Wake Up, Look Up

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...

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 Ma...

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 ho...

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 list...

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 intention...

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 lead...

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 co...

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 lastin...

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, no...

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...

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 thei...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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 challeng...

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 th...

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 enc...

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 a...

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 r...

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 f...

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 fa...

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...

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 i...

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....