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 also considering how these choices impact the well-being of others.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 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 Christ above any cultural or political loyalty.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 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 the Lord, resisting the temptation to outsource their calling and instead pursuing excellence that leads to true flourishing.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 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 pursue a life marked by love for God and neighbor.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 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 skills, and making thoughtful decisions while trusting in God's sovereignty.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 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, not judgment, and aimed at helping others find freedom in 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 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 episode encourages believers to pursue truth, responsibility, and care for others in an increasingly digital age.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 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 families to pursue a faith that endures and shapes the next generation.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 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. This episode encourages believers to engage culture with both compassion and conviction.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 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 conversation with clarity, humility, and conviction.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 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 Christians to think carefully about faith, conviction, and how to live with integrity in today's 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 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 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 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 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 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 us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

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, speak up, and seek help before it's too late.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

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 article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

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 the world can explain.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

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. In God's kingdom, it's not about us.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

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, and communicate in a way that is truthful, thoughtful, and rooted 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, 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 your life.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 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 people, but in Jesus, who never fails.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 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 to approach relationships with humility, focusing on what they can give rather than what they can gain. When our security comes from Christ's love, we're freed to serve, forgive, and love our families in a healthier way.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 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 believers to let Jesus set the agenda, holding together all the issues he cares about–from justice and compassion to truth and righteousness. The call is simple but challenging: follow Christ first, and refuse to reduce him to the spokesperson for any political party.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 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. Because our identity is secure in Christ, we can genuinely honor and celebrate the success of others. He challenges listeners to intentionally recognize and affirm the gifts and accomplishments of someone in their life this week.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 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 to prayer–asking God to bring freedom, justice, and ultimately the hope of the gospel to places where oppression is strongest.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 leadership scandal to highlight how easy it is to believe our private compromises will stay hidden. He reminds listeners that God sees every action and often brings hidden things into the light, not to shame us but to lead us toward repentance and restoration. The challenge is simple but urgent: don't wait to be exposed–choose honesty and come clean before God today.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 artificial intelligence in journalism and asks how Christians can thoughtfully engage with technology in their work. He emphasizes that Christians should consider what must remain distinctly human, how to care for people displaced by AI, and how to bring a biblical worldview into these decisions. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to seek the Spirit's guidance for wisdom, skill, and excellence in their fields so they can lead responsibly and help others flourish in a technological age.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 challenges Gen Z faces in developing real-world relational skills due to increased online learning and digital dependence. He emphasizes that being relational is part of what it means to be fully human, pointing to Genesis 2:18 and Adam's need for companionship and support. Pastor Zach encourages both young people and the church to engage in meaningful in-person relationships, helping Gen Z unlock their full potential and live more fully human lives.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 discusses the growing cultural push to redefine family through polyamory and why these ideas are gaining traction in society. He explains the biblical vision of marriage as a God-designed covenant that brings stability, sanctification, and flourishing for individuals and communities. Pastor Zach encourages Christians not just to argue against cultural shifts, but to model strong, faithful marriages that reflect the gospel and honor 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 explores the booming longevity industry and the promise of living longer through supplements, cold plunges, and other fads. He explains why these trends can't stop aging or deliver true life. Instead, Pastor Zach points to Jesus as the source of lasting renewal and eternal hope.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 escalating conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran, and asks how global chaos can test the strength of our faith. Looking at Jesus' teaching about building on the rock in Matthew 7, he explains that real stability comes from hearing and obeying Christ, which develops a deeper trust in God over time. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to practice daily obedience so that when the storms of life come, their faith is rooted firmly in God's promises.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 life and death of Ayatollah Khamenei, highlighting the evil and oppression he caused under the guise of being divinely appointed. He reminds listeners that hell exists as a place of God's justice, where the wrongs done to victims are acknowledged and righted. Pastor Zach points to Jesus Christ as the ultimate answer for our own sin, offering redemption instead of reckoning for those who turn to him.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 controversy involving a public leader celebrating at a sporting event and asks an important question about leadership and optics. Exploring the biblical call to set an example both on and off the clock, he challenges leaders to consider how their personal choices communicate during moments of crisis. Pastor Zach reminds listeners that authentic leadership requires wisdom, awareness, and a life that aligns with the message they want others to hear.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 whether the Bible supports breaking the law in the name of compassion, particularly in conversations around immigration. Responding to a recent opinion piece, he explores how Scripture holds both mercy and justice together–calling God's people to care for the foreigner while also upholding the rule of law. Pastor Zach challenges listeners not to cherry-pick verses to defend political views, but to wrestle honestly with the full counsel of God's Word.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 of whether earning something through hard work shapes our character differently than relying on talent alone. Using the example of Olympic athletes and the discipline required to compete at the highest level, he highlights how grit, perseverance, and sacrifice cultivate gratitude and humility. Drawing from Proverbs, Pastor Zach challenges listeners–especially parents–to pursue and encourage hard things that build character, deepen gratitude, and reflect a biblical vision of 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 tackles the debate over whether government food assistance programs should restrict the purchase of junk food, exploring what true compassion and responsible provision really look like. Drawing on recent statistics and a biblical framework, he argues that helping people thrive means using wisdom–not enabling harmful choices that lead to long-term consequences. Through practical examples and Scripture, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to think critically about generosity, accountability, and what it means to care for others in a way that reflects the heart of 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 considers a viral matchmaking algorithm to explore what happens when technology begins to shape how we pursue romance. He contrasts convenience-driven, self-focused approaches to dating with a biblical picture of love rooted in covenant, sacrifice, and valuing another person. The episode challenges listeners to examine whether modern tools are helping or reshaping their understanding of what real love is meant to be.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 public shift within the body-positivity movement to explore how easily identity can become tied to a single cause. He examines how online communities can harden into echo chambers that react harshly to dissent, contrasting that dynamic with a biblical vision of identity rooted in Christ. The episode invites listeners to evaluate what shapes their loyalties and to pursue truth, humility, and self-control over cultural approval.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 growing concerns about AI-driven job disruption and what that could mean for workers and families. He encourages listeners to hold together trust in God's sovereignty with practical wisdom, urging thoughtful preparation rather than panic or denial. The episode frames technological change as an opportunity for Christians to respond with faith, prudence, and intentional planning for the future.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 migration trends out of high-tax states and uses them to reflect on deeper questions about government, responsibility, and worldview. He contrasts cultural expectations of what government should provide with a biblical framework that assigns different roles to institutions like family, church, and state. The conversation ultimately points listeners toward placing their hope not in political systems, but in God's ability to change hearts and shape a flourishing society.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 young woman's public account of medical transition and regret to challenge Christians to think carefully about truth, harm, and compassion in today's cultural conversations. He urges believers to weigh difficult stories through a biblical lens, emphasizing both the seriousness of choices that shape a life and the responsibility to speak with courage and love. The episode ultimately calls Christians to prioritize faithfulness to God while engaging hurting people with clarity, humility, and genuine care.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 New York Times article exploring how students are turning to AI to process emotions and form pseudo-relationships. He warns that emotional “offloading” to machines is distancing young people from real intimacy and increasing anxiety, while robbing parents of opportunities to truly know their children's hearts. Drawing from Jesus' words in Luke 6, Pastor Zach calls parents, families, and friends to do the hard work of listening, vulnerability, and human connection that no technology can replace.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 challenges listeners to rethink the role politics plays in their lives, arguing that it should never become an all-consuming identity. Drawing from a Wall Street Journal op-ed and Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians 13, he emphasizes that being “right” means nothing if it comes at the expense of love. The episode calls Christians to hold political convictions with humility, prioritize relationships and community, and be known first for love rather than party allegiance.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 uses an unexpected environmental issue—the billions of golf balls lost each year—to challenge the modern assumption that something is only wrong if its harm is immediately visible. Drawing on Proverbs 14, he argues that human perspective is limited, while God alone sees the long-term and generational consequences of our actions. The episode invites listeners to rethink moral decision-making, trust God's wisdom over personal perception, and consider how seemingly harmless choices may carry far-reaching impact beyond what we can see.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 invites families to reconsider the spiritual value of slowing down together in an overstimulated, screen-saturated world. Prompted by a Wall Street Journal article and grounded in Jesus' invitation to rest in Mark 6, he argues that reclaiming simple rhythms—like family movie night—can restore attention, connection, and meaningful conversation. The episode challenges parents to intentionally create space for shared stories, genuine presence, and rest, reminding listeners that stepping away from constant hustle isn't laziness, but a deeply biblical practice.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 challenges the way we evaluate political leaders by shifting the focus from image, charisma, and media presence to character, track record, and faithfulness. Drawing from current events and Jesus' teaching in Luke 16, he argues that leadership credibility is revealed in how someone handles what they've already been entrusted with. The episode calls listeners—especially voters—to resist spectacle, pursue substance, and rethink what truly qualifies someone to lead.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 a Wall Street Journal article on how AI is reshaping the workplace and forcing employees to justify their value. He argues that while lazy, disengaged workers may be replaceable, humans who show up with purpose, creativity, and excellence never are. Drawing from Scripture, Pastor Zach challenges Christians to reject coasting and instead approach their work with enthusiasm, integrity, and a commitment to glorify 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 reflects on new research showing that childhood trauma doesn't have to define a person's future. He connects the HOPE framework—supportive relationships, safe environments, emotional growth, and belonging—to the very things God has designed the local church to provide. Pastor Zach challenges listeners to see church not just as something they attend for themselves, but as a place God uses through ordinary people to bring real healing to those carrying deep wounds.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 a recent viral moment and examines it through the lens of Scripture, accountability, and the imago Dei. He challenges listeners to think carefully about how words and images can demean others, reminding us that followers of Jesus are responsible not only for what they say, but also for what they share or defend. The episode calls Christians to reject unloving rhetoric, hold fast to truth with humility, and reflect Christ in a deeply divided public square.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 a Wall Street Journal opinion piece on the sexualization of women in pop music and the messages young girls are absorbing from today's biggest stars. Speaking as a pastor and a father, he challenges parents—especially fathers—to actively shape how their daughters understand beauty, value, and identity. Drawing from Scripture, Pastor Zach reminds us that true worth is rooted not in sexuality or appearance, but in character, faith, and who we are becoming before 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 reflects on cultural outrage sparked by a Wall Street Journal article about the Grammy Awards and the selective political statements made by celebrities. He explains why caring deeply about some issues without addressing every global injustice isn't hypocrisy, but an honest expression of human limitation under God's sovereignty. Grounded in Scripture, Pastor Zach calls listeners to humility, discernment, and faithfulness—reminding us that only God sees and judges everything perfectly.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!