The seminary where I spent a formative two years had a big, customizable sign out in front, the kind you see outside of a lot of churches. These signs are usually changed periodically, usually to announce a sermon topic or share a groan-worthy humorous aphorism. Our sign never changed; it always read: “Timeless truths for truth-less times”. That little saying fit a lot of what our seminary was about: apologetics for a post-modern world with...
On Sunday we lit the second Advent candle in church, which means I’ve been observing Advent for the first time as an adult for about a week and a half. I’m pretty sure you need to practice this tradition for years to be able to really sink down into the season and begin to glimpse the treasures it offers, but, here, quickly, are a few initial observations. 1. Waiting Is Undervalued. I admit that I...
As Christmas quickly approaches, I don’t feel ready for the holiday season. While many people enjoy the holiday cheer and the magic of the Christmas season, I sometimes resonate with Charlie Brown in A Charlie Brown Christmas, not enjoying the Christmas season because the true Christmas story gets lost in the hustle and bustle of the season. He critiques the culture of materialism and consumerism around him as Snoopy tries to win the Christmas light...
This last Saturday, fans of the phenomenon that is College Football had a spectacular, history making event to enjoy. I’m sorry if this introduction doesn’t capture the attention of the other 6.7 billion people around the globe who don’t follow American football, but in summary: a 109 short field goal return for a come-from-behind win in the final seconds of the game, against one of the most infamous teams and coaches in the game, is...
Those of you who clicked this post after seeing the picture might think it’s a blog about the NFL’s quarterback protection policies, and my take on a biblical perspective on the matter. Well, not really. If you are curious about my opinion, I’ll summarize it with this: I can see the concern to protect players who are playing a game (not intentionally risking their lives). But, I’m a Niner’s fan. Obviously, I’m upset that this...
If you’re in Baltimore already or coming later this week for the annual meetings of SBL, AAR, IBR, ETS, and all of the other annual conferences, do come along to a craft beer reception that I am co-organizing with my colleague and office-mate, Christopher Brewer (isn’t that name just perfect?! The Christ-bearing Beer-maker). The reception will be held at Christ Lutheran Church near the inner-harbor (701 S Charles St, Baltimore, MD 21230), which is about...
It should go without saying at this point that the Western World is thoroughly post-Christian, and that goes for America as well as Europe, even if it is still to a lesser degree. One of the most obvious results in this shift is that the “Judeo-Christian” ethic is no longer a guiding light behind our collective moral decision making. It seems that for a few years there was a very clear, loud, and futile protest...
Yesterday, I ate a doughnut. It’s important for you to know this because of what I’m about to tell you: I am passionate about nutrition. Well, I’m getting there. While my journey toward mindful eating has been a long one, marked by disordered eating, recovery groups, and counseling, it really wasn’t until recently that I began to think meaningfully about what I put into my body and how it affects me. This greater interest in...
One of the largest typhoons, Typhoon Haiyan (or Yolanda), hit central Philippines last Friday, and Vietnam on Sunday, leaving thousands dead, and towns destroyed. The death toll is estimated to be about 10,000 people, but the numbers haven’t been confirmed. This storm has left many homeless and displaced. There are relief efforts taking place, but even these are limited as the destruction makes it difficult to get food, water, and medical attention to those who...
Preface and Part 1 can be found here. II. “The guy you all are doing this party for is a writer.” Freddie opened the door of the stairwell of the apartment building for me. “Sterling Johnson’s his name. He’s set to have a novel come out this spring.” We entered the hallway from the stairwell. It was dark and narrow. Freddie walked in front of me. “Till then, he needs us to help make...
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