Wake Up, Look Up

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the growing normalization of cannabis use and what emerging research reveals about its effects on the brain. He challenges the narrative that marijuana is harmless, pointing to concerns around addiction, mental health, and cognitive decline. The episode calls Christians to pursue lives marked by self-control and freedom in Christ, while als...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach addresses a recent controversy involving President Trump using imagery that many Christians view as blasphemous. He challenges believers not to excuse or defend actions that diminish the glory and uniqueness of Jesus, regardless of political alignment. The episode calls listeners to remain grounded in biblical truth, holding their allegiance to Chri...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to consider whether technology is quietly enabling them to work on autopilot instead of fully engaging in what God has called them to do. Using the example of teacher Dylan Cain, he highlights how removing distractions led to greater effort, connection, and real impact. He ultimately calls Christians to work wholeheartedly for t...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach addresses the rise of death threats toward athletes like Nolan Jones tied to the growth of sports gambling. He challenges listeners to consider the deeper consequences of gambling, arguing that its “fruit” reveals a destructive and unloving impact on individuals and society. Ultimately, he calls Christians to reject participation in it and instead p...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to think wisely about their future in a rapidly changing world shaped by AI. Drawing on a cultural conversation about job security, he encourages a mindset that adapts and adds lasting value rather than relying on what can easily be replaced. Ultimately, he reminds us that biblical wisdom means paying attention, growing our skil...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the tension between loving someone and confronting them when they’re caught in sin. Using a recent controversy involving Tiger Woods, he points to Galatians 6:1 to show that Christians are called to step in, not stay silent, with the goal of restoration. He emphasizes that true biblical confrontation is both honest and gentle–driven by love...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores a real-life story that raises important questions about the role of AI and technology in our world. He reflects on the risks of over-reliance on systems that lack human judgment, especially when it comes to justice and fairness. Grounded in Scripture, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to think wisely about how technology should be used. This...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores cultural trends across generations and how each one tends to push against the last. He reflects on the instability of building identity and values on shifting cultural ideals. Pointing to the words of Jesus, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to build their lives on a lasting foundation rather than temporary trends. This episode encourages fa...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach responds to a global news story and examines the idea of moral relativism in today’s culture. He challenges the belief that all worldviews are equally true, pointing to the reality of good and evil and the need for objective truth. Grounded in Scripture, Pastor Zach calls Christians to think clearly, discern wisely, and hold to what is truly good. T...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the No Kings protest and challenges how we engage with ideas in today’s world. He explores the difference between emotional reactions and thoughtful, truth-centered conversations. Drawing from Scripture, he encourages believers to test everything, think critically, and hold fast to what is good. This episode is a call to elevate the conv...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores a recent NBA controversy and what it reveals about culture, belief, and authority. He unpacks how organizations can begin to function like religions when they shape moral views and demand alignment. Drawing from Scripture, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to consider where ultimate truth and authority come from. This conversation invites Ch...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a cultural shift that celebrates participation over perseverance. Using a recent marathon decision as an example, he asks a deeper question: what happens when we stop valuing finishing what we start? Scripture reminds us that diligence matters. The challenge is clear: don’t settle for starting strong, commit to finishing well. Have an ar...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a tragic story to ask a difficult question: what responsibility do fathers carry? While no parent is perfect, Scripture makes it clear that fathers are called to lead, guide, and take ownership in the home. The challenge is direct—don’t disengage. Step in, lead well, and take responsibility for what God has entrusted to you. Have an arti...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the decline of public generosity among the wealthy to ask a deeper question: when is generosity truly genuine? Jesus teaches that real generosity isn’t about recognition, but about the heart. The challenge is simple: give in a way that seeks to bless others, not elevate yourself. Have an article you’d like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email u...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach addresses the rise of sports gambling and its devastating impact on individuals and families. What may seem like harmless entertainment can quickly become an addiction, leading to real loss and broken lives. Scripture calls us to care, not just about ourselves, but about others. The challenge is urgent: don’t ignore what’s destructive. Step in, spea...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Zach explores the rise of weight-loss drugs and asks a deeper question: does willpower still matter? While new solutions may promise faster results, Scripture reminds us that discipline plays a vital role in growth. The challenge is simple—don’t trade long-term formation for short-term shortcuts. A life shaped by discipline is a life that honors God. Have an ar...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Zach explores a disturbing medical mystery to ask a deeper question: what does spiritual warfare look like today? While modern science explains much, it doesn’t explain everything. Scripture reminds us that not every struggle is purely physical—some battles are spiritual. The challenge is clear: don’t limit your perspective. Look to God for answers beyond what...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Zach explores a cultural conversation about coffee and individualism, and what it reveals about our hearts. While personal preferences aren’t the problem, a life centered entirely on ourselves is. Jesus calls his followers to something different: a life of self-denial and service. The challenge is simple: enjoy your preferences, but don’t let them define you. I...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Zach reflects on the growing trend of using AI to handle difficult conversations. While tools like ChatGPT can help us find the right words, he reminds us of a deeper truth: we are still responsible for every message we send. Jesus teaches that our words matter, and they reveal our hearts. The challenge is clear—don’t just generate and send. Slow down, reflect,...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Zach explores the shift in education from theory to practical life skills and what that reveals about discipleship. While many Christians equate growth with theological knowledge, Scripture points to something deeper: a life shaped by surrender to Jesus. The challenge is clear: don’t just know more about God, live in a way that reflects him in every area of you...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the fall of yet another cultural hero and wrestles with a deeper question: why do the people we admire so often let us down? As more hidden sins come to light, Scripture reminds us not to place our hope in flawed human leaders. The truth is sobering but freeing; there is only one true hero. The challenge is clear: don’t anchor your faith...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a public family conflict involving David and Victoria Beckham and their son, using it to highlight a growing reality–family estrangement is increasingly common. He explains that money, fame, or success can’t fix broken relationships because the real issue is often selfishness. Pointing to Philippians 2:3, Pastor Zach encourages listeners...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a recent political commentary and raises a deeper question: are we shaping our faith around our politics, or letting Jesus shape how we think about everything–including politics? He warns against syncretism, where Christians gradually align the gospel with the values of their surrounding culture or political party. Instead, he challenges...

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on an incredible basketball performance by Bam Adebayo and the teammates who helped make it possible. While the achievement was remarkable, what stood out even more was the team’s willingness to support and celebrate someone else’s moment. Using Romans 12:10, Pastor Zach reminds listeners that the gospel frees us from needing the spotlight....

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach highlights the courage of Iran’s women’s national soccer team as they risk retaliation by standing against oppression. He reminds listeners that God’s heart is close to the brokenhearted and that Christians are called to care about injustice and speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. He challenges believers to let that concern lead them...