random insights

Day after Day they Pour Forth Speech

2011-10-13T15:41:00.001-06:00

Landscapes: Volume Two from Dustin Farrell on Vimeo.

Lynx

2011-10-13T14:56:00.003-06:00

Well, it's a been a few weeks. . . . I'll let Jody continue to hit home runs on her blog with everything about the adoption. She says it all better than I can. I'm sure I'll drop in some things from time to time, but suffice it to say, Dorcas is a great kid, and we're very humbled and grateful to be her parents. It was a life changing trip, and we're all hoping Jody and Dorcas can come home soon.

On to the lynx. . . . .

--This post makes me go, Duh?! But, it's something I fail at daily with my kids (and my wife). Basically, I confuse alot of people. I confuse them often. :) I need to grow in this area. But, strictly from a parenting perspective, this is gold, although it should be obvious.

--Steve Jobs died while I was in Africa. It was interesting hearing the reaction from there. I certainly respect his technological genius.

Some reports are coming out about the way he led his company, though. And, they hit a little close to home with me, since I've been under leadership like this before. I think it's silly basically. Yes, if you're good enough (like Steve was) you get stuff done. But, at what cost? Pragmatism leads high-talent folks into some really abusive and ridiculous behaviors. Of course, it's easy to throw stones when you aren't that talented, . . and it's easy to be the armchair quarterback who hasn't accomplished much. But, when do those people (me) get a hearing? Why does achievement and success equal infallibility (in a leadership sense)? Why do super-talented people cut off their effectiveness at some level. . by shutting out dissenting voices? Most who lead this way are not as talented as Steve anyway (who was?), and still think it's the only way to do things. I just don't know why the story usually ends this way with very influential people. It doesn't have to.

--Justin Taylor has a great post about victim's mentality. I think it's really good, . . and it's coming from people who have been through alot. Controlling our thoughts and reactions to circumstances is very important. Our culture would argue with that last sentence, but the bible tells us to "test everything, hold onto the good". Why wouldn't that apply to our own thoughts? Why shouldn't we evaluate ourselves and how we're reacting to things? It's a great post.

Dogs and Cats, . . and Kids can smell fear

2011-09-21T15:34:00.002-06:00

Last week must have broken some un-official record for great parenting posts on the internet. There were quite a few. I linked to one last week here. But, this one from Kevin DeYoung is really close to my heart.

I find that so many parents, most notably myself, are sometimes absolutely blind to the behaviors that they, themselves, are bringing out in their kids. As parents, we can take a situation that is a 5 on the stress scale, and make it an 8 very quickly.

One of the main ways we do this is by re-directing our own "stuff" towards our kids. If we had a bad day, they're about to have a bad day. Ain't Momma happy, . . ain't nobody happy. . as the wise saying goes.

Well, if Dad ain't happy, Mom ain't happy, and the spiral spins downward. Thanks to Kevin DeYoung for the confession, and the encouragement here. This is worth 5 minutes . . .if you're a parent, you should read it.

The Wrong Person

2011-09-21T09:04:00.003-06:00

Challenging article from Tim Challies. . . . but I'm fully on board with the way he thinks about this. Most of my difficulties in marriage don't come from actual differences and conflicts, but from my lamenting the differences, and blowing the conflicts out of proportion. Hopefully this article is a kind of antidote to that. God is using your spouse in your life for something much greater than immediate happiness; namely, becoming more like Himself. Oh, and the myth that some other couple has everything together, never fights, and are "better" for each other. . . .it's just that; A Myth. Great Wisdom here.

So did you marry the wrong person? Yes you did. Embrace it and thank God for it. Her wrongness is just right in God’s eyes.

Amazing.

2011-09-20T20:34:00.000-06:00

“Faith . . . unites the soul with Christ, as a bride is united with her bridegroom. From such a marriage, as St. Paul says, it follows that Christ and the soul become one body, so that they hold all things in common, whether for better or worse. This means that what Christ possesses belongs to the believing soul, and what the soul possesses belongs to Christ. Thus Christ possesses all good things and holiness; these now belong to the soul. The soul possesses lots of vices and sin; these now belong to Christ. . . . Now is not this a happy business? Christ, the rich, noble and holy bridegroom, takes in marriage this poor, contemptible and sinful little prostitute, takes away all her evil and bestows all his goodness upon her! It is no longer possible for sin to overwhelm her, for she is now found in Christ.”

Martin Luther, quoted in Alister E. McGrath, Christian Spirituality: An Introduction (Oxford, 1999), pages 158-159.

HT: Ray Ortlund

Mouth. . . meet foot.

2011-09-16T14:10:00.002-06:00

After a few fairly serious posts. . . . I thought I'd leave you with this clip. Over at the Gospel Coalition they're talking about sermon flubs, so after you listen to that discussion, check this one out:

The Presence of God and Worship under the New Covenant

2011-09-15T12:05:00.004-06:00

There's alot of great worship music out there today. . . I get many requests to do songs. . some of them good, and some of them not so much.

Some of them have lyrical issues, and I'm kind of a stickler for lyrics and for us to know what we're singing about. Recently there's been a trend in alot of corporate worship music to ask, plead, welcome, and be desperate for the presence of God. Sometimes you can tell what the author is trying to say, but other times, it's not so clear.

The problem, as I see it, with these lyrics is that they are not recognizing the glorious reality of the new covenant we have in Christ. Here are some passages of scripture that speak of the new covenant:
^{Jeremiah 31:31-35
31} "Behold, the days are coming, declares the LORD, when I will make a new covenant with the house of Israel and the house of Judah, ³²not like the covenant that I made with their fathers on the day when I took them by the hand to bring them out of the land of Egypt, my covenant that they broke, though I was their husband, declares the LORD. ³³ But this is the covenant that I will make with the house of Israel after those days, declares the LORD: I will put my law within them, and I will write it on their hearts. And I will be their God, and they shall be my people. ³⁴And no longer shall each one teach his neighbor and each his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,' for they shall all know me, from the least of them to the greatest, declares the LORD. For I will forgive their iniquity, and I will remember their sin no more."

Ezekiel 11:19-20
¹⁹ And I will give them one heart, and a new spirit I will put within them. I will remove the heart of stone from their flesh and give them a heart of flesh, ²⁰ that they may walk in my statutes and keep my rules and obey them. And they shall be my people, and I will be their God.

Colossians 1:26-28

²⁶ the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. ²⁷ To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Acts 17:24-25
²⁴ “The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth and does not live in temples built by hands. ²⁵ And he is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything, because he himself gives all men life and breath and everything else.

-------------------

Suffice it to say. . in these and other examples, I believe scripture teaches that Christ is now here, among us, in our hearts, speaking through his Word, and active by the Holy Spirit.

Old Covenant worship was built around the Tabernacle/Temple system, and the Children of Israel could actually locate the presence of God on earth (over there in the temple). To be sure, there was an awareness of God's omnipresence:

Psalm 139:7-8 ⁷ Where shall I go from your Spirit?
Or where shall I flee from your presence?
⁸ If I ascend to heaven, you are there!
If I make my bed in Sheol, you are there!

But, there was a definite sense of the place they had to go to worship God, where He would "show up", and seeking his immediate presence.

In the New Covenant, as Christians, the Holy Spirit dwells in our hearts, and Jesus, who is the Emmanuel "God with us" is our advocate before God.
------------------------------------

So, when I see songs that say, "waiting here for You. . . . desperate for You. . . come and fill this place. . . .rend the heavens and come down. . . . we welcome You with praise, etc. . . " It's hard for me to use alot of them when we sing together as the church. Because, among other things. . God is here. He is among us. We are not desperate for His presence. (if we define desperate properly. . as being in need of something). We might be desperate to recognize His Presence. . but we should say it that way, then :).

Some of these songs are quoting Old Testament Scriptures. And, that's great. . but we have to remember which covenant we're living in, and if that reality is being reflected in the lyrics.

Now, I know in most of these cases the author of the song is trying to get across the idea of asking God to "show up" in a special way, . .speak in a fresh way. . . "arrive" so that we all recognize His work, etc. . .

And, that's fine. . but we should say it that way. We should recognize that the problem is not with God being there or not being there (because He is there), but that we are not recognizing His presence and/or we are not concentrating on prayer, or on His Word, by which He speaks to us.

So, how about "Help us to hear your word today" or "We know that You're here" "thank You for your presence among us".

I know the heart behind longing for God's presence. And, to be sure, we "wait on Him" for many things and for many reasons. We do not ever "wait" for Him to arrive, though(unless we're singing about His second coming at the end of the age). And, I think, unless you take some time to explain those lyrics in the service. . it would be hard to understand them any other way. There's a sense where those songs connote "You're not here, . . please come. . . You're here now, You weren't here before". Many people have told me "I never think those things when we're singing". So, I don't want to be a stick in the mud. But, perhaps our thoughts can be as simple as "I need to hear something new from God that I can't hear until we're singing this song". That's not good either.

So, let's declare His Presence, celebrate, and wait on the Lord. . . in the context of the New Covenant; whereby He has given us His Spirit, and in Him we "live and move and have our being".

ps. a straw poll of the 5 readers of this blog. . . .would you rather me get back to blogging about silly things, or sports things. . or shall I continue to dive into technical theological matters which perhaps no one but myself is even thinking about. :)

Not Impressed

2011-09-14T14:24:00.002-06:00

I live in Boulder, CO. . . basically, the mecca for "I meet with God in the mountains" spirituality. That's why this piece was so good for me. Yes, the writer is a little negative and pointed. But, frankly I think this sort of religion deserves the satire. Here's a taste:

Like people who go to church don't see God in the sunset! Like we are these monastic little hermits who never leave the church building. . . .

Lynx

2011-09-13T14:04:00.002-06:00

Some good stuff on the interwebs today. . .

1) I love and respect many who home school their kids. Hey, I was homeschooled for a while. But, this article shows many of the reasons I choose not to do so with my kids. This is an amazing article of wisdom for all parents, though, . .and even though it's super long, print it out and take 10 minutes to read it. It's that good. Here's a quote to get you started.

I am convinced that the most contagious parenting is living a heartfelt faith before your children.

Lots of wisdom for parents making all kinds of choices.

2) Pastor Mark Driscoll has finally launched his own site so that you have access to tons of sermons, articles, and interviews all in one site. I know Pastor Mark is a lightning rod of controversy, . . in fact that's part of the reason why they launched this site. . . so he can fully flesh out his thoughts, and not do dumb tweets and offensive blogs that other folks can do what they want with. People will be linking to his website now, and that should give some context to what he says. I think anyone would be helped by this site,. . . even if Pastor Mark is not your cup of tea. And, if you're wondering who the lovely woman is who has to put up with Mark. . . Grace Driscoll writes here too. . . an invaluable resource for the ladies. Check out her first piece on identity. Awesome.

3) If you ever went through the Experiencing God bible study. . I'd read this article. . . . a little negative, yes, but needed.

4) Oh Yeah, it's football season.

Disagreeing with the Puritans

2011-09-13T13:41:00.002-06:00

I know, pretentious, right? The Puritans put us all to shame with their scholarship, their piety, and their seriousness about the scriptures. But, that doesn't mean they were without flaws, (who is). . and so I offer this critique:

I get the daily John Owen blast in my email. It's usually a great John Owen quote from his masterpiece, "On the Mortification of Sin in the Believer", a foundational work that was life-changing for me a few years ago. (no, Mortification is not just a questionable Christian band from the 80's).

Here's the quote from a few days ago:

Let us be in an expectation of such changes of providence, that they may not be great surprises unto us. When we are in peace, let us look for trouble; when we are at liberty, let us look for restraint; and when our children are about us, let us look for the removal of them; and be content to see all our comforts in their winding-sheet every day. It is impossible but our hearts will be too much upon them, unless we keep them in this frame.--John Owen

I used to subscribe to this philosophy, because I had a season with many "changes of providence" (i.e. crappy stuff. . come on puritans!!! :) ) .

And, there is wisdom here, of lowering the bar of expectation, and "not to be surprised" by various trials, as the book of James tells us.

But, this is not the way the whole of scripture tells us to interact with the various situations and relationships in our lives. I don't think it is helpful or biblical to walk around with a Chicken Little view on things like these. . like "it's going to go wrong. . better not get used to this good thing". My dad used to rebuke me for being sort of melancholy about things going well in life. I'd say things like "well, better get ready for something bad to happen". He was right to call that out.

I feel like Owen is encouraging us to look at life like this. We've been going through Ecclesiastes in our Young Adults Bible Study, and that book is full of encouragement to enjoy life, and enjoy the things God has given us. (pretty hard to do if when we're at peace we should be "looking for trouble", or "when our children are about us, let us look for the removal of them", yikes).

For sure, in America we are too attached to our stuff. No argument there. But, the solution to that is not to always expect the worst. We should hold loosely to things, and not worship/idolize them. But, that's different than expecting your children to be taken from you. We need a more fully-fleshed-out theology of Joy for the Christian today. It seems the only guys that are talking about Joy in God's gifts are spouting heresy about prosperity theology and wearing a shiny blue suit. Please.

We can and should enjoy God's good gifts, while enjoying the Giver most of all. We should not walk in fear or despair at possible struggles, but take them as also gifts from God's hand. We can enjoy our car while not expecting God to give us a new one if we have enough faith.

We shouldn't stare at our navel during the guitar solo!!! Know what I mean? Enjoy the guitar solo, . . jump off the riser! (sorry musician nerd reference)

Here's some encouragement from Ecclesiastes:

Ecclesiastes 8:15b. . . ". . for man has no good thing under the sun bot to eat and drink and be joyful. . . "

Ecclesiastes 9:7 "Go, eat your bread with joy, and drink your wine with a merry heart, . . . "

Ecclesiastes 9:9 "Enjoy life with the wife whom you love, all the days of our vain life that he has given you under the sun, because that is your portion in life and in your toil at which you toil under the sun".

(that's all from one page of the bible. . . )

. . .And Hopefully They'll all "die"

2011-09-07T10:39:00.001-06:00

What a great, engaging, and yet brutally honest piece from Ted Kluck.

I used to spend quite a bit of time in this "scene" and resonate with all of his observations. Here's hoping we have alot more amazing worship leaders that get why they do what they do. . .

Great Observations.

Losing the Battle and Winning the War

2011-09-06T16:19:00.003-06:00

Well, we have a big change of plans with our trip to Uganda. It's been very discouraging . . .it's frustrating, and kind of exhausting, really.

Alot of people are trying to be kind and caring, and I so appreciate that. However, between some of those folks and the battles going on inside my own head, there's been some poor theology thrown around.

Now, I'm not ungrateful for caring people trying to help and getting some theological points wrong. I'm really not. . I hate the tendency to attack the care-giver in times like this when folks are really just trying to be nice.

But, one thing that I've noticed in American christianity, . . and in my own inner-monologue. . .is that we have a big problem with (enter guiding metaphor) God "losing" some battles while still winning the war. We don't have good categories for disappointment, or for plans not going like we think they obviously should. I am a big schedule guy, and so I raise my hand here.

When we're praying for details like "Let this phone call happen, . . . Help this package to go through. . help this schedule to get worked out". . . when those things are part of a larger issue like "help this adoption to be completed". . . we have to be prepared for the fact that God might have a different plan for how to "win the war" (i.e. complete the adoption) that involve different details (i.e. "losing" some battles)

It may sometimes seem like the enemy is "winning" while all of our details are getting fouled up. But, don't get it twisted. .God is working is plan out. God is at the wheel. God is currently kicking the enemy's butt all over Africa. The war is over. . it's won.

To stretch the metaphor towards football. This weekend was the classic cupcake Saturday in College Football. For instance, Ohio State played mighty Akron University. This game wasn't close. . . OSU dominated. There wasn't ever any doubt. Did Akron get some first downs? yes. Did they make a few tackles? yes. Did anyone for a second think they were winning? no.

In the same way. . the enemy got some first downs this week when all of our details got messed up. But, don't think for a second that God's sovereign will for our soon-to-be daughter's life can be thwarted. . . it can't. This game is OVER. And, God wasn't nervous. It didn't make SportsCenter.

Now, we shouldn't avoid praying for details. . we shouldn't be fatalists. But, let's just remember that God is working these things out in the ways that will be best. Romans 8:28 is not a cliche. It's the truth.

So, Let's remember

Isaiah 14:24

²⁴The LORD of hosts has sworn: "As I have planned,

so shall it be,
and as I have purposed,
so shall it stand,

and
Psalm 115:3
Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases

It's true. The will of God is irresistible. His will will be accomplished in her life and in yours. Let's submit to Him, and get ok with "losing" (he never loses. . part of the plan. .and it helps with my metaphor) some battles while God is winning the War.

Good Music

2011-08-29T14:00:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the blog silence. . .

I thought I would post some songs that have been really meaningful to me lately.

Here goes:

This song is how I feel about my beautiful wife, Jody. . . 'nuff said.

This Shane and Shane song will make you cry, get the hankies out. But, it's a great song, and these guys do a great job. I also like the fact that they haven't changed styles at all in their 10-12 years. You can expect solid, acoustic guitar driven rock with some of the most amazing vocals you'll hear. The "other" Shane sings amazing on this one (the Shane not playing guitar). What a powerful video. . .

So, I got all fired up about this Matt Redman song . . and then screwed it up on Celebration Sunday. :) Oh well, that doesn't detract from a great worship song, penned by one of the best. What an encouragement. Thanks Matt R.!

Crucial

2011-08-06T20:56:00.002-06:00

If you've ever thought the band "how to" videos were a little pretentious . . .

("let me show you how awesome I am as I take you through the part I play on this hit song as if you were a 3rd grader, and my part is so easy a monkey could play it " )

. . .this video is awesome. I like Brett Younker, we play "All Things New" at Calvary. I like his tambourine player even more. :)

If you've ever played aux. percussion in any setting, . . you know where this guy is coming from.

C.S. Lewis and the devil

2011-08-06T10:50:00.001-06:00

When asked about "his belief in the Devil," Lewis addressed the question in a thought-provoking way in his preface to a revised edition of "Screwtape" in 1960: "Now, if by 'the Devil' you mean a power opposite to God and, like God, self existent from all eternity, the answer is certainly No."

That is, Lewis did not believe in the false theology and caricatures of the devil that have developed over the centuries—whether through art, literature or even today's sports mascots (think Duke and Arizona State).

As Lewis explained, "There is no uncreated being except God. God has no opposite. . . . The proper question is whether I believe in devils. I do. That is to say, I believe in angels, and I believe that some of these, by the abuse of their free will, have become enemies to God. . . . Satan, the leader or dictator of devils, is the opposite, not of God, but of Michael."

HT: WSJ

J-No

2011-08-02T14:16:00.004-06:00

Sad to hear about J-Lo and Marc Anthony. . . not because I was a huge fan or anything. . . but because divorce didn't have to happen, and there are small kids involved. Those things always get to me. Here's J-Lo's quote:

Jennifer Lopez says it took some time before she realized that she had to leave her relationship with husband Marc Anthony behind because she was “compromising” herself.

In the new issue of Vanity Fair, the singer and actress, 42, opens up about her recent divorce and why she finally realized after seven years of marriage that Anthony was not good for her.

“It’s not that I didn’t love myself before. Sometimes we don’t realize that we are compromising ourselves,” she says. “To understand that a person is not good for you, or that that person is not treating you in the right way, or that he is not doing the right thing for himself—if I stay, then I am not doing the right thing for me. I love myself enough to walk away from that now.”

Um, "compromising myself". . . . welcome to marriage. See, this goes along with my post from last week; if we look at marriage, or any relationship, as a consumeristic/transaction based thing. . . it doesn't work, and we won't be satisfied. Compromise is non-negotiable. And, I might add, we all need to compromise some things that we hold dear. No one is without things that need to be moderated, and rough edges that need to be smoothed out.

If we think the highest good is to "love myself", than we will stop loving and sacrificing for our spouse very quickly.

I don't want anyone to think that I'm rigid/cold against folks who are in a tough marriage and that I think it's wrong to say that you have "needs", etc. . that the other person isn't meeting.

Those things may be true, and that's why we have the church/Christian community to help us walk along-side each other to help our relationships through hard times, and help us to communicate well.

I just think there's a fundamental difference in the way we approach other people that we can be full with the love and acceptance of Christ. . . . . or desperately looking to the other person to fulfill needs that only God can fulfill. Those two heart attitudes make a difference in the way we would approach talking about our "needs" and loving and sacrificing for another person. Here's another link to the piece from last week.

Dubious List

2011-08-02T14:13:00.002-06:00

How is "Vocal Music Performance" not on the list of least paying college majors? Probably because all of those people have to go on to get other degrees :) Anyway, I'm skeptical of this list, but it's not a good one to be on, you know?

Dubious

Why I'm not a fan of "Love Languages"

2011-07-30T12:41:00.007-06:00

And, for that matter, focusing on "felt needs" as they relates to deep relationships. It's almost as if we concentrate on things that lesser, casual relationships need, when we're involved in the deepest and most important relationships we have. These are wise, paradigm-changing words from Paul Tautges

.

Warming Up a Cold Marriage

by Paul Tautges

“Often I will illustrate the difference between a need and desire this way:

‘If you held me underwater in a swimming pool, I would fight you to the end because I need air. A need is something you cannot live without. But when you elevate desires to the level of needs, there is some form of idolatry going on, and if you don’t repent of your idolatry, that craving will wreck the relationship from which you are trying to extract that perceived need.’

A common rebuttal to the ‘need theory’ concepts [in marriage counseling] is that we need love. What we really need, however, is a relationship with God; if we have that, and the relationship is right, our demands on other humans to meet our cravings for love should not be controlling. If you are resting in the gospel, you can turn the tables on all your relationship; rather than being a deficient taker, you can be an abundant giver. Rather than expecting others to meet your inordinate craving for love, you will be able to love others. You will be Christlike. He did not come here to be loved, but to serve (see Mark 10:45).”

For the guys. . . . for the girls

2011-07-20T11:00:00.002-06:00

This weekend, with my beautiful wife, I was able to see "Larry Crowne", a great new film from Tom Hanks.

Without qualification, let me say. . . .every man (especially married ones) need to see this movie. It is a parable for our time. Larry shows us how to treat a woman. Larry shows us how to deal with huge loss. Larry shows us what hard work and diligence does. Larry shows us what respect and honor are. And, lest you think it's a "preach down to the guys" thing. . . . Larry is largely un-impressive, didn't go to college, and can't dress himself.

The movie also shows us the "other side" of manhood in our day. . which is the "guy, just being a guy" (see the movie) philosophy. It shows the tragedy that pornography brings to our society. And, it shows us how women really feel about pornography (regardless of what they might say). It's a great flick. The only downside I would say, is that it actually shows two examples of porn (no nudity) that are regrettable. .but I'm not sure they could've told the story effectively in any other way.

See the movie guys. . . just see it. Your wife/girlfriend will like it too.

And even if you don't like it. . .you just scored one for movies that actually have a story and are well-written, and don't rely on CGI, loud bass, and exploding Robots/Vampires/Monsters to make money (we could feel the bass from the theater next to us)

For the Ladies this week. . here's a pretty direct, blunt, but encouraging word from The Resurgence. I find there to be a lack of "straight talk" for women in our modern church culture. Of course, you talk to women in a different way then men (different post). . but it seems to me like sometimes things need to be said directly to women that are avoided. . and this piece does not do that.

Ladies, check it out.

I hope these two things are helpful to you if you're 1) a man or 2) a woman :) Besides those groups, they don't really apply.

Just feeling grateful and a little sad about the David Crowder Band this morning

2011-07-20T10:56:00.003-06:00

The song that blew the lid off of 25 years of worship music. . . . Thanks Dave and the boys. . we'll miss you.

(and if you live in the denver area and aren't going to their last tour ever. . . . you're not trying)

I'm sure there will be more random thoughts as October approaches. . .these guys were a huge influence on me. But for now, enjoy the song that changed alot of things for worship pastors and churches in our day.

Happy 4th!

2011-07-04T08:11:00.001-06:00

Jared Hits Home Runs

2011-06-09T10:13:00.003-06:00

I linked to a piece by blog-favorite, Jared Wilson, in the post on Congressman Weiner.

Here it is again.

I'm not even sure what to do with this. . . except to say that it's absolutely true, and it's one of the biggest struggles I've had as I've grown older. I also am in the process of doing pre-marital counseling for 3 couples and have no idea how to even bring this up. (or "warn" them??. . what would that even mean?). All I know is, this is coming for everyone who is married, and it's important that we deal with it in the way Jared talks about it. It will actually lead to greater joy, intimacy, and understanding in our marriages. Jared's a smart guy.

(Disclaimers: This is a risky post. . . and could be easily misunderstood. . . if this post makes you mad, let's talk. Jared links to a blog debate that is talking about female body image in marriage. . and I'm not trying to make a comment on that here in this post. What hit me was the concept of "change" in a more general way. . .Also, if you read his piece, one example of marital conflict he gives is when a wife changes in the amount of kids she wants. . .you should know this has nothing to do with Jody and I, and I'm fully on board with the size of our family)

Congressmen and Broken Cisterns

2011-06-09T09:39:00.003-06:00

I know, how loathsome of me to post on Congressman Weiner. . .have we not heard/seen enough of this?

As I was perusing the blogs this morning, there was a really interesting piece from Maureen Dowd in the NYT. She was lamenting the state of current manhood (especially as it relates to successful, powerful men) and others were talking about how we can build "better" men in the church.

I would recommend all of this for your reading enjoyment, because it's all very thoughtful and well-done.

I, somewhat, agree with the diagnosis. But, I think there's a radically different "cure" for the problem of "boys being boys". Let's throw adultery out for a minute. . . how do we, as guys, relate properly to the women around us?

As men, we're vulnerable, insecure creatures. We like to act like we're not (especially when we appear on Fox News), but we all know it's not true. There's a hole in each guy that needs approval, acceptance and recognition of ability (or power).

The biggest mistake a guy can make is to try and fill that hole with a woman. God gave us our wives to perhaps, help with some of this. . . .but never to actually fulfill it. The wonderful, God-sent women in our lives cannot and will not answer those questions for us (news flash guys: you're not answering your wife's questions for her either).

Listen to one of Congressman Weiner's mistresses:

"Meagan Broussard, a 26-year-old college student and single mom from Texas, wrote onBigGovernment.com, conservative Andrew Breitbart’s site, that her relationship with Weiner began when she wrote on his Facebook page that one of his speeches to construction workers was “hot.”

“Within an hour,” she wrote, “we were sending messages back and forth.”

Broussard lost her sense of awe pretty quickly: “Talking to him was sometimes a turn-off because he was so open and just so full of himself, as if he were looking, searching for something.”

(NYT: Dowd)

Searching for something indeed. Congressman Weiner's wife, Huma Abedin, was a beautiful, successful woman (she was one of Hillary Clinton's aides), and he had risen to a level of power that most of us will never see in this life. So, what was he searching for? Why was he texting college girls?

The bottom line is that it won't be enough. Jesus is the only one who can fill our souls with the kind of radical humbling, and then radical acceptance that we need. As Tim Keller says, "we're more wicked than we ever feared, but more loved than we ever dreamed". The Gospel "speaks a better word" to us as men than any woman, or position, or success ever will.

(In fact (this is another post) we can't love our wives well, understand them at all, or accept their changing ways if we try to use them to fill some huge insecrity gap that we're struggling with. It simply won't work for us (or her). )

I know, these are the Sunday School answers. . .but they're answers that Congressman Weiner, and I, need to hear every day. Thanks be to God who has "brought us near" by the blood of His Son, Jesus.

Jeremiah 2:13
for my people have committed two evils: they have forsaken me,the fountain of living waters,and hewed out cisterns for themselves, broken cisterns that can hold no water.

Matthew 11:28
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.

Ephesians 2:13-14

English Standard Version (ESV)

¹³But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. ¹⁴For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility

Hebrews 12:24

English Standard Version (ESV)

²⁴and to Jesus, the mediator of a new covenant, and to the sprinkled blood that speaks a better word than the blood of Abel.

1 John 3:1
See what kind of love the Father has given to us, that we should be called children of God; and so we are.

Colossians 1:17
And he is before all things, and in him all things hold together

Drunk Ladies and Judgement

2011-06-08T06:59:00.002-06:00

This is a good word for us when we're having trouble with God's timing, or not liking the way He's running things. . . . and oh yeah, don't be these ladies at sporting events.

Note-Takers

2011-06-07T13:50:00.003-06:00

Proof positive that you shouldn't take notes in church:

I was sitting by my daughter, Eden, last week in church, and she pulled this out of the hymnal in front of us:

Yes, that's right. . . on June 5th, 2011, a sermon outline (fully filled out and notated) from September 21st 2008 was found, stuffed in a hymnal, in our worship center. Wow, I'm sure glad all those notes were taken, I bet that sermon really changed his life (come on, that has to be a man's handwriting). He obviously hasn't needed those great insights on his outline for these last 3 years.

Now, I know that some of you listen by taking notes. . . and I think that's great. I just think there's a way to take notes to try and get everything down and make additions "so you'll remember later" (boo). . . . and there's a way to jot things down to process your current thoughts. (yeahee)

See, sermons (and singing together as the church) are things that happen in a moment. It's a real thing, it's really happening. We all need to be in those moments together and present there as the Church. Tim Keller says we should preach to "change someone on the spot". I think that's true. We should be changed, even in little ways, every time we hear God's Word. Perhaps the change is as simple as quieting your heart from a busy week and remembering that God has saved you. That's an important "change" that we should be present for, as we worship together.

So, take notes if you must, to help you listen. . but don't fill in all your blanks, write down all the points, and forget to listen to the Holy Spirit while you're in church. Basically, don't do what this guy did (and then leave your outline from 3 years ago in the hymnal).

Uh-huh

2011-06-02T14:25:00.001-06:00

God’s sense of timing will confound ours, no matter what culture we’re from. His grace rarely operates according to our schedule. When Jesus looks at Jairus and says, “Trust me, be patient,” in effect he is looking over Jairus’s head at all of us and saying, “Remember how when I calmed the storm I showed you that my grace and love are compatible with going through storms, though you may not think so? Well, now I’m telling you that my grace and love are compatible with what seem to you unconscionable delays.” It’s not “I will not be hurried even though I love you”; it’s “I will not be hurried because I love you. I know what I’m doing. And if you try to impose your understanding of schedule and timing on me, you will struggle to feel loved by me.

- Tim Keller, King's Cross: The Story of the World in the Life of Jesus, p. 63

Shaqapalooza

2011-06-02T09:59:00.002-06:00

I really will get back into this blogging thing one day. . . .really I will. It's been kind of a crazy time for the Brittons. Those of you who follow my wife's blog know most of what's going on. In addition to getting wrecked every time I see pictures of my new daughter, I've been going through some pretty painful shoulder re-hab that doesn't involve very much sleep. This makes it tough for me to write (songs or prose). I'm kind of in a daze most of the day. Also, I've been doing alot of counseling with folks lately and journeying towards marriage with 3 couples (their marriage, not mine. . . I digress).

All that to say. . . I apologize. It will come around again, and I'll have pithy things to say that will cause great enjoyment to come to all 6 of you.

For today, a little video tribute to my favorite NBA player, Shaq. There was no one like Shaq, and there will never be anyone like Shaq. He is one of the top 10 players of all time. . . but no one thinks so because he doesn't have the numbers, and he definitely did not keep himself in shape the last 4 years of his career when things were winding down.

The last time I checked, the NBA was not a fitness contest, nor a math contest. Ask any coach in the last 19 years who was the hardest person to game plan for. . . . . you will get one answer, Shaq. Look up his numbers from the playoffs here from the Lakers 3 peat from 2000-2003. Unreal. Ask any player who was the MVP in the NBA from 1998 (Jordan's retirement) until 2008. The answer: Shaq. When you played the Lakers or Heat (and at some level, the Suns), you had to place your whole gameplan around Shaq. His body couldn't stand up anymore under the abuse he took. (Shaq took some of the hardest, most consistent fouls of any player, ever. . and only responded once, . . here "Look out Brad Miller"!!!) Injuries finally got to him. But, Shaq is underrated. I challenge anyone to find a 7'2 inch man that weighs 330 pounds and see if that man can even run down the court twice. Shaq did it for 19 years, and was a freakish athlete.

Ok, I'm done. Enjoy these hilarious videos. More than anything, Shaq was a large child who enjoyed himself while playing.

Epic Quotes:

This is hilarious. He doesn't care about the censors, and Shaq always let Craig Sager have it for his suit.

Wouldn't be complete with a vintage Shawn Bradley facial:

Shaq always owned the Portland TrailBlazers:

Michael and Scotty? :

What? Only young Shaq could lead the fast break? I give you '09 Shaq. . blocking the shot and running the show. Again, show me anyone else who's 7'2 who can run this far:

Thanks for the good times Shaq. Enjoy fighting crime and being "the greatest in the universe"

Wow. John Owen

2011-05-22T17:54:00.004-06:00

John Owen is usually pretty thick for me. I've made it through portions of a few of his books :)

Once in a while, he'll say something like this which is eternally profound:

Indeed, the great sin of believers is, that they make not use of Christ’s bounty as they ought to do; they do not every day take of him mercy in abundance. (Communion with God, pp. 239-40)
------------------
Wow.
HT:Ray Ortlund

A Dash of Humility

2011-05-21T10:43:00.002-06:00

It's funny I know. . . an old guy with enormous ears proclaims the end of the World. However, I'm not going to any parties tonight, or mocking these sincere folks who are misguided.

The bible is not a code to be cracked. . . Mr. Camping is a false teacher. . . if Jesus returns tonight it won't be because Mr. Camping was right about anything.

But, let's be a little humble and gracious towards these folks. Clear-minded? yes. But, let's let the comedians have a go at Mr. Camping. As Christians, let's pray and be kind to these folks.

I think the tone of this piece from Prof. Michael Horton is a good model for us.

I hope Jesus comes tonight. . . . if He doesn't, let's be humble and pray for all those who were deceived, their dissallusionment, and their return to Christ.

No Earthly Good

2011-05-11T15:15:00.000-06:00

When awful, unspeakable things happen. . . . when really good and right things/prayers go unanswered. . . . when things just aren't right. . . . I feel like a fish out of water many times.

At my worst, I'm impatient with those who struggle. I get frustrated with what seems like an effort to make/keep oneself miserable. And, I'll make it seem like I'm disaffected by the situation. I've definitely struggled big time in all 3 of those areas. I think God has really been working on me, and refining me as a pastor in those places. . .and hopefully I'm growing. Also, I can be prayerless at times. . and kind of function (even though I don't believe this) as a Deist. Like God is not interested in the small details of life. . . that we just need to shut up and get happy with our circumstances.

That's me sometimes. . It's wrong, I'm not proud of it.

B U T

When horrible things happen, and/or disappointment comes to our lives. . . . I really find it helpful to take a step back and look at the BIG picture. God is sovereign. Even the "hairs on our head" our numbered. He knows everything. He is working out HIS plan, not ours. We have no idea what the plan for the universe is, except the enormous truth that it's all going for HIS glory, and for HIS purposes. God "does not live in temples built by hands" the "depths of his wisdom" are unthinkable and sometimes unknowable to us. "Who has known the mind of the Lord", "Who has been his counselor"? He's got this. He's going to end it (we hope, soon). It's in His hands.

If that paragraph felt like a bunch of preaching to you, or that I was just "running to the bible", or that I'm not dealing with my feelings. . . . .Just know that I really believe that stuff. It affects me. It brings me peace. It helps me "not be tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine" and "though the earth give way, and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea" I stand on that stuff.

When we're talking about our wishes of God, there is a hard balance to strike between persistence in prayer and patience with God. Of course, we need both. This is a really helpful message from Mark Driscoll about the persistent widow. It's really helpful.

We should be persistent with God. We should make our desires and hearts known to Him. But, let us never say that "God did not answer my prayer". He did. He either answered, "yes, no, or later".

We have to be radically "un-tethered" from the results. We have to remember that God has got this. He's working HIS plan. Most of the time, in my experience, God's answer to my prayers has alot to do with changing my heart, and less to do with me affecting His actions.

If that seems like a cop out. . remember that "waiting on the Lord" should cause us to "rise up with wings like eagles" and "walk and not grow weary". I believe that. It affects me. Waiting, and releasing outcomes to God brings Faith and Strength.

And, mostly, and most helpfully. I really believe in Heaven. God is going to wrap all of this up in the right way, and we will be with him forever. The present sufferings of this world, the prayers not answered as we like, the tragedies, the sin, the disappointment "will not be able to be compared with the Glory that will be revealed in us". It will seem like small potatoes.

I believe that. It affects me. It affects the way I interact with hard times, disappointment, and evil in the World. It all has an expiration date. It's going to end. "Every tear" will be wiped away.

The tears of my parent's divorce, the tears of my dad's death, the tears of Malachi's abandonment and fear, the tears of marriage difficulties, the tears of tragedies. God will make "all things new". I really believe that.

The hope of Heaven is not a cop out, not something to make us "no earthly good", it's actually the dominant way Paul, in the New Testament, tried to give hope to the churches, and those struggling. Because "in the blink of an eye, we will be changed". Then, we'll say "death where is your victory, death where is your sting". Paul believed that, he preached that to people going through really, really hard times. I believe it too.

So, let us (me) be patient with those who struggle and grieve with those who grieve. . .shut up with the bible platitudes for a season while we hurt together. . .yes, yes, yes. Absolutely

Let us all, struggling or not, . . . . also "hold firmly to the faith we confess" because "He who promised is faithful", and "hope does not disappoint". Let us "hope in God". Let us "wait on the Lord". Let us "come to Him" for "He will give you rest".

Let's fight with these truths. Let's fight against discouragement, depression, and frustration with God. Really. . that's why HE wrote these words to us. To help us fight against those things.

I believe that. It affects me and the way I process times like these

Good Word

2011-05-05T09:39:00.001-06:00

Great post from Vitamin Z

For Moms, Former Moms, and Wannabe Moms

Single woman watching your biological clock tick away, I encourage you to look today at your longings through the lens of the gospel. You don’t have to deny your longing or talk yourself into a happy attitude for all the good things you can do without kids. It’s OK to mourn the loss. God said children are a blessing. But after the fall, we do not all get to experience that blessing. The gospel makes up the difference. While you are disappointed in deep ways and that disappointment is real, you will one day sit with Jesus in heaven profoundly content with His work in you through this disappointment. In heaven, you will have no longing for something you missed. You will not be disappointed. May confidence in that hope sustain you.

Married woman experiencing infertility, I encourage you with similar words. People can be callous with their words, especially in the church. But believe in confidence that God in this very moment loves you with a deep love. You may feel estranged from Him, knowing that He has the power to give you that sweet infant that He has given so many around you. It seems like He is dangling a desire in front of you, teasing you with it. But understand that unfulfilled desire is a tool He uses to give you even better things – things of Himself that you cannot know in easy ways. Believe in confidence that this time of waiting is not just a holding pattern with no discernible value, but it too is a blessing, albeit in disguise, as it increases your strength to run and not grow weary and to walk and not to faint. Wait on the Lord, dear sister, in confidence.

And mom who fails her children regularly (because that’s everyone else), preach the gospel to yourself this day. If you have any grasp on your reality, you are likely painfully aware of every failure you’ve made with your children. And maybe you are fatigued by the fears of future failure as well. It’s okay that your children expose your own sin to yourself. In fact, it’s the mom who doesn’t seem daily aware of her failures that most concerns me. Christ has made the way for you to be at peace. If you sinned against your kids, ask their forgiveness. If you are kicking yourself for your failures, preach God’s grace to yourself. Don’t learn to live with your sin – don’t embrace it with the attitude “that’s just how I am.” But don’t deny it either. Be honest about it. You sinned. You confess. God forgives. You get up and walk forward in confidence. It’s called gospel grace, and THAT is the legacy to leave your children.

Osama, Obama, Burning, and Geraldo

2011-05-02T09:25:00.003-06:00

Much in the same way I randomly turned on the T.V. at an unusual time 10 years ago on September 11th, and watched the 2nd plane slam into the towers. . . . I turned on the news last night at 9:45 for no apparent reason. There was breaking news, I toggled between Wolf Blitzer and Geraldo "stretching" for time (and awkwardly so) waiting for the President to speak. The news came early (is anything actually announced at the proper time these days? Can anything not be "leaked"?) Osama Bin Laden was dead.

Geraldo almost cried and then he hi-fived the Retired General sitting across from him. Words failed (not that he didn't try), people at the Pentagon were "shaking" with the news.

Some were rejoicing, some were saying "burn in hell, Osama" on Facebook; others started immediately judging those responses saying that "Christians don't" do those kinds of things.

I wonder how many people who were denying an eternal Hell a few weeks ago are now wishing Osama would be there. I wonder how many people fighting against viewing God as "angry" and "punitive" are now wishing He would be so, (against Bin Laden, of course)

What's the proper response?

1) humility. Jesus talked about tragedy, encouraging those who were listening to "repent or you will likewise perish". It's a good time to confess our sins and realize that justice is coming for us as it did for Osama last week. We need Jesus to stand in the gap for us, we need to believe in Him, and then the justice meant for us was absorbed by Jesus.

2) reluctance. I'm getting to the good ones, don't worry. . . . but our attitude should, at the very least, not be quick to rejoice, pile on, or tell crude jokes about Bin Laden's belief system or what awaits him on the other side. . . . there but for the grace of God go I.

3) thanksgiving. For the mercies of Christ, for our military, for the sacrifice of those who serve to protect our country. It's appropriate to thank these men, and it's appropriate to give some of them leash (I'm going to include Geraldo here, he's spent years embedded with the forces in Afghanistan, chasing Bin Laden. . .he has pictures on his wall of guys he's traveled with who are now dead) in their celebration. We're not on the front lines, we haven't been chasing this man for 10 years. Let's let those who have. . . . . release a little bit and celebrate.

4) rejoicing. Not in the death of a man. But, the fact that justice was done to a man who is trying to kill you. . us, our children. Some are so quick to judge any who smack of being thankful that Osama is gone. As an American we can be happy that a brutal murderer has been brought to justice.

I thought President Obama was measured, firm, and gracious in victory last night. . . it was an appropriate tone, I think. And hey, kudos to him and others who have kept their eye on the ball with plenty of bunny trails at their disposal. Although I'm sure President Obama will try to reap the political rewards (and rightly so) from such a triumph, this has been a 10 year project under 2 presidents, numerous generals, and how many countless soldiers. Great job to all of them.

Yes, it's time to bring up the verses from Ezekiel about not rejoicing in the death of the wicked:

Ezekiel 33:11 (New International Version, ©2011)

Say to them, ‘As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, people of Israel?

There's alot to say about that verse, most notably that this was Israel, God's chosen people. But, this isn't the blog post for exegesis. Let's simply balance that with Romans 13 which talks about the role of Government:

Romans 13:4-5
⁴ For the one in authority is God’s servant for your good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for rulers do not bear the sword for no reason. They are God’s servants, agents of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. ⁵ Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also as a matter of conscience.

Should we pile on and wish that Bin Laden would "burn in Hell"? No. Should we judge those who would rejoice in this occasion as the end of a long military mission (that they were apart of ) and that a dangerous man has been brought to justice? No.

Let's stake out some middle ground and humble ourselves under God's mighty hand, . . while at the same time being thankful that justice has been done here, our Government has done their job (as the bible outlines it), and we're safer for it.

It's Not Easy

2011-04-30T02:54:00.001-06:00

“My last sentence is simply this: The world is lost, the God of the Bible does exist; the world is lost, but truth is truth, keep on! And for how long? I’ll tell you. Keep on, keep on, keep on, keep on, and then keep on!” -----Francis A. Schaeffer

HT: Ray Ortlund

Character Matters

2011-04-26T13:54:00.004-06:00

We (I) spend alot of time debating and thinking through different philosophies of ministry, techniques of how to do things, and models of organizing the Church.

These things aren't as important as doctrine, or theology. . . . but as a leader in the church we do need to search the bible to flesh out how we're going to "do church" and where the bible is silent, make wise decisions based on our doctrine, history, and gifts that he's given us.

As I was thinking through some of these things this week, it hit me again. . . that the models, methods, and philosophy don't matter as much as the character of the leaders who are implementing those things. Great philosophy, in the wrong hands, is not a win.

You can be the most successful mega-church, seeker, evangelistic pastor there ever was. . . but if you have a deep-seated need to be liked by folks, or to be accepted in what you say. . . .that will sabotage your ministry at some level. Even small "personality quirks" that seem like elementary issues (such as needing to be liked) can get in the way of ministering to glorify God (because in that sense. . . you're ministering for your own glory or "need" at some level).

On the other side of that philosophical coin. . if there is a hard-line conservative pastor who is ruthless in his commitment to the truth, preaching sound doctrine, honoring the history of the church in everything you do. . . . and yet, you have an inner need to "be right" about everything and win every argument, never being proven wrong. . . that will sabotage the effectiveness of your ministry. Again, you're fighting to be right and to "fill a hole" at a heart-level. . instead of feeding Christ's sheep.

Some try to solve these problems with rules and reg's. to "hem in" the pastor's personal quirks and help keep him "in bounds" in all that he does. Others try to solve these problems by protecting the pastor with handlers (kind of like a politician), yes men, and publicity monitors who don't let their pastor come under attack for anything he does or has said.

There's nothing inherently wrong with either of those solutions. . . (we should protect pastors with rules, and personal help). But, it doesn't help at the deepest level.

Colossians 2:20-24 (English Standard Version)

²⁰If with Christ you died to the elemental spirits of the world, why, as if you were still alive in the world, do you submit to regulations— ²¹ "Do not handle, Do not taste, Do not touch" ²² referring to things that all perish as they are used)—according to human precepts and teachings? ²³These have indeed an appearance of wisdom in promoting self-made religion and asceticism and severity to the body, but they are of no value in stopping the indulgence of the flesh.

Those are pretty strong words; "no value". Bottom line, rules and accountability won't ultimately help if our motivations and hearts aren't changed by the gospel, . . .and continually changed through God's Word and repentance.

This weekend was a weekend for churches to put their best foot forward, theologically, and practically, as many non-Christians were in church and it is the key weekend on the Christian calendar (we like to call it Super Bowl Sunday around here :) ) . But, all of the great methods, services, and successes in the world can't fix a sinful heart, and can't hide character flaws.

Now, none of us has "arrived" on these things. (I've sabotaged myself today a few times already. . . things coming out of my mouth crippling my effectiveness as a minister) But, simply an awareness of our folly and reluctance due to our own sin and wounded-ness is a good place to start. Then comes the oh-so-difficult ability to rejoice in others' success and find our ultimate salvation at the Cross. . . not in anything we've "pulled off" or "accomplished".

Thanks be to God for the Cross, so that we can come and lay down our desires to succeed, be right, and be liked. Thanks to the Holy Spirit, who can change us. . since there are no perfect pastors and there is no one who is ministering in the absence of any wounded-ness.

God is at work, and for us to effectively serve Him, we need to ask Him to deal with the subtle inclinations of our hearts, and yes, our character. It matters.

Hope Does Not Disappoint

2011-04-21T09:20:00.004-06:00

It's not popular to hold on to ultimate hope. We're either encouraged to just "hang on" because life sucks (to which there is some truth) or to smile and have faith because Jesus will give us everything we want (to which there is no truth. . . he'll give us much more than that. . one day).

I've been thinking through this dichotomy lately. We're not in the midst of easy days in the Casa De Britton. There are plenty of reasons for discouragement. Many of my friends are currently in crisis (others don't see that they should be in crisis and be broken over what's happening in their lives), and the days seem to pass quickly, sometimes without feeling like much has been accomplished. Life, it seems, is happening to us sometimes, more often than we're initiating things we want to happen.

That's where the empty tomb comes in.

We're often disappointed because God did not come through for us like we wanted Him to. Perhaps we can't have something we want. . . perhaps things are changing and we don't like it.

Making God the means to some other end will always end in disappointment. We either can't see/trust His providential reasons in orchestrating things a certain way. . . or we actually get what we wanted and aren't satisfied (which is inevitable).

Both of those responses come from seeing other things as ultimate. God is not the means to another end. He is the good news, He is the goal, He is our joy, He is the fountain.

Yes, we take joy in his good gifts, . . . just not in an ultimate way.

One of the less-discussed days of Easter week is Saturday. The day of discouragement and ambivalence. Can you imagine the disciples discouragement? Can you imagine the Kurt Cobain/despondent/Van Gogh levels of "who cares?" "there's no point to life!" "why did all of this happen, what was the purpose?" among the disciples?

But, then there was Sunday. Christ arose. Circumstances for the disciples did not change. But, their joy was back.

There will also be a "Sunday" for us, when we will be raised again to Eternal Life, and fullness of Joy, if we put our faith, and ultimate desire/hope in Christ (not as a means to some other end).

That Eternal kind of life is foreshadowed now in our enjoyment of God, through Christ. Have you stopped this week to think about how awesome Christ is? How glorious the Cross is? The empty Tomb? Have you thought about how ultimate and all-encompasing "the same power that raised Christ from the dead" is? And how "that is the same power that is at work in us".

Ephesians 1:18-22 (New International Version, ©2011)

¹⁸ I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, ¹⁹ and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength ²⁰he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, ²¹ far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come. ²² And God placed all things under his feet and appointed him to be head over everything for the church,

These are heart-lifting, depression-killing truths. I hope you have some time to think about them this week. There is an empty tomb. Death is conquered. The disappointments of this life will end, the struggles will end. Their power is already defeated in the cross. . we don't have to be crushed by them.

It's Saturday. . .but Sunday's comin'

Two new books

2011-04-18T15:05:00.003-06:00

I'll spare the details of why I haven't blogged in a month. . . . But, I promise I've spoken with all 5 of my readers in that span of time.

I feel a little like I have too much to say, so for now I'll recommend some books.

1) This is a lesson I still struggle to learn (and I wish I had grasped somewhat when I was in college). Oh, how I wish I wouldn't have made so many decisions because of "The Grass is Greener Conspiracy".

2) I like it that they do book trailers now. . . kind of like a feature film. So, check out the little movie and the book looks great too. Sometimes we forget we're being tempted and ignore obvious signs that things are not what they seem to be.

47 Minutes Well Spent

2011-03-17T15:46:00.002-06:00

Matt Chandler is a favorite of this blog, and this past weekend he absolutely nailed it in his Sermon. Home Run in the bottom of the 9th in the playoffs--nailed it. Discipline or Wrath is his title as he preaches from Habbakuk, and a few other texts. If you've ever struggled with why God is doing what He's doing, or what the role of suffering is for a Christian. . . this might be the best sermon I've ever heard.

Also, if you're having character questions about God (something that's come up a bit lately in the whole heaven/hell debate), this is also a priceless sermon for you to listen to. I couldn't recommend it more highly. Do yourself a favor and carve out 47 minutes.

Questioning Matt's credentials to speak on such a topic? He has brain cancer, so none of this is theoretical, he's living it.

An Under-Reported Consequence of Universalism

2011-03-17T13:32:00.002-06:00

I've been in alot of discussions about Rob Bell and Heaven/Hell/Ultimate Things lately. I'm sure many of you have as well. . . .Here is an under-reported consequence of holding the universalist belief from a blog favorite, Jared Wilson. I think this is pretty compelling because it is history. But, narrative is not normative, so we need more than that. Well, in addition to history this is compelling because the bible told us this would happen.

This "bigger" Jesus ironically makes for a smaller following. ...

I Timothy 4:3-4

³ For the time will come when people will not put up with sound doctrine. Instead, to suit their own desires, they will gather around them a great number of teachers to say what their itching ears want to hear. ⁴ They will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths.

Humility, Thy Name is Pop-a-shot. . . .and Other Observations from Chuck-e-Cheese

2011-03-06T19:38:00.004-07:00

Today we celebrated Eden's 8th birthday party. To commemorate the occasion, we took her and 3 friends to that mecca of childhood bliss. . . . Chuck-e-cheese! (happy birthday Eden!!)

With a 10-year-old, 8, 6, and 3 . . . I've celebrated quite a few birthdays at this fine establishment. Typically it's a chance to assert my dominance over all pre-teens at pop-a-shot, you know, the mini-basketball, rapid fire game. I won't brag, but many records have been broken, (and set). . many small children have gawked in wonder at my mad fake basketball skills, . . and many shoulder cramps were felt for days afterwards.

That brings me to this evening. . . I approached the pop-a-shot machine to see that the high score was 120. This is a ridiculously high score for that particular machine. I thought to myself, "someone on staff cheated or something. . that's totally fake". To confirm my suspicions, my 2nd game I scored 75. I took a break, came back, and a small lady, probably in her 40's, was playing. This woman was not taller than 5'1''. I don't exaggerate when I say, . . she was a machine. She had a two-handed, under the chin, jumper (you know. . .a girl shot). She was unbelievable. I watched as this minute MJ scored 125, setting the new record.

Ok, . . my turn. I, of course, wasn't even close to her level. . . . . which made me feel pretty bad. But, not as bad as when her 6 year-old daughter started yelling "AIM AT THE SQUARE, AIM AT THE SQUARE". Yeah, thanks. . hadn't thought of that.

Hello, humility. I'll live to fight another day.

Other Observations:

1) I salute CEC's for the expanded menu. . .but really? Beer and wine on tap? I know being in the presence of 400 little, pizza fueled kids makes you want to get all "lit up" but really? One of the taps actually was labelled "chardonnay"!!? You're going to have wine with your low-grade pizza? Nothing says "it's 5-o-clock somewhere" like wine on tap at Chuck-e-cheese's.

Desperation.

2) CEC's has gone downhill since the infamous "CEC/Showbiz" merger/buyout in the 90's. Needless to say, when I was a kid, I used to get a full animatronic band, Fats Domino on the Fender rhodes, and a huge ball pit.(Can I get a witness?) Now I get one animatronic Chuck-e Mouse with a video wall looping disney-esque pop, and a fake horse ride. It's sad really.

3) Hey Miley Cyrus, we can do better than "noddin' my head like yeah. . . movin my hips like yeah". Come on, I don't care if it is a party in the USA. . maybe we should read some poetry in the USA or something. Chip off the old block, I guess. . . . We can do better, Miley, we can do better

4) How many generations of kids will it take to figure out, "I will never, ever be able to get enough tickets to purchase anything of value from the redemption desk". How many? I'm pretty sure the 2000 ticket stuffed bear at the top had a "1998" shirt on. Hadn't been won in a while, huh? The plastic-eraser frogs will have to do for this evening.

Until next time, Chuck-e. . .

Spiritual Disintegration

2011-03-01T20:05:00.002-07:00

I'm not sure if all 5 of you were aware of the controversy surrounding Rob Bell's soon-to-be released book, "Love Wins".

Bell sent out some sample chapters and an intro/video clip for influential folks to drum up interest in the book. Mission accomplished, Mr. Bell.

I've never seen the comment section on a blog pass the "999" mark. But, Justin Taylor's (oft-linked to on this blog) blog about the new book, as of last viewing, had 1,047 comments (the number didn't fit in the little graphic at the bottom of the post).

It seems Mr. Bell is going to take a few more steps away from orthodox Christianity with this one. He seems to be advocating a kind of soft universalism. . . where there is no hell or eternal judgment in the afterlife.

I'm not going to link to Taylor's post, because I don't want to bring anymore attention to a book that I think will be very harmful to many Christians, and non-Christians.

But, this brings up some thorny, tough issues for Christians to talk about. . .and one of the most helpful things I've ever read on hell is this one from Dr. Tim Keller. (sorry. . I know. . alot of Keller lately).

I (we) don't want to be seen as judgment-hounds who get excited about being right on the doctrine of hell. I certainly wish Mr. Bell and others of his ilk were right about this thing. But, I don't think you can get there from the Bible.

If you've struggled with the doctrine of hell, . . or even have struggled with how to put together what it would be like and how to describe it. . . read this piece. May truth come to bear on "Love Wins", and may few be deceived.

Carmelwho? and the Nuggets

2011-02-25T10:28:00.002-07:00

What an eventful few days for our hometown Denver Nuggets! I've refrained from continual, long basketball updates because I know not many of my readers (3 of 5) care at all about that stuff. But, it's time, so buckle up for a really long basketball blog.

There's been some pulitzer-worthy stuff from the Denver Post lately on this whole saga. If you want to know what really happened without Carmelo's spin (dishonesty) on the situation. . .check out this piece from Benji Hochman. This is a few months of work from the Post, . . and it's really insightful. We'll move forward believing those facts to be true. This went all the way back to last Spring when the Nuggets lost to the Jazz in the playoffs.

So, why didn't the Nuggets call Carmelo's bluff, keep him until after the season, and then see if he'd really leave 20 million dollars on the table? A few reasons, I think. . .1) I don't think Carmelo would've been a happy employee next year. I think he would've sulked through the season, while quietly demanding a trade (sound familiar) and we wouldn't have improved our team. 2) There was always the chance Carmelo would've left and signed with the Knicks anyway (for much less money), and then we'd be left holding the bag with nothing to show for it.

Let's be clear. . . all of this "I wanted to go play for a contender. . where they have a future, etc. " garbage from Carmelo is ridiculous. His best chance was with the Nuggets, he knew this. . . . we had a championship roster, we have for 3 years. We built the team around him, we didn't cut cost. . .we weren't trying to "go young", we had one of the oldest teams in the league. Carmelo's logic, character, and even his play. . .were starting to wear on the Nuggets. Which leads me to the biggest and most exciting point!

These guys, you know the chopped liver left behind, can PLAY! It turns out, as with many superstars . . . that Carmelo was wielding a little too much influence on the court. George Karl and Carmelo are in a current twitter-battle about his lack of defense and slowing down the ball on offense the last few years. . . Carmelo can get as mad as he wants; it's true. Karl was being undercut by Carmelo, . . and he scored too often for anyone to raise too big a stink. But, Karl wasn't happy, and it showed.

To the new squad:

We all thought JR Smith had some serious star potential. . . maybe being held back a bit by Carmelo's ball hoggery (I defy anyone to name me a reserve player in the NBA who has come off the bench for 30+ points so many times, and 40 a couple of times). He's even playing smart now (miracles happen) getting assists and rebounds. I think JR was just content being a crazy uncle/wildcard guy until he got called out to step up his game and grow up. The good news is. . .it's there. JR is a great player, a freakish athlete and he'll get to show it now.

Aaron Afflalo has been playing out of his mind all year, and now. . . .he's been freed up to take all those shots he would've had if Carmelo would've passed out of the triple-team once in a while. He's money, Memphis had no answers, and he had 2 clutch baskets to clinch the Celtics game (that's right, we beat the champs with no 'superstars' on our team) last night.

Ty Lawson, wow. . . Ty will be in the all-star game before this is over. . you heard it here first. That guy is a superstar too. . . and even though we all hated to lose Chauncey in this mess, the bottom line is that Ty should be starting (and if we would've kept Chauncey, Chauncey should've come off the bench). No one can stop him, not even Rajon Rondo, he the best defensive point guard in the league. I can't wait to see Ty, and new addition, Ray Felton against Chris Paul in the first round of the playoffs. . .bring it!!!

Danillo Gallinari and Wilson Chandler from NYK more than make up for Carmelo because they hit open shots (which Smith, Lawson, and Felton create with penetration because no one can guard them). Chandler is going to be a really good player. . . and oh yeah. . . he actually plays defense. These guys are better than advertised, and for a cheaper price too. Gallo makes 3 million next year, Chandler makes 2 million. Carmelo was going to make 17 MILLION DOLLARS. I think we got the better end of this deal. Sure, NY gets their star, and they'll be a playoff team now for a few years. But, what happens when Carmelo has to guard LeBron or Paul Pierce in May? I know what will happen.

Nene. It's time Nene. . . so far he's stepped up well, scored consistently, and led our offense at the beginning of games. If Nene is really worth all that money (I think he is) it's time to destroy lesser post players (such as tonight, vs. Portland) and play some defense. Carmelo was having a negative effect on the Brazilian, and as my kids favorite player, I'm rooting for Nene to overcome and re-learn the game a bit with some fresh players to play with.

See, it turns out, Carmelo was not only "not making his teammates better" he was making them worse. He was such a good offensive player that he could carry everything and put us in the playoffs every year. But, when we hit a player that was better than Melo (it hurts. . .but I"ll say it. . . Kobe) all of the other guys wouldn't step up because they'd been standing out at the 3 point line for the last 6 months while Carmelo dribbled the shot clock away. Sometimes, that's what you have to do when you're on a bad team (Lebron the last 5 years) But, the Nuggets were a REALLY GOOD team. . and Melo was holding some other guys back. Karl was playing him way too much this year. With all of the trade stuff, he should've sat Melo, or regulated him to the D league, and said "when you're ready to play defense and run the stuff I call. . . you can play again". I would've loved that.

I'm excited about our new squad. We'll have some decisions to make in the off-season. . we're suddenly ridiculously deep at all positions. . . .But, this is a great core of guys, and everyone's passing the ball and moving

An under-rated story here is that suddenly we have a NYKnicks starting 5 that Karl can trot out at any time. (Felton, Chandler, Gallo, Mosgov, Harrington). Al Harrington played for the Knicks last year, he still knows all the plays. The other day in practice they were calling out some Knicks plays when Felton was at the point. Try preparing for 2 different basketball teams!! I defy anyone in the Western conference!!

. If you want to see NBA basketball as it should be played. . wide open, passing, good defense, great athletes. . . watch the Nuggets for the rest of this year. Good times.

Since we're so far under the salary cap, maybe Kroenke will lower ticket prices for the rest of the year! (not likely. .but one can hope)

(ps, we still have the Birdman and Kmart as well, who look a little rejuvinated. . I think Bird got a new tatoo to celebrate :) )

State of the Unions

2011-02-25T10:22:00.002-07:00

Alot of back and forth on the unions recently on facebook. . . people throwing alot of stones.

Here's the thing. . you can't paint with a broad brush on organized labor in general. There's been alot of good done by unions. There's also alot of abuses.

Without condemning all unions. . .because I like some of them. . . The teacher's union is pretty much a mess. There are many studies and articles to back this up. Here's one. There is history to back this up. I have personal experience to back this up. My mother is a career teacher who has never joined the union in 20 + years. She's one of the best teachers in her district, and has always done an amazing job.

So, let's be a little nuanced on this whole Wisconsin/unions issue. I'll just put in my 2 cents and say the teachers union could use some wholesale reform. . .or dissolution.

Ouch

2011-02-24T11:05:00.000-07:00

This is so true:

PJ_Smyth Husbands: Be generous concerning your wife’s faults. They were probably what prevented her from getting a better husband than you.

Kellerpalooza

2011-02-23T15:39:00.003-07:00

Tim Keller is an intriguing guy. Pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church in NYC, he's pretty much nailed the "put your church in an influential place to influence influential people. . and that will go downstream into culture" philosophy.

Now, that philosophy, in the wrong hands, can go really bad. You can start to pimp out your church for various famous people, and start to mis-prioritize things to try to have vaguely defined "cultural influence". disclaimer taken to heart. . . . .

But, I don't think Tim Keller is the "wrong hands" (I'm a calvinist). He puts out great stuff (always really, deeply helpful), is a ridiculously smart, pastoral, defender of the faith, and he's pastoring some influential people as well.

Here's two interviews he did recently about his new book (which looks really great and insightful); ironically, both of the interviewers on national t.v. networks, go to his church :). He defends the faith so winsomely and wisely. What a great spokesman for our faith! Let's keep him in prayer. (notice the yoda-like way he engages the Rabbi on the MSNBC clip)

Here's a Q and A he did with Brian Chappell where he gets really detailed on how he applies the "cultural influence" stuff and shares alot of personal wisdom as well. If you want to get to know Tim Keller a bit. . these are great Q and A sessions. He also talks about how a higher-up MTV exec went to Redeemer, and how he counseled him through some tough decisions.

Also, you should check out The Reason for God and Counterfeit Gods.

Enjoy!

Mumford

2011-02-15T10:43:00.002-07:00

So, it appears that I gave up on the Grammys a year too soon. Wow, they had awesome performances this year! I couldn't think of a real clunker from the ones that I've seen online. Everyone stepped up, sang well, didn't blame their monitors, added some flair, enjoyed the mash-ups (although sometimes forced), and rocked out.

My favorite would have to be Mumford & Sons, the Avett Brothers and Bob Dylan. Seriously, how much courage does Dylan have to have these days to walk out there and rasp his way through things? It's pretty compelling to watch that ending jam on "Maggie's Farm".

Yes, you should wait until you have an entire 8 minutes to watch grown men bang on their pianos, guitars, banjos, and apparently, their vocal cords. Here's one for no finesse, no control, smashing, real, authentic music. Don't skip the end!

(the eminem performance was similar. . .seems like the Grammy's grew a heart this year. . who knew? )

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-02-14T09:19:00.000-07:00

Need some last minute gift ideas?

Redefining Death

2011-02-08T13:20:00.001-07:00

Jesus did.

Thanks again to Tim Keller, this is such an encouraging post.

HT: JT

Who watches this stuff?

2011-02-07T09:59:00.001-07:00

Very true, thisisindexed.com. . . very true.

Only the housebound watch Maury.

Feelin' Weak?

2011-02-07T09:19:00.002-07:00

I highly recommend the book. . . and this quote.

The faith that changes the life and connects to God is best conveyed by the word “trust.” Imagine you are on a high cliff and you lose your footing and begin to fall. Just beside you as you fall is a branch sticking out of the very edge of the cliff. It is your only hope and it is more than strong enough to support your weight. How can it save you? If your mind is filled with intellectual certainty that the branch can support you, but you don’t actually reach out and grab it, you are lost. If your mind is instead filled with doubts and uncertainty that the branch can hold you, but you reach out and grab it anyway, you will be saved.

Why?

It is not the strength of your faith but the object of your faith that actually saves you. Strong faith in a weak branch is fatally inferior to weak faith in a strong branch.

- Tim Keller, The Reason for God: Belief in an Age of Skepticism

(HT: Michael Kelley)

HT: VitaminZ

Foreign Language

2011-01-31T16:20:00.004-07:00

There's alot of back and forth in the church these days on contextualization. That's a 10 dollar word that basically means; you must know the context of your hearers so that you know how to communicate with them in the most effective way. (so they know what you're talking about)

This is (as with most things folks fight about) a continuum that swings from one side to the other, and folks can be extreme on either side. I won't post defamatory youtube clips (well, I kind of will in a second), but suffice it to say; if you wanted to find a pastor having guys jump dirt bikes in his sermon, you could find that. And, if you wanted to see a guy talk about how the rock beat is from Satan, you could find that as well.

There's much to be said about balance here. And, about "helping" your audience understand something even if it isn't in their immediate context. John Piper once famously said that if folks don't understand the lamb/sacrifice metaphors in the bible because they've never been near a farm. . . "you teach them about sheep. . . YOU DON'T LEAVE THAT OUT". It was great, I remember being in that room.

But, taking the extremes into account, here's a great example of how we have to find new ways to communicate the Gospel message in every generation. Not leaving anything of importance out, not changing the key terms. . but also not speaking in what would be a foreign language to one's audience. Am I over-exaggerating my case? Try explaining the internet to Brian Gumbel in 1994. He was basically being introduced to a foreign language:

Lynx

2011-01-27T11:03:00.002-07:00

--Jody and I have had some stressful, non-successful shopping trips as of late. I'm considering some of these activities to spice up the proceedings.

--Don't like waiting on God? Me neither at times. This is a great article that answers the question, to some degree: Why? Why are you letting me go through this, God? We think those are the "un-answerable" questions. But, I challenge anyone to read this post, take a situation from your past that was very frustrating for you, took alot of patience. . .and see if you can't find a nugget or two of truth in here. Good Stuff. These "answers" don't answer all of the questions. But, perhaps we shouldn't be so quick to punt and say that something was "meaningless" or "didn't make any sense".

--There are differences out there on the role of women in the church. I firmly believe we, as the church, need to do a better job helping women develop their gifts and affirm them in what God has called them to do (within biblical boundaries). Regardless of your views. . check out this piece. . . had to be one of the most awkward board meetings ever! But, I think it shows a big blind spot in many of our churches.

--For the academic/theological types. . here's a great article from John Frame on the relationship between the church and societal needs. This has a been a bit of an intramural debate for a while now. If you're not aware of that debate, . . rejoice! This is still a good, informative essay.

--

Glee Club

2011-01-27T10:31:00.002-07:00

I'm not a big fan of the show Glee. . . there I said it.

I feel like a better thesis might be: "Why I'm not a fan of the show Glee by someone who absolutely should be".

See, I was in the Glee Club for 3 years in High School and 2 years in College. I've been to huge, regional competitions; I've sat in the back row and made fun of other show choirs; I've felt the "difference" between what the Glee Club was doing, and other organizations within the High School (it is a pretty unique thing); I've even been made fun of for being a part of it (I was also on the varsity basketball team). Also, I've acted and sung in musicals and love many Broadway shows.

But, I really, really dislike this show. Here's why: In order of importance.

1) Gender confusion. I don't expect a T.V. show to give a biblical model of masculinity or femininity, but "Glee" is trying very, very hard to confuse any sense of difference between men and women, and ridicules or demonizes those who feel differently.

Sue Sylvester, while a hilarious character, is a female who is the most masculine person on the show (a screwed up, abusive masculinity to be sure). The gay characters are flamboyantly so, and act like everyone needs to see it as "normal". (I'm not making a statement on homosexuality there. . . but on acting like a man or woman). The girls are active, the guys are passive. . . . the girls are sexually aggressive, the guys are waiting, sitting in the corner. . . yeeesh.

They should be given alot of credit for bringing the gay-bullying issue before a mass audience, (heavy handed a bit, though it was). . Listen, I don't think gay people should be bullied, harassed, or otherwise discriminated against in the public school system. I also don't think every girl needs to be a cheerleader, and every guy a football player. But, this show is showing (mostly) kids that all social norms are wrong, . . that there are no judgments to be made about any kind of behavior, and that basically, Anything Goes. (hey someone should write a musical with that title).

2) The (auto-tuned) music: I got goose bumps as well when Lea Michelle uncorked "Don't Stop Believin' " last year, and some of the other songs taken on by the cast have been great. But, the auto-tune is so thick, that I'm not sure I know what most members of the cast sound like. Lea Michelle could sing the phone book. . .she's great. She should sing more, they should auto-tune her less. The other characters are so processed and matched up that it often sounds like two robots singing a love song to each other. They attempt to make "epic" moments on screen, such as Sue Sylvester and Carol Burnett singing a duet last week. (this is event television, folks). But, it is so processed, it sounds bad, and it's, for lack of a better term, fake. Auto-tune is used by everyone, and it's fine. . . .in small doses. The producers of this show are trying to make flawless, perfect music. . .which is by definition, fake.

(Gwyneth Paltrow was one of the worst I heard . . did we hear Gwen? or just the computer?)

3) The chutzpah, pompous-ness, ego, etc. . .

If you disagree with anything Glee does, or, as a musician, don't let them use your music or refuse to appear on the show. . . . apparently, you are a close-minded, talent-less hack who needs to get on board with the auto-tuned gravy train.

This is a pretty revealing article about the higher ups at "Glee" and how they roll.

They really think they are doing revolutionary, "never before seen" stuff. You know, kind of like real, live music.

If the cast of Glee ever does a "live" show, or performs "live" on Letterman or something (awards shows don't really count. . there's alot of lip-synching going on there) I will watch. Again, I'm a big Lea Michelle fan.

But, until then, I think I'll stay away from the show. I'm firmly with "Slash" on this one. (that's probably the last time you'll ever read that sentence on this blog.)

Incidently, a reality-show/behind the scenes/real story of a big, High School glee club would be very interesting. All of you jocks can find out what it was really like for us oppressed artists!!!!! (puke). But, that might be a better option than "Glee". I'm sure many of you disagree with me, and that's fine. I'm just letting you know, as a former Glee Club member. . that I don't like the show. And, I wasn't even the "obligatory wheel-chair guy".

38th Anniversary

2011-01-23T16:08:00.002-07:00

It is still bad law

It is still horrific

It is still shameful.

Let's not grow weary.

The Social Network

2011-01-17T14:58:00.003-07:00

SPOILER ALERT

I've always wanted to put that at the top of a post. But, in this case, it's a bit disingenuous because the movie is all a matter of public record and some of the lawsuits depicted in the movie are on-going, or have been re-opened. That being said, if you don't want to think about this movie before you see it (I often go in reverse order) then you might want to skip this post for now.

-----------------

I've wanted to see "The Social Network" since it came out, but thought it might be a better 4 dollar movie, than 10 dollar movie, if you catch my drift. (which, after you count babysitters and dinner, becomes a $100 movie. . but that's another blog)

I was right, . . no reason to see this in the cinema except that Jody might've wanted me to shut up a few times. So, she might view that issue differently. :)

The movie is the story of facebook owner/founder Mark Zuckerberg. It was written for the screenplay from the book "The Accidental Billionaries". There has been some dispute over the way the movie presented certain events. But, the director has admitted he took huge liberties, and Mark Zuckerberg has said most of the movie is "fiction".

I'm not here to debate that. Liberties were taken. . Mark Z. is neither a god nor pure evil. What happened on the way to a midly interesting pseudo-documentary was that they made the best movie of the year. (yes, I saw Inception, and yes, it's really good. . . . . in the #2 hole)

Here are a few reasons why it's so good and why you must see it before the Oscars air:

1) The larger story here is about how we communicate with each other, how facebook has changed that, and what a true "friend" is. The movie nails this without being heavy-handed
And it shows, (true or false) how even Zuckerberg could become an addict of his own creation and at any rate. . .was somewhat enslaved to the "approval" facebook brings. Ironic?

2) The writing. This movie probably will not win Picture of the Year (although it did clean up at the Golden Globes last night) because there isn't alot of cinematic beauty or costuming etc. . . . . But, if Aaron Sorkin doesn't win the Oscar for original screenplay, . . they need to call off the awards this year. That would be a travesty.

Some get sick of his rapid-fire dialogue (from his various T.V. shows), but it was a perfect vehicle for Zuckerberg's ego-maniacal nerdery. The way he interjected themes from facebook into the dialogue was pure genius. My favorite was when Zuckerberg's partner, Eduardo Saverin, yells at Mark after being screwed out of millions of dollars "I was your only friend. . .your one friend!!". Ah, the irony. . . . That was a killer scene.

Less obvious was Sorkin's repeated references to farm animals (Zuckerberg's original site was comparing Harvard co-ed's to farm animals) and how that foreshadowed the ever-present "Farmville" on facebook. clever.

How about the opening scene (reportedly took 99 takes) where Zuckerberg gets dumped by his girlfriend for basically not paying attention to her. (something he struggles with throughout the movie. . hmm. . . .ironic?). That was some of the best dialogue I've ever heard in a movie.

Some of the stars of the movie said Sorkin and director, David Fincher had to get them to stop taking breaths and pauses in between sentences ( an actor's go to device) for effect. It worked.

3) The soundtrack

Hello Trent Reznor! I know he's been around a little bit lately. . but this is a beautiful re-appearance for him, just a haunting, pad thick, noisy, dirty soundtrack from the father of all current smash/techno music. It was almost like Reznor was saying "see, this is what happened after the 90's. . . remember what my music told you!"

I could talk about this movie for hours. . . but basically the founder of our society's biggest vehicle for connection and online "friendship" does not connect with others well, and is a bad friend. Wow.

This is drilled home at the end as Zuckerberg tries to make facebook "friends" with his ex-girlfriend and waits, and waits. . . while re-freshing his browser . . for her to respond to his friend request. fade to black. . .

Beautiful, haunting, sad. I loved this movie.

----------------------
Lynx:
Perhaps facebook won't last forever? No, check that, it definitely won't. Great article.

Great article about Aaron Sorkin on the movie and perhaps that he had an ax to grind with the new media. If that's true. . I don't care. He should win best screenplay. His "ax" was right on the money, and he pulled it off masterfully.

Lynx on Parenting

2011-01-17T14:20:00.003-07:00

There's been some absolutely fabulous posts this past week on parenting. Jody and I have talked alot about it recently, and others seem to be working through various issues on the topic.

Here's some great stuff:

--This post from Paul Tripp is part of his upcoming book on parenting. First off, you should RSS, or subscribe to him on twitter. Secondly, check out this article. (and his epic mustache) Read the whole thing.

The part that resonates with me the most talks about "taking things personal" that weren't meant that way. From our kids, yes. . but also from other adults. We get this one really wrong in our hyper-offended culture. The kids aren't out to get you. . .they're sinners. Personal offense will only make it worse and probably cause you to sin back at them.

--Typical yoda-level wisdom from Doug Wilson. Wow, . . he's smart. I've thought this very thing, "lowering the standard" for a long time, but I can't ever put it in such a way that doesn't make me sound like a slacker-dad. Enter Doug Wilson. Let's find a level of agreement (on things not specifically pointed out in scripture) that we can work with and strive to excel there. Stop comparing yourself to the dude with 18 kids on TLC. . that's not you, and it's not your family. . .lower the standard.

--This post isn't really about parenting. But, I think this is one of the best blogs my exceedingly hot wife has ever written. This is definitely something to pass on to your daughters. Let me say, from my trip to the mall this weekend, there's nothing quite as ugly as trying a bit too hard on the physical appearance.

Currently I"m cooking up a very long post on "The Social Network" and facebook in general. That movie blew my mind this past weekend. I know, I know, you're all looking forward to it. . .you 5 readers, you. Enjoy some parental wisdom until then.

New Perspective on Balloon Boy

2011-01-14T10:11:00.002-07:00

I had never thought of it this way. . . .but the Colorado/Denver governmental response to balloon boy has to be one of the most damaging arguments to the "pro-choice" position on abortion.

It's rather compelling as well, because it doesn't guilt anyone, and doesn't use shock value (both of which are appropriate at times) to get the point across.

Thanks to Justin Taylor for this interesting perspective!

We will, if need be, shut down the airport and mobilize the government to save a child.

Epic Fail

2011-01-11T09:51:00.002-07:00

Andy Peterson has really been a blessing to me and my family this year. His music has been great and has communicated some great truths to us. . and his writings have been meaningful as well.

Here's his latest on Fatherhood: A snippet,

I have just realized something awful about fatherhood. It’s something I’ve read about, but have always thought was one of those things that didn’t apply to me. But I was wrong. It’s something I hoped to avoid, something that will cause much pain, for my children and for myself.

Yep

2011-01-08T14:53:00.001-07:00

Lynx

2011-01-06T17:57:00.002-07:00

No, not the spotted forest creature. . . . . But here some things that I've been reading this week.

--Alot of folks are scared about facebook and twitter, etc. .People think it's doing bad things to our brains (I might agree with that), people are scared about the way it changes how we read, etc. .

Doug Wilson has an amazing post about the history of such fears. This is really worth 5 minutes to read the whole thing. Wilson, though I don't agree with him on everything, is a brilliant man.

Really great piece.

--Here's a happy/sad piece about one woman's 25th wedding anniversary. It seems such anniversaries are rare these days. What's her secret? Read on.

-- If you have questions/concerns about Calvinism and the old predestination/free will debate. . RC Sproul has a helpful Q and A here:

Ask R.C. Live (Nov. 30, 2010) from Ligonier on Vimeo.

--I found this site a few weeks ago. It's really funny. . . if you're a nerd like me. I think this is clever as a blog concept, and as a humor concept in general. I want Conan to have "indexes" on Tuesday nights (ala "headlines"). I don't understand today's post :) But, scroll down. . funny stuff.

--I've been watching the Passion conference all week. They always do a great job. If you've never been "in" to John Piper, or have trouble understanding his "God making much of Himself" central message, check out his talk from Passion this year. This philosophy changed alot of my thinking years ago.

Sorry, not alot of short clicks. . . .but that kind of thing ruins your brain anyway :) enjoy the lynx!

2010: A Year of Moments

2011-01-01T12:40:00.002-07:00

Happy 2011 everyone!

I looked at last December's post, and yes. . . . .2010 was much better than 2009. In fact, I think that 2010 was the best year I've had in a while. I thank God for that. The lines fell in pleasant places much of this year. But, the best things about this year were some of the great moments. Many of these will seem silly, but it's time for a more confessional blog post, warts and all. . .Here we go:

-- My scale has not seen the south end of 200 pounds in about 13 years. . . . 194, That was a good moment.

--On my sabbatical this summer, I made a few mix cd's (I blogged about these cd's. . look in August). One early June afternoon, we were driving back to Gretna, NE, my hometown, from the lake and "The End of the Innocence" came on. Yes, the windows went down and the volume went up. Great moment.

--As a kid, in Gretna, I used to spend alot of time staring out across the plains in the summer. . . you can see forever. . . I had some great Summer Nights (don't even think about humming that song) just enjoying the cool breeze, green corn, and the smell of freshly cut grass.

--Also in August, I got to go see Passion City Church in Atlanta. It was kind of an amazing moment being with the folks that taught me how to lead worship and worshipping with them after all of these years.

--No one knew what was going to happen with Nebraska Football this year. Although the season ended in a big dissappointment, we were all sitting in our couches on September 5th when Taylor Martinez happened. whoosh. This play had everyone at my viewing party out of their seats. We'd never even seen this kid play before. Great moment.

--I've never seen anything like this before: (even though he traveled) killer moment

-- Jody got excited about the Fall Young Life banquet and sent out a facebook request for dresses. She received about 9 dresses from friends and the one she picked was. . . . epic. My wife is exceedingly hot, . . great moment. She of course didn't let anyone take any real photos (cell phone does not count). But, trust me.

--We saw a storm come and go from the car, in southern Utah on our way to the Grand Canyon. You can see forever out there too. . . Wow.

-- At our Christmas Eve services at Calvary, I just started to feel really grateful for the church where God has placed me. We turn the lights off, light candles, and sing O Holy Night ever year, . . and it's a great moment. God really opened my eyes this year to the beauty of His Church.

--Malachi told me he didn't need me anymore and he would go back to Ethiopia and drive his own car. Although kind of a mean thing to say. . I thought this was hilarious and one example out of 5,000 of the amazing things he says. I had great moments talking to my kids this year.

--Ok, I could go on for pages about my kids. . .but some highlights. . . they got me a shoebox full of coal for Christmas, because I joked about it earlier in the month. . . Eden made me about 5 really great cards/notes this year. She just loves making me things. . . . Provi's stories for school about Malachi and about our sabbatical were great. That girl is a great writer . . .

--The first night of football practice, Sam took the ball around left end for a 20 yard touchdown. Great moment for me, I think he might have actually known what happened :) .

--This was a great moment: Just got chills again when I youtubed it!

--When Dena Groves led "He is Lord" and "Before the Throne of God Above" at church for the first time this year. . . those were great moments.

--When Brian, D, and the band and I led "All Because of Jesus" in October. . . . great moment.

--When Justin Hudnall uncorked the lead line on "Joy to the World" a few weeks ago. wow. He also killed "Awakening" when we introduced that song a few months ago.

--Jody smiled at me . . . . many times.

I could go on and on. . . Leave some comments about your favorite moments from last year. Let's make many more in 2011!

Why Should the Church Have all the Good Music?

2010-12-19T14:35:00.002-07:00

Because it's Christmas, that's why. A great reminder here from that astute theologian: Steve Martin.

HT: Matt Chandler

Christmas. . . for everyone

2010-12-16T10:59:00.002-07:00

This is a great post I found today. I hope it's an encouragement to you:

HT: Vitamin Z

Matt Redmond:

I get it. I mean, it makes sense on the level of Christmas being a time in which there is a lot of heavily concentrated family time. The holidays can be tense in even the best of circumstances. Maneuvering through the landmines of various personalities can be hard even if there is no cancer, divorce or empty seat at the table. What makes it the most wonderful time of the year is also what makes it the most brutal time of the year. My own family has not been immune to this phenomenon.

But allow me to push back against this idea a little. Gently. I think we have it all backwards. We have it sunk deep into our collective cultural consciousness that Christmas is for the happy people. You know, those with idyllic family situations enjoyed around stocking-strewn hearth dreams. Christmas is for healthy people who laugh easily and at all the right times, right? The successful and the beautiful, who live in suburban bliss, can easily enjoy the holidays. They have not gotten lost on the way because of the GPS they got last year. They are beaming after watching a Christmas classic curled up on the couch as a family in front of their ginormous flat-screen. We live and act as if this is who should be enjoying Christmas.

But this is backwards. Christmas—the great story of the incarnation of the Rescuer—is for everyone, especially those who need a rescue. Jesus was born as a baby to know the pain and sympathize with our weaknesses. Jesus was made to be like us so that in his resurrection we can be made like him; free from the fear of death and the pain of loss. Jesus’ first recorded worshipers were not of the beautiful class. They were poor, ugly shepherds, beat down by life and labor. They had been looked down on over many a nose.

Jesus came for those who look in the mirror and see ugliness. Jesus came for daughters whose fathers never told them they were beautiful. Christmas is for those who go to “wing night” alone. Christmas is for those whose lives have been wrecked by cancer, and the thought of another Christmas seems like an impossible dream. Christmas is for those who would be nothing but lonely if not for social media. Christmas is for those whose marriages have careened against the retaining wall and are threatening to flip over the edge. Christmas is for the son whose father keeps giving him hunting gear when he wants art materials. Christmas is for smokers who cannot quit even in the face of a death sentence. Christmas is for prostitutes, adulterers, and porn stars who long for love in every wrong place. Christmas is for college students who are sitting in the midst of the family and already cannot wait to get out for another drink. Christmas is for those who traffic in failed dreams. Christmas is for those who have squandered the family name and fortune—they want “home” but cannot imagine a gracious reception. Christmas is for parents watching their children’s marriage fall into disarray.

Christmas is really about the gospel of grace for sinners. Because of all that Christ has done on the cross, the manger becomes the most hopeful place in a universe darkened with hopelessness. In the irony of all ironies, Christmas is for those who will find it the hardest to enjoy. It really is for those who hate it most.

read the rest

Nice

2010-12-13T12:10:00.002-07:00

I'm feeling snippy today:

Church signs are always good for a laugh. . . . or a cry.

Monday

2010-12-13T09:26:00.002-07:00

Are you having a bad Monday like me? (it's mostly my fault).

If so, this might perk you up. This is just what I needed today!

HT: Vitamin Z

2010: When Sports were too important

2010-12-09T10:28:00.002-07:00

And all the wives said: "It's been this way for years!!!". I know, I know. . . let me explain.

I've wondered why there's been such a negative vibe surrounding some of my favorite teams and athletes this year. I've wondered why I've been sucked into some of the stories so much that I lose focus on some things that are more important. I've also wondered at the hysteria/activism surrounding some of the major stories this year.

To wit:

--LeBron James' choice to play for Miami and leave his hometown of Cleveland has caused amazing backlash. The people of Cleveland have been burning jerseys, publicly hoping for LeBron to have a career-ending injury, chanting "traitor" as he and his friends enter a restaurant to have a meal. . etc. . . LeBron has admitted a mistake in the way he went about it, but it is not enough, he has been vilified, and in a year like this, that is no longer just a metaphor.

--Tiger Woods fall from grace. How many magazine covers have been spent on this story?

--The various coaching hires/fires in Colorado this year. Basically the negative atmosphere surrounding CU and the Broncos made it a necessity to fire the head coach.

--Carmelo Anthony's refusal to sign his contract and the ensuing trade rumors.

--The yearly Nebraska football hysteria that cranked up a notch this year with the changing of conferences and us having a world-class 19 year-old athlete named Taylor Martinez on the team. Apparently some folks need to remember his age.

These are some of the big "stories" that I've seen this year. . .and it's just too much. We've "fox newsed" the sports world where everything is a huge, breaking story. . . The games are secondary to the larger social reactions that the media feeds (sometimes creates) and we consume.

I'm not blaming the media for this. The media simply feeds the monster, and we are the monster. There are a few voices of reason, I remember sportswriter Rich Kaipust in the post-game chat after Nebraska/Texas pastoring some crazy depressed fans to "relax everyone, it was just a football game". That's crazy talk Rich!!!! :)

It has been a crazy year. I'm asking for everyone, (and telling myself) to settle down and go read a book, or listen to some music or something. We have death threats against professional athletes and against conference commissioners, we have 24 hour coverage of events, we have helicopters circling airports, waiting for athletes or coaches to arrive, and we have folks (me) spending untold hours on the internet going after every rumor, every tidbit of information so we know what famous athletes and coaches are thinking to themselves.

The bottom line is this: Just like everything else that isn't God, sports and athletes will disappoint you. We can't find ultimate happiness even when our teams win. It's fun. . it's not ultimate. And, your team will lose.

And the practical truth is. . . . these things don't mean as much to the athletes and coaches/administrators as they do to you and I. They are not as loyal, obsessive, and crazy about what they're doing as we are about them. This is because, for them. . this is a job.

Now, of course, they are passionate about their work as we are about ours. But, they are trying to do what's in their best interest (as we are) and so you can't hitch your wagon to an athlete/team/coach for your happiness, when they are committed to their happiness.

What we learn from Tiger, LeBron, Carmelo, etc. . is that these guys are going to work, and they are trying to make money, and make a good life FOR THEMSELVES. . .not for us.

What we learn from Nebraska, CU, Denver Broncos, etc. . is that these guys are human (and sometimes very immature and/or young) and will make a ton of mistakes. There's something sick about grown men such as myself getting really happy or angry about the decisions or performance of a 19 year old.

There's alot to like about sports. If you've ever played organized sports, it's a great kick to watch a team function together. Also, if you've ever coached it's great to strategize and see the scheme behind what is going on. I've done both, and enjoy both about watching sports.

CJ Mahaney has a great book called "Don't Waste Your Sports" which explores the spiritual and character building things we can take away from sports.

We should enjoy sports. We should partake in them. We should root for a team. We should enjoy the good things about them.

This past year became for me. . a bunch of Jerry Springer stories, trumped up by the media, consumed by obsessive team idolaters that took alot of the fun out of the sports we enjoy.

I'm exploring how to go about enjoying sports differently moving forward, so that it can be FUN. Which is. . . kind of the point.

Don't call me for the next jersey burning or airport stakeout.

Theological nerds. . there is hope!!

2010-12-09T09:10:00.002-07:00

This is funny: (i think the girl's comebacks are funnier)

HT: Vitamin Z

Labor of Love

2010-12-08T10:35:00.004-07:00

It is my goal, one day, to actually do this song at our church. This is probably my favorite non-carol Christmas song, and how can you argue with a song that starts off. . . "it was not a silent night; there was blood on the ground". Not a silent night indeed. . I love that. I know, I know. . kind of a downer at first.

But, this is a beautiful song. I hope you "get it". Most church folks don't want downers and hard reality around Christmas, and I understand that. I just think it would be really neat for a song like this to be heard around Christmas-time at our churches, . . during a time that is often mythologized, cleaned up, and "smiled up" which usually has more to do with American culture than anything related to the Christmas story. Rant over. . . enjoy this great song.

It was not a silent night
There was blood on the ground
You could hear a woman cry
In the alleyways that night
On the streets of David’s town

And the stable was not clean
And the cobblestones were cold
And little Mary full of grace
With the tears upon her face
Had no mother’s hand to hold

It was a labor of pain
It was a cold sky above
But for the girl on the ground in the dark
With every beat of her beautiful heart
It was a labor of love

Noble Joseph at her side
Callused hands and weary eyes
There were no midwives to be found
In the streets of David’s town
In the middle of the night

So he held her and he prayed
Shafts of moonlight on his face
But the baby in her womb
He was the maker of the moon
He was the Author of the faith
That could make the mountains move

It was a labor of pain
It was a cold sky above
But for the girl on the ground in the dark
With every beat of her beautiful heart
It was a labor of love
For little Mary full of grace
With the tears upon her face
It was a labor of love

HT: JT

Playing Darts with the Apocalpyse

2010-12-03T19:31:00.003-07:00

This billboard near 135th Street and Millard Avenue is one of eight in the Omaha area bearing Family Radio's message.

So let me get this straight, . . . . Jesus doesn't know. . . the Bible says we won't know. . . . but these guys definitely know. uh huh.

Crazy Article

We All Have Different Gifts

2010-11-24T21:18:00.002-07:00

Many people think that they have a good handle on their musical acumen. They think that the American Idol auditions are fake, and that those folks are just acting and know that they have zero musical ability.

Well I'm here to tell you that's false. I do auditions all the time, and people typically have an inflated view of their own skills. I do as well. . . you probably do too. The way to combat this is to simply record yourself and listen to it. Prepare to be humbled (and don't perform publicly shortly after you do. My confidence had to recover from my first album for about 5 months)

Unfortunately even that doesn't work for some people. And, unfortunately, some of those people audition for the music/worship teams at churches. I found this video on a great blog, worthilymagnify.com (if you're a worship team person. . . bookmark it).

This guy says he has a "5 octave range". That would be pretty impressive. . . a few people can do that. (very few) I actually had a guy tell me during an audition that he had a "7 octave range". Besides being almost impossible, a skill like that would certainly not be helpful to any worship team, since you know. . . that person would probably be an alien. (I heard Mariah Carey has a 7 octave range. . . ok, I'd have to hear it . . . fyi, the piano has 8 octaves)

This video is classic, enjoy:

Fallon love

2010-11-23T10:11:00.001-07:00

We've got some Jimmy Fallon fans out there. Here's some more Fallon-genius:

Bruce, circa 1975

2010-11-20T14:52:00.002-07:00

So, the story goes that Jimmy Fallon asked Bruce Springsteen to be a part of a skit while Bruce was performing on his show last week. Bruce was hesitant at first, but decided to be a part of it, (and decided to dress up like himself 30 years ago).

I guess Bruce's manager was in tears once he saw him, and Bruce's people couldn't believe how real it all looked,

3 great things about this clip:

1) Jimmy Fallon nails Neil Young. . .absolutely nails it. hilarious.

2) This song is the most absurd thing ever. I youtubed the original version, it's some techno thing. yikes.

3) Is there anyone else quite like Bruce, where if your eyes were closed, you would know who was singing in about .2 seconds? I don't think so. What an awesome voice. And yes, that outfit is an exact replica of himself, circa 1975. (i guess he still had the sunglasses . . they just had to find a wig)

enjoy! music geek out.

Yup.

2010-11-19T16:39:00.000-07:00

Pastor Mark Driscoll, from the Washington Post---

When it comes to technology in general, and social networking in particular, the heart is simply revealed. Impatient, angry people post flame-throwing statements in haste. Boastful, narcissistic people post statements and photos constantly to ensure we do not ignore them. Dissident troublemakers post trolling inflammatory comments, seeking to have the same effect as a hose on a bees' nest. And the perverted pursue illicit connections, including adultery, as they enjoy posting and seeing sexualized photos and statements.

The Six Second Kiss

2010-11-18T16:22:00.000-07:00

Give it a shot!

HT: The Resurgence

Restoring Sanity

2010-11-18T12:45:00.002-07:00

I used to not like "The Daily Show" very much. Of course, it was hilarious, and I would laugh when I watched it. But, I must say that John Stewart got a little tiresome with his "I"m just a comedian, we follow a show about crank calling" crossed with his biting critique that was supposed be taken seriously. Either your show matters or it doesn't, . . but you can't have it both ways.

Lately, John seems to be explaining himself (and acting) in a much more helpful way. He gave an hour long interview with Rachel Maddow after his "Rally to Restore Sanity" explaining what the point was, and why the left shouldn't have been so hard him (as they were).

This was a very helpful, intellectual interview. . . I really enjoyed it. I also enjoyed the parts of the Rally that I saw, and . . .

That seems to be the norm on "The Daily Show" these days. They have really honest, helpful, well-thought-out dialogue; something, unfortunately, that is hard to come by on MSNBC, CNN, or FOX.

Every time I watch the Daily Show now, I learn something. This week, JayZ had a really insightful interview about the history of rap. John S. also interviewed the writers of the new book "All the Devils are in the Room" about the financial crises on Wall St. I learned things about the breakdown of our financial system that I had never heard before.

The biggest reason I'm a fan of "The Daily Show" nowadays is that John S. is finally an equal opportunity offender. For years, he would say this, and then proceed to bash anything that smacked of conservatism or the Republican Party. But, lately (maybe because we have a Democratic president) he's been going after everyone. He obliterated Charlie Rangel this week (that piece was hilarious), he stood up for the Palin family a bit (while taking well-placed shots at Sarah. . .but her new show deserves it), and went after President Obama pretty good when they were in Washington a few weeks ago. To be sure, John Stewart veers left. But, he can see what's wrong with his own positions. In the Maddow interview, he went after Maddow and the left for calling President Bush a war criminal. He's pushing for nuance. . . I like that.

The reason for them being in Washington was to hold their "Rally to Restore Sanity". In my mind, this was a historic gathering. John S. was criticized from the left and the right (which probably means he did something very right) but succeeded in showing the absurdity of our current poltical and media climate. The basic point was that if you shout about everything, nothing is emphasized, and that our discourse can be respectful and intellectual even though our viewpoints can be clearly divided. Crazy idea huh??

I think John S. and to some extent, Stephen Colbert are really two of the most important guys in the media right now. They're exposing the current media for what much of it currently is. . . ridiculous and laughable. They know (and can now explain) the important social place of the satirist. Here's some links to the Maddow interview, their Time Magazine recognition, and the Daily Show website.

Interview Time Mag Daily Show

Fair warning: the Daily Show does alot of vulgar comedy to make their point, . .

Beautiful

2010-11-15T09:54:00.003-07:00

I'm pretty excited about this. . . Christmas present ideas for Aaron anyone??

But seriously, it's great to see someone who is excellent and world-class at what they do, infusing their art with their faith. It also makes me miss the fine arts community a bit, of which I was a big part in college. Enjoy this video and consider saving up for this work of art. Here's the Amazon link and the video.

Fujimura - 4 Holy Gospels from Crossway on Vimeo.

Pray

2010-11-10T16:33:00.006-07:00

We're going through the book of Revelation right now in our young adult's group at Calvary. Some of those passages that speak of the suffering of Christians are hard to understand sitting in Boulder, CO. Lately, we've seen the pages of scripture (unfortunately) being played out in Iraq. It's a humbling thing for us to see our brothers and sisters under attack for their faith, and literally not safe, in their own homes. If you have a minute to read this, take one more minute to pray for these folks and their families: (click on the title to go to the story)

10 November 2010 Last updated at 16:48 ET

Christian areas targeted in deadly Baghdad attacks

Good Times

2010-11-10T12:23:00.002-07:00

Tis the season for some trick plays. My buddy Dave Johnson posted one of these yesterday on Facebook, but here are a few more. And, let me say, as an offensive tackle growing up in Nebraska, the Fumblerooskie brings a tear to my eye. We practiced this play all the time, but I was never able to run it in a game. The Big Red pulled it off in the National Championship Game. Enjoy!

HT: Justin Taylor

Unreal

2010-11-09T12:37:00.002-07:00

Provi tells me alot that I should go on Wheel of Fortune. We watch it together and I often get the puzzle right before the folks on t.v. (I'm not really that good, . .they're just playing for money, dragging it out, and they have pressure, nerves . . .etc . ).

Anyway, this clip is so ridiculous. Did this lady cheat? You make the call.

Hmmm.

2010-11-09T09:33:00.000-07:00

I'm just sayin. . . (I bolded some sections I thought were helpful)

Twinkie diet helps nutrition professor lose 27 pounds

By Madison Park, CNN

November 8, 2010 8:40 a.m. EST

STORY HIGHLIGHTS

Nutrition professor's "convenience store diet" helped him shed 27 pounds
Haub limited himself to 1,800 calories and two-thirds come from junk food
Haub said it's too early to draw any conclusions about diet

(CNN) -- Twinkies. Nutty bars. Powdered donuts.

For 10 weeks, Mark Haub, a professor of human nutrition at Kansas State University, ate one of these sugary cakelets every three hours, instead of meals. To add variety in his steady stream of Hostess and Little Debbie snacks, Haub munched on Doritos chips, sugary cereals and Oreos, too.

His premise: That in weight loss, pure calorie counting is what matters most -- not the nutritional value of the food.

The premise held up: On his "convenience store diet," he shed 27 pounds in two months.

For a class project, Haub limited himself to less than 1,800 calories a day. A man of Haub's pre-dieting size usually consumes about 2,600 calories daily. So he followed a basic principle of weight loss: He consumed significantly fewer calories than he burned.

His body mass index went from 28.8, considered overweight, to 24.9, which is normal. He now weighs 174 pounds.

But you might expect other indicators of health would have suffered. Not so.

Haub's "bad" cholesterol, or LDL, dropped 20 percent and his "good" cholesterol, or HDL, increased by 20 percent. He reduced the level of triglycerides, which are a form of fat, by 39 percent.

"That's where the head scratching comes," Haub said. "What does that mean? Does that mean I'm healthier? Or does it mean how we define health from a biology standpoint, that we're missing something?"

Haub's sample day

Espresso, Double: 6 calories; 0 grams of fat

Hostess Twinkies Golden Sponge Cake: 150 calories; 5 grams of fat

Centrum Advanced Formula From A To Zinc: 0 calories; 0 grams of fat

Little Debbie Star Crunch: 150 calories; 6 grams of fat

Hostess Twinkies Golden Sponge Cake: 150 calories; 5 grams of fat

Diet Mountain Dew: 0 calories; 0 grams of fat

Doritos Cool Ranch: 75 calories; 4 grams of fat

Kellogg's Corn Pops: 220 calories; 0 grams of fat

whole milk: 150 calories; 8 grams of fat

baby carrots: 18 calories; 0 grams of fat

Duncan Hines Family Style Brownie Chewy Fudge: 270 calories; 14 grams of fat

Little Debbie Zebra Cake: 160 calories; 8 grams of fat

Muscle Milk Protein Shake: 240 calories; 9 grams of fat

Totals: 1,589 calories and 59 grams of fat

Despite his temporary success, Haub does not recommend replicating his snack-centric diet.

"I'm not geared to say this is a good thing to do," he said. "I'm stuck in the middle. I guess that's the frustrating part. I can't give a concrete answer. There's not enough information to do that."

Two-thirds of his total intake came from junk food. He also took a multivitamin pill and drank a protein shake daily. And he ate vegetables, typically a can of green beans or three to four celery stalks.

Families who live in food deserts have limited access to fresh fruits and vegetables, so they often rely on the kind of food Haub was eating.

"These foods are consumed by lots of people," he said. "It may be an issue of portion size and moderation rather than total removal. I just think it's unrealistic to expect people to totally drop these foods for vegetables and fruits. It may be healthy, but not realistic."

Haub's body fat dropped from 33.4 to 24.9 percent. This posed the question: What matters more for weight loss, the quantity or quality of calories?

His success is probably a result of caloric reduction, said Dawn Jackson Blatner, a dietitian based in Atlanta, Georgia.

"It's a great reminder for weight loss that calories count," she said. "Is that the bottom line to being healthy? That's another story."

Blatner, a spokeswoman for the American Dietetic Association, said she's not surprised to hear Haub's health markers improved even when he loaded up on processed snack cakes.

Being overweight is the central problem that leads to complications like high blood pressure, diabetes and high cholesterol, she said.

How well are you managing your diabetes?

"When you lose weight, regardless of how you're doing it -- even if it's with packaged foods, generally you will see these markers improve when weight loss has improved," she said.

Before jumping on the Ding Dong bandwagon, Blatner warned of health concerns.

"There are things we can't measure," said Blatner, questioning how the lack of fruits and vegetables could affect long-term health. "How much does that affect the risk for cancer? We can't measure how diet changes affect our health."

I was eating healthier, but I wasn't healthy. I was eating too much.
--Professor Mark Haub

The ultimate Twinkie diet

RELATED TOPICS

On August 25, Haub, 41, started his cake diet focusing on portion control.

"I'm eating to the point of need and pushing the plate or wrapper away," he said.

He intended the trial to last a month as a teaching tool for his class. As he lost weight, Haub continued the diet until he reached a normal body mass index.

Before his Twinkie diet, he tried to eat a healthy diet that included whole grains, dietary fiber, berries and bananas, vegetables and occasional treats like pizza.

"There seems to be a disconnect between eating healthy and being healthy," Haub said. "It may not be the same. I was eating healthier, but I wasn't healthy. I was eating too much."

He maintained the same level of moderate physical activity as before going on the diet. (Haub does not have any ties to the snack cake companies.)

To avoid setting a bad example for his kids, Haub ate vegetables in front of his family. Away from the dinner table, he usually unwrapped his meals.

Study: U.S. obesity rate will hit 42 percent

Haub monitored his body composition, blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose, and updated his progress on his Facebook page,Professor Haub's diet experiment.

To curb calories, he avoided meat, whole grains and fruits. Once he started adding meat into the diet four weeks ago, his cholesterol level increased.

Haub plans to add about 300 calories to his daily intake now that he's done with the diet. But he's not ditching snack cakes altogether. Despite his weight loss, Haub feels ambivalence.

"I wish I could say the outcomes are unhealthy. I wish I could say it's healthy. I'm not confident enough in doing that. That frustrates a lot of people. One side says it's irresponsible. It is unhealthy, but the data doesn't say that."

Email Correction

2010-11-05T10:11:00.002-06:00

I'm loving the Gospel Coalition "round table" discussions they've been putting out in preparation for the conference next Spring.

This is a really good discussion between CJ Mahaney and James McDonald about correcting someone through email. After you watch it, I have some thoughts:

I like this video a lot. The only thing I wished they would've asked/answered is a situation where there is no "face to face" way to communicate (the person does not live near you) and what if the emotions are so strong that it might be better to not see the person while having the conversation.

I guess the answer to my second question would be to wait until you cool off enough (if possible) to have that conversation. What do you guys think?

I've made more email errors than anyone else I know. I'm the chief of sinners in this area. I'm trying to figure it out. This was a great video for me.

Election Day

2010-11-02T17:54:00.002-06:00

Thanks to my good (newly engaged) buddy Danny for posting this today.

Pastor Mark Driscoll wrote this during the election season of 2008, but I really believe it's a post for all political seasons. This is what I meant in my post earlier explaining why I think Christians should have a "healthy skepticism" about what our politicians will/can accomplish and what problems they will/can solve and/or cause (I think I just broke a record for slashes). At any rate,. . let this one marinate for a bit. We can all do well to be reminded of this:

In God We Do Not Trust

Mark Driscoll

In my years of pastoral ministry I have worked very hard to not be political. I believe that my job as a pastor is to preach and teach the Bible well so that my people make their decisions, including their voting decisions, out of their faith convictions.

This election season which has dominated the cultural conversation for many months has been particularly insightful regarding the incessant gospel thirst that abides deep in the heart of the men and women who bear God’s image. Without endorsing or maligning either political party or their respective presidential candidates, I am hopeful that a few insights from the recent election season are of help, particularly to younger evangelicals.

First, people are longing for a savior who will atone for their sins. In this election, people thirst for a savior who will atone for their economic sins of buying things they did not need with money they did not have. The result is a mountain of credit debt they cannot pay and a desperate yearning that somehow a new president will save them from economic hell.

Second, people are longing for a king who will keep them safe from terror in his kingdom. In the Old Testament the concept of a peaceable kingdom is marked by the word shalom. In shalom there is not only the absence of sin, war, strife, and suffering but also the presence of love, peace, harmony, and health. And, this thirst for shalom is so parched that every election people cannot help but naively believe that if their candidate simply wins shalom is sure to come despite sin and the curse.

The bottom line is obvious to those with gospel eyes.

People are longing for Jesus, and tragically left voting for mere presidential candidates. For those whose candidate wins today there will be some months of groundless euphoric faith in that candidate and the atoning salvation that their kingdom will bring. But, in time, their supporters will see that no matter who wins the presidency, they are mere mortals prone to sin, folly, and self-interest just like all the other sons of Adam and daughters of Eve. To help extend naïve false hope as long as possible, a great enemy will be named and demonized as the one who is hindering all of the progress to atone for our sins and usher in our kingdom. If the Democrats win it will be the rich, and if the Republicans win it will be the terrorists. This diversionary trick is as old as Eve who blamed her sin on Satan rather than repenting. The lie is that it’s always someone else’s fault and we’re always the victim of sinners and never the sinner. Speaking of repentance, sadly, no matter who wins there will be no call to personal repentance of our own personal sins which contributes to cultural suffering and decline such as our pride, gluttony, covetousness, greed, indebtedness, self-righteousness, perversion, and laziness.

And, in four years we’ll do it all again and pretend that this time things will be different. Four years after that, we’ll do it yet again. And, we’ll continue driving around this cul de sac until Jesus returns, sets up his throne, and puts an end to folly once and for all.

In the meantime, I would encourage all preachers to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and repentance of personal sin. He alone can truly atone for our sins. He alone can deliver us from a real hell. He alone is our sinless and great King. And, he alone has a Shalom kingdom to offer. Lastly, for those preachers who have gotten sidetracked for the cause of a false king and a false kingdom by making too much of the election and too little of Jesus, today is a good day to practice repentance in preparation to preach it on Sunday. Just give it some time. The thirst will remain that only Jesus can quench. So, we’ve still got work to do….until we see King Jesus and voting is done once and for all.

What Missouri should've done on the 1 yard line last week

2010-10-31T21:32:00.002-06:00

Instead. . they ran 2 plays out of the shotgun, and then got a penalty.

(Jeff Sherard, I love ya! )

I repeat: RUN THE BALL

Need some laughs?

2010-10-29T09:51:00.002-06:00

2 things:

From the "not taking any responsibility for yourself whatsoever" department:

Judge: McDonald's Must Pay Obese Employee $17.5K

Published October 29, 2010

| Associated Press

SAO PAULO – A Brazilian court ruled this week that McDonald's must pay a former franchise manager $17,500 because he gained 65 pounds while working there for a dozen years.

The 32-year-old man said he felt forced to sample the food each day to ensure quality standards remained high, because McDonald's hired "mystery clients" to randomly visit restaurants and report on the food, service and cleanliness.

The man also said the company offered free lunches to employees, adding to his caloric intake while on the job. His identity was not released.

The ruling was signed Tuesday by Judge Joao Ghisleni Filho in Porto Alegre.

Ghisleni said McDonald's could appeal the case, and the Brazilian headquarters of the chain said in an e-mailed statement Thursday it was weighing its legal options.

McDonald's also noted that it offers healthier food choices.

"The chain offers a large variety of options and balanced menus to cater (to) the daily dietaryneeds of its employees," the company said in the statement.

McDonald's headquarters is in Oak Brook, Illinois.

And, I"m not sure where this came from in his comedic mind, but Will Ferrell is a genius. The chest bump and spread eagle stance is classic.

Will Ferrell taking over Celine Dion's show.

My Week

2010-10-28T13:39:00.003-06:00

Great thought from Chris Castaldo, and a pretty good picture of my week:

According to my dictionary, the idiom “uphill battle” is defined as “a struggle against very unfavorable circumstances.”

Some days, uphill battles make us more aware of the truth expressed in Zech 4:6, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts.” Praise God.

HT: Chris Castaldo

A Quick Nuggets Thought

2010-10-28T08:59:00.003-06:00

I know, it's early. . .

Here's some snippets from the interviews after the game last night. . . a Nuggets blow out win over their rivals, the Jazz, 110-88.

-----------------------

Now that he's back, Karl's next assignment is coaxing Anthony to stick around.

"Try to convince Melo the place he wants to be is really Denver. He just doesn't know it yet," Karl said.

Anthony has been mentioned in trade speculation since he brushed off a three-year, $65 million extension with the Nuggets in June. He was in his white jersey with powder blue and gold trim Wednesday, but this possibly could be his final opener with the team.

Unless Karl can persuade him.

"Come on, George. Let me play," Anthony said when told of Karl's comments. "I'm here. Tonight, I was excited about this game. I can't control what happens out there. Whatever happens, is going to happen."

-----------------------------------

I have two problems with this: 1) Carmelo CAN control what happens out there. Why doesn't he sign his extention? How about at least a one year deal so that this squad can play it out? If it doesn't work, he's welcome to leave next year.

2) I know the Nuggets don't want to lose Carmelo for nothing. . but since a lockout is almost certainly coming next summer, I think it might be the best move. This is the best team the Nuggets have had in a while. It would be a shame to not let them play it out.

We got some size over the summer. . Shelden Williams had 16 rebounds last night, and Al Harrington had wide open jumpers all night (folks have to focus on Carmelo) and about 8 rebounds himself. We've never had that before, two big guys who can bruise people and take the pressure off of Carmelo.

We still have Nene and JR Smith two players who are forever maddening to Denver fans. But, the kicker is. . .they can be themselves now (inconsistent) because we've got so many weapons. We're a deep team, not as deep as the Celtics or Lakers. . but much deeper than the Heat, Spurs, Mavs, or anyone else in the West.

This is a good team, I hope the powers that be will let them play it out this year.

Classic

2010-10-25T09:15:00.002-06:00

Bill Cosby is one funny dude. And, the kicker is, he's funny without saying anything. He's the best straight man in the history of T.V. If you want to laugh for 14 minutes, check out this hilarious clip from "You Bet Your Life". The show starts at the 1 minute mark of this clip. Then, there's a part 2 that's equally as funny.

They don't make 'em like this anymore.

HT: Kevin DeYoung

Ouch

2010-10-23T11:08:00.002-06:00

This was part of a Q & A regarding a new book "Ex-Christian"

Has the church played a role in causing this (people de-converting from Christianity) trend? If so, how can it stem the tide?

Over the past couple decades the focus in youth ministry has shifted from spiritual growth to attracting large numbers of kids and keeping them entertained. This move has had some ugly unintended consequences. Today many youth ministries are practically devoid of any spiritual engagement. Some have been reduced to using violent video game parties to lure students through their church doors on Friday nights. Church researcher Ed Stetzer describes most youth groups as "holding tanks with pizza." There's nothing wrong with video games and pizza, but they're tragic replacements for discipleship and catechism. Many young people have been exposed to a superficial form of Christianity that effectively inoculates them against authentic faith. To stem the tide of young people leaving, I believe churches need to shift the emphasis back to religious education and spiritual growth.

Good Piece on Boundaries for Kids

2010-10-21T17:47:00.002-06:00

The almighty family cult is alive and well in my town. It's hard not to get twisted thinking. . . "my kid needs to broaden their horizons, spread their wings, I need to get them involved in all these activities!" . . . when they might just need more time with their parents, more solid family time, and time to rest on the weekends. There's some good questions that need to be asked here in this great piece that shows what we're doing to our kids, what they need, and some suprising research on how simple some of it is.

David Crowder and Light Brite

2010-10-21T17:33:00.003-06:00

David Crowder. Wow. It just makes me feel good to know that David Crowder is out there making ridiculous art, with a love for God, a heart for people, and ridiculous amounts of gifting and talent. Christians are producing top-rate, incomparable, art, . . . .regardless of what we think after listening to KLove. Check out this amazing video.

Where we run into problems is when we take a cue from the secular entertainment/celebrity culture and try to start emulating David Crowder (or Mark Driscoll, or anyone else who is a well-known Christian going about his/her business serving the Lord). I count myself guilty of this (see track 1, More of You album, 519). It's especially bad when worship leaders try and do worship services like Crowder does in Waco, TX, or think they aren't successful until they can "pull this off".

It's tempting. But, these guys are incredibly gifted. You can't imitate the best, and you (I) just look foolish trying. God gave us all a measure of gifting in various things (1 Corinthians 12) and we need to be busy about using our gifting for the edification of His Church. Let's thank God for good ol' Dave, enjoy and be edified by what he does. . . .and not try and emulate him or anyone else. David is certainly an unique individual, and we are too.

Thanks Dave, for this sweet video, . . . a great picture of Christian love, and a beautiful song with sick audio and video production.

ps. I can't seem to fix the margins on this blog to accomodate "wider" stuff. Here's the link if the video is clipped for you http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P8cAU475dQo&feature=player_embedded

If anyone can help me with this. . .I'd love to know what I"m messing up.

Good Riddance

2010-10-16T22:07:00.003-06:00

Well, there you go. Texas owns Nebraska. . they absolutely own us. There is something cosmic going on that Nebraska will not beat Texas (when it matters). We just won't. How else do you explain 4 dropped touchdown passes? Congrats to the Longhorns, you own Nebraska.

Good Riddance, Bevo. I hope to never see the orange and cream in Memorial Stadium again. I can't wait to move to the Big 10.

But, hey, . . . Nebraska didn't show up. We played awful. Let's see how Coach Pelini and co. can deal with being the hunted, with being the top dog. He's great at "us against the world". . . let's do some work on "the world is coming for us". I think we'll rebound well from this.

Old Fish

2010-10-16T08:52:00.002-06:00

I was working at Long John Silver's. . . . It was some Christmas-temp. kind of thing. . . early part of December, 1996.

The Nebraska Cornhuskers had just reeled off two straight undefeated seasons, we were headed for a spot in the National Championship Game. Scott Frost, our new quarterback, was kind of a local hero. I had met him the year before, and he fulfilled the dreams of thousands of small-town Nebraska boys of playing for the Huskers, succeeding, and showing the big city kids who's boss.

We were playing Texas. There was a small T.V. back in the prep room. I had never really learned the Cash Register at LJS (hey, I was a temp) so I was back with the batter, the chicken, and the old fish (I had to shower after work before Jody would even see me in those days. . . her hatred for fish has not waned in 14 years).

Well, the short story is. . . heartbreak. Texas pulled a trick play on 4th down and clinched the game at the very end. James Brown was their quarterback. . . we did not "feel good" suffice it to say. It was a stomach punch loss. The fish was 5 pounds heavier for the rest of the afternoon. It was a rainy day,. . . . pretty miserable.

Every NU/Texas game (save for one blowout each for Nebraska and Texas) has gone that way. Last year was similar, we had the game clinched, then our Romanian kicker shanks the kickoff, giving the Longhorns the ball at the 40. Next, one of our defensive backs gets called for a horse-collar tackle (dubious) that puts Texas in field goal range. Then, Colt McCoy rolls out, (why were they even trying to pass) throws the ball out of bounds, and the clock goes to .00.

The clock guy messed up and they put a second back on the clock. Texas then kicked the game winning field goal. Brutal.

So, today will be the last NU/UT game ever (in the Big 12 at least). There will be no regular season games scheduled between these two. . I'm pretty sure of that. Perhaps a National Title Game or Bowl Game will happen one day, but this is pretty much it.

Let me say this. . . NU should win today. Texas is not very good. There will be no such thing as "running up the score" today, should NU emerge victorious. We will score as many points as it takes to erase the memories of 1996, 98, 2002, 06, and 09. Whatever that is, we should score that much. We should not pull any starters until next Tuesday. We should run plays that are working until Texas stops them. All of that is in play today. Today is about "getting monkeys" off your back and "getting over the hump". . pick your metaphor. It's game time.

ps. and should Texas keep this close, or (gasp) win it. Congrats, . . they own us, and there is something in the corn that doesn't allow us to beat that team. bring it.

It makes your brain bleed. . . .

2010-10-11T09:49:00.002-06:00

I'm not a fan of Glenn Beck. I don't have a personal problem with the "Coke" corporation. But, I've been ridiculed for shooing people away from Diet Soda for a long time now. It's ok, I'm not a diet expert, so I don't deserve uncritical acceptance of things I say. . . .

But, here's some pretty good evidence that you shouldn't drink much of it, . . .courtesy of this story about Glenn Beck.

If you're trying to lose weight, and need some flavor besides water. . find some calorie free sports drinks or something. . . but don't just sub diet soda for regular. You might as well just drink the regular in smaller doses. The key chemical to avoid is Aspartame.

I actually think this was part of what led to my dad's health problems that eventually took his life.

Rant over. . .check this story out.

Boot Camp

2010-09-30T15:53:00.002-06:00

I've been watching the Acts 29 boot camp live this week. Mark Driscoll has had some great things to say on prioritizing some sins above others, in the past. Today, he talked again about some Christianly "acceptable" sins, like gluttony. Gotta love the Boot Camps, you get gold like this from Driscoll:

"Drunkenness kills alot of people. . . gravy is killing baptists. . . different people get drunk on different things"

(smile)

Carmelo

2010-09-28T17:02:00.002-06:00

I'll probably blog about this more as the season begins in the NBA. But, I"m going to make a prediction:

Carmelo is playing in Denver this year. He may opt out after the season, or he may get traded in February at the deadline, if he won't commit to the team.

But, he's not getting traded before the season starts. Most of this has been hype. The only thing we know for sure is that Carmelo doesn't want to be in Denver for 3 more years. He's happy to play this year out. And, with the collective bargaining agreement expiring. . who knows how much he will be able to get paid next year. . . or if there will even be a "next year" for the NBA.

So, he's playing in Denver this year. . buckle up.

(if Carmelo is traded in the next few days. . this post never happened, and I knew it all along)

random insights

Day after Day they Pour Forth Speech

Lynx

Dogs and Cats, . . and Kids can smell fear

The Wrong Person

Amazing.

Mouth. . . meet foot.

The Presence of God and Worship under the New Covenant

Colossians 1:26-28

26 the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. 27 To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.

Not Impressed

Lynx

Disagreeing with the Puritans

. . .And Hopefully They'll all "die"

Losing the Battle and Winning the War

Isaiah 14:24

Good Music

Crucial

C.S. Lewis and the devil

J-No

Dubious List

Why I'm not a fan of "Love Languages"

.

Warming Up a Cold Marriage

For the guys. . . . for the girls

Just feeling grateful and a little sad about the David Crowder Band this morning

Happy 4th!

Jared Hits Home Runs

Congressmen and Broken Cisterns

Ephesians 2:13-14

Hebrews 12:24

Drunk Ladies and Judgement

Note-Takers

Uh-huh

Shaqapalooza

Wow. John Owen

A Dash of Humility

No Earthly Good

Good Word

Osama, Obama, Burning, and Geraldo

Ezekiel 33:11 (New International Version, ©2011)

Say to them, ‘As surely as I live, declares the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, people of Israel?

It's Not Easy

Character Matters

Colossians 2:20-24 (English Standard Version)

Hope Does Not Disappoint

Ephesians 1:18-22 (New International Version, ©2011)

Two new books

47 Minutes Well Spent

An Under-Reported Consequence of Universalism

Humility, Thy Name is Pop-a-shot. . . .and Other Observations from Chuck-e-Cheese

Spiritual Disintegration

Carmelwho? and the Nuggets

State of the Unions

Ouch

Kellerpalooza

Mumford

Happy Valentine's Day

Redefining Death

Who watches this stuff?

Only the housebound watch Maury.

Feelin' Weak?

Foreign Language

Lynx

Glee Club

38th Anniversary

The Social Network

Lynx on Parenting

New Perspective on Balloon Boy

Epic Fail

Yep

PaulTripp: Ministry is not first about telling people what to do, but about telling them who they are, so that obedience will flow out of celebration.

Lynx

2010: A Year of Moments

Why Should the Church Have all the Good Music?

Christmas. . . for everyone

Nice

Monday

2010: When Sports were too important

Theological nerds. . there is hope!!

²⁶ the mystery hidden for ages and generations but now revealed to his saints. ²⁷ To them God chose to make known how great among the Gentiles are the riches of the glory of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.