Wake Up, Look Up

Merry Christmas, WULU family! We're taking a short two-week break to recharge, beginning Dec 22, but don't worry…we'll be back Jan 5 with all-new episodes designed to help you think about what's happening in the world through a gospel perspective.Enjoy the holidays, and get ready to start 2026 thinking deeper!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach examines the rise of abortions in the U.S. since the overturning of Roe v. Wade and highlights how telehealth is changing access to abortion. He challenges Christians to engage—through prayer, support, and action—in protecting life and supporting vulnerable mothers, reminding listeners that the fight for life is ongoing and personal.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores a new poll showing declining interest in marriage among America's youth and asks: are we failing the next generation? He dives into how young men and women are being shaped by culture, the media, and lack of guidance, and challenges the church to cast a compelling biblical vision for both young men and women to help lead families, communities, and future generations well.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks: are colleges done with brainwashing? He breaks down a new curriculum flowchart at Texas Tech University designed to keep classes focused on their subjects, not professors' personal ideologies. Pastor Zach explores why colleges should teach students how to think—not what to think—and why parents, churches, and students all have a role in guiding young minds wisely.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks: do we need government to raise our kids? Using Australia's new law restricting social media for children under 16, he highlights the dangers of screens on kids' mental health and development—and challenges parents to step up with intentional guidance and discipline. Ultimately, Pastor Zach reminds us that protecting the next generation starts at home, not with laws.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach dives into the question: is your news a false prophet? Using the story of Dan Bongino as an example, he explores how media can spread lies to cater to what people want to hear, and how we must discern truth in a culture full of echo chambers. Ultimately, Pastor Zach reminds us that the standard for truth is found in God, not in the headlines.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on a recent Wall Street Journal article about elite colleges requiring students to engage with opposing viewpoints and challenges the church to do the same. He emphasizes Matthew 5:9, calling Christians to be peacemakers who prioritize understanding people over “winning” arguments. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to practice listening, validating others' perspectives, and building meaningful dialogue while standing firm in the truth.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on the story of Ohio State coach Ryan Day and the power of second chances, urging listeners not to be quick to write people off. He connects this to James 1:19, emphasizing patience, listening, and the possibility of redemption, both in personal relationships and in culture. Pastor Zach challenges us to reconsider who we may have prematurely judged or “canceled” and encourages reaching out to restore connection and potential.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the hidden dangers of social media and how foreign actors and divisive content can manipulate and divide us. He reminds listeners, drawing on 1 Peter 5:8, that the true enemy is spiritual, and urges discernment, prayer, and reflection before engaging online. Pastor Zach encourages turning our focus toward God and restoration in our relationships rather than being consumed by the toxicity of the Internet.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the pressure of perfection in our culture and how it stifles growth, creativity, and personal progress. Drawing on Matthew 11:28, he reminds listeners that Jesus offers rest from cultural expectations and the need for validation, freeing us to embrace the messiness of life. Pastor Zach encourages us to lean into God's voice, take risks, and grow without fear of imperfection.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach unpacks how our constant phone-checking is draining our focus and reshaping our brains in ways similar to addiction. He connects this cultural habit to the biblical practice of fasting, arguing that smartphones—not food—are the modern master we need to step away from. Pastor Zach challenges listeners to build a rhythm of “digital fasting” so we can refocus our attention on God.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks: can we stop murder before it happens? Using Baltimore's Safe Streets program as an example, he explores how “credible messengers” intervene in communities to prevent violence and break cycles of harm. Pastor Zach connects this to Jesus' call for Christians to be salt and light, showing that through neighborly love and action, we can actively push back against decay and danger in our world.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks: did we discover a cure for loneliness? Drawing on a Stanford study, he explains that loneliness often stems from cynicism about others, not a lack of people, and that highlighting kindness and empathy can help people connect. Pastor Zach challenges listeners to speak well of others and share stories of goodness, showing how Christians can be redemptive and help lonely people experience real community.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks the question: do we ever leave high school? Using the recent trend of cigarette smoking among Gen Z as a starting point, he explores how we're all influenced by culture, celebrities, and social media, often in ways that are spiritually harmful. He encourages listeners to stop chasing “cool” and instead anchor their lives in Jesus Christ, the ultimate source of guidance, purpose, and healthy influence.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks the question: who is forming our kids? He explores how our performance-obsessed culture–focused on grades, athletics, and achievement–is fueling anxiety, depression, and pressure among children, and he urges parents to instead ground their kids in God's love and inherent value. When children know their worth comes from being made in God's image, not from what they do, they can thrive spiritually, emotionally, and even academically.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach tackles the question: is gender dysphoria a fad? Using research and cultural trends, he explores how rapid shifts in identity, especially among teens, often reflect cultural influence rather than biology, and he challenges Christians to anchor themselves in Christ so they aren't swept up by every new cultural wave. This episode reminds us that true stability comes from hearing and doing God's Word, building our lives on rock instead of sand.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach unpacks the growing tension between parents and grandparents over modern parenting styles. Using Scripture as a guide, he challenges both sides to honor parental roles, speak with restraint, and pursue encouragement and peace in the family. Pastor Zach reminds listeners that while grandparents can be an incredible source of love and wisdom, healthy relationships require clear communication and humility.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on Charles Murray's surprising conversion to Christianity and asks whether there's anyone we think God can't reach. Murray—an Ivy League–trained intellectual—came to faith through studying the claims of Christianity and observing the steady witness of his wife. Pastor Zach reminds us that God often reaches people through both reason and faithful example, and that no one is beyond his reach.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach breaks down the rapid rise of AI “companions” and the growing trend of people forming romantic or sexual relationships with chatbots. He explains why these synthetic relationships are spiritually and socially dangerous, distancing us from real human connection and fueling “lust without limits.” Pastor Zach urges Christians to resist this new wave of counterfeit intimacy and hold tightly to God's design for relationships.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach tackles the rise of tablets in schools and asks whether screens are quietly becoming our kids' real teachers. He explains that despite declining test scores and research showing digital learning is less effective, schools continue to rely on devices—even though parents and teachers don't want them. Pastor Zach challenges parents to take responsibility for their children's formation, prioritize real thinking over passive screen use, and choose long-term growth over short-term convenience.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach responds to the news about Larry Summers to explore the difference between shame and true repentance. He explains that while Summers expresses remorse, biblical repentance requires action and making things right, as seen in the story of Zacchaeus. Pastor Zach challenges listeners to pursue real change and transparency rather than settling for surface-level sorrow.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks a question that hits deeper than sports headlines: Has gambling ruined sports? After reading a recent feature in The Atlantic about the growing gambling crisis in Major League Baseball, Pastor Zach reflects on the shocking federal indictment involving Cleveland Guardians pitchers accused of manipulating pitches for prop bets — despite already earning millions.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach tackles a question many of us have been silently asking: Where has decency gone? After reading a Washington Post op-ed by former Indiana governor Mitch Daniels, he reflects on the sad reality that civility has become almost nonexistent in public life. Profanity, personal attacks, and humiliation have become political strategy — and most of us are exhausted by it.But instead of simply agreeing that things have gotten ugly, Pastor Zach offers a biblical and practical roadmap for how Christians can lead the way back to decency.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks a powerful question: Is your phone making you less human? Drawing from a New York Times opinion piece by psychoanalyst Stephen Barry Anthony, he explores how technology is reshaping the way we feel, connect, and relate — and not for the better.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach dives into the rise of emotional dependence on AI and asks a bold question: Is ChatGPT becoming a substitute for real friendship? After reviewing a Washington Post article analyzing over 47,000 conversations with ChatGPT, Pastor Zach uncovers why so many people are turning to artificial intelligence — not for information, but for connection.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Joe takes a deep look at how not all belief systems lead to the same outcomes — and why the Gospel stands out uniquely in shaping a world where every human life has dignity. Drawing from Scripture and real-world examples, he explains that every religion produces a kind of fruit, but only Jesus uses power to serve rather than dominate.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the rise of text-based therapy and how it's proving just as effective as traditional, in-person counseling. He reminds listeners that God deeply cares about our mental and emotional health—and often brings healing through the help of others. Pastor Zach encourages anyone who's struggling to reach out, speak up, and let God work through community to bring restoration.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach addresses how modern vices like pornography, gambling, and marijuana use have gone “invisible,” thriving in private spaces where no one can see or help until the damage is done. He warns that sin grows in darkness and calls believers to bring their struggles into the light through confession, accountability, and community. Ultimately, Pastor Zach reminds us that freedom is found when nothing masters us but Jesus Himself.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the dangers of identity politics and victim-based leadership through the lens of a recent mayoral campaign in New York City. He contrasts this with the biblical model of leadership—one rooted in humility, service, and love rather than power or fear. Ultimately, we're reminded that true identity and unity are found not in politics, but in Jesus Christ.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach tackles a tough question: Is war ever the right response to Christian persecution? Prompted by reports of violence against believers in Nigeria and the Trump administration's suggestion of military action, Pastor Zach explores how followers of Jesus should think biblically about persecution, justice, and violence. Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach dives into the national conversation around the SNAP program (formerly known as food stamps) amid a government shutdown. He explores what Scripture says about helping those in need while also emphasizing God's design for work and responsibility. Pastor Zach challenges listeners to think beyond politics and consider how followers of Jesus can care for the hungry and encourage meaningful work.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the spiritual and physical benefits of long walks, prompted by a recent study on walking and health. He connects this practice to biblical principles of rest, reflection, and soul restoration, showing how uninterrupted time with God cultivates mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to step away from hustle culture, embrace intentional walks, and create space to hear from the Holy Spirit.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores what true friendship looks like through a biblical lens, prompted by a reader's question about long-term friendships. He outlines five principles for godly friendship: sharpening one another, mutual challenge, avoiding complacency, carrying burdens, and pursuing shared purpose. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to evaluate their relationships and invest in friendships that truly reflect Christ's love and call to growth.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach examines London's economic decline under secular leadership and asks whether building cities independent of God leads to collapse. He highlights the dangers of moral relativism and godless policies, emphasizing that true flourishing comes when innovation, justice, and collaboration are rooted in God's wisdom. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to reflect on the spiritual foundations of society and long for the eternal stability of the New Jerusalem.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach examines the debate over gifted programs in schools, prompted by a New York City mayoral policy proposal. He highlights how true equality doesn't come from flattening differences but from recognizing that every person bears God's image and contributes uniquely to the flourishing of society. Pastor Zach calls listeners to value each person's gifts and diversity, showing how God's design, not human-imposed uniformity, leads to justice and community.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores whether Christians should delete DoorDash, reflecting on how takeout culture is reshaping restaurants, hospitality, and human connection. He encourages listeners to see the spiritual significance of going out to eat, valuing fellowship, artistry in meals, and genuine interaction with others. Pastor Zach challenges us to get off the couch, engage with people, and experience the Kingdom of God in everyday encounters.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the question, can I end hypocrisy? Inspired by a Wall Street Journal article, he explores why we're often quick to spot hypocrisy in others but blind to it in ourselves. Pastor Zach lays out five steps—self-examination, repentance, living with integrity, inviting accountability, and growing in holiness—showing how confronting our own sin and aligning our lives with God's Word transforms us from hypocrisy to authentic faith.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks the question, is America dying? Reflecting on a Washington Post article about the decline of civilizations, he explores what Scripture says about what truly causes nations to fall—and what can restore them. From the warnings of the minor prophets to the promise of healing in 2 Chronicles 7:14, Pastor Zach reminds listeners that while every earthly nation is temporary, Christ's kingdom is unshakable and eternal.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks: Can the gospel survive in China? Prompted by a Wall Street Journal article on the rise of persecution against Christians, he reflects on what true persecution looks like, how Scripture calls us to stand with those who suffer for their faith, and why the gospel cannot be silenced—no matter the opposition. Pastor Zach challenges listeners to pray, advocate, and remember that Jesus' kingdom is forever.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks: Are you missing the secret to spiritual growth? Drawing from a Washington Post study showing people are happier in community than alone, he connects this truth to Scripture—reminding us that we were created for relationship. From Genesis to Acts, the Bible shows that faith was never meant to be a solo journey. Pastor Zach challenges listeners to stop trying to grow alone and instead lean into community—because spiritual growth is a team sport.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks the question, Is Gen-Z a revival generation? Reflecting on a New York Times article, he highlights how young people are turning to Jesus in a chaotic world, guided by the Holy Spirit, finding truth in Scripture, and becoming a faithful remnant. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to celebrate this generation's faith and pray for the revival God is stirring among them.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach tackles a sensitive question: Should pregnant women take Tylenol? Using recent headlines as a starting point, he offers biblical guidance on navigating fear, guilt, and uncertainty—encouraging moms to seek wisdom, trust God's sovereignty, and care for themselves and their children without panic. It's a reminder that God is in control, even in the things we can't fully understand.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks the question: Do we want justice—or just revenge? Prompted by a Wall Street Journal editorial, he unpacks how America's justice system has become politicized on both sides and what true, biblical justice really looks like. Justice, he reminds us, isn't about payback—it's about protecting the vulnerable and holding everyone to God's standard, not our own.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks, whose morality will kids learn? Using the debate in Texas over displaying the Ten Commandments and allowing voluntary prayer in schools, he explores how morality cannot exist untethered from a worldview. Pastor Zach emphasizes that all education—including secular perspectives—is shaped by beliefs. Christians, he argues, have a responsibility to bring biblical morality into the public square, because someone's morality will shape society, and true neutrality is a myth.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks, are people a lost cause? Using the Army's Future Soldier Preparatory Course as an example, he highlights how investment, discipline, and encouragement can transform those who seem unqualified or rejected. Pastor Zach connects this to the biblical view that every person has God-given potential, emphasizing that hope, purpose, and guidance can help anyone grow and flourish.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach asks, what do we want from leaders? Using Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's recent speech on military culture and readiness as a starting point, Pastor Zach reflects on the biblical principles of leadership. He emphasizes that true leaders shape culture, provide clarity, and pursue change, showing that leadership is not about popularity but about guiding others toward vision, order, and alignment with God's purposes.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the question, how do you solve hate? Using the story of Eli Sharabi, an Israeli who survived 491 days as a Hamas hostage, Pastor Zach reflects on the depth of human hatred and the need for moral clarity. He emphasizes that the Gospel of Jesus Christ—not politics or force—is what can transform hearts of hate into hearts of peace, and that global missions are central to bringing that hope to the world.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach examines the question, is conversion therapy biblical? Using a recent Supreme Court case in Colorado as a starting point, he explores how Christians should think about counseling related to gender and sexuality. Pastor Zach emphasizes that true change is central to the Gospel, confusion is not compassion, and Christian counselors are called to guide people toward God's design for human flourishing while speaking truth in love.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the question, is it ever too late to be sorry? Using current events as a starting point, he unpacks what true confession and repentance look like, emphasizing that genuine apologies come before exposure, give up power, and seek reconciliation. This episode challenges listeners to consider how delayed or hollow repentance affects relationships and reminds us that forgiveness, mercy, and healing are only possible when sorrow and accountability are authentic.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach reflects on why we often fail to pray for peace in conflict zones around the world. Using the ongoing Israel-Hamas situation as a lens, he challenges listeners to let their hearts break for those who lack peace and to actively engage in informed, intercessory prayer. This episode reminds us that as followers of Christ, our call to be peacemakers extends far beyond our immediate surroundings, joining God in his global concern for all people.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores our culture's tendency to jump to conclusions, using the recent Mark Sanchez story as an example. He reminds us that God values truth, practices patience, and brings justice on his timeline—encouraging us to respond with sober-mindedness and wait for all the facts before forming opinions. This episode challenges us to slow down, think clearly, and let truth guide our reactions rather than impulse.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!