Everything is Illuminated

A couple days ago P. and I watched Everything is Illuminated. Loved it. I think the wife wasn't so pleased on account of its heavy subject matter, but I thought it was rather profound--sad and hopeful at the same time. Anybody else seen this flick? If so, what did you think of it.

Beware the Female

As part of one of my classes I'm currently reading the Apocrypha, which, except for 1/2 Maccabees, I've never dipped into. It's really enjoyable reading, I must say. Here's a great line from the book of Judith, enclosed within a celebratory song of praise recounting the deeds of Judith, whereby the people of Israel are delivered from the Assyrians.

(BTW: Judith seduced the Assyrian captain and, when he was drunk, cut off his head.)

"Her sandal ravished his eyes,
Her beauty captivated his mind,
and the sword severed his neck!"

Back when I was a little more cynical of the female species, I would have said that this utterance well summed up my thoughts.

Oddities

So, I've noticed lately a number of odd things that I do. Perhaps this is due to old age. And if so, at least I can be appreciative that I'm aware of my descent into senility. Please chime in with your own odd behavior if you can determine that such exists (ask a friend, spouse, or family member if not; trust me, it's best to known). Here's just a couple of things I noticed last week:

1) I'm really beginning to talk to myself. Out loud. About random things. A lot.

2) I'm hording napkins like the world is ending. Not quite sure why, but any chance I get, I stuff my pockets with 'em. My pants pockets, my shorts, and even my jackets. Why?

iGod on Pauline Chronology

Check out this hilarious chat b/w Mark Goodacre and iGod about Pauline chronology. Yes, I should be studying.

Decisions

What does the future hold? In May, P. and I will have (theoretically) completed our respetive academic programs. (Much to my chagrin, she will be a "doctor" and I will be only, well, a "master"; actually, master sounds more important. Don't you think?) At that time we will have to make some decisions about the next few years and possibly beyond. I've never been good at making decisions, especially big ones. For being the big picture kind of guy I claim to be, I sure am pretty devoid of big plans.

My style of leadership in marriage is to make ad hoc decisions and then work feveriously to provide some sort of rationale that commands assent. A friend of mine graciously put a positive spin on this by noting that this is what makes us so flexible. (Thanks, Jas.) Unfortunately, I think this is really a reflection of my inability (unwillingness?) to sense God's will in matters. Long ago I latched onto the idea propounded by another friend that God's will is something worked out in our lives as we walk with him, and not a plan to that he always reveals to us. There is much truth to this--though my wife doesn't like this concept--but perhaps in my life this has become an excuse for doing what seems right to me.

And what seems right to me, or my desires, are part of my decision-making rationale. Because I am so much a prisoner of my own thoughts, I can't seem to access the mind of God, and thus am only able to fall back on dreams. These dreams I then deem to be desires that God has placed on my heart. You can see how this works; it's all very circular. (Yet another friend, upon hearing my doubts about my own "dreams theory," advised that I trust but verify--though scripture and prayer. Why can't I come up with such advice?)

All this is to say that I have a bad history when it comes to big decisions, and several are on the horizon. I (we) want our decision(s) to be grounded in God's will--whatever that means. The temptation is to be moved by practical concerns which, in my disillusionment with the way of illusion (idealism?), sounds like a safe and pretty nice way to make a decision at this point.

Ethiopian Super Natural

I'm off to class but before going I wanted to put in a good word for the coffee I had this morning. When I was in Peets Coffee the other day, shopping for my drug of choice, I noticed that a new bean was being featured--Ethiopian Super Natural--hailing from the Yirgacheffe region. I'm a big fan of Yirgacheffe beans in general, so I put up the extra cash ($18, I think) for this limited offering. This is terrific coffee. Very smooth with a slight cherry flavor. If you have access to a Peets Coffee and Tea store near you, I recommend you try this coffee.

Birthday

Well, I've entered the third decade of my life. It's all downhill from here. As far as wisdom goes, there's nothing I can point to as having been acquired in the last year that makes 30 an important landmark. However, what I have gained, and what means the most to me, is friendship. That's why my wife's birthday gift was excedingly special and memorable. The opportunity to spend time with our closest Boston friends on Saturday and Sunday nights meant a lot to me and will always be remembered. Thanks, guys, for your friendship. May I be as good a friend as you all are to me.

Beer Update

So, P. and I made our bi-monthly trip to Marty's Liquor and Fine Foods last night. As it was the eve of my b-day, the missus let me choose the beverage. She, of course, was hoping I'd opt for the Belgian Lefe that was on sale--a fine choice by any standards--but I had my eye on the Bavarian Dobbelbock from Ayinger called Celebrator. I had had a brew from Ayinger before (a lager, as I recall) at my favorite area beer bar, The Publick House, but I had never tried this offering. The slightly metallic taste that greeted my palate I choose to attribute to the beer's having sat on the store shelf for a lengthy period of time (the bottles were dusty). The finish, however, was terrific. And yes, I did keep the ram.


Lest anyone think that I'm a selfish ogre when it comes to beer selection, let me hasten to add that on a previous trip to Marty's, P. had chosen the beer, and in so doing had significantly bolstered her credibility. She chose a lager produced by Christian Moerlein, a brewery of which we were unaware until then. It turned out to be a diamond in the rough. Here I am enjoying a sip in my prized Dogfish Head (another fine outfit, IMO) mug.

Of course, I had to get an old favorite of mine while I was there--Mackeson XXX Stout. Several reviewers at the Beer Advocate seem not to be impressed with this libation, but it holds a fond place in my (beer) gut. I was introduced to this brew while in college; it was featured as part of Old Chicago's Around the World Beer Tour. Here I am enjoying the dark substance in my Guinness beer mug via St. James Gate, Dublin.

My Program

Wow, I cannot believe it has been almost a month since I've last posted. Since that time I have quit my job, cleaned my apartment (including designating books for reassignment, sniff), and registered for and begun classes. It's been busy around here. While I'm a little apprehensive about whether I can cut in the academic life, I'm excited about the subjects I'll be studying. Here's what I'll be taking (since all are dying to know):

I. Fall Semester:

A. Seminar in Biblical Theology (research in topics and methodology, G.C.)
B. First Images of Jesus Christ (early christian Jesus devotion, Har.)
C. Readings in Second Temple Jewish Literature (directed study, G.C.)
D. New Testament Textual Criticism (directed study, G.C.)--thanks to the bloggers at Evangelical Textual Criticism for their assistance.

II. Spring Semester (tentative):

A. Exegesis of Mark (G.C.)
B. Exegesis in the Minor Prophets (G.C.)
C. Pauline Theology Post New Perspective (directed study, G.C.)
D. The Septuagint (H.C.)

Effects of Wine

Michael Gilleland has a great post up entitled "Some Effects of Wine." Check it out here. I would have to concur with the ancients and plead guilty on all three counts.

See also his post on "Good Advice." Beautiful poetry from Horace et al.

Young Adults and Church

There's a post up over at Out of Ur that questions why young adults are "not finding their places in their parents' churches." Along the same lines, Andy Rowell links to an interview with Sarah Cunningham, author of Dear Church: Letters from a Disillusioned Generation, over at Paradoxoloy.

Teaching Sitting Down

Edward Cook at Ralph the Sacred River has an interesting post up about instruction in antiquity. Check it out here. (HT: Michael Gilleland).

Dramatic Entrance

One thing that always strikes me when reading the first three chapters of Mark is the sense of something new that is happening--something startling, remarkable, life altering. Jesus Christ, the very Son of God!, has entered human history. The combined Isaiahic/Malachiac prophecy, the prophet's preparation, the descent of the Spirit and approval of the father, and the special trial of tempting in the wilderness--all bear witness that something extraordinary is occuring with Jesus' arrival on the stage of human(/divine) history. It should come as no surprise, then, that Jesus proclaims the "gospel of God" and announces that "the time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand." Everything has changed with the coming of this Jew from Nazareth. We see here the culmination of God's revelatory expressions of the past, yet also the beginning of a new chapter in his relationship with humankind.

"Repent and believe in the gospel," is the response urged by Jesus, and it is the only natural one given what we come to learn about Jesus' identity and purpose in Mark's Gospel. Do we feel the urgency and excitement that is required for such a response? Most of Jesus' contemporaries either didn't understand or were too obstinate or enthralled with the security that their positions of wealth and/or power afforded them to respond appropriately. Clearly some realized the import of Jesus' appearance, life, death, and resurrection; Mark writes to individuals and communities who came to faith as a result of those who responded appropriately to the Messiah.
How today can we recapture the the amazement--the sense of awe, wonder, and fear--that is fitting for those who understand the significance of the Son of God's presence and mission? I don't know the answer. I do know that I'm not where the disciples were, who "immediately left their nets and followed him."

9/11 Recordings

NYC just released audio and transcript files of Sept. 11 calls handled by emergency personnel. Most of the calls involve firefighters but several are of civilians trapped in the towers. I just finished listening to this one, which was used in the Moussaoui trial, and feel physically sick. Towards the middle of the recording (as with all the other recordings) the voice of the caller is bleeped out, but the caller's voice is retained in the first portion. As disturbing as it is to hear the horrors of the situation, it's worth listening to as a reminder of what so many people went through that day.

Theology and Faith

Steven over at Theology and Biblical Studies gives an autobiographical post on the impact that studying theology had on his faith. Coming from bible country, I can relate to much of what he says, especially the part about Josh McDowell's book.

Return of the Imam

Ok, here's a very scary thought regarding Iran and the end times--but not in the way you think. Noted ME scholar Bernard Lewis suggests a sinister motive behind Ahmadinejad's August 22 deadline. Is the latter hoping to inaugurate the return of the Hidden Imam?

God and Prayer

Over at Faith and Theology Benjamin Myers poses the question whether prayer changes God. Then, quoting Barth, he suggests an answer while providing a helpful perspective from which to think about this issue.

Hezbollah and Root Causes

I haven’t posted on the current Israeli/Hezbollah clash and the resultant destruction in Lebanon because the subject has depressed me. Truth is, I can sympathize with both points of view—with those who think Israeli is well within its right to strike back hard, fast, and thoroughly and with those who think Israel has gone too far and is actually strengthening Hezbollah politically.

One idea that surfaces constantly on the cable talk shows and has had currency in the academic world at least since Edward Said is the importance of root causes. Here’s how this is expressed. A pundit on the right will come on the show and outline the facts: Hezbollah started the conflict and Israel must press forward aggressively in order to ensure the nation’s safety vis-à-vis the northern border. When given a chance to respond, the expert on the left will usually grant the first argument—that Hezbollah was the initial aggressor—but will invariably suggest that the solution required is far from what the rightie is suggesting. To guarantee a long-lasting peace the parties at the table must deal with the heart of the matter: the Arab angst
stemming from "the Palestine" issue, meaning the Israeli occupation of key parts of Jerusalem, the West Bank, and the Gaza Strip. (Of course the angst hasn't receded even now that Israel has ceded most of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip to the PA.)

[While some on the right have rejected the Root Causes theory as prevarication, others have have accepted it at some level but in doing so, have located the real cause of angst elsewhere, namely, in Arab/Muslim frustration at evident gap between expectations of supremacy-- suggested by their being God's true followers--and reality.]

Clearly, in dealing with individuals we can (and should) discuss root issues that underlie outward actions. See, for example, Jason's excellent post regarding this with respect to alcohol abuse and the SBC here. My question is, can we effectively engage with root causes when dealing with corporate bodies--groups of people, states, or even terrorist organizations (or "resistant movements"), like Hezbollah? Others have noted how there is structural and corporate sin in addition to individual sin. But is it possible to bring about healing at the structural and corporate level in a way that is not just superficial?

Spectacular Papi

Okay, the man is unbelievable. Since he’s already had so many clutch hits, I always think it’s asking too much for him to do it again. Think again. Last night David Ortiz showed why he is the franchise star—and MVP—by hammering yet another walk-off homerun. The title of Espn’s coverage says it all: “Old Habit.” No longer are such dramatic bombs an anomaly; they are expected--by the fans, by his teammates, and, claims the slugger, by himself. Keep it up big fella.

(NB: I’d like to thank Comcast for mistakenly giving us access to NESN, which made possible last night’s pleasurable viewing.)


UPDATE:
I neglected to mention Snyder's tremendous replacement outing for David Wells. It's to be hoped that he can maintain this level of pitching, especially as the Sox have fallen on hard times in this department.

Baptists and the Religious Right

Scot McKnight is blogging through Randall Balmer's book, Thy Kingdom Come, and most recently discussed chapter 2. This particular chapter deals with baptists and their denial of their heritage. Historically, baptists have embraced independence from the State, but Balmer maintains (apparently) that insofar as many baptists have joined (or comprise) the religious right, they have become entangled in politics.

More interesting than McKnight's post is the interaction found in the comments section, especially that b/w McKnight and Denny Burk. I'm certainly sympathetic to McKnight's point of view, if only because I tend to be a contrarian and reject my background, but I can also sympathize with Burk. It's too easy to suggest that those on the religious right (am I one of these?) want to establish some sort of Constantinian state because they try to legislate laws consistent with their moral beliefs. I personally feel that such attempts are often misguided and based on positions that lack nuance, but, nevertheless, they represent a desire to effect change using the political mechanics at hand. Any thoughts?

Power For Living

Col. 1.11-13

God's power is available to us, and necessary for us, as we seek to live in ways faithful to his revealed will--seen in Christ.

Paradoxically, it’s hard to rely on someone else, especially God. For most of us, I’m willing to bet, we have an easy enough time crediting our “salvation” to God, but it’s a lot harder living thereafter in his Christ-embodied grace. That’s why the next part of Paul’s prayer is both a petition and a reminder.

The apostle of God’s grace beseeches God to strengthen the Colossians with his “power, according to his glorious might” (1.11). As brand new followers of Jesus and children of God, the Colossians require power from their Lord to enable them to grow in wisdom as they seek to live lives pleasing to God.

While enduring the hardships along the way, they should give “thanks to the Father, who has qualified [them] to share in the inheritance of the saints in light” (1.12). Paul reminds us that from start to finish God is our source of strength. The same power that is available to us now as we strive to live faithfully before God through fruit-bearing works and intimate knowledge of him is the power that has presented us with “a hope . . . in heaven” (1.5). He alone has qualified us. By thanking him regularly we remind ourselves that his power is the source of our strength.

Yet even with reminding myself of God’s prior goodness and strength exercised on my behalf, it’s difficult to know, as I expressed earlier, how it is that I should go about fulfilling my (sometimes) earnest desire to please him. How can I be sure that my actions do not stem from a desire for recognition, self-aggrandizement, or pride? Is the connection between salvation and fruit bearing simply an intellectual one, by which we remind ourselves of God’s grace and instruct ourselves to live fruitful lives in appreciation? Paul begins to answer these questions with the next few phrases.

God has qualified us by means of two notable actions: (1) “he has delivered us from the domain of darkness and (2) has transferred us to the kingdom of his beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins” (1.13-14). Whether we consciously feel it or not, we have been taken from one realm and placed in another. The former realm (note that the “darkness” contrasts with the current situation as “saints in light”) in which we operated was one of futile actions, perpetrated from selfish motives and resulting in destructive effects. By stark contrast, now we belong to the kingdom of Christ, through whom, Paul explains, we have right standing God. We are restored. As to the importance of Christ in God’s plan cosmic plan of creation and redemption--and, by extension, for our life lived before God--Paul elaborates in the next section.

Clash of the Heels?

It's probably much too early to start talking about college basketball, but I couldn't resist posting this article by Andy Katz about the 2006/7 Tar Heel team. Unlike this time last year, the Heels are projected to be a powerful team--both in the conference and beyond. I'm really hoping that the returning players mesh well with the incoming recruits.

And the Hits Keep Coming

Great, another maddening development. When I read this bit of news I found myself simultaneously excited and forlorn. Another reason to want to study and St. Andrews and more cause to lament the fact it probably won't happen. A former classmate had told me that St. Andrews was wooing Bockmuehl, but he wasn't sure they'd be able to lure him away from Cambridge. It looks like they were victorious. (ht: Benjamin Myers)

Jury Duty

So, I had jury duty today. All this amounted to was going to the courthouse and sitting in the jury pool before getting called into a room where I was not chosen to serve. I'm a little disappointed in how my attitude degenerated, though. Last year I was selected for jury duty, and thus should have been exempt this year. However, I did not have proof that I served then, so I showed up anyway. Besides, I have hoped that I would get chosen this year so I could perform my civic duty. When I arrived there today that's still how I felt--excited to serve. Yet the negativity been to seep in as I overheard all my fellow potential jurors gripe about what a waste of time this was and by the time we were excused for the next three years, I was actually glad that I wouldn't have to serve. Very sad. I'm sure my dad would be disappointed in me too. Maybe next year, when I get called (because they always forget who's been called), I'll show up again without proof of past service and actually be ready to serve. Bring on that homicide case!

Moving On or Just Moving?

Well, I did it. I told my boss today that I’m "stepping down" next month. Somehow I don’t feel like I expected I would. While I had hoped that I would feel a sense of relief to get this out in the open finally, I feel just as uncomfortable—perhaps because so much is still unknown for me. At least I can begin to move on now . . .

Wisdom

Col. 1.8-10

Paul prays that the Colossians might know God's will so as to please him more fully.

Judging from his own ministry experience, no doubt, Paul realizes how easily individuals can deviate from the true path of grace.* It is for this reason that he moves from thanking God for the nascent—but evidenced—faith of the Colossians to praying for a developed understanding on their part as to the relationship between the God in which their faith is grounded (and is its object) and their Christian life.

Paul offers his prayer somewhat expectantly because he has already heard of the real fruit bearing that is occurring amongst the Colossians—“faith in Christ and love for the saints” (1.4). Fruit bearing is a sign of the gospel’s work so Paul has reason to believe that the Colossians are on the right track, so to speak, to living a life of “maturity in Christ” (1.28).

Having mentioned the Colossians’ actions in the previous paragraph, it’s interesting that Paul’s prayer begins not with behavior, but rather knowledge. A filling of “knowledge about God’s will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding” (1.9) is necessary for the Colossians to get to where they, quite correctly, want to be—walking “in a manner worthy of the Lord, [pleasing] him to the utmost” (1.10).

Again, Paul agrees with the Colossians in their goal to live lives that make God happy and proud to be their God. What this looks like in practice is a continual process of “bearing fruit in every good work” and “increasing in the knowledge of God” (1.10). Along with the Colossians, we can possibly envision ourselves advancing in these two areas, but sometimes it's hard to see how they cohere. Typically, I take a laissez-faire approach, believing that somehow, once I believe in God and the gospel, my good works will be pleasing to God.

The fact that Paul is even writing this letter, however, seems to indicate it’s not always the case that our attempts at pleasing God lead to actions that do in fact accord with true knowledge of God. This suspicion seems confirmed by Paul’s placement of “increasing in the knowledge of God” second almost by way of emphasizing for the Colossians that true fruit bearing is something that leads to an increased knowledge of God, even as their initial fruit bearing was based upon their true reception of Christ in the first place. Apparently some of their later attempts at pleasing God actually led them farther from God. How do we ensure that our fruit-bearing attempts are grounded in and reinforce a true knowledge of God?


*1.5: “the word of truth, the Gospel”; 1.6:”the grace of God in truth”

Once Begun, How to Live?

It's been a while since I first posted on Colossians, but I want to continue looking at this fascinating letter, not least because it offers an instructive look at the connection between Christian identity and Christ.

Col. 1.3-8

Early on, Paul indicates that a Christ-centered life is the key to pleasing God.

A key question for the Colossians, and one that I struggle with, is how to be the kind of individual that God wants to call his own. They had begun to work out their own answers to this question by embracing practicies that were admirable (ones that had "the appearance of wisdom"--2.23). The were strict in their observance of the Sabbath and other key religious days and were serious about disciplining their bodies. Somehow, though, these actions were deemed woefully inadequate.

[Let me observe at this point that the too easy tendency for many of us is to dismiss actions like those of the Colossians as obviously legalistic and counter to the gospel. Yet it's interesting to note that Paul doesn't chastise the intent driving the Colossians' practices (contrast Paul's approach here with the one taken in Galatians); in fact, he assumes the desire to please God is a laudable goal, and is careful in his remarks not to stamp out such enthusiasm. For those of you like me, who wrestle mightily with feelings of failure, induced in part by our inability to live out the fulness of our convictions, we can be encouraged that our goals are nevertheless affirmed.]

Paul's thanksgiving in the first chapter hints that the means for pleasing God begins elsewhere--with another, to be precise. In the thanksgiving the apostle starts to lay the groundwork for his later appeal to "walk in [Christ]" (2.6). Paul's prayer is offered up because he has "heard of [the Colossians'] faith in Christ and the love which [they] possess for all the saints" (1.4). As will become more evident later in the letter, this linkage of faith in Christ and love is significant; essentially, for Paul, the latter is a result of the former. Faith in Christ as properly understood leads to a life characterized by actions that are pleasing to God, foremost among which is love.

The problem for the Colossians--and for me on most days--is not the intention to please God through righteous works, but rather the failure to begin where my (new) life begins, with Christ. Failure to begin with Christ leads to frustrated intentions, and hence to angst. While the Colossians may not have been in a state of acute spiritual turmoil, they were, from Paul's perspective, in danger of living disconnected from the source of their right standing with God.

But life is rarely "either/or." Sometimes we get things right without knowing exactly what we've done and other times we stray far from "spiritual wisdom and understanding" (1.9). As I noted earlier, the Colossians are "projects," works of God, and Paul's desire is to bring to "maturity in Christ" (1.28). That they have indeed begun well, though--are pleasing God, and on their way to spiritual maturity--is seen by their "love for the saints." Only Christ's life, accessible by faith, is effectual for bringing about such love as theirs. Paul is encouraging them for having embraced (to some degree) the true way of life.

US Down

Well, the US has been eliminated from World Cup play. This makes me sad. Like most Americans, I don't watch soccer much, not least because I don't have cable. During this tournament, however, I have really begun to appreciate the sport. I like how it commands the attention and arouses the passion of virtually the entire world. There's something very communal about this love of sport, even if, by the same token, the bitter rivaries spark violence among fans. I even don't mind that the US team is far outmatched at the moment and has to accomodate itself to the dominant styles of the likes of Italy and the Czeck Republic. My hope is that soccer will become more popular in the States and that the US team will eventually cause other countries to adjust to its prowess. For the time being, though, I'll have to rout for Italy. Which team do you want to win?

Papelbon

The Sox are on a role, as they mow down Washington to take a two game lead over the Yanks. With what looks to be a solid lefty in Jon Lester, which is just what the Sox need in the lineup, given the recent woes of David Wells, things are looking up. However, a key, if not the key, to this season's strong start has to be rookie closer, Jonathan Papelbon. This guy is incredible. Bill Simmons marvals at the kid and explores the dilemma that faces the Sox--closer or starter?--over at espn. Now if I can just afford to get tickets to a game.

Bye Bye Zar-QA-wi

For updates on the military strike leading to al-Zarqawi’s death, check out the counterterrorism blog. Bill Roggio has information up on the role of Task Force 145. Make sure you blow up the map to see the scope of the operations culminating in the eventual "termination" of al-Qaeda's leader in Iraq.

UPDATE:
Aljazeera (English net version) cites the AP report, as does the Jerusalem Post, which adds the intriguing bit of info that al-Zarqawi's wherabouts where determined in part through analysis of his last video tape.

Austin Bay tells us what this killing means in the grand scheme of things and cites a Strategy Page post examining the recent deterioration of relations between the terrorist in Iraq and al-Qaeda's top leadership. Does this raise the possibility that information on al-Zarqawi's location was offered up by those acting on the behest of Osama and company? I don't know.

Kudos to the Jordan intelligence services, renown for their operative skills, for intelligence they might have gained that led to al-Zarqawi's death.

UPDATE:
Milblogs react, a few of them also suggesting that al-Zarqawi was sold out by his own. (Hat tip: Michelle Malkin.)

Mark of the Beast

Is the mark of the beast really 666 or, rather, is it 616? See David Parker’s (of the University of Birmingham) explanation of the two choices presented us by manuscript evidence. (Hat tip: Mark Goodacre.)

Sport Beatdowns

Kevin Hench at Fox Sports has a list of the top ten beatdowns in sports. Of course I don’t condone such brutality—yuck yuck—but you should check out the article. Let me know which is your favorite. Personally, I like #8.

24 and the Divine Narrative

Mark Driscoll poses the question everybody's been thinking but is afraid to ask: Is Jack Baur a type of Christ? Beyond the superficial similarities, it is most interesting that, despite our short attention spans, we are still captivated by story, even when it involves complicated plot twists, character development, and (most difficult of all) suspense. It's certainly up for debate whether 24s popularity has more to do with its story character or merely its topical elements, which include violence and betrayal. (Hat tip: Steve McCoy, who elsewhere links to a Robert Webber article arguing for the importance of refocusing on the importance of story vis-a-vis the divine narrative.)

What I wonder, first of all, is whether a focus on story can renew within us (read: me) a sense of God-permeated existence. If it can, how can we recapture and recast the divine narrative without sacrificing (as many might fear) truthful propositional speech about God? Or is the latter even a legitimate goal?

Dead Sea Scrolls in KC

Portions of the Dead Sea Scrolls will be on exhibit in Kansas City next year.  If anyone has a chance, go see the exhibit; it’s well worth it.  (Hat tip: Jim Davila.)

I had the good fortune to see the Scrolls in Israel a few years back.  The religious fervor spawned in part by contemporary political circumstances led the Qumran communities to commit themselves to an extremely ascetic and scripturally observant lifestyle.  One might ask what circumstances or mentality would be required to spark a similar level of devotion among Christians in our time.  What would that look like?  Any thoughts?

Updating

So, I'm in the gradual process of updating the blog. My plan is to expand--and eventually categorize--links to include more biblical studies, faith-and-culture, and missional-minded blogs. I will, however, maintain and even expand my (perhaps?) idiosyncratic list of Middle East-related blogs. Beyond this, I aim to give more time and space to actual reflection, which, I hope, will lead to interaction with any out there who happen across this blog. Stay tuned.

Friday Caca

Here's a little Friday etymology for the kiddies. I don't know why, but I've always been fascinated by poop--maybe it's because, seen from two different perspectives, it's alternatively ordinary and sensible or uterly disgusting--and I count myself lucky to know the history of caca. Cheers!

Reflecting on the Sox--Without Clemens

Ok, I no longer care whether Roger Clemens joins the Red Sox. I'm really starting to enjoy this current group of players and would almost hate to see it disrupted by a high profile addition. Besides, Curt Schilling provides enough drama as it is. Last night he bounced back from a few bad outings to sink the Yanks in a 6 strikeout butt kicking. I also enjoy how there is a good distribution of talent on this squad; of course Papi and Manny stand out as hitters, but Lowell, Youk, Willy Mo (gotta love the name), and others have been playing some solid ball. I know it's only the beginning of the season and a lot of things can happen, but I have to say I'm very impressed and, in a strange way, almost feel bad that the Yankees can't put up much of a fight.

24 Finale

Did anyone out there see the 24 finale? Overall, I thought this season was subpar, but I have to say that the writers really pulled it together at the end (yes, I realize it was all written earlier). I won't give the ending away but suffice it to say that I'm extremely excited about next season; the twist is a good one. For those who say the final episode, what did you think?

Nasar and Terrorism in the New Century

Craig Whitlock, at MSNBC, profiles captured Al-Qaeda leader Mustafa Setmarian Nasar. His tome on jihadist techniques for the new century highlights decentralization via small cells operating across the globe. The implementation of this stategy has already begun, notes Whitlock, as evidenced by the Madrid and London attacks.

Red (and Yellow and Blue) Badge of Hostility

This is not good news. Iran, it would seem, is not an up and coming homeland for minorities. Come on, how could anyone see malicious motives behind this new requirement foisted on Jews and Christians who make Iran their home? It’s just colored cloth right? As if it were required, here’s another apt reminder of the need to pray for Iran’s peoples.

Evangelicals and Gnosticism

N.T. Wright, appearing alongside Vampire-fan-turned-Jesus-admirer, Anne Rice, makes the fascinating observation that both sides of the cultural divide in North America exhibit gnostic tendencies. (The moderator--annoying most of the time--quipped that the two sides can be neatly divided according to their literary tastes: Left Behind or The Da Vinci Code.) In this context, Wright notes that many evangelicals follow the dualistic disdain for the physical here and now, in desiring to escape to the "there" of heaven, and possess the hubris-inspired certitude so characteristic of gnosticism. Are Wright's comments apt, or do they represent a caving in to postmodern relativism? Or somewhere in between?

Note: The interview is fairly long but worth listening to--for the most part.

Red Sox Fantasy

Just heard on NECN that Clemens will likely suit up soon. The question is, with whom will he play? Curt Schilling, while not disclosing any details, said on WEEI that he feels pretty good about the situation--i.e., Clemens playing for the Sox. I can't even imagine what it would be like to Clemens, Schilling, Becket, and Wakefield in the starting rotation with Timlin, Foulke, and Papelbon coming out of the pen. One word: unbeatable. Any thoughts on whether the fantasy--Clemens closing out his career in a Sox uniform--will come true?

Tuesday Links

Happy Tuesday, everyone. I’m hoping things will calm down enough to allow for more sustained posting, but here are some offerings for this afternoon. I’m trying to track down a podcast of an interview with NT Wright and will post it when, and if, it reveals itself to me.

MSNBC has an article up that gives air to some criticisms of The Da Vinci Code. You can find it here. HT: Jim Davila.

Jim links to an article which forecasts the effect that the Hamas political victory will have on Palestinian archaeology.

Meanwhile, Mark asks for iGod’s assistance in solving the Synoptic problem.

Bronson Arroyo

I already miss Bronson Arroyo. It was dissapointing to see him traded, especially as I feel, despite some difficulties last season, that he's a very versatile pitcher. Now we see that he's an overall versatile player. Not only is he pitching extremely well with the Reds, he's also hitting for the bleachers. The Sox should've kept the guy and used him in pitch hitting situations.

Gospel of Judas

NPR had a blurb on the "recently released" Gospel of Judas. After describing the circumstances of its discovery and the process of its restoration, the narrator concludes with the thought that (and I'm paraphrasing) perhaps next Easter we will be reflecting on the sacrifice of Judas.

Anyway, Mark Goodacre, over at the NT Gateway Weblog, provides some commentary on and plenty of links about the Gospel of Judas. Check it out here.

Abdul Rahman in Perspective

Daveed Gartenstein-Ross, writing in the Weekly Standard (HT: The Counterterrorism Blog), puts in broad perspective Abdul Rahman's story. He points out that the official, or unofficial (by family members or the community), slaying of former Muslim converts to Christianity is commonplace in Islamic societies. What garnered media attention and international outrage (albeit belated, nearly tragically so) at Abdul Rahman's plight was the fact that the nation preparing to execute the man is one where the Western democratic values of human life and freedom of expression are supposed to be implicit in institutional decisions (Or else for what are our soldiers dying there?).

Gartenstein-Ross makes a cogent big-picture point, though:

THE ABDUL RAHMAN CASE presents an opportunity for the West, but only if we refuse to view this as an isolated incident. When Abdul Rahman awaited trial, Representative Tom Lantos wrote a letter to Hamid Karzai stating: "In a country where soldiers from all faiths, including Christianity, are dying in defense of your government, I find it outrageous that Mr. Rahman is being prosecuted and facing the death penalty for converting to Christianity." Lantos was correct, but he did not go far enough. This is not only an outrage in countries being defended by Western soldiers. The unjustifiable punishment of apostates from Islam is an outrage wherever it occurs.

Read the whole article here.

Christian Teen Rally "Fitting"?

Other than this article, I haven't seen much news coverage of this Christian teen rally in San Francisco. (That might be because I've been holed up at home trying to get some work done.) This rally was organized to respond to the secular values marketed to teens and young adults through today's popular culture. My initial feelings are mixed, but I'm interested in hearing some other thoughts, particularly as my church community group has been considering what it means to act as God's image--his representative--in exile. Are these types of rallies an appropriate way to express our role? Are they "fitting" for the time in which we live? Thoughts?

Barbra and the End Times

Yes, there is a connection. Just saw this news flash about Barbra's upcoming tour. Better bring out the generator, stock up on batteries, and buy gallon jugs of water, because she's back, and trials and tribulations heretofore not seen since, well . . . , Yentl, are about to be experienced.

Afghan Christian

Michelle Malkin questions here who will raise a voice to save Abdul Rahman, Afghan convert to Christianity, who now faces execution for renouncing Islam. My guess is that, in an effort to avoid a public confrontation over this issue, especially as it involves the volatile Muslim/Christian dimension (cf. the Muhammad cartoon saga), the U.S. is using only back channel methods to urge Rahman's release (or acquittal, if it comes to that). However, even though the issue is a stormy one, it seems like religious freedom is a crucial, non-negotiable tenet that must be confronted head on and publicly.

Also, here, by the best columnist in the Boston Globe, Jeff Jacoby, is an apt reminder of the justifiable moral reasons for going to war in Iraq. I was an initial opponent of the war (I'll share why at some point in the future), though one who was (and is) sympathetic with its goals, and who is now eager that it be prosecuted thoroughly. Jacoby reminds me why ambivalence about our foreign policy is no excuse to turn a blind eye to injustice and suffering. Check it out.

(hat tip: real clear politics)

Ireland, day two, part 2--Dublin Night Life Revisited

Yep, it's a winner!

"And it's no nay never, no nay never no more! Will I play the wild rover, no never no more!
Life couldn't be better.

Ireland, day two, part 1--North from Dublin

Feels pretty good.

Street at Howth Head, a suburb of Dublin. To the left, there is a view of Dublin Bay.
Howth Head remains a working fishing port and here are the boats to prove it.Malihide Castle, home of the Talbot family for over 800 years and recently bought by Dublin County Council in 1976 for public viewing. It was said that 14 cousins of the Talbot family sat together for breakfast the morning of the Battle of Boyne and all were dead by nightfall.

Ireland, day one, part 3--Dublin Night Life

The Temple Bar area in Dublin CityTraditional Irish music at the Auld Dubliner, our favorite pub in Dublin City

Our first Guinness of the night--a look of contentment.


Digging in. No time to talk!

Ireland, day one, part 2--Dublin

The Liffey River, which bisects Dublin. South of the Liffey, to the right, is currently the more visited part of the city, as it hosts Trinity College, Grafton Street (replete with retail stores), and the well-known Temple Bar area.

Here I am just inside the gates of Trinity College.


The busy Grafton Street, at a relative down time.
View of St. Ann's Church from Grafton Street.

Ireland, day one, part 1--Dublin

Neat pathway leading from our B&B in Contarf to the bus stop, where we will catch a bus into Dublin City.

Here comes our bus--driving, of course, on the wrong side of the road

An outdoor market north of the Liffey River in Dublin City

Meat market that we stumbled across at the worst possible time--when we were starving and desperately searching for somewhere to eat

Sabbatical

I'll be gone for about a week--off to NH for a church retreat and then off to good ol' Ireland. Here's what I'll be studying on plane on the way over.

Blog Highlight--Living in Berlin

Sage, a friend and former coworker, has been sojourning this year in Berlin, Germany, where she is taking courses at the Free University of Berlin (I see that it's Girl's Day at the University--whatever that means; I thought everyday was Girl's Day). Unbeknownst to me, though, Sage has been keeping a blog diary of her experiences as she studies there and narrows down the list of possible PhD programs she will attend upon her return to the States. Check out her blog.

Anthony Hopkins

You gotta love Anthony Hopkins--especially in the aftermath of a poor year for films in Hollywood. This article captures the stellar actor's apt criticism of condescending films and narcissistic actors. The best part about all this is that these comments come from someone who is actually a terrific actor. I don't know about you, but this solidifies my appreciation for the man and makes me want to add Hannibal or, one of my favorites, Titus to the Netflix queue.

The Times on Redeemer

Here's a great article in The New York Times about Redeemer Church in New York, and the urban church planting mentality that it represents. (Hat Tip: Steve McCoy.) Here's a link to Redeemer's website. I'm having a difficult time posting the link, but if you go to Redeemer's list of Sample Sermons, you can find a great sermon by Tim Keller on love for the city. I recommend it highly. He gives a great quote (borrowed from someone else) in the sermon. I'm paraphrasing, but it goes something like this: There are more plants in the country than people; there are more people in the city than plants. As God loves people more than plants, so God loves the city more than the country. I thought there was a reason I liked living in Boston.

Incidentally, Citylife Church, mentioned in the article as one of Redeemer's daughter churches (Pastor Um is even mentioned and quoted therein), is the church with whom I identify in Boston. Its site is here.

Israel's Arab Christians

Here's an article in the Jerusalem Post (which I don't often read. . . . Really.) offering some perspective on the place of Arab Christians in Israeli society. Not surprisingly, this group faces increasing alienation and is on the verge of distinction (in that area). I intend to post more on Arab Christians in the future, as this is one subject to which I hope to devote research down the road.

Anne Coulter on the Oscars

I don't really follow the Oscars much, but I thought this column by Anne Coulter, posted on the Libertas blog, was rather humorous. I'm sure many of you--ok, some; there aren't enough people who read this blog to use the term "many"--don't like Anne Coulter, but her acerbic wit is one of a kind. Enjoy.

Poverty

Ok, so I’ve been thinking about issues of poverty a lot lately. This came about firstly because I listened to a panel discussion at the Harvard Veritas Forum discuss the Christian response to poverty. Then, I read R’s post on a related topic—African turmoil—inspired by the movie The Constant Gardener. And Tim, who’s back blogging, related to me, and blogged about here, a great story about his experience with a homeless man on the T and his subsequent conversation with his kids. And to top it all off, this morning I was forced to come face to face with my hardened heart as I was less than helpful to a homeless man asking for directions.

Since moving to the city of Boston, I find myself forced to confront the issue of poverty—and the Christian’s response—in a way that I wasn’t in the Midwest. Perhaps it’s the deeply ingrained value of “personal responsibility” that makes me resistant, at least cognitively, to the pleas of the homeless on the street. Whatever it is, I certainly haven’t worked out in any meaningful way what it looks like to be a radical giver.

Really, it’s not a “city” issue, though the city makes me more aware of it. It’s a kingdom issue. It’s about sacrificial giving. A few weeks ago I gave the offertory prayer in Church. In it, I asked that God would enable us to give radically because we know that in Christ we have abundant riches. This, I believe, is part of the motivation for giving. We know that we are amply provided for, and we can give, therefore, as Christ himself gave. But this is only part of the motivation—and a somewhat passive one, at that.

There’s also an active aspect to the giving motivation. Our pastor has been preaching lately on the Church’s vision. I would say most of the people in our congregation are transitory; they have no real intention of settling down in Boston but are here for school, training, jobs, etc. Last sermon the pastor gave on church vision touched on this dynamic. He pointed out that most of us are here to take from the city. He encouraged us to think about what it would look like for us to develop a heart for the city, such that we want to give to the city—to live here and commit to its transformation. Before one can give in the way that Christ gives, there must be a total commitment to those who are in need, inspired, perhaps, by an identification with those people.

I’m certainly not there in terms of either a passive or active desire to give. It’s my hope, though, that as believers in the city of Boston, we can encourage each other to think about how to live for the city--how to embrace a kingdom ethic in a secular and downtrodden urban area.

Panic in the Skies

I don't know about you, but this is the stewardess that I want on my flight. Frightening. Since 9/11 I've been a little afraid of flying, and every little bit of turbulence prompts a reflexive grasping of the arm rest. During the bumpy times, I calm myself by looking around at the other passengers and, even more, at the flight attendants. The unconcerned looks on their faces bring me back to a state of equilibrium. If this lady ends up on my flight, I swear to you, they'll need to put me in a staitjacket.

A Faustian Bargain

Spengler dishes up an interesting article about the temptations of Faust versus the trials of Job in modern life. Check it out here.

Dershowitz Opines On Harvard Coup

Check out Dershowitz on Harvard president Larry Summer's resignation.

Addendum: Gerard Baker comments on the event's significance for American universities in the Times Online.

Trojans Are for Losers

Ever wonder why USC chose the Trojans as a mascot? Eugene Volokh uncovers the mystery here.

Ireland

Yes, we finally did it. It felt a little weird clicking the box, but now there's no turning back. We're off to Ireland! Now let's just hope our passports come in before we're set to leave. I know it's not very adventurous of me, but what I'm looking forward to most is visiting the Guinness Storehouse and the countless pubs that I hear litter the city center (or is it centre) of Dublin. I am open to suggestions of other places to visit, though, so let me hear them if anyone out there has been to the land of my roots.

Countdown Iran

I really hope war can be avoided in Iran. First of all, the U.S. forces would likely find it difficult to mount a significant ground attack given the geographical layout of Iran and the presence of so many of our forces in Iraq. But also the conflict would likely widen, drawing in other regional actors. Hezbollah, Iran's proxy in Lebanon, would no doubt use this opportunity to start sending missiles into Israel. And there's no telling what Syria would do.

I'm of the tentative belief that a U.S. attack could actually unite the pro-U.S. among Iran's population against us, as they rally around their flag. Still, I tend to think it's a truly bad idea for the long run to allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons, and force might be the only deterent given the current leadership. I pray, though, that U.S. leaders such as Rice are exhausting all other possibilities, including attempting to exploit the fissures in Iran domestic politics that Amir Taheri points out. And I hope that the U.S. starts to give more concentrated and explicit backing to pro-democracy forces within the country. If war starts at least partly on account of their activities and then we're drawn in, our support will have an added legitimacy.

While Saddam Hussein, due to his secularist credentials, was unable to solidify completely Muslim opinion and support in his hour of peril, you can bet that the fundamentalist Ahmadinejad will have no problem convincing people of his religious fervor and conviction.

What To Do When I Grow Up: Suggestions, Please

Oh, yeah, I nearly forgot. I want to solicit opinions as to what I should do with my life if this whole Ph.D. things falls through. I'll take any ideas, really, but here are some options just to get the ball rolling:

(1) Go for the MA (if that's still an option)
(2) Apply for High School teaching jobs (ugh)
(3) Beg for Starbucks to take me back
(4) Move to Nepal
(5) Find a Coffee Plantation that needs workers
(6) Or Some Twisted Combination of (3) and (6)

Welcome Back, Me

Okay, I'm sick and tired of being sick and tired. Lately I've found that when I'm sick phyically, and devoid of energy, my mind feels sick as well, insofar as I feel emotionally depressed and lacking in my storied vigor (okay, kidding about that part). Now that I'm starting to feel a bounce in my step I'm determined to keep up with what's going on around me.

So as a cheery welcome-back post, here's a link by Athena to what's going on in the hunt for Zarqawi as well as an astute analysis of his position vis-a-vis other Iraqi insurgents. Nothing like a little terrorism update for a Friday afternoon, eh?

North Carolina 74, Duke 70

The score from last night's matchup in the storied rivalry is good news, right? Well, I don't particularly care. Why? Because it was the women's game. No offense to the ladies out there. All week long, since I first saw the date and time for the upcoming Tar Heels/Duke game while running on the treadmill at the Y last Weds, I had geared up for the game. My wife had been reminded countless times to remind me not to forget that the two teams were playing on Sunday night at 7 pm on ESPN 2. I had structured my day around the game, in fact (next to Church, of course). So imagine my shock and horror when at 7 pm promptly I switched over to the channel only to find women taking the floor (at first I thought that some of the players were letting their hair grow long). (Thankfully, our cool friends, C. and R. and A., saved my evening when the invited us over to watch Cinderella Man; thanks, guys!)

I ask myself: what is it that is so unappealing about the women's game? It used to be that I harbored the attitude that the women were just not good athletes. They couldn't run , dribble, pass, and, most importantly, shoot. I no longer believe this to be true. When I forced myself to watch a few minutes of play (and I stress, a few), I was compelled to acknowledge that both the Dukies and the Heel women actually performed these functions rather well. I witnessed long bombs, several nifty crossovers, and thread-the-needle passes that hitherto would have seemed impossible for the sweeter gender to pull off. However, last night I believe that I came face to face for the first time with the real cause of my aversion for women's basketball; I saw it with perfect clarity.

The Heels had the ball on a fast break that left the Carolina guard all alone save for one meaty Duke defender guarding the basket. Crossing midcourt, she peformed a nice cross-over, tried to look off her defender by pretending to pass to the wing, and then drove hard to rim. From her point near the free throw line, the Carolina player took three steps before launching into the air for a power dunk that left the defender stunned. Ok, it was really a power layup. Or a glinding layup. Fine, a fading short jumper. Nothing of the kind. Truth be told, it was a little hop, two inches off the ground, that sent her plowing into the Duke center. They just can't jump. And this is what detracts from the women's game.

I know, I shouldn't be so hard on them. Has biology determined that women won't be able to jump hight? But why can there be women long jumpers that leap great distances--much farther than I ever could--and women basketball players can't jump high? There are women high jumpers even, and they do pretty well. I've even watched with enjoyment, yes, enjoyment, a number of women volleyball games; there are some impressive jumpers in that sport. But I've yet to see a woman basketball player who can jump. Ok, there was one. In high school a rival woman's (girls?) team came to play our school, and while I didn't see her, there was rumored to be a player on the other team who could actually dunk. And she wasn't a giant--you know, 7 feet tall. She went on to play college sports, of course. What sport? You guessed it, volleyball.

Colossians Prayer (Part 1)

Back when I used to pray more frequently than I do now--a sad statement--I would read through the prayers of Paul and direct them as my own prayers toward individuals I know. Paul's prayer is Colossians 1 was one of those, and it seems a good place to begin blogging through Colossians.

Paul's prayer emanates from his thankfulness to God for the work already begun in his audience. In fact, he says "We give thanks to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, praying always for you." The content of his prayer that follows several verses later, then, is inspired by his recognition that those for whom he prays are the projects of God. (The "word of truth, the gospel which has come to you, . . . is constantly bearing fruit and increasing.") In essence, Paul is praying that God direct and bring to completion the project he has begun. That this is indeed God's project is indicated by the God-like behavior, exemplified in Christ, that has become characteristic of the believers as well: "love in the Spirit."

Here's a question for contemplation:
How does our recognition that we, our believing friends, and perhaps those we are mentoring are God's projects influence how we pray? How we give advice? How we encourage and build up?

Good News for Red Sox Nation:

Theo's back.

To Come: Blogging Colossians

I've been reading Colossians these last few days and have been challenged by the interaction; I plan, therefore, to post intermittent thoughts as I read through the letter, with the hope that readers will interact with me, each other, and God as we engage one another. So drop in from time to time and encourage others to do so if you get a chance.

Star Wars in Historical Perspective

This post is from a while back, but I ran across it today and found it interesting. I have to admit that I didn't much care for the three latest editions to the Star Wars saga. Hayden Christensen's acting was stilted, I thought, and much of the dialogue in the movies was drab. Of course I wasn't viewing it with the historical sensibilities in mind that the Libertas blog crew bring to the table. As a uniformed fan of old movies, I enjoyed reading this commentary on "the romantic bridge to Hollywood's past."

Pray for John Piper

Please pray for John Piper. (HT: Scot McKnight at Jesus Creed.)

Help! Caffeine Withdrawl

Ok, I am soooo tired. Once again I'm trying to cut down on my caffeine intake. Typically I begin my morning (post-shower, of course) with a cup of coffee. This cup, I reason, is to wake me up and help me get through the tortuous train ride to work. At work I fix myself a cup of tea or another cup of coffee so that I can make it through to lunch. Then, quite reasonably I think, I have yet another cup of coffee or tea in the afternoon to enable me to finish work on a strong note. It recently dawned on me that this might be too much of the good stuff in one day. So here I am now suffering through some serious withdrawl. Someone please tell me (perhaps from personal experience) 1) an effective way to cut back without killing onself or 2) that 3 cups a day is not really that much, and that, therefore, I can go back to my old ways . . . awake and happy. You will be my friend for life if you can help me.

The Persian War

Michelle Malkin has a good roundup of commentary on the coming war with Iran. Daveed Gartenstein-Ross contributes to the discussion at the counterrorism blog, and ShrinkWrapped chimes in over at the Pajama's Media site. Always a good source of late-breaking news and neglected details regarding Iran is Regime Change Iran. Please understand, I'm not endorsing any position vis-a-vis Iran, but given the current admistration's policies, it's difficult to see how at least how some sort of confrontation (i.e., military) will be avoided. Victor Davis Hanson points out that there is not an ideal solution, any way you look at it. A bleak thought.

Fever Pitch

Ok, I just watched Fever Pitch. I have to say, I'm not a fan. Not only do I not like what's his name from SNL, but I'm starting to get annoyed at Drew. Believing that she worked in that job was a tough sell. Anybody else watch this atrocity? Please no one tell me that you liked the movie.

A Beneficial Model?

Ok, I've been out of it for a while. Not that anyone cares, but I at least miss posting; it's therapeutic. There's so much to blog on: politics, the brewing war with Iran, Al-Qaeda's #2 reportedly killed, a rumor that Al-Qaeda's #1 was killed, etc. To get myself up and running again, however, I'm going to cross-post here my latest entry on my other blog. This may seem like a self-indulgent rant, but it's really a reflection on some ideas propounded by Kevin Vanhoozer in his book, The Drama of Doctrine. Most of you probably don't read the other blog (though you're welcomed and encouraged to do so, even if you haven't read the book; we want reponses to the ideas), so here's a flavor of what we're discussing. To set the stage (so to speak):Vanhoozer argues that we should envision theology (and doctrine) as a dramatic endeavor. Chapter three rounds out Part 1 on "The Drama" (Part 2 is about "The Script"). My post below is the second in a three part response to some of his ideas. Specifically, I'm referring here to the benefits Vanhoozer associates with his model. Hope you enjoy or have thoughtful insights or critiques to offer up.

The benefits V suggests accompany his dramatic model are insightful. Others have touched on the first, at least related to art—reinvigoration of the Christian imagination. I don’t have much to add at this point, mostly because I myself need such renewal or rebirth, as it were. I will say, however, that we as a Christian community in the West have shut ourselves off from creative endeavors. Unless a Christian singer, for instance, sings in a Christian band, for a Christian label, and to a Christian audience, we won’t have anything to do with him or her. If a claimed Christian artist performs in a “secular” band and writes and sings lyrics not overtly about God, we look at her with great suspicion if not disapproval.

[I remember at an earlier point in my life, having heard that Bono of U2 was a Christian, being disappointed that more of his lyrics weren’t as distinctly Christian as I imagined they should be. More and more, though, whether I always “agree” with what he sings, I find myself impressed by the way in which “spiritual” themes permeate his “secular” songs, sometimes to the point that it’s difficult to ascertain whether he’s talking about life here (e.g., love relationships) or there. The point is that in much of his music life “there” is really here, and life here—all of life (see benefit #2)—looks different when conceived of as part of a larger stage.]

Benefit two is huge for me (See the inaugural post on my other blog). Knowing that life here and now is not only consequential but involves interacting with God “in new and complex situations in a way that corresponds to the gospel” imbues life with a more lasting significance than often appears the case in our formulations of the Christian life—and, more important, such a picture of life would seem to be reflective of the God we know.

[Watts’ reminder to us of the way God acts within our culture, as seen in the creative composition of Genesis, demonstrates this point, I think. This is not to say just that God is accommodating our limitations in speaking to us in our own cultural language, but much more significantly he is disclosing his life by living it out through us. As seen in Genesis, sometimes this involves affirming cultural forms and assumptions; sometimes it involves transforming them; and sometimes it involves radically circumventing those assumptions. The point is that our day-to-day life in this cultural environment is an existence into which, in which, and through which God speaks. Attempting to escape these realities through a cloistered existence won’t do.]

Benefit three promises much. Perhaps most challenged—in appearance if not in reality—by this dramatic rendering of “doing theology” is biblical authority. By this I do not mean that V’s ideas violate biblical authority, but rather that they involve a reconsideration of the nature and locus of authority. Performance is presented as cementing the relationship between text and interpretation. Conceptually I can begin to imagine what this looks like, but I have yet to understand how in practice this looks different from our current application of biblical precepts. I look forward to seeing this fleshed out in subsequent chapters.

Part 3 to come.