Check out new episodes of our daily podcast, Wake Up, Look Up, with Zach Weihrauch as he interprets what's happening in our world through the lens of the gospel.
In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach revisits a controversial discussion on homeless camps and how Christians should respond to both the crisis and the policies surrounding it. Prompted by California's efforts to disband encampments, Pastor Zach explores the tension between compassion for the homeless and personal responsibility—highlighting that biblical love doesn't ignore accountability. With wisdom and nuance, he challenges listeners to distinguish between personal Christian calling and governmental duty, while urging us not to settle for simplistic, politically charged answers.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!Original episode: Homeless Camps: What Do We Owe Those In Need?
In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach welcomes guest host Jamie Hewitt to explore the question: Are our best days behind us? Prompted by an article reflecting on post-college disillusionment, Jamie unpacks how the gospel gives purpose, even in seasons of uncertainty or transition. Whether we're chasing big dreams or just navigating the ordinary, our lives find lasting meaning only when they're connected to God's greater story.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 revisits a deeply sobering topic: the response to school shootings and the Christian tendency to default to blame. Instead of asking, “Who's at fault?”, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to lean into lament, love for neighbor, and gospel-sharing as tools that actually move us toward healing. In a world that keeps breaking, the church is called to be a people who cry out to God, draw others in, and offer lasting hope through Jesus. Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!Original episode: School Shooting: Who Can I Blame?
In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach hands the mic to guest host Jeff Heinrich, who confronts a disturbing new trend: turning human embryos into jewelry. Drawing on biblical passages about the sacredness of life, Jeff challenges listeners to speak out against practices that commodify and devalue what God has declared holy. This episode is a sobering call for Christians to be vocal defenders of life from its very beginning.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 revisits one of the podcast's most engaging conversations—how to hold both truth and love when it comes to sexuality and faith. Using Pope Francis' mixed messaging on same-sex relationships as a launch point, Pastor Zach challenges listeners to surrender their personal definitions of love to God, who is love. Real love, he reminds us, means aligning with what God has said is true—even when it's hard.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!Original episode: Pope Francis: Can We Truly Love LGBTQ+ Without Compromise?
In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach revisits one of the podcast's most talked-about episodes—Oklahoma's move to put Bibles back in classrooms. He unpacks why every person brings a worldview to their work (yes, even secularism), and argues that Christians have every right to bring their faith into public spaces—just like everyone else. It's not about dominance, but equal presence at the ideological table.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!Original episode: Oklahoma Bible: Would Religion in Public Schools be Harmful?
In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach welcomes guest host Ken Prabucki to explore the question: When does entertainment become sin? Through the lens of film, culture, and Scripture, Ken challenges listeners to consider whether the media we consume points us toward brokenness or toward restoration. As Christians, we're called to pursue hope and discernment—even in what we choose to watch.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 revisits a listener-favorite episode exploring whether Christians should listen to Jordan Peterson. While acknowledging the value in Peterson's emphasis on responsibility and moral clarity, Pastor Zach offers a caution: even wisdom that sounds biblical must be measured against the Word of God. Only Jesus is always right—everyone else, no matter how insightful, must be heard with discernment.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!Original episode: Should We Listen to Jordan Peterson?
In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach invites guest host Laura Simmonds to explore the question: Can we guarantee human flourishing? Prompted by an article on the "Success Sequence," Laura unpacks how work, marriage, and family reflect God's good design—but also reminds us that true flourishing is found not in outcomes, but in growing in grace and knowing Christ. This episode challenges both parents and communities to pursue God's best while keeping Jesus at the center of lasting 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 revisits a controversial and much-discussed question: Is Donald Trump God's anointed leader? He unpacks what Scripture really says about God's sovereignty over human rulers—reminding us that while God appoints leaders, that doesn't mean he endorses all they do. Pastor Zach challenges us to reserve the title of “anointed” for the only one truly worthy of it: Jesus Christ.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!Original episode: Is Trump God's Anointed?
In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach revisits a powerful conversation on global tragedy and the weight of empathetic distress in a world flooded with heartbreaking news. Reflecting on overwhelming suffering—like the deaths of children in Gaza—he reminds us that the Christian response begins with prayer, humility, and hope in a God who sees, cares, and acts. When we bring our broken hearts to God, we not only ask him to move in the world—we invite him to move in us.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!Original episode: Global Tragedy: What to do When We Can do Nothing?
In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach introduces guest host Jimmy Kozy, who explores the rapid rise of AI-powered robotics and what it means for the future of human work. Reflecting on scripture, Jimmy reminds us that human creativity is a reflection of God's image—and that our value isn't defined by what we produce, but by the purpose God has given us. Even in a world of machines, we were made for meaningful, worship-filled work—now and in eternity.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 revisits a popular and controversial discussion on gun violence in America. He urges listeners not to start with the political debate but to recognize the deeper issue at play: the widespread reality of broken families. With compassion and clarity, Pastor Zach challenges the church to focus on restoration at the root—believing the gospel's power to heal homes before harm ever happens.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com! Original episode: Don't Start With Guns
In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Pastor Zach introduces guest host Brad Wenclewicz, who explores the question, “What is the law?” Drawing from scripture, philosophy, and a personal story, Brad unpacks how true justice isn't self-defined but rooted in the unchanging character of God. He points listeners to the cross as the place where righteousness and mercy meet—and where all our longings for justice are ultimately fulfilled.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 revisits a past conversation about the 2024 election and the growing trend of blind political allegiance. He challenges listeners to consider whether their loyalty lies more with political parties than with God, calling for a faith that isn't shaped by tribalism but by the truth of Jesus Christ. It's a timely reminder that our ultimate confidence belongs not in a candidate—but in a King.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com! Original episode: 2024 Election: Are We Blindly Supporting Party Candidates?
In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, Zach Weihrauch tackles a subtle but powerful form of temptation: the cultural obsession with wealth as entertainment. Sparked by a thought-provoking Atlantic article titled Money Is Ruining Television, Zach explores how modern shows—from glossy dramas to flashy reality TV—are shaping our hearts and values in ways we often don't notice. Could our binge-watching habits be quietly training us to covet more, care less, and trust wealth over God? Jesus had a lot to say about money—and not because it's bad, but because it can become a god. This conversation will challenge you to think more deeply about what you consume, why it matters, and how the gospel gives us a better way.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!
In this sobering episode of Wake Up Look Up, Zach Weihrauch reflects on the tragic story of Thomas Crooks—the would-be assassin who attempted to kill President Trump—and asks a haunting question: Could the church have made a difference? Drawing from an in-depth profile in the New York Times, Zach explores the isolation, mental health struggles, and radicalization that shaped Crooks' path—and how the presence of a faithful Christian community might have changed the outcome. This isn't about politics or security—it's about evangelism, neighbor love, and the urgent call for the church to reach those on the margins. If you're tempted to look away, don't. This episode challenges us to see, to act, and to love—because eternity could depend on it.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!
In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, host Zach Weihrauch takes a deeper look at this year's graduation speeches—from politicians to puppets—and asks a simple question: does anyone actually have answers? With many cultural leaders offering critiques of society but few solutions, Zach challenges listeners to consider the one voice that never diagnoses without healing—Jesus Christ. Explore how the gospel doesn't just name the problem, but delivers real hope, purpose, and restoration in a world full of confusion. If you're longing for truth in a post-truth world, this episode is for 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, host Zach Weihrauch tackles a striking question: could our desire for revenge be more than emotional—could it be addictive? Prompted by an article from The Wall Street Journal, Zach explores how revenge triggers the brain's reward systems like a drug, and how forgiveness, particularly through Jesus Christ, offers the only true path to healing. Learn why the cross isn't just a symbol of mercy, but the ultimate answer to justice—and how God's justice frees us to forgive, find peace, and break the cycle of bitterness.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!
In this episode of Wake Up Look Up, host Zach Weihrauch reflects on the recent firing of NBA coach Tom Thibodeau and explores a deeper question: why does our culture so often reject "good" in the relentless pursuit of "great"? Drawing from both sports headlines and Scripture, Zach unpacks how our restlessness for success reveals a spiritual longing only Christ can satisfy. Discover how faithfulness—not achievement—is God's true standard for success, and why rest in Jesus is better than any worldly trophy.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: Is our natural negativity spiritually helpful? Drawing from brain science and biblical truth, he explores how our tendency to fixate on the negative can both hinder and help our walk with Christ. While godly sorrow can lead to repentance and discernment helps us pursue what is good, Scripture reminds us that we aren't meant to stay stuck in the dark. Our hope is anchored in Christ—a hope stronger than any criticism or inner doubt. Don't just dwell on the negative. Let it lead you to Jesus.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: Who can tell a kid no? Inspired by an op-ed on communal parenting, he challenges the individualism of modern parenting and casts a vision for the church as a spiritual family. Drawing from Scripture, Pastor Zach reminds us that raising children in the Lord isn't just the job of parents—it's a shared calling for the whole church. Correction, encouragement, and discipleship aren't overreach; they're love in action. It doesn't take a village—it takes the body 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 asks: Can reading save us? Reflecting on a recent Washington Post article, he explores how the decline in reading and writing isn't just a cultural crisis—but a spiritual one. Pastor Zach calls Christians back to the written Word of God, reminding us that transformation begins with renewed minds, shaped by Scripture. In a world of noise, God still speaks clearly—through His Word, if we'll make space to read it.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 Left save men? Responding to a New York Times op-ed and the growing “manosphere” movement, he unpacks the crisis facing young men and why neither politics nor internet influencers can offer what they truly need. Pastor Zach points to the church—not Washington—as the place where young men can find purpose, strength, and identity through Jesus Christ. It's a call for the church to reengage and disciple the next generation of men.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 surprising link between rising therapy culture and falling birth rates. Prompted by a recent New York Times op-ed, he unpacks how processing past trauma can lead to fear of parenting—and why the gospel offers a better way. With biblical insight and pastoral care, Zach reminds us that our hope isn't in perfection, but in Christ, who redeems our past and makes us new.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 spiritual and societal harm of pornography, calling Christians to stop minimizing its effects and start taking the fight seriously. Prompted by a New York Times op-ed, he explains how pornography rejects God's design, devalues human dignity, and dulls our desire for God. With both urgency and compassion, he urges listeners to stop believing the lie that pornography is harmless and to pursue healing and holiness instead.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 recent reports of a cover-up surrounding President Biden's cognitive decline, and the ethical and spiritual implications of hiding the truth. He explores how truth-telling, accountability, and servant leadership are biblical essentials—not just for presidents, but for all of us. Pastor Zach challenges listeners to reject self-preservation and instead lead with integrity, humility, and concern for the good 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 explores the cultural phenomenon of “the slop life”—a nonstop flood of trends, content, and distraction—and its impact on our spiritual focus. He challenges listeners to recognize slop as a spiritual problem that dulls our attention to God and disconnects us from each other. Through Scripture, he offers a two-step solution: turn off the noise, and intentionally turn toward the kingdom—because we were made for more than mindless scrolling.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 idea of “getting rich slow” and how overlooked, steady paths to wealth reflect deep biblical wisdom. Drawing from a Wall Street Journal article on the “stealthy wealthy,” he connects real-life examples to Proverbs and Colossians, showing how diligence, humility, and faithfulness in everyday work glorify God and build lasting success. Whether you're chasing financial goals or spiritual growth, this episode is a reminder that slow and steady—done faithfully—wins the race.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 recent conversations about former President Trump floating the idea of a third term. He unpacks the constitutional, cultural, and spiritual implications of this rhetoric, ultimately pointing to a deeper issue: our country's craving for self-glorifying leaders. Drawing from Scripture, Pastor Zach reminds us that true leadership reflects the humility of Jesus—serving others, not elevating self.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 AI in education and what it means for the church. Rather than retreating in fear, Christians are called to engage AI with wisdom, discernment, and moral clarity—leveraging it for good, while guarding what it means to be made in the image of 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 uses the controversy around Pete Rose's Hall of Fame eligibility to highlight a deeper cultural drift: when truth becomes relative, justice and integrity erode. What begins with baseball reflects a world that, without God, is just making it up as we go.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 rise of chaplaincy without Christ, urging listeners to recognize that true spiritual care must be rooted in the gospel. Without Jesus, he argues, we're offering comfort without substance—and that's not just ineffective, it's dangerous.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 how strength-based parenting offers a powerful model for discipleship, encouraging us to build on spiritual growth rather than fixating on failure. He reminds us that God is already at work in our lives—and we're invited to celebrate and join Him there.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 recent op-ed defending the Trump administration's ban on critical race and gender theory in military academies, exploring who truly shapes moral character and why that responsibility belongs to the church and family—not the government. He connects this debate to biblical principles of moral clarity, unity, and staying in our God-given lanes of 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 explores the tension between free speech and viewpoint diversity in higher education. Are universities truly open to different perspectives—or only the ones they already agree with? Looking through a biblical lens, Pastor Zach argues that honest debate sharpens us, but without God's wisdom guiding us, free speech can spiral into chaos. Scripture calls us to seek truth, not just talk. And in a world full of noise, God's voice remains the clearest authority.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 whether the five love languages still help us love others—or if we've turned them into demands to be loved our way. He challenges the cultural drift from selfless to self-centered intimacy and reminds us that real love, as shown in Jesus and taught in Scripture, is about giving—not getting. Tools like the love languages can serve us well, but only when we use them to serve 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 explores a proposal for mandatory national service and asks: does forced service build character, or just compliance? He affirms the biblical value of serving others but warns that heart transformation can't be mandated by government—it must be formed in the home. Rather than relying on policy to shape our kids, we're called to raise them with the heart of Jesus, who came not to be served, but to serve.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 aging leadership in Congress and asks why so many leaders refuse to step aside. He connects this issue to a deeper spiritual problem of pride and self-interest, calling for a return to biblical servant leadership and a vision of legacy that empowers the next generation. For Christians, true freedom comes in letting go—because our purpose is rooted in eternity, not position.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 phrase “do your own research” in the context of vaccines, trust, and leadership. He unpacks the dangers of conspiracy thinking, the erosion of trust in experts, and the spiritual roots of cynicism—challenging listeners to become truth-tellers themselves. Ultimately, he points to Jesus as the only one who can transform our hearts and restore trust.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 cultural obsession with early morning productivity and asks, “Is God a morning person?” Drawing from both scripture and popular trends like 4AM CEO routines, he highlights how the Bible affirms early rising—not as a badge of hustle, but as a time for spiritual connection, as seen in Jesus' own habits. Yet, he cautions against linking self-worth to productivity. True rest and identity, Pastor Zach reminds us, are found not in how early we rise, but in the finished work of Jesus. Wake early if it draws you closer to God—not to prove your worth.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 encouraging data showing that American dads are spending significantly more time with their kids since the pandemic—reflecting a cultural shift toward intentional fatherhood. He connects this trend to the biblical calling for fathers to lead their families spiritually, not just through big moments, but in everyday life. Citing Ephesians 6 and Deuteronomy 6, he challenges dads to go beyond being providers or playmates and to become consistent gospel witnesses in the home. The episode ends with a reminder: when dads step up spiritually, transformation follows.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 why young adults are increasingly unhappy, despite living in a culture that promotes self-fulfillment as the key to happiness. Drawing from a global study and biblical wisdom, he argues that the pursuit of self-actualization often leads to isolation and emptiness, while true joy is found in surrendering to Jesus and living for something greater than oneself. He encourages young people to reject the lie of self-centered living and embrace the abundant life offered through Christ 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 addresses the claim made by historian Darmaid McCulloch in his new book, arguing that the Bible is inconsistent on sexuality and should not be taken as a moral authority. Pastor Zach counters this by emphasizing the Protestant view that scripture, not church tradition, is the ultimate authority, and he points out that the Bible acknowledges the sinful sexual history of its characters without endorsing it. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to trust in the Bible's timeless truths, despite the church's historical failures, and reminds them that the gospel of Jesus Christ is the solution to humanity's brokenness.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 cultural misconception that boys should suppress their emotions, arguing that this leads to long-term emotional struggles and stress. Drawing on both scientific research and biblical examples, he emphasizes that masculinity doesn't require emotional suppression, highlighting how figures like King David and Jesus model a balance of toughness and emotional expression. Pastor Zach encourages parents to nurture their sons' emotional health, teaching them to embrace both their strength and vulnerability.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 why more Gen Zers are choosing to work for their parents—and why that might be a good thing. He connects this trend to biblical principles of multigenerational living, legacy, and responsibility, urging listeners to move beyond individualism and invest in the flourishing of their families and communities.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 how catchy songs—known as earworms—can shape our minds and souls, suggesting that Christians strategically fill their hearts with music that reinforces biblical truth. He highlights how simple, repeatable, and singable lyrics can help us remember Scripture, instill theology, and transform our thinking in line with 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 discusses growing political influence in public school systems, particularly how socialist agendas are shaping education in places like Chicago and New York. He urges Christians to remain vigilant and involved in their local schools, reminding parents and faith communities of their biblical responsibility to guide the next generation with truth and discernment.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 how video game streamers like Asmongold are shaping the worldview of millions of young viewers—often more than pastors or parents. He challenges listeners to consider who is really discipling their kids and calls for greater awareness and intentionality in guiding the next generation toward truth, wisdom, and Jesus.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 a disturbing report from The Wall Street Journal exposing how Meta's AI chatbots engage in sexually explicit conversations—even with users who identify as children. He explores the moral, spiritual, and cultural implications of this technology and urges parents, leaders, and believers to stay vigilant, protect the vulnerable, and speak out against digital exploitation.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 recent UK laws around hate speech and non-crime offenses—and how they might impact Christians sharing their faith. He challenges listeners to consider whether they'll choose to please people or God if preaching the gospel becomes costly.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!