ promise in Mark 10, showing how the church becomes a spiritual family that cares for those who may otherwise be alone.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach discusses a recent Texas education proposal that would include selected Bible stories in public school curriculum alongside classical literature. He explores the debate over whether the Bible belongs in the classroom, engaging arguments about cultural influence, worldview, and constitutional concerns. He then makes the case that the Bible has deeply shaped Western civilization and argues that true wisdom begins with recognizing God as the source of knowledge.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the idea of whether your life portfolio is diversified enough, using a New York Times article about runners who are forced to stop running. He unpacks how easily people can build identity around temporary things like hobbies, careers, or achievements, and what happens when those things are taken away. He then points to Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6, showing how true security comes from investing in eternal things rather than over-attaching our lives to what won’t last.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores a recent article and study suggesting that aging is not simply a story of decline, but often includes measurable improvement in both cognitive and physical health. He highlights how a person’s view of aging–particularly optimism–can significantly shape their experience of growing older. He then connects this insight to Scripture, showing how believers are called to flourish, bear fruit in every season of life, and steward their lives for God’s glory even into old age.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores recent research on marriage and the often-overlooked benefits it provides beyond financial stability. He reflects on how God designed marriage to foster security, companionship, and flourishing, while acknowledging that it is not the only path through which people can live meaningful lives. Drawing from Scripture, he encourages married listeners to recognize the blessings within their relationships and to thank both God and their spouse for the gift of marriage.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the surprising resurgence of mahjong and what it reveals about our deep need for connection and community. He reflects on how modern technology has made life more convenient while often leaving us more isolated, and he points to the early church as a model of meaningful relationships. Whether through a hobby, a shared interest, or intentional time together, he encourages listeners to pursue authentic community where friendships can grow and faith can flourish.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores what makes a great president through a Wall Street Journal article reflecting on 250 years of leadership history. He unpacks four key traits of effective leaders, including character, influence, principled compromise, and the ability to learn from failure. He also connects these ideas to Proverbs 29:2, challenging listeners to consider leadership and decision-making through a biblical lens of wisdom.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the growing concerns surrounding Social Security and what they reveal about our tendency to avoid difficult realities. He challenges listeners to consider the responsibility citizens have in addressing long-term problems rather than ignoring them for short-term comfort. Looking to the words of Jesus, he reminds us of the importance of counting the cost, facing challenges honestly, and taking ownership of the future we are helping to shape.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on Baltimore’s recent success in reducing violent crime and the surprising story that followed one of the movement’s key leaders. He explores the deeper reality that corruption is not confined to any system, institution, or group of people–it is a condition of the human heart. Looking through the lens of Scripture, he reminds us that lasting change comes not from new programs or policies alone, but through the transforming power of the gospel.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach examines the decline of luxury handbag sales and what it reveals about our pursuit of status, identity, and satisfaction. He explores how constantly chasing the next trend leaves us empty and challenges us to find our worth in something that doesn't change. Through the words of Jesus, he reminds us that lasting contentment is found in God's love, not in the possessions we accumulate.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach responds to recent news surrounding the criminal defense of Luigi Mangione and the way his actions were once publicly framed by some as heroic. He reflects on the confusion that comes when violence is excused or celebrated and points to Jesus’ teaching that a person is known by their fruit. Through that lens, he challenges listeners to reject false narratives about justice and remember the value of every life made in the image of God.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the growing debate over standardized testing and what it reveals about our culture's relationship with accountability. Drawing from Proverbs and everyday examples, he argues that evaluation and discipline are not obstacles to growth but essential tools for reaching our potential. He also challenges listeners to embrace accountability in their own lives, recognizing that meaningful growth often comes through being tested.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a recent New York Times opinion piece exploring how increased access and lower prices for alcohol and drugs have coincided with rising addiction and overdose rates in America. He engages the argument that government intervention through higher taxes and restrictions could reduce substance abuse, while questioning whether external pressure alone can address a deeper issue. Turning to Scripture, he points to Proverbs and Galatians to emphasize that the real root problem is not policy but a lack of self-control, which is ultimately shaped by the transforming work of the Holy Spirit. He concludes by pointing to the gospel of Jesus as the only true source of lasting change in the human heart.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the growing popularity of the "trad wife" movement and the cultural pressures many women feel around work, motherhood, and family life. He discusses what Scripture does–and does not–say about stay-at-home moms, emphasizing the freedom Christians have to make wise, intentional choices based on God's calling rather than social media trends. He also encourages listeners to seek God's wisdom for their families and build their lives around his purposes instead of cultural expectations.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the real cost of standing up for what is right in a world where speaking out can carry serious personal consequences. He considers the tension faced by athletes under pressure and connects it to the story of Esther, who risked everything for the sake of her people. Through that lens, he points to the example of Jesus and challenges us to live with integrity even when it comes at a personal cost.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores what science says about dad jokes and why they may play a bigger role in family life than we realize. He reflects on Proverbs 17:22 and the power fathers have to bring joy, encouragement, and healing through their words. As we celebrate Father's Day, this conversation offers both appreciation for dads and a challenge to use their influence to build up those they love.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the growing challenges facing American families, including rising costs, parental stress, and the pressures of raising children in today's culture. Reflecting on the role of both government and the church, he argues that Christians are uniquely called to come alongside parents with practical support, encouragement, and care. He also challenges listeners to consider how they can help carry the burdens of the families around them.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a recent international conflict and the lessons it offers about anger, disagreement, and the consequences of escalating disputes. Drawing from Proverbs, he explores why pursuing understanding and dialogue often leads to better outcomes than rushing into conflict. This episode challenges listeners to consider how they handle tension in their own relationships and to seek wisdom before letting disagreements spiral.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the leadership principles behind a championship-winning team and why character, perseverance, and humility matter just as much as talent. Looking to Scripture, he explores how God often chooses and uses people the world might overlook. Whether you're a leader, teammate, parent, or someone who feels underestimated, this episode offers encouragement and practical wisdom for making a lasting impact.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach examines a recent college football controversy involving sports gambling, athlete eligibility, and the growing influence of money in the game. Using the story as a starting point, he explores how the pursuit of wealth can distort our judgment and lead us to compromise our values. He also reflects on the biblical warning that money makes a poor king and why Jesus alone is worthy of our ultimate allegiance.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach discusses the growing use of kratom, a substance often marketed as a wellness or performance aid despite serious health risks and its potential for addiction. Using the tragic story of former basketball player Brandon Clarke as a starting point, he explores why this issue deserves more attention from churches, parents, and ministry leaders. He also reflects on the biblical call to live in freedom from anything that seeks to control or dominate our lives.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a recent Wall Street Journal article about the rise of “lunch shaming,” where students use cell phones to record and mock peers in school cafeterias. He unpacks the growing impact of this behavior on kids’ mental health, identity, and sense of belonging, noting how quickly everyday moments are turned into public ridicule online. Drawing from Deuteronomy 6, he emphasizes the responsibility of parents and communities to shape children around the truth that every person is made in the image of God and deserves dignity. He challenges listeners to have intentional conversations at home about bullying, compassion, and how to follow Jesus in everyday interactions.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a recent New York Times article highlighting a controversial political moment in Minnesota where a convicted former police officer was honored with a moment of silence. He uses the story to explore how public actions like this can reveal deeper issues of justice, political signaling, and a growing willingness to ignore or distort clear facts for ideological purposes. Drawing from Deuteronomy 16:19, he emphasizes God’s call to uphold justice without partiality and warns against using public platforms for shock value or political gain at the expense of truth and integrity.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a recent Atlantic article about the rise of “solitude influencers” and a cultural shift toward celebrating isolation as a preferred lifestyle. He explores why this trend resonates with people who feel overwhelmed or hurt by relationships, while also noting the irony that even online isolation still depends on connection and attention from others. Drawing from Scripture, he points to God’s design for community and the call for believers to live in relationship as part of the people of God.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a recent CNN Business article highlighting how young filmmakers from Gen Z are reshaping Hollywood through viral success, creative storytelling, and massive financial impact. He draws attention to the way industries are increasingly recognizing the value of younger voices who bring fresh perspective, energy, and cultural insight. Rooted in the biblical vision from Joel about the next generation seeing visions and speaking with purpose, he challenges listeners to resist the instinct to overlook younger people and instead learn from what God may be doing through them.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a recent cultural controversy involving a political candidate and a long-held offensive tattoo, using it as a lens to explore honesty, accountability, and the difficulty of owning our past. He challenges the tendency in society to avoid full responsibility in favor of self-protection, especially when reputation and ambition are at stake. Rooted in Scripture, he points to the gospel’s call toward confession, repentance, and the hope of genuine redemption and change.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach explores why so many kids today are growing up anxious, fragile, and afraid to take risks. Drawing from James 1 and Matthew 6, he challenges overprotective parenting and argues that adversity, freedom, and real-world experiences are essential for shaping resilient children. Pastor Zach encourages parents to trust God more deeply, loosen their grip, and give their kids the opportunity to truly live.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach discusses the growing commercialization of youth sports and asks what happens when money and status begin to shape childhood. Reflecting on 1 Timothy 6 and the importance of community, he challenges parents to think carefully about the long-term impact of chasing scholarships, elite teams, and achievement at all costs. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to consider whether today’s decisions are building the kind of childhood, family, and values they truly want for the future.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the growing trend of parents and grandparents helping their children buy homes and asks what the Bible says about generational wealth and generosity. Looking at Proverbs 13:22, he explains why leaving an inheritance can be a reflection of wisdom and stewardship, while also encouraging families to practice generosity now instead of only after death. Pastor Zach also discusses the importance of honesty and communication when generosity comes with expectations or “strings attached.”Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach explores how America’s growing political tribalism is beginning to impact even the jury room and the pursuit of justice. Looking at the Book of Judges and Proverbs 3, he explains why a society without a shared standard of truth quickly descends into chaos. Pastor Zach challenges listeners to reject self-defined morality and instead allow God to shape their understanding of justice and truth.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach discusses a controversial proposal that could financially compensate people prosecuted for politically motivated crimes, including some connected to January 6. He explores what happens when justice becomes partisan and why Scripture warns against a society that fails to properly deal with wrongdoing. Through Ecclesiastes 8:11, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to ground their understanding of justice in the character of God rather than political tribalism.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Zach uses the Miami Marlins’ unconventional approach to baseball as a powerful reminder that real growth often requires change, risk, and the willingness to look different.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the growing ethical challenges surrounding artificial intelligence after a controversial story involving AI-generated fake quotes in a published book. As AI becomes more integrated into everyday life, this conversation asks an important question: Does technology simply make it easier to compromise our integrity?Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Zach Weihrauch explores the growing conversation around “college coddling,” intellectual resilience, and why discomfort is often necessary for real growth. From university culture to our personal faith journeys, this episode challenges us to stop choosing comfort over transformation.Through Romans 5 and James 1, we’re reminded that trials, challenges, and even difficult conversations can shape our character and deepen our faith in Christ.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach examines a controversial New York City decision involving protest buffer zones around schools and places of worship. As debates over free speech, safety, and self-expression continue to grow, this conversation asks a deeper question: What happens when personal expression becomes more important than loving our neighbor?Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach explores America’s growing national debt and the dangerous tendency to believe that if we avoid a problem long enough, it will somehow disappear. But Proverbs 27:12 reminds us that wisdom doesn’t ignore danger — it confronts it. From government spending to personal struggles, this conversation challenges us to stop hiding from hard realities and start taking honest steps toward healing, growth, and change.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the growing trend of people turning to AI for friendship, emotional support, and self-understanding–and what may be missing in those conversations. Drawing from current research and Hebrews 4, he contrasts relationships that simply reflect us back to ourselves with the kind of friendships–and faith–that lovingly challenge us to grow. Pastor Zach reminds listeners that real transformation doesn’t come from constant affirmation, but from God’s truth and the people he places in our lives to help shape us.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach examines the growing frustration many Americans feel toward government and asks a simple but challenging question: are we evaluating leadership by results or by tribal loyalty? Drawing from current events and the words of Jesus in Matthew 11, he highlights how true wisdom is revealed not by appearances, promises, or political labels–but by what actually produces lasting fruit. Pastor Zach challenges listeners to think beyond partisanship and pursue leaders, values, and decisions that are proven by their impact.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach unpacks a growing conversation around mental health, psychiatry, and the reality that many psychological diagnoses are more complex and evolving than most people realize. He explores the value of therapy, counseling, and medical care while challenging the idea that every struggle can be solved by a label or prescription alone. Pastor Zach encourages believers to embrace both practical help and spiritual truth, reminding us that while medicine can support healing, lasting transformation ultimately comes through the renewing work of Jesus Christ.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the surprising comeback of hacky sack among Gen Z and what it reveals about a deeper hunger for real, in-person community. He unpacks how, in a generation shaped by screens, technology, and constant digital connection, young people are still craving shared experiences, belonging, and meaningful relationships. Pastor Zach challenges both parents and the Church to recognize this opportunity–to create spaces where the next generation can be known, grow in faith, and be part of something bigger than themselves.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores how growing anxiety about the future–from economic uncertainty to political tension and cultural instability–is shaping major life decisions, including whether people choose to start families. He unpacks how faith in the sovereignty of God gives Christians a different foundation–one marked by peace, trust, and confidence that God is in control even when the world feels uncertain. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to pause and recognize the often-overlooked ways the gospel has already shaped their lives, reminding us that true rest is found in trusting the one who holds it all together.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores growing concerns over the overprescription of psychiatric medications and what leading mental health experts are now saying. He encourages listeners to practice discernment, ask thoughtful questions, and think critically about the advice they receive–especially when it comes to their health. Pastor Zach reminds us that wisdom means testing everything and holding fast to what is good.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach unpacks how today’s media ecosystem often profits by keeping people afraid, angry, and constantly engaged. He challenges listeners to guard their hearts, pay attention to what they’re consuming, and recognize how fear shapes the way we live and see the world. Pastor Zach reminds us that our peace isn’t found in headlines or algorithms, but in the unchanging truth of the gospel.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the state of American politics and asks whether our culture has settled for familiar names instead of fresh ideas. He challenges listeners to think beyond party loyalty and consider the importance of both character and competence in leadership. Pastor Zach reminds us that wise leadership matters, and as Christians, how we think about those in authority should be shaped by biblical wisdom.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores how AI conversations are increasingly being used in criminal investigations and what that means for privacy in a digital world. He unpacks the spiritual reality that nothing is truly hidden, pointing listeners to Jesus’ words about what is done in secret eventually coming to light. Pastor Zach challenges us to live with integrity, remembering that God sees not only our public lives, but our private ones too.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach unpacks a recent story involving students being taken to political rallies and what it reveals about worldview, education, and cultural influence. He challenges the idea of neutrality in the classroom and encourages parents to stay engaged in how their children are being shaped. Pastor Zach reminds listeners that the responsibility of spiritual and moral formation begins at home.Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at [email protected]!