Mel, Joel, and Michael discuss the perceived contradiction between grace-based salvation and societal meritocracy. All of us want the fruits of meritocracy: excellent medicine, dependable air travel, and a power-grid we can rely on. So why does it seem like we undervalue performance in Christianity? What are the differences between salvation and blessings and why do blessings seem dependent on performance if salvation is not? Is there a difference between God loving us and God being in relationship with us? The second part of the conversation centers on how a Christian should live in an age of increased terrorism. How can we prevent from giving in to a spirit of fear?