"Yes, our men were lost and separated," Cash recounts in "A Table in the Presence: The Dramatic Account of How a U.S. Marine Battalion Experienced God's Presence Amidst the Chaos of the War in Iraq." "But our God was not confused. Just as he had from the very beginning of the war, He was providentially working all things together for the good of a cause that was just and true."
The book also offers an unflattering assessment of Islam, which Cash views as a flawed faith.
"Sadly, grace is often absent in Islam, which is based upon binding religious law, requiring strenuous adherence to every tenet of the 'Five Pillars of Allah,' " Cash writes. "A religion that emerges from the soil of strict adherence to law as a means of gaining God's favor will always tend toward extreme self-sacrifice."
Cash has drawn criticism from the Military Religious Freedom Foundation, a watchdog group that monitors Christian proselytizing in the military, for his participation in Campus Crusade for Christ's Military Ministry, a program for evangelical chaplains to "help every troop, every leader, every family member hear and receive the lifesaving message about Jesus."
"This is an organization that has repeatedly stated its goal of transforming our military into a force of 'government-paid missionaries for Christ,' " said Chris Rodda, a foundation spokesman. "Any chaplain or commander who would support or condone these tactics or goals is a problem."
The White House declined to comment on the criticism. But those who served with Cash in Iraq have nothing but praise for his deep faith, warm manner and forceful sermons.
"I have absolutely no surprise that the president is moved and inspired by or finds that his message is powerful," said Brig. Gen. Frederick Padilla, Cash's commander during his deployment. "You don't have a heart beating in your chest if you don't feel this way when you hear this man talk."
Based on what you posted, Cash is excellent. His focus appears to be on spreading the news of God’s grace through Jesus. And he’s not afraid to mince words.
That’s what Obama needs to hear.
Hannity is complaining about his choice of pastor tonight.
Sounds like the man speaks the truth. I wish he could get through to Obama. But I don't believe Obama is going to change his stripes this late in life. I think saying he likes this guy is politically motivated to appeal to Christians whose vote he's losing.