Stakes in Michigan

Here's an interesting article by Steve Kornacki on the stakes involved in the Michigan republican primary (HT: Real Clear Politics). I think he's likely spot on with his analysis of the result of a McCain win:

McCain, meanwhile, would be ideally positioned to gobble up broad support from the G.O.P.’s rank-and-file masses in the next wave of primary and caucus states. They may have lukewarm feelings for McCain, but they feel no more affection for the rest of the G.O.P. field. And many of them are anxious to stop Huckabee, whom they see as a certain November loser. By getting rid of Romney, McCain would be able to lay claim to these Republicans, which in turn would make him the runaway favorite in Florida and most of the big states that will vote on February 5. He also has a fighting chance in South Carolina, which will vote this Saturday, where he and Huckabee now run even.

Overall, Kornacki and others are seeming to embrace the idea that a McCain win would simply the Republican nomination process, while a Romney--or Huckabee for that matter--win would spawn chaos. Here's his ultimate scenario should McCain lose, one I heard from a McCain supporter on TV earlier today (no coincidence, I am sure):

But even then, it’s doubtful the Republican race would be settled on February 5, raising the legitimate possibility of a brokered convention—a stunning prospect for a party famous for settling its nomination fights with speed and order.

Electoral politics is about strategy just as much as substance, so it's certainly not out of hand to raise such a hypothetical, but I'm not so sure that a Romney win would inexorably lead to a brockered convention. Should McCain lose--and perhaps worse than expected--momentum that had been going McCain's way could shift again toward Romney and this, on top of a strong showing in South Carolina, could bode well for the former Massachusetts governor and remind Republican faithful of their ambivalence toward McCain.

Our New Nephew

We went to my brother-in-law's to meet their newest addition to the family and our newest nephew. Here's a video of him with my father-in-law, S. He was told that if he removed his shirt his grandson would be more responsive to him. I know, it sounds weird. It seemed to work, though, as our nephew didn't really open his eyes much until he was laid against the bare chest.




And here's P. with her new nephew.



Oh, and he's only two days old.

Scot McKnight on Infant Baptism in Calvin's Institutes

Scot Mcknight has been posting his reflections on Calvin's treatment of infant baptism. Such thoughts are helpful to me as my old church is Presbyterian, my wife grew up Presbyterian, and I have many Presbyterian friends. I, on the other hand, grew up in a baptist church and attended Baptist seminaries. (To be clear, McKnight is referring to Calvin's views, not necessarily infant baptism as a legitmate practice.)

Here are his posts (not yet completed): Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4.

Huckabee and Evangelicals

The NY Times has an article on how Mike Huckabee's candidacy is splitting evangelicals. Check it out here.

The Mysterious Butt Abscess

This will make for hilarious congressional hearings. How embarrasing. Poor Roger.

New Hampshire

Interesting result coming out of New Hampshire's primaries. The Republican outcome, if you consider the polls in the few days preceding the casting of ballots, wasn't a huge surprise. Unfortunately for Romney, it was significant reversal considering he had put so much energy into campaigning there.

What will be fascinating to see is how the Iowa and New Hampshire results carry over to the rest of the primaries. One commentator reckons Romney for dead, given that the candidates overall strategy seemed tied to his doing well, that is, winning, in the two early states. However, someone else remarked that we might see a lot of "one hit wonders," Huckabee in Iowa, McCain in New Hampshire, etc., before it becomes really clear who will be the frontrunner. This assessment is attributed to the supposed lack of any die hard conservative candidate who can command wide acceptance as the nominee to go up against the Democratic nominee, who will certainly be on the far liberal side of the party.

As for the Dems, it's the conventional wisdom is that older women and Republicans are celebrating today after Hillary's victory. The question is, though, how did she win after momentum seemed to be going Obama's way after Iowa and polls seem to corroborate this feeling. Daniel Finkelstein lays out 6 possible explanations to Hillary's "comeback" win over at the Times Online (HT: Pajamas Media). Which do you think is most likely?

Reflections on Philippians 1.3-8

1. Paul prays for others a lot. I don't think the opening sections of his letters are a mere formality. Here he begins by claiming to give thanks "to my God in every remembrance of you" (3). The following phrase, I think, either explains when he gives such thanks or the means he uses. He says "always in every prayer of mine on your all behalf, I make my prayer with joy" (4). It's one thing to be thankful of another person or persons in the course of our daily lives, as many of us are; it's quite another matter altogether to invest considerable effort in expressing thanks to God as Paul seems to do. Why is this so tough?

2. For Paul, one's consistent identification with the gospel is evidence of God's hand at work in a person's life. Paul gives thanks for the Philippians "because of" their partnership "toward the [goals of the] gospel from the first day until now." Even when things got tough, the steered toward a course charted by the gospel message. I think Paul is not just talking about affirming the truth of the gospel, but committing to a way of life that is determined by the gospel.

Because the Philippians have exhibited such consistency in their dedication to gospel living, Paul is able to say with confidence that he is persuaded that "the one who began a good work" in the Philippians "will bring it to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (6), which is simultaneously a day of deliverance and judgment. Consistency in life commitment to the gospel evidences the reality of God's work in a believer's life.

3. Paul's confidence in and affection for the church is not built around some superficial connection but rather in their identification with him in advancing the gospel. Paul explains (7) that it is right for him to feel this confidence ("this way"--could point back to Pauls' thankfulness (3), but I'm taking it here with v. 6) because he holds them in his heart because they are "partakers with me of grace, both in my imprisonment and in the defence and confirmation of the gospel" (7). He expounds on this by calling upon God to witness to his true yearning for them, yearning with affection which "proceeds (or has its origin) in Christ Jesus" (8).

Does my life bear witness to a consistent commitment to the goals of the gospel?

How can I more consciously and proactively live out the truths of the gospel and identify (and parnter) with causes and activities and people that seek to further the gospel's redemptive work in our world?

Theology Weekend

I'm really excited about this. The first week of February Thomas Schreiner is coming to participate in a series of events, involving lecture, debate, Q & A, and homily. This will be an awesome time for anyone exploring the significance of Jesus--whether you're a Christian or not. Though very learned, Schreiner is humble and approachable, which, I think, will make the Q & A time enjoyable and will keep the debate substantive and good humored.

Weekend Movies

We watched a couple good movies this weekend. Normally, it's rare for us to watch two movies in a week--and I never can understand it when I go into the video store and see people checking out a whole stack of movies; what's up with that?!--but P. gave me the freedom to choose what to watch and I couldn't decide between two so, guess what, I rented them both. I was feelin' crazy!

If you haven't seen Reign Over Me, check it out. Adam Sandler pairs up well with Don Cheadle in this anything but funny movie. Okay, it does have a few funny parts.

And tonight, we saw Once, a modern musical as the back of the box describes it. I had heard about this film back in Boston and was further interested in viewing it since I had heard it was set in Dublin. It's really a fantastic film. Very fun. And amazing considering that neither leads really had any acting experience prior to shooting this film. Good thing they can sing. Actually, the lead actor is Glen Hansard of The Frames. Oh, and in keeping with the location of the film, I decided to have a nice Black and Tan which I made myself. Turned out pretty nice, huh?

Thanks for holding the glass, honey.

Noonan On Iowa

An interesting take on the Iowa caucus results can be found in Peggy Noonan's editorial here. I especially love her lines regarding Obama :

His takedown of Mrs. Clinton was the softest demolition in the history of falling buildings. I think we were there when it happened, in the debate in which he was questioned on why so many of Bill Clinton's aides were advising him. She laughed, and he said he was looking forward to her advising him, too. He took mama to school.

Dems in Iowa

Reports indicate that Obama has brokered a deal with Richardson for second choice votes "in caucuses where the New Mexico governor can’t clear the threshold for competition." That might be a lot of caucuses. (HT: Politico)

If Obama picks up Richardson and Kucinich voters like this, it looks like he might run away with Iowa, leaving Hillary, can you believe it, in third place. However, Cooper over at the Huffington Post notes that much of Obama's projected support relies on the young vote, which is notoriously all talk and no show. And Edwards and his supporters are clearly hoping those silly young'uns stay home to get an early start on their weekend kegger.

Nephew and Niece

Probably the best thing about going home for the holidays was the opportunity it afforded P. and I to visit our nephew and niece, J. and J. Aren't they cute?

CSI and Relationships, Part 2

Warrick has the tendency like some of us to try to internalize all his struggles and usually ends up spiraling out of control because he has no healthy vent for the angst he feels. Having just been separated (divorced?) from his wife, he's experiencing all kinds of emotional pain, on top of which he's had a bad day at work. In order to "stay on top of his job" Warrick starks popping pills to keep alert. Enter Nick, who noting that Warrick has also been downing pills so he can sleep through the night, seizes the pills and discards them in the trash, prompting a near heated moment between the CSIs (friends?). Warrick tells Nick to mind his own business but the latter refuses to back down and let Warrick handle his problems in his own way. It's really fairly riveting because of their near fight but also because Nick becomes very emotional (nearly tearing up) and because Warrick finally recognizes that Nick is right and essentially admits his need for help.

What strikes me about this encounter is how true to life this episode is. Many of us do try to cope with problems--or bury them--by turning to addictive agents (chemical or otherwise); we resist calling out for help, even to the point of lashing out at those who come to our aid. Strangely enough we have an acute awareness of our problems, which cause us to turn to all kinds of "cures," but we are extremely upset when someone else, even (especially?) friends, acknowledge our problem and need as Nick does Warrick's. In fact, our actions seem to suggest that we don't really want friends to be the sort that know the deepest recesses of our hearts.

Also interesting to me here is Nick's involvement both because of what he does and what it demonstrates about his character. First, he doesn't care how Warrick wants (on a superficial level?) him to respond, but rather how Warrick needs him as a friend to respond. Nick realizes that real love should compel him to reach beyond the sort of help that the drugs provide--insofar as they really act only to temporarily dull and distract from the pain--and intervene in illuminating the real problem. (Granted, Nick really only shows Warrick that he has a problem and needs to avoid the abusive relief that the medication might provide, and he doesn't go much beyond this; but this is, after all, only television, so what can we expect.) Second, we see that what at times seem to be a character flaw in Nick--his annoying habit of empathizing with those involved in cases he's investigating--here shines forth in a heroic way. He is relentless in his concern for Warrick even up to a willingness to come to blows.

As a Christian committed to Jesus Christ, I have to ask myself whether I've forged friendships with others seeking to walk the same path of obedience that are equally committed as Nick and Warrick's is, as illustrated in this episode. What does this even look like? Being bound to Christ in my estimation also means being bound to others who are also bound to him. This involves us in a mutual commitment to seeing God's kingdom evinced in our lives and sometimes, perhaps under only very specific circumstances, this might require that we intervene in very uncomfortable ways--and possibly against our brother/sister's desires--out of love. I'm not sure that I either engage my Christian friends with such accountability or allow myself to be thus engaged. How is such a relationship forged, I wonder, and what biblical principles invigorate it?

CSI and Relationships, Part 1

I'm a big fan of CSI--really, my wife and I both are--the original, CSI, that is. We do enjoy CSI New York from time to time but almost never watch CSI Miami, which, in my humble opinion, is awful. Sometimes, P. doesn't want to tune in even to the original CSI because of the disturbing nature of some of the crimes. I hate to miss the show on the other hand.

What really draws me in to the show--even above the crime solving--is the personalities and relationships that have developed throughout the show's running. Above all CSI characters, I would have to say I most enjoy Warrick Brown and perhaps this is because I feel like I can sort of identify with his flaws, including his struggle with addiction in various forms (a prominent addiction for him has been his attraction to gambling). A fellow CSI, Nick Stokes, has his own unique character traits, one of which is his very personal approach to his job, which sometimes gets him into trouble. Nick has a tendency to empathize with those close to crimes; sometimes this blinds him to potential manipulation and causes him to underestimate the enormity of evil that can reside within the human heart. (Being buried alive, though, has a way of curing this.)

[One question that comes to mind when watching a show like CSI is how representative are such shows in depicting characters and relationships as they really are? Perhaps CSI is not a favorite, but are there any other programs out there that do a particularly good job of focusing on such matters?]

What's been particularly enjoyable and thought provoking of late has been to watch the way relationships among the CSIs have developed over time. One specific episode really struck me powerfully because of its implications for relationships in general and in particular for relationships among Christians who, in addition to being committed to Jesus as Lord, are also thereby committed to each other. . . .

O Little Town of Bethlehem--No, Not That Bethlehem

Leading up to Christmas I was going through Matthew and Luke's birth narratives with my eighth graders. In order to give the students an appreciation of how arduous the journey may have been for Joseph and Mary to trek all the way down to Judea from Nazareth, I googled (yes, I know, very hard-core research) something like "distance from Nazareth to Bethlehem."

Imagine how surprised I was when a site popped up indicating the total distance as 7.4 miles. Perhaps I should have known this, but there is actually a second Bethlehem actually situated in Galilee, which means of course, that the journey would have been much more amenable to Joseph and his young wife. Who cares about that silly little business about Jesus being born in the city of David.

Clicking on one of the links that came up, I actually did discover that some scholars do in fact advocate that Jesus was born in the Bethlehem of Nazareth. Jim Davila, over at PaleoJudaica, came upon an article about an Israeli archaeologist who argues just that. Read Davila's excerpt from the article as well as his accompanying comments here.

Younger Leaders and the SBC

Here's an illuminating--ok, not really that illuminating for people who are familiar with SBC life--article from LifeWay about the declining percentage of younger leaders participating at the Southern Baptist Convention.

Here's what Stetzer has to say: "Of course, facts don’t convince everyone. My hope is that now, finally, we will stop debating and instead ask the hard question: ‘What is causing so many young leaders to stay away?’"

Maybe if the powers that be in the SBC would simply ask some of those younger leaders, they might gain a unique, though perhaps unwanted, glimpse into what at first glance might be judged apathy. (HT: Subverting Mediocrity)

Brewing Controversy

Our Church--Karis Community--has just made the news again. Gotta love the title of the article.

Gone Baby Gone and Male/Female Decision Making

Has anyone seen Gone Baby Gone? Recently P. and I went to view this movie bc quite superficially we had heard it is set in the Boston area, albeit a rough neighborhood, and wanted to take a walk down memory lane. Despite the depressing content, we enjoyed the movie, finding it to be very thought provoking. Oh, and by the, Casey Affleck is a much better actor than Ben. Ben actually directed this film, which has an incredible cast, notably Michelle Monaghan, Ed Harris, and Morgan Freeman.

Ok, here's the point: the movie concludes with the main characters forced to make a morally ambiguous (as the film wants us to see it) decision. The two protagonists, a male and female, are split to disheartening effect in how they frame the issue. While Monaghan's character focuses on the human consequence of the decision, Affleck's attention is fixated on the question of law and principle.

Interestingly enough, in discussing the issue afterward, P.'s and my perspectives seemed (though to a somewhat lesser degree) to reflect the same difference observed in the film between the lead characters. I wonder, is this a common male/female issue, whereby the male is drawn to the abstract while the female inclines more toward the personal? I certainly do not mean to stereotype nor to suggest that one extreme or the other by itself presents the whole picture. It's just a question that struck me.

If you haven't watched the film, do so when it comes out on DVD.

From Anime to Pakistan

Just taking a break from reading about anime in a freelance job I'm working on. I have a new appreciation for Japanese animation, I'll tell you that.

Winer, along with others at the counterterrorism blog, continue to provide analysis of the situation in Pakistan, including whether al-Qaeda affiliated elements may have been involved--as the government has naturally suggested. Should the infamous terrorist network be behind the assassination of Bhutto, the implications, Winer suggests, are chilling as they are extremely suggestive of al-Qaeda's intent: "they intend to take Pakistan and make it their kind of state."

I think we all know what that looks like. Just look at Taliban-run Afghanistan. Let's hope matters don't come to that and that some other democraticizing figure(s) step forward who can at once claim legitimacy and can wield power in an effective manner. Let's hope for a miracle, in other words.

Death in Pakistan

Benazir Bhutto was killed today in a suicide bombing in Pakistan. This is a sad day, not only because of the violent death of a former leader, but also because of the setback that this event probably represents for democracy in Pakistan.

MORE:

Here's an assessment both of Bhutto and what the assassination attempt means for Pakistan's--and indeed the region's--future over at the counterterrorim blog.

Elsewhere, the speculation centers on who was responsible--directly or indirectly--for Bhutto's murder.

Latest From Iowa

Ha ha. Looks like my Iowa (and New Hampshire) predictions may fall flat, as this latest info from CNN suggests. I wish people would just make up their minds.

Bethlehem Christians

Here's a good article about the plight of Bethlehem Christians that deserves reading--particularly on Christmas. I especially agree with this statement: "Israel cannot afford to lose the Palestinian Christians: They have long represented a moderating force."

Countdown to Iowa and New Hampshire

Who do you think will be the top three candidates from each party in the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary? This is the question posed in a contest put on by Pajamas Media here. After agonizing over my choices for at least thirty minutes, I finally gave up the attempt for the moment.

It's a hard call. In Iowa, I tend to think that Huckabee will beat off Mitt Romney and John McCain will come in third--though he, Thompson, and Giuliani are bunched fairly close together in most polls. (I wouldn't mind if Thompson were a little closer to the top tier; he seems to have substantive stances on a lot of answers, but his campaign doesn't seem to be very well run at this stage.)

Even if Huckabee wins in Iowa, I don't think he will win in New Hampshire. If Romney wins in Iowa, I think he most certainly will win in New Hampshire. However, if Huckabee wins in Iowa and John McCain moderately well, I think the Arizona senator, who's already surging in the polls, stands a chance of beating Romney in the former governor's home territory. So in New Hampshire I'm betting Romney will still hold off McCain by a slim margin, and Giuliani will follow in third. Perhaps Huckabee will pass Giuliani if he wins Iowa, but I have a hard time seeing his influence in Iowa and elsewhere (read the South and Midwest) translating into results in the Northeast.

As for the Dems, I have sinking feeling--maybe it's just a fear--that John Edwards will win in Iowa. He has all but lived there since the last Democratic primary. Hillary seems on defensive mode, even trying to downplay expectations according to one report. I think I go Edwards, Obama, Clinton in Iowa.

I think Edwards will win in Iowa but not in New Hampsire. If Clinton places third in Iowa, I think her hold on New Hampshire will fall as well, as there are plenty of people committed to Clinton just because they think she is the most electable. Iowa might show this assumption false. In New Hampsire it will be Obama in a fairly substantial win with Edwards and Clinton virtually tied.

Is anyone else willing to handicap the race?

The Nativity Story

Just watched The Nativity Story for the first time the other day. I know: I'm seriously behind. Overall, I thought the movie was pretty good. This past week I tried to lead my students through the first chapters of Matthew and Luke, which forced me to rediscover a lot, and it was fun and moving at times to watch a movie presentation of the events. Mark Goodacre's review of the film is here.

The Problem with Circumcision, According to Johnny

Eight graders--apart from being frustrating to teach at times (more about that later, no doubt)--provide plenty of comic relief. A few days ago, I was drawing a parallel between the long wait Israel endured for their promised Davidic messiah and Abraham's wait (in skepticism) to see his wife, Sarah, conceive his promised son.

At this point, I decided to test their general bible knowledge. I asked if anyone remembered what it was that furnished the seeming obstacle [i.e., Sarah's age] to God's promise coming to fulfillment. A lovable student--we'll call him Johnny, to protect his identity--raised his hand in the back.

"Yes, Johnny?" "Um," he stammered, "wasn't Abraham unable to have kids because he was circumcised?"

I, and a few of his classmates, did my utmost to suppress a laugh. A chuckle might have slipped out though. I'm sure he's not going to hear the last of this from his friends.

Our Pastor

One thing that is weird about being back in a Southern Baptist environment is being exposed to Southern Baptist life all over again. Don't get me wrong, I have benefited much from my Southern Baptist education and am grateful for all the friends I've made along the way. I would not in any way want to paint the whole denomination with a broad brush--though I'm sure I have at certain times during the past. Prior to coming back to Columbia, I had almost forgotten about how much the alcohol issue consumes (no pun intended) many in the denomination, and especially here in Missouri. Unfortunately, our pastor, Kevin, has even had to contend with what I consider a near obsession with alcohol abstinence from certain quarters in Missouri Baptist life. Here's an interview with him posted on the Founders Ministries Blog. His gracious responses bear evidence to what a great pastor he is. I can only aspire to be as charitable.

Ping Goes Under

My lovely wife was baptized today at our soon-to-be official new church, Karis, in Columbia, MO. Our church meets in a hotel downtown, so we had to baptize her in another church nearby. The subplot of her baptism is that she has been attempting to have it done for a long time but has been twarted at severals points through the years. While in Boston, our beloved church was PCA, so the pastor, understanding that Ping had been sprinkled as an infant in a Presbyterian church, couldn't see any reason for baptizing her. Long story short, she was finally able to be baptized here in Columbia at our new (and already beloved) church. Here is pastor and friend Kevin Larson decked out in wadders (no, he didn't go fly fishing afterwards):

It was kind of a small baptismal but at the same time a cool one, because it was surrounded on all sides by glass, and so friends can gather and watch the dunking. Ping seems a little bemused by this feature:

Here's Ping preparing to descend into what, she hoped, would be warm water (I'm glad Kevin's not the type of guy to drown her in front of so many witnessess . . . or at all, for that matter):

Whew, she made it:

Kevin did a great job. Needless to say, it was a very special day for both Ping and I.

Mitchell Report

Yesterday I, along with countless other baseball fans, nervously awaited the release of the Mitchell Report on Steriod use in baseball. Almost every commentator I listened to on radio and TV leading up to the release tried their best to discredit it in advance: Any list would be incomplete; the names appearing thereon would be arbritary; owners and GMs effectively encouraged use of Steriods during the 90s; Mitchell had too much power and his connection with the Red Sox undermined his objectivity; heresay evidence was all that could be collected.

These and more judgments I listened to, but still I couldn't help but have butterflys in my stomach for fear that a few of my Sox favs--current and past--would be on the list, especially Big Papi, Mike Lowell, or Trot Nixon. Imagine my surprise, and horror, upon reading a leaked list that featured of all the unlikely suspects . . . Jason Varitek. No?! Not the Cap!



Thankfully, the list was later exposed as fraudulent. Now I can continue to harbor the illusion that none of my Sox heros (using the term loosely) touch the stuff. After all, they probably prefer HGH.

Elvis/Nixon and Jeff's Bible

Here's a crazy story about Elvis and President Nixon. I had no idea this happened.

A few days ago I ran across this hilarious onion piece (via the NT Gateway Blog) about an alternative bible, Jeff's Bible. It's a must read.

Psalm 33:18-22

"Behold, the eye of the Lord is on

those who fear him,

on those who hope in his

steadfast love

that he may deliver their soul

from death

and keep them alive in famine,

Our soul waits for the Lord,

he is our help and our shield,

For our heart is glad

in him,

because we trust in his holy name.

Let your steadfast love, O Lord,

be upon us

even as we hope in you."

Prayer

Currently I'm reading Philip Yancey's book on prayer and am receiving good profit from doing so. These last few years this--prayer--has been difficult for me owing to a variety of reasons. It's not always (though sometimes) a matter of making the time for the discipline; often the problems involve feeling distant from God and latent anger or frustration.

I'm considering instituting into the pattern of my life regular times of prayer throughout the day and have even toyed with the idea of utilizing a prayer book. I'm open to hearing other people's thoughts on the subject, including practices that work well. What I like so far about Yancey's book (and all his books, for that matter) is the forthright acknowledgment that all the puzzles inherent in prayer may be unsolvable, but justification enough for the practice thereof may be be found in the fact that Jesus--who experienced the same things we do--prayed. For this reason I want to pray and understand the experiences of others. Please share.

T/K: Meditating on God--a lost art?

Multi-Purpose Knives

Taking a break from the tedium of proofreading, I happened to be watching a special on the History Channel--yeah, we get cable for the first time in our marriage!--about knives. The narrator was drawing a distinction between our current era's use of diverse kinds of knives according to task and an earlier time's reliance on one type of knife to accomplish all purposes.

The fact alone is not that startingly, but the manner in which the narrator drove home the point (get it?) made me laugh. Speaking of the chaps of a bygone era, he said that the "same knife a man would use to stab his wife's lover, would be employed in eating because of its effectiveness in slicing through butter." Nice.

This, of course, reminded me our butcher knife back home in WP. Not until years later, after having utilized the blade countless times, did I overhear my mom mentioning in an offhand manner to a guest (probably after being asked "where she had purchased such a fine knife") that this same knife was a murder weapon brought as evidence in a trial in which my dad was involved as an attorney; after the trial was over, my mom apparently was able to secure the weapon for her kitchen. I can only imagine that the knife was as effective as a murder weapon as it was for slicing through chicken.

Back (in limbo)

After a long hiatus, I'm back. Just about a month ago we moved to Missouri and are trying to adjust to new scenery and pace of life. It still seems somewhat surreal. From the moment we made the decision for P. to accept a residency position in Missouri to the time of move was probably only a couple months, and I guess that wasn't enough time to process fully what was happening.

So, we're here and attempting to adapt. Ultimately the decision to come here was probably a good one, as the residency position seems to be a good one, and it's great being closer to family. Being here, however, makes decision making about future jobs and/or grad school a more agonizing process. Earlier today I was reflecting on how straight-forward in conviction (though obviously fraught with suffering) was Paul's missionary commitment. I wish I had his sense of certaintly and conviction. In Philippians the apostle writes of his "partnership in the gospel" with the recipients of his letter, and remains certain that their prayers will result in his deliverance, meaning most of all that "Christ is glorified" in his body.

Reading of Paul, I'm forced to question whether my life goals are forged of personal ambition and aim at invididual glory. Should I be pursuing something that is more transparently service to the gospel? And where do personal gifting and (God-given?) interests fit into the vocation equation? These are questions with which I'm wrestling. I don't expect to have the answers anytime soon. Although I must have some answer soon . . .

Coveting vs. Contentment

Our Pastor's sermon today, on the tenth commandment (in a series he's titled "The Gospel According to Moses"), was especially good. Or maybe it was just pertinent to our situation and thus seemed especially good. He first pointed out that coveting is in some ways the sine qua non sin for the violation of all the commandments; it is coveting which takes place first before breaking any of the others.

What was most striking for us, however, was his emphasis upon coveting as the opposite of contentment. Coveting is the mindset that spurs us to seek other things--from other people--as the fulfillment of our needs and the condition for happiness. Usually implied by this mindset is idolatry of the heart; these others conditions or things have replaced God as our chief source of joy and fulfillment.

Pastor Um has often spoken of we as people--Christians no less--as being aspirational. We are always pursuing that next goal that we project will bring us an endless supply of popularity or wealth or status or influence; in short, fulfillment. Today's sermon on coveting hit both P. and I in the gut--but in a good way (not the kind of way that makes you want to vomit). It enabled both of us to realize that if pending opportunities don't pan out the way we want them, we can still be content, as God has already given us all sprititual blessings in Christ. In fact, if we continue to place all our hope for happiness in the granting of these opportunities, we have guaranteed ourselves that we will not be happy, as we have required something of these circumstances that only God can provide.

Eugene Lane

Tuesday I encountered some sad news when browsing the website of the MU Classics department. Eugene Lane, Professor Emeritus of Classics, died this past January. Dr. Lane was the closest thing to an academic mentor that I have ever had, and it was largely through his encouragement that I persevered in Greek, even when Sophocles (or Aristophanes, Aristotle, Plato, etc.) would have had it otherwise.

Initially, upon meeting him, I--and no doubt many others--thought that Dr. Lane was a curmudgeon. He could be at times an intimidating figure on account of his limitless knowledge as well as his seemingly anti-social tendencies. These impressions changed, of course, as students got to know this one-of-a-kind instructor through multiple courses.

For me, it happened rather randomly that I came to see Dr. Lane as more than just a demanding Greek instructor.

[I should indicate at this point, that I was anything but the model Greek student; usually, I was in the middle of the pack as far as aptitude went. Complicating the matter were my study habits: I would routinely stay up until 4 or 5 in the morning studying, only to sleep in and miss the very class (usually Greek) for which I had been studying. So normal was this procedure, that one Friday morning in Greek class, when handing back quizzes or calling on volunteers, Dr. Lane caught sight of me and "exclaimed" in his patented under-the-breath sort of way: "Eric, to what honor are we due for your appearance here on a Friday morning?," or something to that effect.]

Dr. Lane had been awarded through a faculty raffle (or something of that nature) two tickets to attend the Missouri football game that weekend. Unfortunately, he said, his wife was unable to attend, and so he was needing to give away the ticket, and wondered if any of us might want it/them. My hand shot up first, and so I was awarded the prize. (Curiously, I noticed that no one else seemed interested in the ticket; I wrote this off to their being nerds.)

After class, as I was walking out the door, Dr. Lane mumbled "I'll see you at the game, Eric," and it was only at this point that I came to the deflating realization that Dr. Lane would himself be going to the game, and I would be sitting right next to him! (It made sense, now, why no one raised a hand to claim the ticket.) I believe Adam even questioned me later why I had been so enthusiastic. I could have swore that in offering the ticket, Dr. Lane had made some comment about not liking football, which lead to my inference that he wouldn't be attending.

Despite my significant misgivings, the experience turned out to be rewarding. I learned about Dr. Lane as a person and his family; in turn, he asked me about myself, background, and interests. What really endeared him to me, though, was his comment midway through the fourth quarter as the tigers were characteristically getting throttled: "well, this ones in the can; I'm going home to have an iced cold Coors."

This experience meant a lot to me. It showed me Dr. Lane's human side and his love for life and his family. It also showed that he took an interest in people, particularly his students. I had cause to remember our shared football game experience and this kindly side of him again at his retirement party. I entered late to this event with another Greek student of his. As we came into the room, we saw a cluster of more, shall I say, extraverted students gathered around him, ones who had sat under his instruction for all of 1 semester. Feeling uncomfortable, I stood with my other "Greek" friend in the corner. Then I hear Dr. Lane (incredible in itself): "Now, there's the only student I have ever gone to a football game with." Saying this, he came over to talk to Laura and myself. I'm convinced he noticed how uncomfortable I/we looked.

In the past few years Dr. Lane has been encouraging by writing letters of recommendation on my behalf, despite the fact that his Parkinson's made this painful, no doubt. This past November I went to a conference in Washington, D.C., and had the opportunity to meet a scholar who has published a source-book with Dr. Lane. Early in this year, I e-mailed Dr. Lane to say that I had met Dr. MacMullen, and that the latter had had fond things to say about him. I didn't hear back from Dr. Lane. This, I assumed, was due to his advanced Parkinson's. Now I see that Dr. Lane passed away this very month. He will be missed.

Bye bye Schilling?

I know baseball's a business and all but should Schilling depart Boston, I would nonetheless be very sad. It's entirely possible that he won't play as well as he did two or three years; in fact, it's likely. He is, after all, 41 years old--a bit up there for a professional athlete. All the same, who can forget his heroics in bringing the Sox their first World Series title after nearly 90 years. Still vivid in my mind are the truck commercials leading up to his Red Sox debut, in which he announced his migration to Boston for the purpose of winning the title. Of course, much more memorable is his making good on his plans, and doing so while pitching on a temporarily stitched together achilles, leading to the famous bloodly sock. Judging from past experience--notably, the trade of Nomar, seemingly a Red Sox ficture--Theo will be willing to part with Schill should his performance not be great, but I'm not ready to see that happen.

Veritas Forum at MIT

For those of you who have never been to a Veritas Forum, I recommend you go. This year's one at MIT starts on March 1. Our good friend, Annette Kim, will be speaking on Saturday (3/3). Here's the schedule.

New Haven

Back to New Haven tomorrow. Monday I drove down there (with the wife) to speak with a professor in the Religious Studies Department about their PhD program in New Testament. Because I also have an interest in their Ancient Christianity program, I had to set up a separate appointment with a different prof. for tomorrow. Had I been able to check my e-mail Monday before leaving, I would have seen that the NT prof. offered to meet me on Weds as well, in order to spare me the extra trip. Alas, I was long gone before this e-mail was sent.

First of all, I'm not sure I have even the smallest chance of making it into either of these programs. (Early on in our conversation, Dr. Martin informed me that they basically admit one student a year into the PhD program. Nice odds, huh?) Aside from that, I'm not sure these programs are right for me--or if I'm right for them. I guess this is just part of the journey. Hopefully, just one of the schools I apply to will accept me. Ok, enough of the pity party. I better go listen to my Rocky sound track to get pumped up.

I guess I would rather be a bulldog than a terrier . . . .

Arepas for All

Okay, ignore the fact that I look less than masculine in this picture. (Ping was quick to point that out.) The important thing is that I'm enjoying a nice cup of Venezuelan espresso while Ping hangs on for dear life and Suru and Paul sit back and wait for the fireworks.

Here's the other side of the table. Yutian is certainly the ladies man. (B-day girl, Meritza, is third from left. Emily is to her right and Karen is on her left.)

Here's all of us together. Unfortunately, Ping looks like a growth protuding from the side of Karen's head, but what can you do.

Above are some photos from a wonderful lunch that our CG had to celebrate with our dear sister, Meritza, whose birthday was recently. The restaurant is an awesome Venezuelan eatery in the South End of Boston. Here's its website. We had Arepas, which are the main offerings on the lunch menu. I highly recommend the place. Meritza herself is Venezuelan, and since she seemed to like the food, it now has street cred with us.

Odds and Ends

Over at IsElbrechtDead, cousin Nate shares a touching story about his first manicure. (I'm sure there's many more to come.)

Ben Witherington has a balanced review of Rob Bell's ministry (HT: Jason). And here's a more recent post by prolific Ben.

Michael Gilleland at Laudator Temporis Acti reports on Killing God.

Jon at The Brew Site highlights Dogfish Head's Indian Brown Ale. I'm a huge fan of Dogfish Head and would recommend almost any of their brew. In fact, it was only after sampling their 90 Minute IPA that I started to take a liking to the bite of India Pale Ales.

Oh, this just in: UNC finishes off BC, a solid team. (Can't wait until Tournament time--the only time of the year when the wife will let me watch sports for an extended period of time; this is a new phenomenon, ever since I got her addicted to filling out brackets.)

Finally, I'd like to mention Reunion Christian Church's opening in the Boston area. Their first service is on Sunday, February 18 at 10:30 AM. More info is available on their website.

Special K

Nothing says baseball season like a Japanese import. This guy makes me super excited about this year's Sox team--and baseball in general. Sure, he probably won't live up to expectations for the first year, but there's no doubt that every game he pitches will be an event. Overall, I'm thinking that the Sox have pretty good odds of winning the AL East, or at least making it to the playoffs via the wild card. The Yanks seem to be having pitching doubts and all I can say is HA!

Bruce Metzger, RIP

I've just heard that Bruce Metzger has died. His contributions to biblical studies are numerous, and I have benefited from his scholarship. In addition to his broad expertise on New Testament-related issues he was, from what I have read elsewhere and deduced from his own writings, a fine Christian. He will be missed. (HT: Evangelical Textual Criticism.)

Update:
An obituary for Metzger is featured on the Princeton Seminary newsletter here, as well as on the SBL site.

Volf on Iraq War

Oh, I meant to highlight this post by Miroslav Volf on the Christian response to the Iraq War. While I certaintly don't agree with all he says--and feel he over simplifies the modern context of wars (as noted by one commenter)--I do feel that we as Christians should be extremely hesitant about under what conditions we would sanction acts of war that could (no, will) have lamentable consequences. I remember listening to a lecture given by as conservative a figure as Alan Keyes (sp?) on the immorality of the US intervention in the Balkan conflict due to the repercusions in terms of loss of innocent life; in my opinion, many of the same arguments can be applied to the Iraq conflict. However, on the whole, I recognize (contra to many) that many of the geo-political reasons given for invading Iraq were legitimate, even if on strategic grounds I was against the decision and on moral ones I was ambivalent. I am one confused puppy. The short of it is, however, that I feel that we need to engage the ideas proposed by Volf--however much some of us may cringe at the oversimplification in Volf's position--since Christians by the nature of their calling are required to evaluate issues from a unique vantage point.

Gotta Love Snow

It's a wintery day in NE. Today's blanketing was a welcome semi-surprise for me, someone who loves the white stuff (fyi: that's snow, not cocaine). Too bad classes couldn't have been called off; instead, I had to commute 1 1/2 hours to school for one afternoon class--the worst. Hope every one in the New England area is enjoying the long-awaited Jack Frost. (I'll take a picture and post it later for you non-NE folk, though, having had snow already in your parts of the country, it will seem a non-event.)

Service a la Paul

Okay, blogger sabbatical is over. I'm happy to be back if truth be told. Guess I kinda started to miss pontificating. Our small group is commencing what will be--I hope--a life changing interaction with 1 Thessalonians. For me this letter is very apt for our small community in the South End. Radiating from Paul's pen (so to speak) is his ardent love for a group of new believers; his willingness to give up all for their well being is hard to miss.

Two sections of the letter, both in chapter 2, particularly jump off the page for me. Defending--or recommiting to the record (?)--his manner of service among the young church, Paul says in 2.7-8: "But we were very gentle among you, like a nursing mother taking care of her own children. So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only te gospel of God but also our own selves, because you had become very dear to us." Later in the chapter he goes on to exclaim: "For what is our hope or joy or crown of boasting before our Lord Jesus at his coming? Is it not you? For you are our glory and joy."

This for me is what living life together is all about--giving of ourselves on behalf of others and exalting in the realization of the other's ascendency in faith. I hope to be an emulator of Paul in this respect and to see others in the CG become so as well.

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.