Wake Up, Look Up

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!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores how proactive, compassionate intervention can prevent school shootings. Highlighting a New York case where a bullied and isolated teen was supported through counseling, tutoring, and community care, Pastor Zach emphasizes the biblical principles of acting justly, loving mercy, and bearing one another's burdens, showing that addressing struggles early can save lives and transform potential tragedy into 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 explores whether Apple's new AirPods Pro 3 could give us a glimpse of heaven. Using the real-time translation feature as an example, he reflects on how technology can unite people across languages and cultures, advance the Great Commission, and hint at the future unity of the new heavens and new earth, where barriers are removed and human creativity flourishes under God's glory.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 whether AI can really help you find your soulmate. He argues that love isn't about perfect algorithms or matches but about daily choices, growth, and the kind of Christ-centered love that goes beyond compatibility—loving and being loved even in the midst of 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 explores new parental controls added to ChatGPT and what they mean for families. Prompted by a recent Wall Street Journal article, he challenges parents to not only use these tools but also to actively engage their kids in conversations about faith, mental health, and the influence of technology—reminding us that guiding the next generation is a spiritual responsibility as much as a practical one.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 recent tragedy of a church shooting in Michigan and what it may signal about a rising wave of violence against places of worship. He offers five biblical perspectives on how Christians can process these events—with honesty about fear, confidence in God as our refuge, and a call to deeper discipleship and fearless worship in uncertain times.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 workplace hotlines and what they reveal about accountability. He reminds listeners that while coworkers may or may not know our secrets, God always sees, and his call to repentance offers a path to forgiveness and 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 challenges the idea that marriage is only for the “successful” or “worthy.” He explains that marriage is a covenant, not a reward, and that true partnership is about growing together in love, not measuring each other by culture or wealth. Pastor Zach reminds listeners that God's design for marriage focuses on mutual sanctification and character, not financial or social achievement.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 Monica Lewinsky's approach to shame and contrasts it with the biblical path to forgiveness. He explores how the gospel offers true freedom from guilt—not through rationalizing or reclaiming your own narrative, but by taking sin to Jesus and embracing his mercy. We're reminded that lasting healing comes through God's grace, not cultural or self-defined solutions.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 biblical call to love our enemies in light of recent events. He unpacks how God's love and justice work together, showing that even in anger or grief, we are called to respond with grace and forgiveness. Pastor Zach also explores the difference between human impulses and God's standard for how we treat others, even those who have wronged 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, Pastor Zach breaks down the controversy around Jimmy Kimmel, Disney, and free speech, exploring how Christians should think about government, accountability, and moral responsibility. He highlights that while free speech is a God-given right, every one of us is ultimately accountable to God for our words.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, “How do you make a killer?” Prompted by a Wall Street Journal article, he examines the troubling pattern of young men drifting into isolation, online subcultures, and ultimately violence. Pastor Zach calls the Church to respond by teaching that isolation opposes God's design, instilling the value of work, guarding minds against harmful digital influences, and intentionally pursuing young men as a mission field.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 I choose my kids' friends?” Reflecting on the tension between dwindling parental authority and growing peer influence, he offers a biblical framework for guiding teenagers through relationships. Pastor Zach encourages parents to focus on stewardship over control, use conversation and guidance as tools, and trust God's long-term work in their children's 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 asks, “Will medicine fix its mistake?” Prompted by a Wall Street Journal article, he addresses the harm caused by gender transition procedures on teenagers and the lack of medical pathways for those who regret them. Pastor Zach points to God's design for gender, the biblical call to protect children, and the hope of restoration found 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 asks the question, “Do you praise God with that mouth?” Drawing from Scripture, he explores why our words matter, how they reveal the condition of our hearts, and why profanity and corrupt speech work against the purpose God designed for our language. He reminds us that our mouths are meant for building others up and for praising God, and that holy speech flows from hearts being made new 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 asks the bold question: can the rich beat God? Drawing from a Wall Street Journal article on billionaires investing billions in longevity research, he contrasts humanity's fear of death with the certainty Scripture gives. While wealth and science promise only temporary control, the gospel offers eternal life through Jesus Christ—free of charge.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 surprising question: can haircuts be holy? Using the example of athletes and their barbers, he shows how everyday work—no matter how small—can honor God and impact others in meaningful ways. From cutting hair to serving in church, faithfulness in the ordinary matters to God and shapes lives more than we realize.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 America's growing “buy now, pay later” culture and the dangers of mounting debt. He shows how Scripture describes debt as slavery, contrasting it with the freedom Christ offers, and explains why materialism becomes idolatry when it replaces God as our source of security and joy. The episode challenges us to pursue financial freedom and lasting hope in Jesus rather than in stuff that can never satisfy.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 Christians should respond to the death of public figures like Charlie Kirk. He offers seven pastoral and biblical insights on the subject, ultimately challenging listeners to think critically, avoid worldly labels, and prioritize the gospel above online debates.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 Taylor Swift's global influence and what it reveals about seeing and understanding people's stories. He connects her ability to resonate deeply with fans to the way God sees us uniquely and how Jesus engaged people personally in Scripture. The takeaway: the church must move beyond preaching at people and instead bring the gospel into their stories with empathy, gentleness, and respect.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 recent canonization of Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old Italian teen recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church. Using Scripture, he explains why sainthood and praying to saints are unbiblical, reminding us that all believers are called saints and that Jesus alone is our mediator. The episode ultimately points us back to the gospel, where glory and miracles belong only to 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 addresses the rise of far-right influencer Nick Fuentes and asks if hate has become the new gospel. He warns that Fuentes' messages of racism, antisemitism, and misogyny directly contradict the teachings of Jesus, who calls us to love our enemies and value every human being as made in God's image. Pastor Zach emphasizes that as Christians, our allegiance is to the kingdom of Jesus, not any ethnic identity or political ideology, and following voices like Fuentes risks turning people away from 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, Zach's son, Deacon Weihrauch reflects on the assassination of Charlie Kirk and what it means for Christians today. He reminds us that responding to hatred with hatred only fuels more division, but Jesus calls us to respond with love, courage, and truth. Deacon challenges both older and younger generations to step up as mentors and leaders, carrying the gospel forward with boldness in a time of growing opposition.

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach discusses the power of reading to children and asks if parents are missing a key discipleship tool. He explains that reading not only strengthens bonds but also teaches children about God's character and instills faith, citing Proverbs 22, Deuteronomy 6, and Romans 10. Parents are reminded that their home is the primary place for theological formation and that reading Scripture to their kids shapes both the child and the parent.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 impact of phones in schools and asks who really rules the classroom. He explains that smartphones distract students, harm attention and behavior, and contribute to anxiety and depression. Drawing on biblical principles, he emphasizes the need for order, obedience, and cultivating stillness to grow in character and spiritual maturity.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 a teen you love at risk? He shares how 72% of American teenagers are turning to AI chatbots for emotional support, but warns that artificial relationships can never replace real wisdom, accountability, or connection. Pastor Zach reminds us that God designed us for human intimacy, and that true healing and guidance come only from 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 explores the question, can more money fix our government? Prompted by a New York Times opinion piece, he considers whether raising congressional salaries might actually attract more competent and ethical leaders. Using both cultural insight and biblical teaching, he argues that underpaying leaders devalues leadership, fosters corruption, and ignores God's design for wise, well-supported leadership. Ultimately, Pastor Zach challenges us to see leadership as a gift worth honoring so that we might raise up the best leaders possible.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 recent Texas law change impacting dreamers and asks: should children pay for their parents' choices? He explores how Christians can hold justice and mercy together when it comes to immigration, reminding us that following Jesus means thinking with nuance—not just party lines.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 shares the story of PGA golfer Tommy Fleetwood, who finally won his first championship after years of near-misses. Pastor Zach unpacks how Fleetwood's perseverance mirrors the biblical call to keep going in faith, even when results don't come right away. Drawing from Galatians 6:9, Romans 5, and 1 Peter 5:6, he reminds us that God values daily obedience over instant success.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 debate over federalizing crime-fighting in cities like Washington D.C., Chicago, and New York. Looking past politics, he points to the Bible's teaching that government leaders are accountable to God for justice and the safety of their people. True leadership requires humility, responsibility, and a commitment to protecting the vulnerable—the kind of righteous authority that reflects God's design for government.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 growing trend of parents financially supporting their adult children well into their 30s. He explains how enabling dependency delays maturity and undermines God's design for work, responsibility, and growth. Instead of allowances for adults, Pastor Zach calls parents to raise children who are resourceful, responsible, and prepared to stand on their own 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 unpacks the outrage over Cracker Barrel's logo change and asks the question, why are we so quick to get angry about things that don't matter? He reminds us that faux outrage distracts from real issues—like division, suffering, and injustice—that actually require our attention as followers of Jesus. Instead of chasing culture wars, Pastor Zach calls us back to being peacemakers and keeping our eyes on what truly matters.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 shares a surprising “Productivity Hack” rooted in Scripture. While culture pushes constant hustle and endless to-do lists, he reveals a biblical rhythm that leads to true fruitfulness without burnout. This conversation offers practical wisdom and spiritual insight, reminding believers that lasting productivity flows from abiding in 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 explores the “Boyhood Crisis” facing our culture today. From absent fathers and distorted role models to the challenges young men encounter in discovering their identity, this conversation unpacks the roots of the crisis and its impact on families and society. Pastor Zach contrasts cultural confusion with biblical clarity, calling believers to invest in raising boys who grow into godly 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 takes on the subject of “Societal ADHD,” examining how our culture's constant distractions and divided attention shape the way we live and think. From the pull of technology to the pressures of busyness, he contrasts society's restless pace with the biblical call to focus on Jesus. This conversation offers both challenge and encouragement, reminding believers to slow down, center their hearts, and give their full attention to what truly matters.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 difficult but urgent topic of suicide prevention. With honesty and compassion, he explores the pain behind the struggle, the hope found in Scripture, and practical ways believers can come alongside those who are hurting. This conversation not only raises awareness but also points to the life-giving truth of Jesus, reminding us that no one has to walk through darkness alone.Have an article you'd like Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores the idea of “Expensive Children” by examining the true costs of raising kids in today's world. From financial challenges and hidden expenses to the emotional investments that parents make every day, this conversation brings honest reflections and eye-opening insights. Whether you're already a parent, planning to become one, or simply curious about modern family life, you'll find stories and perspectives that resonate deeply.Have an article you'd like Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach explores why giving advice when it's not wanted can actually be unloving. He shares how listening first, respecting boundaries, and waiting for the right moment honors others and reflects God's wisdom. Drawing from Scripture, he challenges believers to make sure their words build up and truly serve the person they're speaking to.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 rise in cannabis-related poisonings among children and challenges the idea that “if it doesn't hurt anyone, it's okay.” He warns that sin hides its true cost and urges listeners to trust God's wisdom over their own moral intuition.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 AI-generated videos and asks the question: Are you spreading lies? Using a viral bunny trampoline clip as an example, he warns how realistic fake content has become and challenges Christians to practice discernment before liking, sharing, or reposting. Drawing from Scripture, Pastor Zach reminds us that truth is God's standard, believers will give an account for every empty word, and the church's testimony is at stake online.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 Israel and Gaza conflict and asks if we have to pick a side. He challenges the tribalism in today's culture and offers a biblical perspective that rejects partiality and calls for loving enemies while seeking justice for all. Pastor Zach encourages a nuanced approach that holds truth on both sides without compromising compassion or 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 tackles the controversial topic of Christian nationalism. He examines the beliefs of a pastor advocating for a Christian-influenced government. Pastor Zach encourages believers to let their faith shape how they live and engage with the world, while warning against using power to coerce 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 whether we're making our kids screen addicts — not because children want screens, but because anxious, safety-driven parenting keeps them indoors. He challenges parents to trust God's sovereignty, embrace the balance of risk and responsibility, and let kids experience the freedom and growth that come from unstructured play and real-world adventure.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 Gen Z teens are rejecting traditional dating in favor of “situationships” driven by anxiety and fear of rejection. He highlights the spiritual importance of vulnerability and covenantal relationships, urging the church and parents to model and teach deep, committed love that reflects God's perfect, fearless 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 asks, “Are Christians cheering for cheating?” Using the example of gerrymandering in Texas—and noting that both parties do it—he compares the practice to putting a thumb on the scale, a direct violation of biblical justice in Proverbs 11:1. Pastor Zach warns that unchecked political power breeds corruption and reminds listeners that politicians are accountable to God, not just voters. He calls the church to model integrity, even when it costs us politically, because God's kingdom is eternal—and cheating has no place in 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 explores whether Gen Z is “accidentally Christian,” noting their embrace of values like moderation, craftsmanship, and tradition. While these moral choices can point toward God, he warns that morality alone doesn't save—only surrendering to Jesus does. Pastor Zach urges the church to meet Gen Z's hunger for meaning with the gospel, praying it could lead to a spiritual awakening.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 ChatGPT could be harming vulnerable people, sharing the story of a man whose interaction with AI deepened his mental health struggles. He challenges Christians to think carefully about how technology impacts the weak and to safeguard truth, human connection, and shepherding in a digital world. Ultimately, Pastor Zach reminds us that wisdom comes from God—not from the affirmations of a machine.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!