Wake Up, Look Up

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!

In this episode of Wake Up, Look Up, Pastor Zach discusses an opinion piece by Ross Douthat on the potential "extinction" of culture due to our increasing reliance on digital, mind-numbing content. Pastor Zach draws a parallel to spiritual stagnation, suggesting that just as culture is retreating from deep, meaningful relationships, so are we retreating from genuine spiritual growth. He encourages listeners to embrace offline relationships, Bible study, and prayer, emphasizing that true spiritual renewal comes from time spent with God and others, not through digital distractions.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 importance of self-knowledge and the biblical call to repentance, sparked by an Atlantic article on critical self-awareness. He explains that real growth comes through honest self-assessment, a willingness to change, and daily dependence on Jesus—echoing a truth the Bible has taught for centuries: transformation begins with truth and the renewing of the mind.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 temptation to blame one person or group—like Trump or the government—for the stagnant global economy. Drawing from both a New York Times article and Scripture, he challenges listeners to move beyond blame-shifting and instead take personal responsibility, reminding us that real change starts with individual transformation under the leadership of 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 reflects on the recent death of Pope Francis, discussing his complex and sometimes contradictory leadership of the Catholic Church. From an evangelical perspective, Pastor Zach emphasizes that while human leaders may falter or divide, the true and only head of the church is Jesus Christ, who leads through the Holy Spirit and Scripture—not through any pope or priest.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, “Are my kids' apps safe?” in light of a tragic story involving TikTok and concerns about misleading app ratings. He challenges parents to take personal responsibility in vetting the content their children consume, emphasizing that parenting can't be outsourced and must be rooted in biblical principles and intentional involvement.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 surprisingly relatable question: “Is it really about the dishes?” Inspired by a humorous Atlantic article, he dives into how dishwasher disagreements often reveal deeper emotional and relational issues. With wisdom from Scripture, Pastor Zach encourages us to pursue grace, communication, and love in our everyday frustrations—reminding us that even in conflict, we're called to reflect the peace and reconciliation of Christ. Because at the end of the day, it's not really about the dishes. It's about 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, “Should we care if colleges die?” in response to growing public distrust and financial instability in higher education. Pastor Zach critiques modern universities as ideological incubators disconnected from civic and moral responsibility, while challenging Christians to reconsider whether college is essential—or even beneficial—for their families. Ultimately, Pastor Zach reminds listeners that true wisdom comes from God, not academia, and that colleges must prove their value to earn a place in shaping future generations.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 cheating be just?” in response to a gambling syndicate legally outsmarting the Texas lottery system. He argues that while the state cries foul, it has long profited from exploiting the poor through a system rigged against them—making this so-called “cheating” a form of justice. Pastor Zach calls on the church to take a stand against morally corrupt systems and to seek true justice rooted in biblical principles.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 bold question posed in a New York Times op-ed: Was Jesus a political rebel? While some argue Palm Sunday was a protest and Jesus a revolutionary, Pastor Zach redirects our focus to the gospel truth—Jesus didn't come to overturn governments; He came to save sinners. His kingdom is not of this world, but of eternal significance. This episode reminds us that Jesus's mission wasn't political—it was redemptive. And that's far more powerful.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 fallout from ESPN personality Pat McAfee referencing a false and damaging internet rumor about a college student, which led to severe online harassment and the disruption of her life. Pastor Zach argues that this situation highlights our culture's appetite for gossip and the destructive power of words, reminding listeners of biblical teachings against bearing false witness and Jesus' emphasis on caring for the vulnerable. Ultimately, the episode urges listeners to reject salacious rumors and to consider their role in perpetuating such harm by consuming this type of content.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 difficulty some people experience when confronted with the extraordinary success of others, using the example of Johnny Kim, a highly accomplished Asian American man. Pastor Zach suggests that this discomfort often stems from comparison and insecurity, and he emphasizes the biblical perspective that individual worth is rooted in being created in God's image, not in achievements. Ultimately, the episode encourages listeners to find contentment in their unique callings and to celebrate the successes of others as a reflection of God's gifts.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 parenting principles highlighted in an article about Quaker practices, such as emphasizing questions over commands, fostering autonomy, recognizing strengths, and modeling behavior. Pastor Zach suggests that these seemingly progressive Quaker approaches actually align with core biblical teachings about raising children as image bearers of God through love, discipline, and by example, encouraging listeners to seek God's wisdom for parenting.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 Netflix show "Temptation Island" as a springboard to discuss the spiritual implications of our entertainment choices. Pastor Zach argues that shows focusing on others' failures and temptations appeal to our pride and allow us to vicariously engage with sin, ultimately desensitizing us and negatively impacting our own spiritual 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 reflects on the anxiety many feel amid a turbulent stock market and economic uncertainty—especially in light of recent tariff policies. He challenges listeners to examine where their true security lies, reminding us that while markets rise and fall, God's kingdom remains unshakable. When our finances feel unstable, it's a chance to shift our confidence back to the faithfulness 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 explores the concept of the "learning pit," a theory that suggests children learn best through struggle and challenge. He connects this idea to biblical teachings, highlighting how God uses struggle and discipline to refine and shape us, just like a good parent allows their children to wrestle with difficulties to foster growth. Pastor Zach encourages listeners to embrace life's challenges as opportunities for spiritual transformation, rather than viewing them as signs of God's absence.Have an article you'd like Pastor Zach to discuss? Email us at wakeup@ccchapel.com!