Letters from the Desert

Journal, 3/25/10

2010-03-25T15:13:00.000-07:00

Reading: Joshua 21-22, Psalm 47, 1 Corinthians 10

Thursday, March 25, 2010

Joshua 22:26-29: “Therefore we said, ‘Let us build an altar, not for burnt offering or for sacrifice; rather it shall be a witness between us and you and between our generations after us, that we are to perform the service of the LORD before Him with our burnt offerings, and with our sacrifices and with our peace offerings, so that your sons will not say to our sons in time to come, “You have no portion in the Lord”’ Therefore we said, ‘It shall also come about if they say this to us or to our generations in time to come, then we shall say, “See the copy of the altar of the LORD which our fathers made, not for burnt offering or for sacrifice; rather it is a witness between us and you.”’ Far be it from us that we should rebel against the LORD and turn away from following the LORD this day, by building an altar for burnt offering, for grain offering or for sacrifice, besides the altar of the LORD our God which is before His tabernacle.”

Psalm 47:7-8: For God is the King of all the earth;

Sing praises with a skillful psalm.

God reigns over the nations,

God sits on His holy throne.

This explanation by the Transjordan tribes really strikes me. They feared that, because of their separation from the other tribes, they would lose their roots in the truth. They feared that their children, who had not been through the wandering and the conquest would not know the great things that the LORD had done, and would not continue in devotion to him. So, in order to prevent this drifting away, they made a copy of the altar as a reminder.

I was also struck by Psalm 47:7-8 because it seems to reflect the very thing that the Transjordan tribes wanted to remember. God is the King of all the earth. He reigns over the nations and he sits on his holy throne. The LORD is the God of gods, the Lord of lords, the King of kings. Despite what might take place with the surrounding nations, the Transjordan tribes wanted to remember who the true King of all was.

The Old Testament is filled with powerful reminders of what the LORD had done for the people. The Passover meal, the feasts and festivals, the sacrifices, the laws, the blessings, the standing stones, this altar. Remember was a big deal. This makes even more sense out of the Lord’s Supper, when Jesus said, “Do this in remembrance of me.” Similarly to the Transjordan tribes, we don’t worship the bread and wine, or the cross in the church, or the pictures that represent biblical themes, but they are powerful symbolic reminders of who is King. How tragic if we were to forget the risen Lord of all the earth, and all that he has done for us.

What am I doing now in order to put reminders into my life? I am taking some steps to do this right now in my office. What about my home? What about my computer? What about my car? It seems powerful to me that it was not enough for the Transjordan tribes that there was an altar in Jerusalem. They wanted a reminder altar in their own space. They could not get away from it. It was there was a reminder whether they went out of their way to see it or not.

Father, what are you guiding me to do in order to remember? Please guide me as I think through my home, my room, my car, my computer, and my kids’ space. How can we prevent ourselves from forgetting who you are and the great things you have done? Please open my eyes to this. You are the great God who sent your Son to be our sacrifice, and who raised him up from the dead in the greatest victory! Prevent me from forgetting this. And prevent me from forgetting the amazing and profound forgiveness that has come to me. And prevent me from forgetting the ways that you have guided me all of my life. The ways you have cared for my family. The way you called me into ministry. The way that you brought Karina into my life. The way that you have purged a great deal of bitterness from my heart. The way that you have provided for us during seminary and during all of our difficult times. Keep my mind and heart from wandering.

I pray for my sons, that you would keep them from drifting from you. Solidify their hearts and keep them committed to you. Open their eyes to see who you are, and to own you as their Lord. Draw them to you, open their hearts to you, give them soft and responsive hearts, and seal them for you. Show them the life that is real life!

I pray for our church, that you would prevent us from drifting from you and forgetting all that you have done for us as individuals and also as a church. Bring us back by way of powerful reminder. Guide Alan, the elders, and all of us as we look to set up the church in such a way that we have these constant reminders before us.

Journal, 3/22/10

2010-03-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

Reading: Joshua 12-14, 1 Corinthians 7.

Scripture

Joshua 14:12: Now then, give me this hill country about which the LORD spoke on that day, for you heard on that day that Anakim were there, with great fortified cities; perhaps the LORD will be with me, and I will drive them out as the LORD has spoken.

Numbers 13:22: “When they had gone up into the Negev, they came to Hebron where Ahiman, Sheshai and Talmai, the descendants of Anak were.

Numbers 13:28: “Nevertheless, the people who live in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large; and moreover, we saw the descendants of Anak there.”

Numbers 13:30-31: “Then Caleb quieted the people before Moses and said, ‘We should by all means go up and take possession of it, for we will surely overcome it.’ But the men who had gone up with him said, ‘We are not able to go up against the people, for they are too strong for us.’”

Observation

Here is the conclusion of the story of Caleb. He was courageous when he and Joshua and the ten others went to spy out the land. Only he and Joshua were willing to go and take the land, and Caleb was the strongest spokesman for this action. Now, at the end of the conquest of the land, Caleb wants to take care of some unfinished business.

It seems that the Anakim were the main reason why the other ten spies did not want to take the land. Now, while most of the conquest has been completed, Caleb notices that they still have not taken care of the Anakim. So he goes to Joshua to ask if he can go and take them on.

At this point, Caleb is 85 years old. When he was 40, he was brave enough to go and face them. His words were, “We should by all means go up and take possession of it, for we will surely overcome it.” Now his words are, “Perhaps the LORD will be with me, and I will drive them out as the LORD has spoken.”

This is not simply Caleb deciding to follow an impulse. This is not simply about him getting an inheritance for his family. This is about the LORD’s honor, but it is also about something else. Back in Numbers 13 Caleb said that there would be no problem with conquering the territory of the Anakim. After all, the LORD had told them that they would succeed in this quest. If God said that they would conquer, surely they would. Caleb showed simple, courageous faith. Fear did not enter into the picture because he believed God. What other option was there than to believe him and do what he said?

Now Caleb still believes! When he says, “Perhaps the LORD will be with me, and I will drive them out,” it sounds like he is uncertain. It sounds like he is saying that it is worth trying because it might be God’s will. It just doesn’t seem like this can be the case, though, because of what he says next. He ends the sentence by saying, “as the LORD has spoken.” The LORD said that he was going to drive these people out, and that they would not be able to stand against Israel, so why not go up and take care of it.

Application

Simple faith allowed Caleb to act courageously. He was brave back in Numbers 13, and, although the cowardice of the others led to the wandering in the wilderness, God preserved Caleb as a reward. Now, 45 years later it is very simple: Caleb still believes God. So, why not go and take care of that unfinished business of the Anakim?

I want to live by this simple faith. I want to speak the truth in love and in courage. Caleb had no fear of the bigger, younger, and more powerful Anakim because he believed God. In all of the different meetings and interactions I have this week, I want to speak the truth without fear. Fear keeps me from the best thing that God has for me, and it also keeps me from being his servant to others, truly to benefit them.

Prayer

Father, empower me to live courageously because I fear you and believe you. When I am afraid, I will trust in you. You are the creator and redeemer of the world. Death could not contain the Lord Jesus Christ, and now I serve the Lord of lords. What can man do to me? Empower me to speak truth with conviction and with compassion. Caleb never made it about exalting himself. He had a simple faith in you. I want to trust you in that way. When I am afraid or arrogant or despondent, remind me of who you are. Come to me and guide me when fear and unbelief take over. Empower me to live by simple faith in a profoundly good and powerful God.

Journal, 3/19/10

2010-03-19T17:53:00.000-07:00

So, as many Good Shepherd people have been, I have been doing the Divine Mentor reading plan. I have really enjoyed it and I have enjoyed the journalling too. I thought I would start using my blog to enter some of my journal entries.

Reading: Joshua 3-6, 1 Corinthians 4
Joshua 4:10-11: For the priests who carried the ark were standing in the middle of the Jordan until everything was completed that the LORD had commanded Joshua to speak to the people, according to all that Moses had commanded Joshua. And the people hurried and crossed; and when all the people had finished crossing, the ark of the LORD and the priests crossed before the people.
There is so much richness in Joshua 3-6 that it was really hard to choose only one passage on which to focus. This one really struck me, though. I have read this story many tiems, but I think I have missed this. I remembered that the priests crossed the Jordan first, but I had not noticed that they stood in the middle of the dried-up Jordan while the rest of Israel crossed. There were the priests, standing in the middle of a dried-up river, waiting for the rest of the people to cross before them. Then, when everyone was safe from the waters, they themselves crossed.
What an amazing picture of the priesthood! In one sense this certainly was not the normal task of the priests, but in another sense it was. The priests were mediators. They connected the people of God. And, in a way, they stood in the gap and kept the people from God's wrath through the sacrifices and offerings. And here they were, literally standing between the people and danger. The people could cross, thinking, "Well, the priests are there. I guess they wouldn't be standing there if it wasn't safe for us. And, anyway, if it becomes unsafe, they will be the first to be hit by the waters."
The priests lived this way. They put themselves in danger for the sake of the people. They courageously stepped into the gap and mediated for the people. This is such a vivid picture of this.
And then there is the great high priest, Jesus Christ. He stands in themiddle of the dried-up Jordan while the righteous wrath of God, the fallout for all our sins and brokenness, is stopped short. And while he stands in the middle of the river, we all cross over, gaining safety form the punishment of our sins, gaining adoption from the God of all things, and gaining life.
But I don't think that analogy is quite right. The priests stodd in the gap, but God spared them from the waters. God did not spare his only Son. Jesus stodd in teh gap, but the floodgates were let go and he was weapt away by the burrent. He was overcome by the river. He died violently as we watched in horror. And then three days later he rose from the waters and stood victoriously and strong in the middle of them. And the HE stopped the waters with no more than a look. And as they stopped, bowing to the Lord of lords, we were all invited to cross. And they did not simply stop once. They still are stopped up, bowing before the risen Lord of all.
What am I to do with this? Well, in the passage it seems clear that the people were called to cross over. And crossing over was the symbol of their trust and obedience. God continually called them to trust him and to do difficult things. I am called to cross over each and every day and to trust God as I do so. I am called to cross over by laying down my life for the sake of Karina and Matt and Jack. I cross over when I sacrifice for them, trusting that I am taken care of by God. I cross over when I reach out to my neighbors in the name of Jesus Christ, bearing his shame and risking that they will think I am strange or pushy or fanatical. I cross over when I say no to lust and bitterness and apathy, and when I say yes to purity and forgiveness and passion.
Father, save me from apathy. I feel it creeping over me. I feel the tides of indifference and there is a part of me that wants to let them just take me away. I want to stop hoping because I don't want to continue to be disappointed. Please free me from this deadness. I want to cross over and to follow you into compassion and love and hope. Empower me to hope in you and not to lose heart. Show me what it looks like to have hope and yet to live in reality. Your reality. Teach me what it looks like to pray in faith, and not to lose heart.

Quick Notes on Heroes vs. Villians, Episode 1

2010-02-15T19:24:00.000-08:00

And I mean it, quick notes.
This was the best Survivor premiere ever!
As ridiculous as he is, Coach is the star so far.
Coach + Jerri = Unholy Alliance.
Neithe Rupert nor Colby are impressive so far. Come on!
Russell is working his magic again. Is it wrong to root for him?
Glad Cirie wasn't voted out. My heart skipped a beat when Tom started talking about that.
Tom is very impressive to me so far. JT too. I thought the winners would be in over their heads.
Boston Rob is a blast.
Tyson and Courtney are on the show purely for their one-liners.
Sugar: Glad she went first, but she had her best moment ever when she won that challenge for them.
I am constantly amazed at the sheer size of James.
Can't wait til the Villians tribe goes to tribal council.
Anyone else interested in Rob vs. Russell?
Go Cirie! Go Colby! Go Russell! Go Rob! Go Steph! In that order.

What I Have Been Taking In

2010-02-12T14:45:00.000-08:00

While it has been said many times, I am still struck with the importance of what we allow into our minds. What I watch, read, listen to, all has a huge impact on my thoughts, attitudes, etc.
So, that said, here are some things that I have been taking in.
Deep Church by Jim Belcher. I finished this a few weeks ago, and Karina is reading through it now. I love reading books on the church, and this book probably best summed up where I have been heading in my thoughts about the church. Really great book for anyone thinking about the purpose and mission of the church, and also a great book if you are wrestling through issues related to the emerging church. So worth it. Highly recommended.
Exploring Ecclesiology by Brad Harper and Paul Metzger. Another excellent book on the church. Many of you know that Paul Metzger was one of my professors at Multnomah, and he has had a big impact on me. I was especially challenged, in this book, by the idea of the church being an "eschatological community." The idea is that we reveal what will be to come. One day Christ will take back rule of this earth, and, God-willing, the church now reveals to people what that rule will look like. As a brief disclaimer, I don't agree with Harper and Metzger on their egalitarian position, but I still agree with their overall thrust and message.
So Brave, Young and Handsome by Leif Enger. I read this book near Christmas time, and I loved it. Rich, relatable characters, and a great story about redemption. I loved it so much that I am now reading back through Enger's first book, Peace Like a River, which is even better.
Knowledge of the Holy by A.W. Tozer. I read through this book again about a month ago. It is so good (and nice and short). If you have not read it, it is a brief book on the attributes of God. Check it out. Short chapters (4-5 pages each). Very deep and rich.
Timothy Keller Podcast. This was just put up on Itunes a couple of weeks ago. If you don't know Tim Keller, his stuff is fantastic. The two things that I appreciate most about him are
(1) His emphasis on preaching Christ in every passage of Scripture,
(2) His excellent job of dealing head-on with the tough questions that challenge the Christian faith.
The podcast is WAY worth it. If you are into podcast, check it out for sure. And if you like what you hear, go to ItunesU and get the tracks for a class he did at Reformed Theological Seminary with Ed Clowny called Preaching Christ in a Postmodern World. This is also great stuff.

Thus They Plundered the Egyptians

2010-02-01T15:15:00.000-08:00

Now the sons of Israel had done according to the word of Moses, for they had requested from the Egyptians articles of silver and articles of gold, and clothing; and the LORD had given the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they let them have their request. Thus they plundered the Egyptians.
---Exodus 12:35-36

The Plundering of Egypt
The final statement in that passage makes me smile. I love it. It fulfills God's promise to Moses back in Exodus 3:20-20: "So I will stretch out My hand and strike Egypt with all My miracles which I shall do in the midst of it; and after that he will let you go. I will grant this people favor in the sight of the Egyptians; and it shall be that when you go, you will not go empty-handed. But every woman shall ask of her neighbor and the women who lives in her house, articles of silver and articles of gold, and clothing; and you will put them on your sons and daughters. Thus you will plunder the Egyptians."
When do you plunder someone else? Isn't it when you win a victory over them. You are triumphant, they are utterly defeated, and so you plunder them, walking away with their stuff. The thought of a bunch of ragged slaves plundering the greatest kingdom on earth is a comical thought. But that is what happened. After Pharaoh told the Israelites that they could leave, they turned to their neighbors and asked for some of their stuff. And the Egyptians scurried away to grab their earrings and silverware and cloaks. They handed them over quickly, saying, "You can have it. Just leave!" The people of Israel were not only set free, but they walked away as victors over Egypt.

To the Victors Go the Spoils
When the Israelites plundered the Egyptians, they reaped the benefits of a victory with which they had nothing to do. God had won the victory, humbling Egypt, and the Israelites got the spoil. They were invited to partake of the spoils of victory, even though they had not lifted a finger to achieve this victory.
Later on Israel had a greater level of participation in the victories that God brought to them. When this took place, though, they would have done well to remember their initial victory. This would keep them from pride, and would help them to remember that it was God who fought for them.

"This is my body, take and eat."
I cannot get over the parallel of this story and the larger gospel story. We reap the benefits of a victory that we did not win. We are triumphant because Christ has triumphed! He conquers sin and death, and we enjoy the spoils! This is the beauty of the gospel.

And we would do well to remember that it was not our doing when this victory was won.

The Sanctity of Human Life and . . . No Country for Old Men

2010-01-25T12:52:00.001-08:00

Some of you may have seen the movie No Country for Old Men. It is based on a book by Cormac McCarthy, which I just finished reading. I want to share an interesting passage from the book.
If you have seen the movie, you know that it is a haunting (and violent) story of an aging sheriff growing more and more disillusioned because of the violence of humanity against one another. Here is a brief section from the sheriff (Tommy Lee Jones in the movie). It is interesting to see McCarthy's observation here (emphasis is all mine):

I read in the papers here a while back some teachers come across a survey that was sent out back in the thirties to a number of schools around the country. Had this questionnaire about what was the problems with teachin in the schools. And they come across these forms, they’d been filled out and sent in from around the country answerin these questions. And the biggest problems they could name was things like talkin in class and runnin in the hallways. Chewin gum. Copyin homework. Things of that nature. S they got one of them forms that was blank and printed up a bunch of em and sent em back out to the same schools. Forty years later. Well, here come the answers back. Rape, arson, murder. Drugs. Suicide. So I think about that. Because a lot of the time ever when I say anything about how the world is goin to hell in a handbasket people will just sort of smile and tell me I’m gettin old. That it’s one of the symptoms. But my feelin about that is that anybody that can’t tell the difference between rapin and murderin people and chewin gum has got a whole lot bigger of a problem than what I’ve got. Forty years is not a long time neither. Maybe the next forty of it will bring some of em out from under the ether. If it ain’t too late.

Here a year or two back me and Loretta went to a conference in Corpus Christi and I got set next to this woman, she was the wife of somebody or other. And she kept talkin about the right wing this and the right wing that. I ain’t even sure what she meant by it. The people I know are mostly just common people. Common as dirt, as the sayin goes. I told her that and she looked at me funny. She thought I was sayin somethin bad about em, but of course that’s a high compliment in my part of the world. She kept on, kept on. Finally told me, said: I don’t like the way this country is headed. I want my granddaughter to be able to have an abortion. And I said well mam I don’t think you got any worries about the way the country is headed. The way I see it goin I don’t have much doubt but what she’ll be able to have an abortion. I’m goin to say that not only will be able to have an abortion, she’ll be able to have you put to sleep. Which pretty much ended the conversation.

Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains

2010-01-11T15:18:00.000-08:00

So. . .sorry, but I have to weigh in about the upcoming season of Survivor. I am a little embarrassed, but I still really enjoy the show.
The cast has been announced. I will comment on each of the players.

Who I am really glad to see:
Colby (Australia): You can't have heroes without Colby. He is the best. I really would love to see him win it all this time around. I also really think he can win. There are other targets, and he is really likable.
Rupert (Pearl Islands): Along with Colby, Rupert is the one male hero that was an absolute must. I still am not convinced that he is a great player, but he is a great guy and a great survivor. Maybe he can get carried to the end. If he does, he would be hard to beat.
Boston Rob (Marquesas): I think he could really win this time around. He is a great player, and super-competitive.
Stephanie (Palau): She is the female Rupert (but a better player). I am really glad she is on. If she can make the merge, she could be really dangerous.
Cirie (Panama): I am really glad she is back. Probably my favorite female player of all time. Like Steph, if she can make the merge, she may make it all the way. I would love to see her finally make it to the end. If she does, I don't think anyone could outdo her in the Final Tribal.
Russell (Samoa): Great choice. What an unbelievable and unique player. I think his chances of winning are actually pretty decent.
Coach (Tochantins): Coach is ridiculous and that is why they needed to have him on the show. I think he has absolutely ZERO chance of winning, but he is going to be entertaining. Hopefully he can stay in long enough for that.

Who I am relatively glad to see:
Tom (Palau): Tom is great, but I am not crazy about bringing back winners. I just think it is going to be too easy to vote him off.
Parvati (Cook Islands): Had to bring her back, but the same applies to her as applies to Tom. She won. She won't win again.
JT (Tochantins): See Tom.
Sandra (Pearl Islands): See Tom. But she won quite a while ago. I don't get why she is a villain. I don't really think she was a very impressive winner last time, so I don't know how big a target she will be. But she also isn't great in challenges, so she might be out early.
Tyson (Tochantins): He is really good in challenges. At the beginning of his season, I liked him and thought he was hysterical. As the season went on, I came to believe that he was just mean. I don't know. He will be good, but I am not a big fan.

Who I am lukewarm about seeing:
James (China): Everyone loves James (me too). James is big and strong, and he is a great guy. Not a great player, though. It is fun to watch him because he is such a beast in challenges. I don't think he will win, though.
Amanda (China): I get why they asked her. She is good, and she made it to the end both times she played (and then choked horribly both times at the Final Tribal). I am a little tired of her, though. She needs to be voted off this time. I don't think the others will let her get to the end for the 3rd time.
Courtney (China): She was funny and did better than expected, but I thought she was completely carried to the end by Todd (my pick in that season). I don't know why she is on this season. She is in serious danger of being voted off early because she is really not good in challenges.

Who I don't get:
Candice (Cook Islands): This just baffles me as to why she was picked. I don't get why she is on the show. And I don't get why she is a hero. She was sent to exile island like 4 times in a row after her mutiny. She finished 8th in her season. She may fly under the radar this season because she was not terribly impressive before.
Sugar (Gabon): Another choice that I am not crazy about. I get her a little more than Candice (at least Sugar made it to the end in her season). Oh well. Maybe she will help to get the bad people off.
Randy (Gabon): I kind of get this pick because he was a riot, but I think they could have done better.
Danielle (Panama): I guess it get it because she finished 2nd, but I thought she was really forgettable.
Jerri (Australia): I don't get why they keep bringing her back. She is not that good. I just think it is probably because she and Colby clashed. They want to play off that again.

Who I wish was on:
Overall, I think that cast is really good. I think it will be a great season. But there are a few players that I would have loved to see again:
Terry (Panama): He so dominated the challenges that season, and then Danielle betrayed him and never gave him the chance to win it all. I wish they would bring him back.
Rafe (Guatemala): He was great he first time, winning challenges and running things in the tribe.
P.G. (China): I actually would rather see her than Amanda or Courtney (or Sugar or Candice). She played with gusto and lasted a long time.
Tina (Australia): I know this goes against not wanting winners, but she was a great winner, and a great person.
Erik (Fans vs. Favorites): For the guy who gave up immunity and then got voted off, how could he not get another invite. Classic!

Should be fun.

Pictures from Maui

2010-01-06T11:46:00.000-08:00

So, we had the wonderful privilege of getting to spend our Christmas and New Year's in Maui this year. I thought I would just post a bunch of pictures in no particular order to give a little taste of the trip. I may try to do a more orderly post sometime later.

Here is Matt trying out the snorkel. He didn't enjoy going into the water, but that doesn't mean that he can't enjoy the gear.

Here is Jack with Popsy.

Here are Matt and Jack with their cousins Jake and Ty.

Here are Matt and Jake. They are wearing their makeshift eye-patches. Also, you may observe that Matt is wearing his Tim Tebow jersey. We all watched Tebow's last college game (as he shredded Cincy).

As I said, Matt wasn't crazy about the water, but we still hit the beach, and he enjoyed some sand games.

It was really warm (even in late December and early January), so we got outside and played. Matt continues to love to play baseball.

He got a pass to a really great aquarium. The boys really enjoyed looking at all the fish. Some of the favorites were the hammerhead sharks and the jellyfish.

Here's Jack and me looking out at the beautiful ocean.

There's that smile, as we enjoyed some lunch out.

Jack enjoyed time in the pool.

Here is Matt, enjoying some time on the beach with Karina.

And here is Jack enjoying his lunch with Karina.

Jack liked swimming in the pool and the ocean also.

Here's one picture we got of all four of us.

Favorites of 2009

2009-12-31T11:29:00.000-08:00

Favorite Movie Watched in a Theater:
Slumdog Millionaire

Favorite Movie Watched at Home for the First Time:
Defiance

Favorite Fiction Book Read for the First Time:
Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton

Favorite Nonfiction Book Read for the First Time:
Flags of our Fathers by James Bradley

Favorite Podcast:
The Dan Patrick Show (it still wins out over Imago Dei and The Center for Excellence in Preaching)

Favorite Family Moment:
Trips to the park in the summer

Favorite 24 Moment:
Bill Buchanan's sacrificial death

Favorite Survivor Moment:
Russell running wild and running the show

Favorite New Show:
Lie to Me

Favorite New Song Purchased:
Where We Gonna Go from Here by Mat Kearney

Favorite Ministry Moment:
Bible Study with Gordon Graaff, John Lewis, and Dave Miller (and Scott Carey when he was around)

Favorite California Moment:
Going to the Santa Barbarra Zoo for Mom's Birthday

Favorite Sports Moment Watched:
The Lakers winning it all (highlighted by Derek Fisher's clutch 3's in Game 4)

Favorite Matthew Activity:
Playing Baseball

Favorite Jack Activity:
Playing Tackle

Favorite Married Moment:
Bike riding on the Springwater Trail with Karina and stopping for lunch near the water.

Favorite Friend Moment:
Going to the condo with Dave and Kelly (once again)

Favorite Bible Verse for the Year:
Ephesians 3:10: So that the manifold wisdom of God might now be made known through the church to the rulers and authorities in the heavenly places.

2009-12-21T20:27:00.001-08:00

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Jack's Potty Training

2009-12-09T09:08:00.000-08:00

Hi, this is Jack Franklin. I just want to give you all a little update on how things are going as my parents TRY to potty train me.

My potty training began the day after Thanksgiving. That Friday morning my Dad put me on the potty and told me that I would not get up until I had gone peeps or poops. I thought that sounded pretty lame until I found out that I would get to eat my breakfast and watch VeggieTales while sitting on the potty.
For the first couple of days my pattern was basically to sit on the potty until my Dad let me get up. Then I would put on my Big Boy Underwear, go into the kitchen, and pee all over the floor. Then I would get rushed back to the potty, where I would immediately demand a new VeggieTales movie while I sat there. Life was good.
By that next Monday or Tuesday I was actually getting the hang of this whole potty thing. If I go peeps, I get a chocolate chip or two. My brother Matt also gets chocolate when I go, so whenever he hears Mom or Dad clapping for me, he comes running into the bathroom to pick up his goods. If I go poops, I get to watch a VeggieTales. What Mom and Dad didn't clarify was that my poops have to go into the potty in order for this deal to work.
I have to admit that there were some rough moments during this period of focus. At times I just wanted to throw on a diaper and relax. At times I sat on the potty whining and saying, "rough." Mom and Dad say that they know it is tough for me, but do they really know? They have been potty trained for a long time (or so they claim). A little more compassion would be welcome.
Now I go around in pull-ups full-time. Often I even have clothes on over them (but not always). Sometimes I also wear my Big Boy Underwear. I do a better job now keeping it dry. During the first day of potty training, I think I went through ten pairs. I probably only went through about 6 or 7 on the second day, though. From there on out, it has been better.
Here is a little advice now for anyone who is about to go through potty training:
1. Whine and hold out until you get the best possible reward. Parents often start with a little reward like M&Ms or chocolate chips. After a couple hours, though, they will offer movies and bigger food. After a couple days, they will promise you just about anything. If my parents are people of their word, then I should be receiving a pony, a bike, and the deed to their house anytime now.
2. Learn quickly to go a little bit at a time. If you get chocolate every time you go peeps, why go all at once. Let a little bit trickle out, get your reward, and then go back and repeat cycle.
3. Get ready for your parents to make lots of embarrassing comments about your chubby little legs. Parents seem to love this. They'll see your legs a lot since you will spend a lot of time in nothing more than a shirt and underwear. I don't know what it is about little chubby legs, but parents seem to love them. I'm not saying you have to enjoy it. I am just saying that you should be ready for it.

Well, that is about all I have to say. My parents are optimistic that being potty trained will make their lives a lot more pleasant during the Christmas season. I think I will try hard to keep improving so that I can make life easy on them. I think I will. Probably. It all depends on what I can get them to promise me. . .

Under-rated!!!

2009-11-22T17:13:00.000-08:00

Disclaimer: I know that everyone has different standards on movies, music, etc. Please check into these yourselves. You may decide that they will be song or movies or books that you don't consider appropriate for you.

Song: Motorcycle Drive-By by Third Eye Blind. They had some hits. You may know Semi-Charmed Life, How's it Gonna Be, and Never Let You Go. This one is a bit under the radar. Great song. It builds toward the end. And, as was the case before, this song now plays when you come to the blog.

Movie: Stranger than Fiction. This movie is a comedy (and it is really funny), but it also takes on some really serious and thoughtful themes. Keep watch especially for the conversations between Will Ferrell and Dustin Hoffman. It is done in a light way, but they are dealing themes of life and death.

Book: Telling the Truth by Frederick Buechner. It is a short book about telling the story of the gospel of Jesus Christ. It is simple, and yet very profound. You can read it in one or two sittings if you want. Great, great stuff.

The Discipline of the Lord

2009-11-16T13:41:00.000-08:00

So, I wrote this article for our church's newsletter, which will come out later this month. At Good Shepherd, we are, as a body, focusing on Hebrews 12. Some questions have come up concerning the discipline of the Lord. I wrote responses to some FAQs. I hope it is helpful (and thoughtful).
What is God’s Discipline?
Believers in Jesus Christ have all been adopted as sons and daughters of God. As a good Father, God disciplines his children. When God disciplines us, He uses challenging circumstances to refine us, so that we will be more and more like Jesus.

Is there a difference between discipline and punishment?
A coach disciplines his players by having them run laps. An officer disciplines the soldiers under his command by having them run drills. A mother disciplines her children by giving them household chores. These actions are not always punishments, but they are always discipline. In each case, discipline is being given in order to train and grow the person being disciplined.

Discipline can include punishment, but discipline does not equal punishment.

There are certainly times when we experience God’s discipline in the form of direct consequences for foolish or sinful choices. But even when this is the case, God brings this discipline to help us grow, not to crush us or to push us away from Him. And many other times God disciplines us simply because there are areas of growth that need to be addressed. As a good Father, God wants to see us grow in endurance and strength. To accomplish this, He brings challenging circumstances to give opportunity for growth.

How do I know when God is disciplining me?

Again, don’t think of discipline solely in the form of punishment. We often respond to difficulties by asking, “What have I done to deserve this suffering?” In the book of Hebrews, the writer does not tell his readers that God is disciplining them because He is upset with them for something they have done. He says that God is disciplining them so that they will be able to endure (Hebrews 12:7).

It is not true that God disciplines us only in response to a specific sin that we have committed. However, it is true that God disciplines us because we need growth in certain areas of our lives.

Whenever we experience difficulties, we can consider it God’s discipline. It may be that God is exposing our sins and failures and is allowing us to experience the consequences of those actions. It may also be that God is exposing areas of weakness and compromise and is giving us an opportunity to be strengthened through relying on Him. In either case He invites us to draw near to Him and to be strengthened by Him.

How should I respond if God is disciplining me?

Hebrews 12 calls us to respond to discipline in verses 12-13: “Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble, and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather may be healed.” In response to discipline, endure! Draw near to God. Hebrews 4:15 reminds us that “we do not have a high priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but One who has been tempted in all things as we are, yet without sin.” Hebrews 4:16 then invites us to “draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace and help in time of need.” Draw near to God. Trust Him. Ask Him to expose areas where you need growth. Ask Him to search you, and to bring healing and growth to your life.

Also, take note of the reminder in Hebrews 12:9: “Furthermore, we had earthly fathers to discipline us, and we respected them; shall we not much rather be subject to the Father of spirits, and live?” If you are experiencing God’s discipline, don’t run from it. Accept it as the love-gift of a good Father. Some of us might pray, “God, give me strength so that I can be more disciplined.” Few of us, however, rejoice when God answers this prayer by bringing discipline.

We must experience discipline if we are going to be disciplined.

Stay under it. Endure. Thank God for caring enough to treat you as a son or daughter.

How can I get the most out of this Hebrews 12 study?

Continually ask yourself, “What areas of growth is God exposing in me right now?” Pray through those areas. Ask God for increased strength, so that you can grow in those areas of weakness. Also, pray for the entire church, including the leadership, that we all will be shaped and refined through this time, and that God will bring great transformation to us as individuals and to us as a church. Finally, pray for the team from Peacemakers as they prepare to return and to lead our body toward greater healing and growth.

Matthew is Five Years Old

2009-11-15T06:59:00.000-08:00

This post is a couple days late, but I wanted to have pictures from Matt's Birthday party.
Last Thursday, November 12th, my son Matthew turned 5. He had a baseball-themed party with his grandparents, cousins, aunt and uncle, and some friends. You can see him in this picture, eating a baseball-decorated cupcake. You can also see that he himself is baseball-themed. He is wearing a Padres shirt (the one I wore in little league when I was 10) and a Dodgers hat. Don't worry, though, because his loyalties are not truly divided. He is a Dodger fan all the way.
Matt is already a pretty big baseball fan. He loves to play and to watch. But funny thing: Due to old video games and old videos, he is much more conversant in baseball from 10-20 years ago. He consistently watches the Dodgers' 1988 World Series video. Maybe the Dodgers will someday give us a more modern World Series video. We can only hope.

Some of Matt's Favorite Things
I already talked about Matt's love for baseball. It carries over also to football, soccer, and basketball. His love for any particular sports usually follows whatever sport is in season. Baseball is still king right now, but basketball and football are making some noise.
Matt also loves to read and to learn. He really amazes me with his ability to focus. I have mentioned that Karina is teaching him Latin right now. He is just eating it up. He is also trying to teach Jack as he goes.
Matt loves to be active, loves to hang with his friends (especially Jake and Ty), loves to help his Mom in the kitchen, and loves to be goofy (as you can see from the picture).

My Favorite Things about Matt
I love how Matt is gentle with his little brother, and how he likes to help him learn. When they are in their bedroom at night clowning around, you can often hear Matt say, "Oops, I'm sorry Jack. Jack, can you say, 'I forgive you'?"
I love how Matt loves to learn. It is fun to watch him get joy out of life. He wants to know everything from Geography to Math to Science.
I love Matt's increasingly tender heart toward God. I am really thankful for how he is interested in learning about Jesus, interested in praying, and how he responds more and more to direction and correction. I pray that this continues all his life. One of our main prayers for him is that he will be responsive to God, and that, through Christ, the Father will draw him close and captivate him.

Fun Memories
It is hard to believe that I am the Dad of a five year-old. In some ways it feels like Matt has always been with us. In other ways it is crazy to think that we have been parents for 5 years. Some of my favorite memories of Matt involve his clever wit:
* Matt first word was a sarcastic "okay" in response to us telling him not to do something.
* While Karina was pregnant with Jack, and while she and I were joking around about outlandish middle names we could give him, Matt suggested that we could name him, "Jack Cantaloupe."
* A few months ago while I was trying to take advantage of a teachable moment, Matt said to me, "Well, we've been going around on this for a while now."

I thank God for both of my sons. I am truly blessed. Happy Birthday, Matty. I am so glad to be your father.

Joshua Radin Concert.

2009-11-12T09:11:00.000-08:00

So, while I am on the subject of Joshua Radin. Here is a little about the concert.
Karina and I got to see Joshua Radin at the Aladdin in Portland. It is a relatively small venue (about 600 seats). It was a really fun evening for us.

Here we are outside the theater after the concert. We had to snap a picture, just to prove we were there.

Here is one of the pictures I got of the concert. Unfortunately, we were not allowed to take videos. I don't remember what song is going on right now. You might be able to see that Joshua is wearing a smedium "Powell's" shirt. That was a real crowdpleaser.

This is during the song "Sky." The whole band came and gathered around one mic as they played the song. It was really fun.

I wish I had more footage, but we spent the time enjoying the concert instead of simply chronicling it. In case you care, Joshua did 5 songs off We Were Here. . .
Closer
What If You
Winter
Everything'll Be Alright
Today
. . .6 songs of Simple Times
One of Those Days
I'd Rather Be with You
Brand New Day
Sky
No Envy, No Fear
You've Got Growing Up to Do
. . .and then several new songs that will be on an upcoming record.

It was a great show, and it was nice not to have our ears ringing after a concert. Mellow.
One of my favorite tidbits of the concert was that Joshua said he wrote I'd Rather Be with You while sitting on the Santa Monica Pier. That is one of my all-time favorite places. Fun connection.

Under-Rated!

2009-11-05T19:10:00.000-08:00

So, I am going to do this from time to time. This is my first post to draw attention to things that are underrated. In most of these posts I will probably point out an underrated song, movie, and book. Maybe, as I get into it, I will draw attention to other underrated things.

Disclaimer: I know that everyone has different standards on movies, music, etc. Please check into these yourselves. You may decide that they will be songs or movies or books that you don't consider appropriate for you.

Song: No Envy, No Fear by Joshua Radin.
I have grown to be a big fan of Joshua. Karina and I just saw him in concert last Friday. He has a lot of great songs. This one may be a little under the radar. I could recommend a lot of his stuff, though. Really great. Check it out in Itunes. And, in case you didn't notice, it is the song that plays right now when you come to the blog.

Movie: Minority Report. It may be tough to think of a Tom Cruise movie being underrated, but this movie just gets better each time I watch it. It is not a light movie. It deals with heavy themes such as murder, guilt, loss, justice, and free will.

Book: The Secret Servant by Daniel Silva. I could have chose just about any Daniel Silva book. Most of his novels are thrillers about a Jewish secret agent. Really interesting and engaging. I have read them all. They are fast reads and really enjoyable.

Re-Boot

2009-11-05T18:34:00.000-08:00

So, it has been a long time since I have blogged. I am going to get it going again. Sort of like a reboot. Tell your friends!

I thought I would start my first "re-post" with some pics of the fam.

Here is Jack. He is currently a big fan of Larry (of VeggieTales fame), dancing, and water. It is not so much that he loves to drink water (although he is not against it), but it is that he LOVES playing with and in water. In this picture he was roaming around a fountain near a Baja Fresh. He kept putting his hands in the water and then jumping in the puddles around it.

Speaking of water, we have made one run so far at potty training Jack. It did not take in one weekend. I think sometime around Thanksgiving I am going to try a crash course. Some of you may remember how that went with Matt. If you don't know, here is a link to the post about it: http://lettersfromthedesert.blogspot.com/2007_12_01_archive.html

Scroll about half-way down and enjoy the ride.

Matt is getting ready to turn 5 in a couple of weeks. He currently enjoys baseball (watching and playing), learning Latin with his Mom, doing crafts, and playing with his cousins. Matt is in preschool again and his favorite part about it is the crafts. He has been enjoying the Chronicles of Narnia as Karina and I have been reading them to him lately (we are almost through The Silver Chair!)

Here we all are during our Colorado trip from late June/early July. I may give some more pics on this later, but just wanted to give a somewhat updated picture of Karina and me (we always get a lot of the kids, but few with both of us in the same picture). Karina has been staying busy by teaching Latin to Matt and working with Jack to get settled into his big-boy-bed and to get less dependent on his pacifier. She also has been reading back through the Jane Austen novels.

I have been adjusting to some new responsibilities at the church (more preaching and overseeing small groups). Meanwhile I have been getting tackled a lot by my boys. I have also done a lot of great reading. More on that later also.

So, this is just a welcome back reboot. Stay tuned.

Wocket in my Pocket

2009-06-12T12:18:00.000-07:00

Here is little post in honor of one of Jack's favorite books.

Did you ever have the feeling there's a Zamp in the lamp?

Or a Nink in the sink?

Or a Woset in the closet?

Sometimes I am quiet certain there's a Jertain in the curtain.

And when I hear a tock I know a Zlock's behind the clock.

And that Zelf on that shelf, I have talked to her myself.

I like the Zable on the table.

And the Ghair beneath the chair.

But the Bofa on the sofa acts as if he does not care.

I like the Geeling on the ceiling.

And the Zower in the shower.

And the Nupboards in the cupboards. I do like them a lot.

But that Nooth Grush on my toothbrush. . .Well, some are nice, but he is not.

The Yeps on the steps are always fun to have around, and so are many, many other friends that I have found. . .

Like the Tellar and the Nellar and the Gellar and the Dellar and the Bellar and the Wellar and the Zellar in the cellar.

There's the Yottle in the bottle whom I do not wish to keep.

But the Zillow on my pillow always helps me fall asleep.

Gone Fishin'

2009-06-06T16:59:00.000-07:00

So, I am not an avid outdoorsman. I like hiking around and playing sports outside, but I have only fished once in my life (and I didn't catch a thing). My friend John Lewis offered to take me fishing on his boat, and he also offered for Matt to come along. I was very excited to take him up on his offer. Matt did great and we caught 5 fish (we threw them all back). Here are a couple of pictures.Matt did a great job on the boat. He ended up being really comfortable on it, and he had a great attitude.

Here are Matt and John with our first catch. Matt seemed a little nervous that the fish was going to "get him," especially since it kept flopping out of John's hands.

Here are Matt and I after a later catch. It was great that we both had our first successful fishing trip, and that it was together.

Special thanks to John for taking us out. It was a blast, and we hope to get to do it again sometime soon.

Some Great Books

2009-06-04T09:47:00.000-07:00

So, I am going to throw out some great books that I have read recently. I highly recommend all of them.

Cry, the Beloved Country by Alan Paton
This is was written in the early 1940's, and it is a powerful story about South Africa. The main character is a black minister who lives in the country, but travels to the city to check up on family who have moved there. A series of events lead him to deal not only with the heartbreak and conflict, but also with the changing world around him. This is known as the classic novel on South Africa. I found myself constantly in tears through the last 50 pages of it. So, so good. Well worth a read.

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini

I read this one back in January, but I still thought I would comment on it. You have probably seen it all over Borders and other book stores. It is a story that revolves around modern Afghanistan, but also deals with powerful themes that cross all cultural barriers. It deals with guilt, love, and destiny. A warning is that there are some tragic events in the book that are hard to read. I still found it to be incredibly worthwhile, though. Great stuff.

This Side of Paradise by F. Scott Fitzgerald

If you have read The Great Gatsby, and if you liked it, then I highly recommend this book. Again, I read this one a while ago, I think in December, but I just couldn't put it down. It is set in the 20s and it completely character and setting driven. It follows a young man through romance, college, friendship, and career life as he wrestles with his place in the world. I think it was amazing literature. Really interesting.

The Road by Cormac McCarthy

I just finished my second trip through this book. Simply put, this is a post-apocalyptic story of a father and a son try to survive. The story is told in a simple way, but it is so powerful, terrifying, and compelling that I moved through it in 2 or 3 days. You may have seen that a movie based on the book will be coming out this Fall (starring Viggo Mortenson, aka, Aragorn). I thinking being a father of sons made this book that much more powerful to me. It is strange how that things that the father in the story wrestled with, in how he kept his son alive and how he kept hope alive in his son, seemed so similar to the everyday things that fathers deal with. Highly recommended.

I am looking forward to more summer reading. I am working on another Daniel Silva novel right now. I am also reading through Trinitarian Soundings again. Maybe this time I will understand it.

Basketball Season

2009-05-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

It is playoff season for the NBA, so Matthew has been getting well-acquainted with what is happening, especially with the Lakers. If Matthew is watching a sport with me, he inevitably will want to play that sport while we are watching. We have a basketball hoop in our play room (where the TV also is), so Matt will shoot hoops and serve as his own commentator.
On top of loving sports, Matt also has a pretty good memory, so he is able to remember a lot of the Lakers, even those who are not the main stars. He talks a lot about Bryant and Gasol and Ariza and Fisher, but my favorite is when he talks about Vujacic.
Sasha Vujacic is a role player with the Lakers and a 3-point specialist. Still, he tends to plan a major part in Matt's fantasy games. The other day he was playing and running a commentary while doing so. Here is a little taste of what it sounded like:
"Bryant to Fisher. To Ariza. To Odom. Odom shoots, NO GOOD! Vujacic the rebound. Vujacic, NO GOOD! Vujacic the rebound. Vujacic, NO GOOD! Vujacic the rebound. Vujacic, NO GOOD! Vujacic the rebound. Makes the shot. Vujacic to Gasol. . ." You get the point.
Other phrases that he throw in are:
"Slams it"
"For the three"
"Knocks it down"
"Misfires"
He also sometimes gets fouled and then shoots free throws.
On top of all of this, though, he will make Karina and/or me watch while he does his own instant replay of the best plays.
This video is not the same running commentary of what I tried to imitate previously, but it may give you a little taste. Listen for Farmar and Vujacic.

Fun at the Falls

2009-04-25T08:01:00.000-07:00

Here are some pics of when I took Jack to the Falls. He is an easy kid to please (most of the time).

Biking

2009-04-18T20:09:00.000-07:00

Getting Back Out There

So, the sun is out and so are our bikes. After a long slumber, Karina, Matt, and I are all riding again. It took Matt a little while to get going again because it had been so long. But I think it helped that I told him that riding a bike is like. . .well. . .riding a bike. Before he knew it, he was cruising through the cul de sac with no help from me.

The Springwater Trail

So, I wanted to get going again too. Last Saturday I decided that I wanted to do more than just ride around town. I decided to go out on the Springwater Trail and ride for a while. I started on it at about 12:45pm. There are mile markers, so I thought I would ride for about 5 miles and then head back. The 5 miles went so quickly, though, that I thought I could try for 10. It was going pretty well, even after I reached 10, and I thought to myself, "It is only about 6 more miles until the mile markers end. Why don't I just go for it?"

I did.

When I finally got to the end, I wanted to see exactly where I was, so I rode out before turning around on the trail. I was at OMSI! I had no idea.

The Dreaded Moment

Then I started to ride home. I realized very quickly that I had made a horrible mistake. I was on an older street bike with over 16 miles to ride, and I had probably never ridden for more than 3 miles at once in my entire life.

I could have just taken my sweet time, but I needed to get back for the Easter service that evening. I labored through the ride, stopping to stretch and drink water 3 or 4 times. After a while, I got the sensation that I was probably going to throw up. Funny enough, the next thought I had was that I did not object to throwing up at all. It sounded like it might help.

Well, I did make it home, just in time to shower and head out to church. My legs were tight, but it was still an experience worth having.

Today, I rode 10 miles out and 10 back. That was challenging, but not nearly as debilitating. Fun stuff.

All-Star Jack

2009-04-16T22:42:00.000-07:00

Enjoy!

Eeeeee-Cola

2009-04-06T13:20:00.000-07:00

Get it? Like that commercial for Ricola? Heh heh.
So, we were out at Ecola this past week. If you don't know, Ecola is a one-year Bible school at the Oregon Coast (Cannon Beach). This was the third year that I had the opportunity to teach out there for a week (they bring in two different teachers each week). I taught the Minor Prophets, which was challenging, exciting, and enriching. It was great to hang with the students a little bit, and also to get to spend a week away as a family. Here are some of the pictures:

Weather was not really a highlight. It was rainy most of the week. But we made a trip out to the World Famous Tillamook Cheese Factory. It was a great time, mostly because we all got to have some great ice cream at the end of the tour. Jack really enjoyed his (which was really Karina's). As Matt and I were standing in line to order I started naming off to him some of the different options. Then he looked up at the posted menu and said, "Can I have chocolate peanut butter?" I guess he didn't need me to read it for him.

As I said, the weather was pretty bad most of the week. We spent a lot of time in Ecola's Rec Center playing games. Still, we did make it out to the beach on two of the days. No swimming (this is Oregon, after all), but it was fun just hanging out.

Here are the boys, haning out in a little fort that we found.

As far as we can remember, this was Jack's first time out on the beach. As you can see, he was pretty impressed with the whole concept. He especially enjoyed picking up the sand and letting it slip through his fingers.

Meanwhile, Matt enjoyed doing some adventuring. Here he is, climbing on a log.

The week was really fun. It makes me very thankful for my family, that they are all such enjoyable people with whom to spend time.

Oh, one last highlight! With March Madness and all, Matt and I were watching ESPN and they were re-showing the 1979 National Championship game, when Magic Johnson led Michigan State over Larry Bird and Indiana State. Here is a quick pic:

As we watched the game, Matt kept making the same baffled comment over and over again: "They're playing in shorts!"

The Boys

2009-03-28T10:30:00.000-07:00

So, here are some new(er) pictures of the boys. You might be familiar with them if you have seen Karina's blog.
For each of the pictures, I will give you a little commentary with Matt, who is standing next to me right now.
"I am holding the basketball hoop down for Jack to reach it. He made it into the basket."
We really loved seeing this. The basketball hoop was at a setting too high for Jack, so Matt held it down for him. Both boys have been really into basketball lately (March Madness, anyone?). It was fun to see Matt take so much delight in helping his bro.

"Jack was eating some pasta first. Then, he was singing, and dancing his fingers with a song."

Dancin' Jack continues his ways. The latest move he invented was to move his pointer finger around while dancing. Now it has become something the whole family does while listening to music. If he hears a song that he likes, the fingers just start going for it. He is like a little maestro. Sometimes when we are in the car, all four of us go for it (we often listen to the classical station). It is a pretty great sight.

"I have a blister hand. It hurts a little bit."

This has been one of the big happenings at our house lately. "Blister hand" has been fading out, but still a big topic of conversation. Matt has been virtually doing everything with only one hand. When crossing the street, we must hold "non-blister hand." When taking his dishes up to the counter, he daringly does it with one hand. Pretty soon "blister hand" should return to just being "hand." Matt was a bit freaked out at it at first, but he has come to sort of like it. We still don't know exactly how he got it.

So, we are off to Ecola this next week. It should be a really good time. I get to teach Minor Prophets (or "The Twelve," if you took the OT class at church) again. "We are going to bring some peanut butter," Matt just informed me. We should also play some mini-gold, visit the cheese factory, and (hopefully) spend some time at the beach. We will see how the weather is.

Oscars, 2009

2009-02-16T10:01:00.000-08:00

So, it seems like each year when the Oscars come around, I have seen less and less of the main movies involved. Last year I hadn't seen any of them, but then I saw 4 out of the 5 Best Pic nominees.

I loved No Country for Old Men.

I thought Michael Clayton was good, but not great.

I thought Juno was very good.

I thought There Will Be Blood was so dark and painful to watch that I never wanted to see it again. That said, Daniel Day Lewis is the best actor to ever live.

So, this year, I am even more struck with not seeing the movies involved in the acting or best picture awards. Here are some of the key films that I have either never heard of, or not heard of anyone I know seeing:

Rachel Getting Married

The Reader

Frozen River

The Visitor

Vicky Cristina Barcelona

Movies that I have heard of, but have not talked to anyone about:

Milk

Doubt

The Wrestler

Movies that I have no interest in seeing:

Tropic Thunder (Downey, Jr. is nominated). I heard that it is non-stop swearing. I can deal with language if the movie has substance, but I just can't put up with it for a comedy.

Revolutionary Road (some best supporting actor that I have never heard of). I heard it is just a 2-hour shouting match between Winslet and Dicaprio. Sounds like fun.

Movies that I have at least a slight interest in seeing:

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. I am a big fan of F. Scott Fitzgerald, and the movie looks interesting enough.

Frost/Nixon. Heard it was good.

Changling (Jolie is nominated). Eastwood directed it, and it looks like a very engaging story.

The only category in which I have seen more than 2 movies nominated:

Sound Editing. Can you believe that ?! The Dark Knight, Iron Man, and Slumdog Millionaire are all nominated.

Who I am rooting for?

Heath Ledger. I have not seen any of the other Best Supporting Actor nominated performances, but I can't imagine that any of them were better than the Joker. He was terrifying.

Slumdog Millionaire. I haven't seen any of the other nominated movies, but this movie was AWESOME! Just saw it on Friday. I strongly recommend it to everyone. Amazing movie. Go see it!

Non-nominated movie that I want to see: Defiance.

I just don't make it to many movies anymore.

Recommended Best Picture Winner from the Way Past: On the Waterfront.

MLK Day, 2009

2009-01-20T20:13:00.000-08:00

So, this is a day late, but I didn't want to miss the opportunity to blog about Martin Luther King, Jr. Yesterday I got to go to Highland Christian Center for their celebration (this was the third year in a row that I got to attend; more on this later). It was a great time.

As the holiday was approaching, I did some more reading in The Essential Writings and Speeches of Martin Luther King, Jr., which I got with birthday money this past year. Here are a couple of passages that really spoke to me.

From his book, The Strength of Love:

"The softminded man always fears change. He feels security in the status quo, and he has an almost morbid fear of the new. For him, the greatest pain is the pain of a new idea. An elderly segregationist in the South is reported to ahve said, 'I have come to see now that desegregation is inevitable. But I pray God it will not take place until after I die.' The softminded person always wants to freeze the moment and hold life in the gripping yoke of sameness."

This next passage is from A Christmas Sermon on Peace. You may disagree with Dr. King's political stances here (or maybe you won't), but don't miss his bigger point. I think it is very powerful:

"Now let me say that the next thing we must be concerned about if we are to have peace on earth and good will toward men is the nonviolent affirmation of the sacredness of all human life. Every man is somebody, because he is a child of God. And so when we say 'Thou shalt not kill,' we're really saying that human life is too sacred to be taken on the battlefields of the world. Man is more than a tiny vagary of whirling electrons or a wisp of smoke from a limitless smoldering. Man is a child of God, made in his image, and therefore must be respected as such. Until men see this everywhere, until nations see this everywhere, we will be fighting wars. One day somebody should remind us that, even though there may be political and ideological differences between us, the Vietnamese are our brothers, the Russians are our brothers, and Chinese are our brothers; and one day we've got to sit down together at the table of brotherhood. But in Christ there is neither jew nor Gentile. In Christ there is neither male nor female. In Christ there is neither Communist nor capitalist. In Christ, somehow, there is neither bound nor free. We are all one in Christ Jesus. And when we truly believe in the sacredness of human personality, we won't exploit people, we won't trample over people with iron feet of oppression, we won't kill anybody."

For a great picture of Dr. King's passage on all of us sitting together at the same table, I encourage you to read Paul Metzger's book Consuming Jesus. He has a great passage at the end that fleshes this out.

So, another quick mention of trying to explain the world to my 4 year-old son, Matthew. We went together to the celebration for Dr. King. We got to experience some great music and speakers, and just be a part of the celebration of how Dr. King's dream lives on. As we were leaving, Matt and I began a conversation. Bear in mind that I had told him that we were at a birthday party for Dr. King.

Matt: Where was Dr. King?

Dan: What?

Matt: It was a birthday party for Dr. King. But where was he?

Dan: Well, Matt, Dr. King wasn't there. Dr. King died.

Matt: How?

Dan: Well, Matt, I'll tell you, but it's very sad. Do you still want me to tell you?

Matt: Yeah.

Dan: Dr. King died because someone killed him.

Matt: Why?

Dan: Because he didn't like the things that Dr. King was talking about.

Matt: Why not?

Dan: Well, have you noticed in the pictures that Dr. King's skin in darker than ours?

Matt: Yeah.

Dan: Well, some people thought that people who have light skin like us were better than people who had dark skin like Dr. King. But Dr. King said that God made all of us equal.

It was interesting to go on and talk about segregation and racism in very basic terms. When you have to break something like that down for a 4 year-old, it really reveals how sick and foolish and insane it is. And it also reveals how sick and foolish and insane we are when we think we are better than others for any reason at all.

As Matt and I left Highland Christian Center, we were approached by a very large young man who asked us for money because he was bi-polar and needed to get more medication. The young man was awkward, poor, and had difficulty in social circumstances. None of these things make me better than him. I don't know if he will spend the money on medication, but that is not the point. That point is that I cross over into insanity when I think I am better than a person because he is fat, or short, or poor, or uneducated, or uncoordinated.

God save all of us from this insanity.

Talking Kids

2009-01-13T09:16:00.000-08:00

So, I am working with Jack a little bit on his words. We are focusing mostly on animals. He is doing pretty well. My favorite is when he says "turtle." It sounds funny.

Working with Jack leads me to thinking of where Matt is with conversation, and some of my recent conversations with him. It is great how words can be confusing. Here are two examples:

Matt and I raced to his room for bedtime, and he fell into his room for the win.

Matt: Did I win?

Me: Yes.

Matt: Why?

Me: Because you got to your room first.

Matt: But I didn't get complutely in.

Me: Complutely?

Matt: Not complutely.

Me: Complutely?

Matt: NOT complutely.

Suddenly I realized that he thought I was arguing with him on whether or not he got "complutely" in.

Matt and I are sitting at the breakfast table.

Matt: Why aren't you drinking Orange Juice with breakfast?

Me: Well, I'm trying to be more healthy.

Matt: Healthy? Why?

Me: Because I want to take care of my body, and right now I am too big.

Matt: (After a thoughtful pause) You don't want to be 31?

Me: No, I'm not too old. I'm too big. I weigh too much.

Matt: You're not way too much. You're just 30.

Having kids (and talking to them) is a lot of fun.

New Music

2009-01-07T09:15:00.000-08:00

So, I got some Itunes gift cards for Christmas, and I have been having a great time with them. However, the one CD I got for Christmas is undoubtedly the first album I would have purchased with my gift cards.

Joshua Radin: Simple Times
If you guys like Bebo Norman, Jack Johnson, Simon and Garfunkle, you should check out Joshua Radin. The whole album is great to listen to. It flows really well, and every song is enjoyable. The song getting a lot of play right now is called "I'd Rather Be With You." Good stuff. My favorites on the album, though, are "Friend Like You," "Brand New Day," and "You've Got Growing Up To Do."

Favorites from the Past
Here are some of the songs I recently downloaded from Itunes:
Weezer: Island in the Sun
The Goo Goo Dolls: Black Balloon
Foo Fighters: Big Me
Temple of the Dog: Say Hello 2 Heaven
Soundgarden: Pretty Noose
Dave Matthew's Band: Satellite
Stone Temple Pilots: Big Empty
Those were all bands that I listened to in high school. Really enjoying it.

Solo Artists
I got some more Joshua Radin from his album "We Were Here."
John Mayer's song "Waiting for the World to Change"
Peter Gabriel's "In Your Eyes." Anyone remember the movie "Say Anything?"

Worship Songs
Kutless: Draw Me Close, Word of God Speak, All Who Are Thirsty
Matt Redman: Blessed Be Your Name
The David Crowder Band: O Praise Him
Phil Wickham: Cannons
Jeremy Riddle: Sweetly Broken
Chris Rice: Come to Jesus

Fun stuff. Itunes is cool.

Anyone else have any music recommendations?

2008: Year in Review

2008-12-31T19:21:00.000-08:00

Favorite Movie Watched in a Theater:
Iron Man (I guess; I was just too freaked out by The Dark Knight to enjoy it)

Favorite Movie Watched at Home for the First Time:
Hellboy (I know, that sounds weird)

Favorite Fiction Book Read for the First Time:
This Side of Paradise by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Favorite Nonfiction Book Read for the First Time:
The Irresistible Revolution by Shane Claiborne

Favorite Podcast:
The Dan Patrick Show (got to be honest that I listened to the sports talk show more than any of my sermon podcasts)

Favorite Family Moment:
Going to Ecola together and playing mini-golf

Favorite 24 Moment:
Jack saving those African kids (that was pretty much the only 24 moment)

Favorite Survivor Moment:
Ruth King winning it all with Bob

Favorite New Show:
Eli Stone (bummed it is going off the air) and Life

Favorite New Song Purchased:
Goodnight Song by Tammany Hall NYC

Favorite Seminary Moment:
Graduating!!!!

Favorite Ministry Moment:
The New Testament Survey Class

Favorite California Moment:
Taking the kids to the park every day, even though it was December, while Oregon was dealing with a snow storm

Favorite Sports Moment Watched:
UCLA making their third straight Final Four (even though they blew it against Memphis)

Favorite Matthew Activity:
Reading with him

Favorite Jack Activity:
His dancin' antics

Favorite Married Moment:
Celebrating my birthday at Skymania Lodge

Favorite Friend Moment:
Going to the condo with Dave and Kelly

Favorite Bible Verse for the Year:
Hebrews 2:17: Therefore, He had to be made like His brethren in all things, so that He might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people.

Third Day and Frodo

2008-12-11T08:45:00.000-08:00

In some ways, the following two things are unrelated, but I wanted to include them in one post. They are both literary things that struck me over the past couple of weeks:

Frodo and Honorable Clothes

I recently read through the Lord of the Rings trilogy again. I was really struck by one passage in The Return of the King. It takes place after the ring has been destroyed, and while Frodo and Sam are talking to Gandalf about attending the coronation of the king (Aragorn):

"What shall we wear?" said Sam; for all he could see was the old and tattered clothes that they had journeyed in, lying folded on the ground beside their beds.

"The clothes that you wore on your way to Mordor," said Gandalf. "Even the orc-rags that you bore in the black land, Frodo, shall be preserved. No silks or linens, nor any armour or heraldry could be more honourable. But later I will find some other clothes, perhaps."

This little interchange brought me to tears because its power so struck me. There was honor for Frodo in Sam in their suffering, and to wear the clothes of suffering was a badge of honor. Power in weakness. Christ still bears His scars.

Third Day and Christmas

Then, I was struck by a Christmas song that I have heard many, many times: Do You Hear What I Hear? I was listening to Third Day's version of this Christmas carol a couple of days ago. I stopped to listen to the lyrics because I realized that I didn't know them. For one part, all I remembered was that the lyrics read, "A child, a child." I stopped to listen to what the carol says about the child. The words were so powerful to me:

A child, a child shivers in the cold
Let us bring him silver and gold.

This is quite a contrast to Silent Night, and the verse in Away in the Manger about Jesus not crying. Here is the glorious King who is worthy of all our gifts, and he is shivering in the cold. Even writing the words now brings me to tears because of the great gift of Christmas. The Son of God took on all of our weaknesses. . .and he shivered in the cold.

24: Redemption

2008-11-26T12:17:00.000-08:00

So, I thought I would blog briefly on 24: Redemption, which aired this past Sunday night. I enjoyed watching it at the Musical Staffords on Monday afternoon (we have Growth Group on Sunday night). The Musical Staffords have a 50-inch HD Plasma, so it was an enjoyable viewing experience.
Not surprisingly, I really liked the 2-hour special. I thought it was a good story, and it was certainly a great bridge to set up Day 7. I was actually surprised that it took place in real time. That may sound funny, but I thought it would take place over a 24-hour period, instead of in 2 hours of real time. I thought it worked, though. Racing against the clock to get those kids safely to the embassy. I saw it coming a mile away (as most probably did) that Jack would need to give himself up in order to get the kids through. Good stuff, though.
I loved Carl, Jack's friend. He was a great character. I was bummed that he died, but it was certainly a great and sacrificial death. Jack, however, lives another day to continue his sacrificial life.

Theology of 24
So, just a thought on lessons that come out of 24. It is interesting that, in seasons past, Jack was part of the system (working for CTU or DOD). He worked within the system, and he struggled with being limited by the system as he tried to help people.
Jack is now out of the system. He is working for himself. But what does he do? He sheds all the worst of the system, in that he shed everything that would limit him from helping and saving others. So, instead of shedding the limitations of the system in order to serve and help himself, he sheds the system so that he can be more free to help and serve others.
The story that comes to my mind is when Jesus was healing on the Sabbath. "Is it lawful to do good on the Sabbath? To save a life?" Jesus' point was that the Law was never meant to limit people from doing good. Freedom from the Law, which was brought about by Jesus, is for the purpose of allowing us to be more free to love one another.
How are we working within the system? Do we want to shed rules and limitations because they bug us? Or do we want to shed rules and social norms so that we can more fully pour ourselves out in behalf of others?

Hmmmm.

Theology of a 4 Year-Old

2008-11-19T09:39:00.001-08:00

So, last night and this morning I had some interesting conversations with Matthew, our four year-old. Last night for his bedtime story, I read to him about Jesus walking on the water. At the end of the story, the disciples worshiped Him, saying, "Surely You are the Son of God."

This led into Matt asking who God was if Jesus was His Son.

Ever try to explain the Trinity to a 4-year old? Let me just say that my explanation began with, "Well, Matt, this will be confusing."

This morning I was reading to Matt about the creation of the world. Let me relay how the conversation went:

"Do you know what God created after the animals?"

"What?"

"God created man in His image."

"But didn't He first create some cages?"

"Cages? Why?"

"For the animals. Like in a zoo."

"Well, Matt. This was before Adam and Eve sinned, so the animals weren't scary at all. They could go up and pet the lions."

"Wow!" (he really liked that)

"But after Adam and Eve sinned, the whole world went wrong. And now some of the animals are scary and we have to be careful."

"But one day God is going to make a new earth and we can pet the lions again." (I am serious; he said that!)

"That's right, Matt. And when God does that, no one will get hurt, or sick, or sad."

"Wow."

"And do you know the best part of the new earth?"

"What?"

"God is going to come and live on it with us."

"Ahhhh!!!" (this was not an expression of fear, but of great wonder and excitement).

Karina and I have prayed a lot that God will draw the hearts of Matt and Jack toward Him. We continue to pray, but it was so exciting to see God drawing Matt in the last couple of days.

You Know You Are a 24 Fan if. . .

2008-11-17T14:55:00.000-08:00

10. You only check your PDA in the bathroom.

9. You root for George Mason in the NCAA tournament becuase he once saved L.A.

8. You remember who people like Kyle Singer, Jamie Farrell, and Paul Raines are. Anyone?

7. You tear up when you hear the name Edgar.

6. You find yourself dissatisfied with any show that lingers on instead of wrapping up loose ends.

5. You introduce your home videos by saying, "The following took place between. . ."

4. You tell your secretary to "patch" people through when they call.

3. You think it is okay for the government to torture prisoners and to tap our phones, as long as Jack Bauer personally oversees the operation.

2. You stand and salute every time an All State commercial comes on.

And, finally, you know you are a 24 fan if. . .

1. You name your son after Jack Bauer.

Looking forward to November 23rd.

Happy 4th Birthday to Matthew James

2008-11-12T08:37:00.000-08:00

So, today is my son Matthew's fourth birthday. Four years ago, Karina and I nervously and excitedly drove to the hospital to await the birth of our firstborn. Later that day we broke into tears when we saw a little baby boy enter into the world.
As all of you who are parents know, our lives have never been the same. Whether it was late night feedings (I'll give Karina most of the credit on that), potty training (some of you remember that adventure), or watching Matt learn to walk, talk, and read, our lives have been now oriented toward caring for this gift of God. Now Matt is a big brother, and seems to be loving the role.
Here are some notes about Matt's early life:
When he was a baby, he loved looking out the window to the "outside world." His eyes would get big and he would be captivated.
He learned how to give high fives and fist-bumps at an early age. That was fun.
He absolutely hated baths. Actually, it was not so much the baths that he hates. It was getting out. He would let loose with screams when we would take him out of the tub. That was not the most fun we ever had.
He made memorable faces, including Whistler and Robo-Chomps.

On Monday we had Matt's birthday party with a few of his friends. It was nice to see Matt enjoy a birthday party. All I remember about his first birthday was that he was tired and needed a nap, and yet we all kept him up so that we could watch him try to open presents that he didn't care about. This time he got to play with friends whose names he actually knows, and open presents that he actually understands. If you know Matt, you know tht he is stoked about his art supplies and games. He is already hard at work using them up.
We are so thankful to be Matt's parents. I know that all kids are special, but Matt has such a deep place in our hearts. It is amazing to see him growing in a genuine consideration for others. It is great also to see his love for learning and his desire to be with people. Most of all, I think it is a privilege to see how he views life. Explaining the truths of the gospel to a child is wonderful, and hearing his sincere questions is stretching. It is powerful to watch him as he learns about forgiveness, love, and eternity. The other day he was talking about how we get sick because we sinned, but that one day God will make a new earth.
What an amazing gift to be such a big part of the life of another being who is created in God's image. Happy Birthday, Matt. I love being your dad.

Still Advent Conspiracy

2008-11-10T14:10:00.001-08:00

So, I still think that the most important thing for me to blog about right now is Advent Conspiracy. We announced it at church this weekend, and it was exciting to see how many people came to the table in the foyer to get information. It was also fun to get to talk to people and to hear their desire to make Christmas more meaningful and more Christ-centered.
On top of this, I absolutely loved our time with our Growth Group Sunday night. I sure hope that the members of our Growth Group enjoy our time half as much as I do. We talked about the true Christmas story and came up with ideas about how we can partake in it as individuals, families, and as a group. I am excited to see where it goes.
If you are looking for a resource on how to enter into the story in a greater way, check out this site: http://rethinkingchristmas.com/. It has ideas for meaningful gifts, for giving, and for traditions. Really worthwhile.

That's all I got for you. Maybe later I will blog about the Lakers or Eli Stone or the fact that we have a new President elect.
Maybe, but no promises (I know you are all holding your breath).

After Much Consideration, I am Pushing All My Support toward. . .Advent Conspiracy

2008-11-03T15:20:00.000-08:00

So, I know that many of you have heard of Advent Conspiracy, but I would guess that some of you have not. Advent Conspiracy is a movement amongst churches in the U.S. to enter into the true Christmas story instead of getting caught in the consumerism and commercialism that dominates Christmas in our culture. The concept is simple:
1. Worship Fully. Put the focus on Jesus, instead of on presents, decorations, and the normal Christmas stress.
2. Spend Less. Reject the consumerism. When it comes down to it, most presents that we give to one another do not have lasting impact on God's kingdom. So, don't get caught in it.
3. Give More. Give relationally instead of simply financially. Find creative (and inexpensive) ways to give of yourself, just as Jesus did.
4. Love All. Give what would have been spent on gifts to those who are most needy and marginalized. This could include both people overseas and people in the local community.
2 Corinthians 8:9 says this:
For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sake He came poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich.

This is the Christmas story. Christ was rich, but He became poor for our sakes. We are invited to enter into this story.
Karina and I are excited to more intentionally enter into this story this year with our family and our church. We are excited to be stretched and challenged. We are excited about being more purposeful in doing Christmas in such a way that it reflects the true Christmas story to Matt and Jack. And we are excited to spend less so that we can give to those who are truly in need. So that we can follow Christ so that we could become poor, so that others through our poverty might become rich.

Check out www.adventconspiracy.org if you are interested in info on Advent Conspiracy. There are great videos and resources there.

The Church: Political? Apolitical? Both?

2008-10-15T20:52:00.000-07:00

This election cycle has made me think a lot about the church's role (and the individual believer's role) in politics. In certain churches and Christian circles, it appears to be a given which political party is to be supported. More and more I have struggled with this dynamic, feeling a deep sense of dissatisfaction with both parties. And I have more and more come to a disagreement with the idea that one political party is good and the other is bad. Both parties are based on worldly wisdom and worldly kingdoms. This doesn't mean that they are both all-bad, but simply that they are not based on the agenda of Jesus Christ.
So, does this mean that Christians, and the church, should have no involvement in politics? I really reject that idea also. While politics is often the turf of power-battles and compromise, it is also the turf of William Wilberforce, Martin Luther King Jr., and many other champions of justice. In some ways it seems to me that the church should be very interested in politics. Here are some growing convictions, however, that I have been having:

1. Supporting a political figure can subtly translate into idolatry. This is not always the case, but it should be a caution for us. No person is the answer to the problems of our country or our world? Not Obama. Not McCain. Not anyone. When we as Christians get bumper stickers of candidates and go to rallies where we chant their name, we must be very, very careful. Jesus will bring in the new world. it won't be done by anyone else, and no one else deserves our hope or support in any way that approaches our loyalty and devotion to Jesus Christ.

2. There can be different approaches to an agreed-upon problem. And when this happens, Christians should not battle one another or mud-sling. One person may feel that the solution to poverty issues is to expand government programs. Another may feel that the solution to poverty issues is to reduce government involvement in our lives. But both can move forward with a heart for the poor. This does not mean that the debate over the issues does not matter. It just means that neither is going to be an ultimate solution, and so we can trust one another's motives, even if we disagree on issues like health care, immigration, education, and many others.

And, most importantly. . .
3. The Church can do more to solve the problems in our country and our world than any politician, party, or policy. I believe this with all my heart. Poverty? Let's care for the homeless and the working poor through relief, giving, relationships, and housing. Health care? Let's provide medical support for those who need it (case in point, Bob Sayson and the Good News Clinic). Abortion? Let's continue to provide alternatives, education, and support for those who are in crisis pregnancies. And, apart from all of these issues that are normally wrapped up in politics, we are offering the gospel of the kingdom of Jesus Christ to all with whom we come into contact. We are inviting people into relationship with the God of the universe and with His covenant community. That is something that no politician, party, or policy can offer.

I guess my last thought is this (and all of these thoughts are certainly in process): The more important thing is not for the church to decide where she stands when it comes to the political questions of our country and world. The more important thing is for us to move forward on the issues that Jesus has called us to. We are on a different track, working with different goals, and using different terms. The kingdom of Christ is not parallel to the kingdoms of this world. The kingdom of Christ, along wih His church, demands our ultimate allegiance. It should be His name that we bear on our hearts, on our cars, on our shirts.

It should be His name that we should be chanting.

Jack's Progress

2008-10-06T10:23:00.000-07:00

Here is a fun video of Jack's progress with walking.

24: Redemption

2008-09-30T13:17:00.000-07:00

So, I know some of you aren't interested, but I certainly am. If you click on my side link to the 24 home page, you can watch the trailer for the 2-hour special that will air on November 23rd. I am super-stoked about it. Take a look. I will put the link here also:
http://www.fox.com/24/trailer/

Summer Reading

2008-09-13T11:02:00.000-07:00

In my post-seminary craze, I did a lot of reading this summer and really enjoyed it. Here are some of the highlights.

I will begin with fiction.

The Secret Servant by Daniel Silva. I have really enjoyed Daniel Silva's books, and I think this was my favorite. Daniel Silva writes espionage thrillers that have to do with Israel and the middle east. I think he has grown as a writer, and the books get better with each new installment. They revolve around an Israeli named Gabriel Allon, and I think there are 6 now. I recommend checking them out. I didn't think the first one, The Kill Artist, was all that great. I recommend starting with The Confessor or The English Assassain.

All the Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy. I still am not totally sure how I feel about this novel (I have never seen the movie, by the way). I was pretty taken, though, with McCarthy's The Road, and, while I have not read the book, I was enthralled by the movie version of No Country for Old Men. All the Pretty Horses was certainly interesting, and there were a couple of scenes at the end that pretty much made the whole book worthwhile to me. McCarthy's writing style is very choppy to me, and at the same time that communicates a mood. I think there is some sad pessimism in his worldview, but I still find him interesting because he deals with issues that have great significance.

Paranoia by Joseph Finder. So, nothing terribly deep about this book, but I did find it to be an enjoyable read. Think John Grisham, but set in the corporate business world instead of in the legal system. The book kept moving and certainly made me think about corporate America (something I have never been terribly ambitious to be a part of). If you like a fast read and some pop fiction, this might be worth it. I picked up used copies of a couple of Finder's other books at Powell's. I haven't read them yet, but I look forward to it.

Now, some favs from nonfiction.

Woodrow Wilson by H.W. Brands. My dad has been reading books in the American Presidents series for a while, and he caught my interest when he talked about the book on Woodrow Wilson. I also ended up reading the one on Teddy Roosevelt, but I was much more interested in Wilson. There are some interesting things about his engagement with the world (pretty non-antagonistic). It was short, and I thought it was very, very interesting. Well-worth it.

The Irresistible Revolution by Shane Claiborne. This was my favorite book that I read this summer. I think this is a significant book when it comes to talking about where the church in the U.S. currently is and where we need to go. It will be a tough read for some of us because it really challenges a lot of our normal patterns (when it comes to both politics and church life). It is part story, part theology, and part exposition of the life of Jesus. Claiborne has lived a very interesting life, and he has sought to take his discipleship to its logical end.

Surprised by Hope by N.T. Wright. I read this largely at the prodding of David Knepprath, who consistently raves about it. I thought was worthy of some raving. N.T. Wright talks about the resurrection, and he really reveals how absent this doctrine is from our teaching, our lives, and our theology. And when we do talk about it, it is usually only in terms of proving that Jesus is God or securing our future escape from the world. Wright really challenges this escapism and demonstrates how the resurrection impacts discipleship, environmentalism, social justice, and church life. Well worth a read.

I did a lot of other reading, but these were the ones that I thought I would mention.

Freedom Sonnet

2008-09-08T16:07:00.000-07:00

At college group this past weekend, David Knepprath did something that I thought was unique and creative. Because Good Shepherd went through some different Psalms during the summer, David challenged us to spend some time reflecting and writing our own psalm about what we experienced during the summer. I thought it was a great idea and it caused me to take some time for reflection and thanksgiving.
Anyway, I ended up trying to work my thoughts into a sonnet. I am not sure if I will try to edit this a little more, but here is what I ended up with.

Freedom Sonnet

Our God is clothed in garments royal, bright,
And watches as the kingdoms take their stand.
A champion to those devoid of might,
While walking with the broken, hand in hand.
You bid Your servants, "Walk in freedom Mine,"
And in your freedom we will walk, our Lord.
In boldness we will drink Your Son's rich wine,
Fear's power is ended at Your finished word.
Our sins You pardon, and our wounds You heal,
Kingly strength You give us day by day.
Our confidence and hope we find so real,
With grace our food, and trust our narrow way.
O Christ, our freedom, give Your grace so free,
That liberators we might, with you, be.

My-Son-Jack Turns One, Part Two

2008-08-31T13:22:00.000-07:00

We had Jack's Birthday Party this past Saturday. It was a great time to celebrate our little guy. However, I always feel bad for the guest of honor on first birthdays. Then tend to be the most miserable of any of the guest. I always want to rescue them from the tortures of opening presents, eating cake, and being held. All said, though, Jack held together pretty well. Here are some pictures and videos.

Jack didn't wear his party hat for very long, but we did get a couple pictures with it on. And, yes, he is eating a crayon.

Some of our distinguished guests.

Jack enjoying his cupcake and chocolate banana. Hope he's not diabetic.

Here is a video of Jack getting his "walk" on, going back and forth between Karina and Uncle Ron.

Thanks for checking in. We leave you with a picture of Jack and I in one of his new birthday presents, a kid tent.

My-Son-Jack Turns One

2008-08-25T18:49:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday My Son Jack turned one. On the one hand, it is hard to believe that it has been a whole year. On the other hand, it is hard to believe that he ever was not a part of our family.

Jack is standing on his own now. He has been doing so for several weeks. I don't know if it is fair to say that he is walking. He has taken some steps, though. Usually no more than two at a time. He can crawl so fast that I don't think he is terribly interested in taking the time to learn how to walk.

I will post more on Jack in the coming days because we still have not had his birthday party. I also had a video that my blog won't post, so you can check it out on my facebook page if you want. But right here on my blog I'll talk about some of my favorite things about my son.

Things I Love About My-Son-Jack
1. His Big Smile. Jack loves to smile. He is frequently happy.
2. His Controlled Sit and Stand. Jack sits and stands very well. He doesn't usually fall, but instead slowly lowers himself down.
3. His Happy Growl. He loves to growl happily while he crawls all over me. Pretty great stuff.
4. His Admiration of Big Brother. Jack is totally enamored with Matt, and Matt is really great with him.
5. His Communication Skills. Jack is pretty good at letting you know what he wants, whether it is food, sleep, or if he simply wants to be picked up.
6. His Nicknames. We call him JB. Those are not his initials, though. His full name is Jack Timothy. JB stands for Jack Bud, which Karina calls him. But nicknames have a tendency of morphing in our household. JB morphed into Haybee. Then we could call him Haybee Jaybee, which sounds a lot like the Heebee Jeebees.

I'm so blessed to be Jack's dad. Can't wait to see what it is like as he grows and develops his personality.

Podcasts

2008-08-20T20:17:00.000-07:00

So, I like Podcasts.

I have only had an Ipod since Christmas (thank you, Dan and Ang). Sometime in January I started checking out podcasts. In fact, one day in January I announced to some co-workers that I had discovered podcasts. My friend Mike (DeRosier) asked me if I was serious. I think he was not too impressed with my tech savvy. Apparently these podcasts are not entirely new and innovative inventions.

All the same, I like to subscribe to 2-3 new podcasts every couple of weeks. Then I just go ahead and unsubscribe if I end up realizing that I am not listening to them.

So, without further ado, here are some of my favorite podcasts, and some ones that I would recommend:

Sermons

1. First of all, Good Shepherd does a podcast of all our weekend messages. We also have the Holy Spirit class on podcast, so I highly recommend that you check that out. I get the GSCC podcat each week. It is rare that I miss a weekend service, but the podcast lets me in on it if I do. It is certainly not the same as being at church, but it is still a good resource.

2. Desiring God Sermon Audio has John Piper's sermons from Bethelehem Baptist Church. They are long and deep. If you, like me, have greatly benefited from Dr. Piper's books, I recommend that you check out this podcast (more on Piper later).

3. Cornerstone Simi Valley Video Podcast is another good one. Many of you may have heard of Francis Chan, who is the senior pastor there. I prefer video podcasts over audio. I greatly respect Cornerstone Simi for their commitment to God's Word, and for their commitment to wrestling through tough issues as a church and coming up with out-of-the-box solutions.

4. Imago Dei Community Podcast is from the church in Portland, pastored by Rick McKinley. I have been listening to some sermons of theirs from 2004 on the kingdom of God. I have really been enriched by them. Highly recommended.

5. First Baptist Church of Grand Cayman is one that you will have to go to the website in order to subscribe. You cannot get to it through itunes. This one is a bit under the radar, but I highly recommend it. I have been very enriched by the pastor Thabiti Anyabwile. Here is a link if you want to check it out: http://www.fbc.org.ky/?feed=rss2.

Just a note on sermons. I believe very strongly in the local church. I don't believe listening to sermons is equal to being involved in a local church. I also think we need to be careful not to end up being critical of our own pastors and teachers just because we have access to great, nationally-acclaimed pastors and teachers. At the same time, if I am doing something, I think it seems reasonable that I will be enriched more (most of the time) by listening to good Gospel-centered preaching than just to some music. So, there is my disclaimer.

Others

1. Meet the Press is a video podcast of the Sunday NBC show. It is not the same since the untimely (from a human perspective) death of Tim Russert a few months ago. Tom Brokaw has been filling in a lot. I love the show (it comes out to about 50 minutes) and they have big time guests, often including the candidates themselves (Obama was on it two weeks ago for virtually the whole show, and McCain, Clinton, Huckabee, and many others were on during the primaries).

2. Preaching Today Talk is one that I just got last week, and I really like it. This may not be as interesting to non-preachers, but I wouldn't automatically count yourself out if you are not regularly teaching and preaching because it is connected to church ministry, and all believers (if you are one) are to be committed to the church. In this podcast, the head honchos from Preaching Today magazine talk about issues related to preaching. They are anywhere from 10-15 minutes in length. Great stuff.

3. Ask Pastor John is another new one I got. It is a 3-6 minute podcast of a question being addressed by Joh Piper. It is great because it is so brief, and yet you really get some food for thought.

4. 60 Minutes Podcast is the entire audio from the well-know show. I wish it was a video podcast, but it is still good. They usually have 3-4 news stories. If you are only interested in one, you can skip to it right away.

Random

1. Bono: The Rolling Stone Interview is very interesting, especially for a U2 fanatic like me. Some of you may know of the famous Rolling Stone article that came out in 2006, in which Bono talked about his music, his life, his faith, and his relief work. Interesting stuff. Warning, though, that there is some profanity in it. Bono is a bit liberal with his language, and the interviewer was even more so at points. Still, you have several hours worth of interview and the vast majority of it is totally appropriate.

2. The Man Who Was Thursday Audiobook. So, my favorite author of all time is G.K. Chesteron, and my favorite book of all time is The Man Who Was Thursday. You get the audiobook for free. It breaks up by the chapter. I have not listened to it yet, but I am looking forward to it (even though I have read it at least 5 times).

There are lots of other great ones out there. When I find them, I will tell you.

Made More Sure

2008-07-28T15:39:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday I get to go out to Harvest Community Church, where Matt Guerino now pastors, and speak for the weekend. It will be great to be there and great to see Matt and Amy and their kids (we get to all have lunch together afterwards; that is, unless I really mess up on the sermon).
Anyway, I get to speak on 2 Peter 1:16-21 and I have been spending some time meditating on the passage today.

For we did not follow cleverly devised tales when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of His majesty.

I find it really interesting to think about the distinction Peter is making here. He is making clear that the gospel is not just an eloquent philosophy. If it was a great philosophy, then it could be communicated through fantastic stories, just as the gospel is. However, if the gospel was simply a bunch of ideas and a philosophy and life and the world, then it would not matter whether or not those fantastic stories were true. After all, they simply exist to illustrate a truth about life.
Peter drastically differentiates the gospel from a philosophy on life that is illustrated through fantastic, but maybe untrue, stories. He emphasizes that he saw the glory of Jesus Christ with his own eyes. He ends up referring to the Transfiguration, where he and James and John saw Jesus shining in glory, and heard (with their own ears) the Father affirm the Son.
What difference do these historical details make, though? I mean, if the things in the Bible are true, then they are true regardless of whether or not the stories are true, right? I mean lying and adultery and murder are all wrong, no matter what. And all people are equal and deserving of dignity no matter what, right?
This thinking misunderstands the core of the gospel. The gospel (and the whole of Scripture) is not a bunch of rules on how to live a nice and successful life. It is the story of how God has chosen to relate to mankind. In Peter's mind, it is vital that we understand that certain things really happened. If they did not happen, then there is no gospel. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 15 (paraphrased), "If Jesus Christ was not raised from the dead, let's all call this quits and go live how we want to live."
So, how does it impact us that these historical events related to the gospel message really happened?

So we have the prophetic word made more sure, to which you do well to pay attention as to a lamp shining in a dark place, until the day dawns and the morning star arises in your hearts.

I love that Peter refers to Scripture and says, "to which you do well to pay attention." It just makes me laugh because it seems like such an extreme understatement (at least it comes across that way in English). God has spoken about how He has related to mankind, and He has given us a message of reconciliation, freedom, and eternal life. Yeah, I would say that it is a good idea to pay attention to it. Sounds reasonable.
I think it is worthwhile to constantly remind ourselves of the historicity of the Christian faith. Jesus really did come, perform miracles, tell stories, overturn tables, sacrifice Himself, and raise from the dead. If these things did not happen, we have NO GOSPEL. Since they did, we have something that we can be assured of. And when we communicate with those who do not follow Christ, we are not simply communicating about competing philosophies and worldviews. We are doing that, but we are doing much more. We are talking about whether or not these things really happened, and, if they did happen, what impact that has on people who live today.

Worst Movies Ever!

2008-07-22T10:38:00.000-07:00

Okay, so whenever I go off about a movie that I think is really bad, I inevitably end up offending someone because they liked the movie I hated. So, that said, this is all obviously just my opinion and meant for fun.
That said, I saw Vantage Point this past week. I am not going to say that it was the worst movie ever made, but I do think it is somewhere in the conversation. It was so, so bad, and so, so boring. The concept was that you got parts of the story from different people's vantage point. The concept was not bad, but, man, the movie sure was. I was falling asleep. There was this car chase at the end that lasted like half the movie (the whole movie was only about 80 minutes). The car chase was just laughable. Wow, the whole thing was really, really bad. Sometimes you just wonder how movies this bad are made.
I think bad movies are made even worse when they have famous actors or directors. It is one thing for a no-name director to get together a bunch of his buddies and make a bad movie. It is another thing for a movie with a budget to be a total bomb.
So, I would like to list off the four worst movies that I have ever seen. I would do five, but I didn't want to compromise the badness of these movies, just to make it a round number.
Number 4: Poseidon. This movie came out a couple summers ago and Karina and I went to see it. You know that it is not a good sign when you laugh at a lot of parts that are not meant to be funny. This movie was so bad. Kurt Russell and Josh Lucas. Terrible. Terrible. It is a perfect candidate for Mystery Science Theater 3000, where those three guys sat in front of the screen and mocked the movie while it was happening.
Number 3: Waterworld. I know that I am not the first person to talk about how bad this movie was. At the time of its release, it was the most expensive movie ever made. That made its badness that much worse. There is just nothing fun at all about watching this movie, and there is certainly nothing deep or meaningful about it. On that note, I think Kevin Costner is the worst famous actor of all time. And Field of Dreams is in my all-time top 10 favorites. Still, how this man got major movie parts eludes me. And he is especially bad when he has to have an accent. Watch 13 Days, and experience Costner's Boston accent. Classic.
Number 2: Celtic Pride. Fortunately, most of you will not have seen this one. But when I was in high school, my friend Zac and I went on a double date and this was the movie we saw. It was forever etched into our memories as the worst movie ever. It is about two Celtic fans who kidnap the star of a rival team. The movie is just not funny at all. It tries, and its stars try, to be funny, but it is just awful. I actually never thought that I would ever see a movie that I would rank lower than Celtic Pride. But about five years ago, Karina and I saw a movie that has to be the worst movie ever made. In fact, it makes the rest of these movies look amazingly watchable.
Number 1: Excalibur. How could a movie about King Arthur, the sword in the stone, Lancelot, and Camelot be this bad? Karina and I had been reading some Arthurian stuff, so we thought it would be fun to watch this movie. Man, it is so bad. I almost want to tell everyone to watch it, just so that you can experience how bad a movie can be. I don't even think that I could watch it again for laughs (I could certainly watch Poseidon again for laughs). If you ever want to teach your kids something about the Arthurian legend, don't make the same mistake we did. Stay as far away from this movie as possible.

There you go. As much as I disliked Transformers (and got a lot of flack for how much I ripped on it), it does not compare with how bad these four movies are.
Anyone have any nominations to round out the top 5?

Still Lovin' 24

2008-07-17T15:49:00.000-07:00

So, it has been like 6 years since 24 was on the air (okay, so just over one year), but I have been watching through some of the previous seasons again. At Costco, they were selling each season for only $25. I already had 1, 2, and 4, so I bought 3 and 5. I like to pretend that Season 6 didn't happen because it was so inferior to the first five.
Anyway, watching 24 again (I have been sick lately, so I have watched a bunch) had just reminded me of how great a show it truly is. I hope they bring it back to form for Season 7.
Watching it again also reminded me of just how great some of the twists have been. If you haven't watched the show (and if you plan to), then let me throw out the spoiler warning now. Because I am going to talk about surprises and twists, it will ruin the show for you (or at least make it far less engaging) if you know these things.

Without Further Ado. . .

The Top Ten Twists of Twenty-Four
10. Sherry Palmer is involved in the nuclear threat (Season 2). Jack is staking out the house of the man who forged a recording that could start a war, when in walks Sherry Palmer. She is there is get the same man, to try to silence him from exposing her role in the smuggling of a nuclear bomb into the country. Great stuff. We knew she was bad, but wow!

9. George Mason is on the plane! (Season 2) One of the best strands ever on 24 was when Geroge Mason was exposed to lethal doses of plutonium and responded with newfound courage and focus. When someone had to fly the nuclear bomb and crash the plane into the desert, Jack volunteered. Thankfully, an already dying George snuck onto the plane so that Jack could parachute out while Mason finished the job. It would be higher on the list, but there was a certain part of everyone watching that was at least hoping for it to happen. More for George's sake than for Jack's. We all knew Jack was going to live somehow.

8. Kyle Singer is fine (Season 3) The first 4-6 episodes of season 3 revolved around CTU trying to find a young man named Kyle Singer who had been infected with a deadly virus. We all watch the gut-wrenching process as both Kyle and his parents go through the process of accepting his oncoming death, and saying their final farewells to one another. It turns out to be a major bluff by the terrorists and Kyle is freed to go back to his parents.

7. Victor Drazen is alive (Season 1) The first season found Jack's family being targetted for revenge because he had assassinated Victor Drazen several years prior. Drazen's two sons are the main perpetrators of the attacks on Jack and Senator David Palmer. Toward the end of the season Jack discovers that Drazen (played by Dennis Hopper) is still living and has been in secret prisons for years.

6. That's not Janet York's father!!! (Season 1) Jack's wife Teri is looking for their daughter Kim, who was kidnapped with her best friend Janet York. Janet's dad is driving around with Teri looking for the girls, until CTU identifies a dead body as belonging to Alan York, Janet's father. The fake Alan York then leads Teri to the terrorists, where she is captured.

5. Tony saves Jack (Season 4) Jack and Audrey are trapped with gunmen closing in on them. Jack calls the only person he can trust (but we don't get to hear who it is that he called). Suddenly Tony Almeida saves the day by taking down the hostiles. The last time we saw Tony, he was being led away to prison at the end of season 3.

4. President Logan is in on the plot (Season 5) No one liked President Logan anyway, but when it was revealed that he was in on the plot that led to the assassination of former President Palmer, it was a total shocker. Jack had suspected that someone high up in the administration was helping the terrorists, but he never suspected it was Logan. Then we see him on the phone with the head bad guy and we know the truth.The end of season 5 chronicled Jack's attempts to bring the president to justice.

3. Marie Warner (Season 2) CTU knows that someone has been using Bob Warner's company to fund terrorists, but the focus is on Bob himself, and his Middle-Eastern son-in-law-to-be Reza Nair. It is finally revealed that Bob's daughter, and Reza's fiancee, Marie is the one who is in league with the terrorists. This is revealed when she ambushes two CTU agents and shoots Reza.

2. Jack is Back Undercover with the Salazars (Season 3) In season 3 Jack breaks terrorist Ramon Salazar out of prison in order to meet a demand by his brother Hector. When he gets Ramon back to Mexico, it is revealed that Jack and Hector planned the whole escape. What Hector doesn't know, though, is that Jack, Tony, and Gael all planned it as a secret sting operation kept from everyone in the U.S. government. Jack is now back undercover to thwart the Salazar's attempt to buy a weaponized virus. This twist also reveals that Gael, who was thought to be a mole helping the terrorists, was actually a double agent helping Jack and Tony.

1. Nina (Season 1) I wish I had experienced this in all its glory, but I already knew that Nina turned bad by the time I watched the first season. When she does, though, the betrayal is just horrific. Jack's most trusted partner and advocate had been playing him the whole time. Then they brought her back in season 2. . .and then again in season 3. Thankfully, then she met her end because I don't think they could possibly have justifed bringing her back a third time. She was just such an amazing bad guy (gal) that they couldn't resist.

Great show. I hear now that they are planning a 2-hour special in November that will be a sort-of prequel to Season 7. It is supposed to take place in Africa, and will bridge the gap between seasons 6 and 7. As far as I know, they are still planning on doing the season that they filmed 8 episodes of, that did not air this year because of the strike.

Karina's Blog

2008-07-12T07:56:00.000-07:00

So, my wife Karina just started a blog. You should all go check it out and comment the heck out of it (if you want to). There is a link on my sidebar, but here is another one:

http://seekingtosurrender.blogspot.com/

A Message from Jack

2008-07-07T09:08:00.000-07:00

Hi, my name is Jack. I am 10 and a half months old now, so Dad says that I am old enough to do my first blog post. There are a lot of things I want to talk about (food, nicknames, colors, the fact that I am starting to stand on my own), but I thought I would just let you see some pictures of something that my brother and I did a couple of weeks ago.

My Dad took us out for the day. First we went to Multnomah Falls. It was fun to get to go. It was really loud, and we got sprayed with water. All said, though, it was still worth it.

My brother, Matt, was used to going to the Falls, so he was more interested in what we were going to do next. In the car he kept asking Dad where we were going. Dad had hinted that it might have to do with fish, so Matt kept asking, over and over, if we were going to see fish. I can't really talk much yet, but I thought Matt had a pretty good strategy for extraction information. I mean, he's no Jack Bauer, but he was pretty relentless. Every time he would ask Dad if we were going to see fish, Dad would say, "I don't know, you'll have to wait and see." After this went back and forth, oh, I don't know, 20-30 times, Matt paused and then said (very seriously), "Yes or no?" This made Dad laugh a lot, but he still didn't give up any more information. Next time I think we will have to try out sensory deprivation. That might bring some better results.

Well, we did end up seeing fish. We went to the fish hatchery in Bonneville. It was pretty cool. Here is Matt standing next to some Rainbow Trout. We got to feed them and watch them all fight each other for the food. We also got to see some huge sturgeon and some tiny little baby fish. Pretty cool stuff.

At the end of the time, we got this picture together, all three of us. As you can see, I am trying to keep these guys serious.

Well, I hope you enjoyed my story. I am going to sit down and eat some cornbread now. And then later on I will pull myself up on the couch over and over and over again. Then I will practice saying "Mama" and "Dada." I've just about got both of them identified.
Have a nice day.

Wolves and Sheep

2008-06-26T12:11:00.001-07:00

So, I have a thought about how we, the Church, deal with false teaching. It seems that we have a few options when false teaching comes out:
1. We can calmly confront the false teacher and try to bring him/her back into orthodoxy
2. We can vigorously and publicly confront it and correct it
3. We can ignore it
I am sure that there are more options, but I am just thinking of these three right now.

But let me ask this: Is there a time and place for each of these?

Let's think, for instance, about a pastor who begins to preach universalism. It seems, at least to me, that the Christian community should proceed with option #1, and confront him privately. If he repents, he could then publicly correct his own error. If he does not repent, then something would need to be done publicly so that the Christian community could be led. That would be option #2. In this scenario, option #3 does not seem adequate.

Does it ever seem adequate, however? Is there ever a time to simply ignore?

I want to suggest that there may be. And here is my reasoning.

Recently this book called "A New Earth" made a big splash because Oprah has promoted it. The book deals with self-awakening. It uses the Bible, and also a lot of Buddhism and other religious writings, to support the idea that each person must awake within, and that this awakening will bring about (for lack of a better description) the next great step in the evolution of mankind. I super-skimmed the book yesterday at Borders because it has been in the news and all over the book stores.
Now, let me ask a question: Is this book false teaching? Are Oprah and Eckhart Tolle false teachers?
Some of you may feel like this is a silly question. You are thinking, "Of course they are. What they teach is clearly false. In that sense, yes, they are certainly false teachers.
Let me ask another question: Should we rail against Oprah and Tolle from our pulpits? Again, some of you may think that we should, and I respect your opinion. Here is mine: Oprah and Tolle should not be the main targets of the Church correcting false teaching publicly. Why not? Because they are not claiming to be part of the Church. They are not claiming Christ. I am not saying that I am not alarmed at their teaching, or that I don't totally disagree with it. I am alarmed, and I do disagree. But then I think, "What do I expect? They aren't Christians. Why am I surprised?" Oprah and Tolle are not wolves in sheep's clothing. By that I am not saying that they are not wolves. I am simply saying that they aren't wearing sheep's clothing. It should not be hard for us to see them as wolves.
Why would we be surprised when unbelievers put forth a worldview that is contrary to the Christian worldview? This should be expected.
So, who should be the main target when the Church seeks to correct false teaching and false teachers? Well, it certainly seems to me that the target should be those who claim the name of Christ. These are the true false teachers. Tolle is saying that the church (and the apostle for that matter) have totally misunderstood Jesus' teaching. This puts him in the category of an overt non-Christian. Other people are teaching falsely, but claim to be orthodox. This is where the real problem is.
Now, some of you are going to say, "But Christians are being led astray by Oprah and Tolle." I am not unaware of this. This is a problem. But my question is, Whose fault is it if Christians are led astray by overtly non-Christian false teachers? I say that it is the fault of the Christian, and the fault of the Church. Oprah and Tolle will answer to God, and they have some culpability. But frankly, we should know better. If Christians are looking to Oprah for guidance, then the real problem is not Oprah. The real problem is us. Our message should not be: Oprah has gone off the deep end with this one. Our message should be, Why would you be listening to Oprah? She is not presenting a Christian worldview. If you are going to watch her show, watch with the recognition that she is not presenting reality at the Bible describes it to us.

So, should we warn Christians against this book and others like it? Sure. Especially if certain people seem to be straying toward these books. I just think we have a bigger problem than exposing individual books and people who present false teaching from outside the Church. Our bigger problem is to learn and teach how to discern and how to look in the right places for guidance.

Anyway, those are my thoughts. Feel free to let me know about yours.

Easy Rider

2008-06-23T09:38:00.000-07:00

So, here are some fun videos of Matt riding his bike.

The first one is of him riding the whole length of our cul de sac.

Fortunately, there was grass.

Tim Russert, 1950-2008

2008-06-18T09:52:00.000-07:00

Tim Russert died this past Friday. He had a sudden heart attack, and medical personnel were unable to resuscitate him.
Some of you may know who Tim Russert is. For years he hosted the show "Meet the Press," which aired on Sunday mornings. For the past six months of so I have received the "Meet the Press" podcast. It became part of my Sunday afternoon routine to watch it on my computer. I was able to stay up to date with political issues through it. I grew to greatly appreciate Russert's demeanor, and his (in my opinion) fairness toward the issues and candidates. I felt that he was fair in that he sought to hold all candidates responsible. Anyone going on the program would know that Russert would take them to task. They would have to answer for their votes, their policies, and their past statements.
Watching the "Meet the Press" podcast this last week, which was a tribute to Russert, was very powerful to me. It was a powerful tribute to someone who loved what he did, and who sought to contribute to the country in a positive way.
Anyway, because I had sort of grown attached to Russert, with my weekly "Meet the Press" podcast, I had to give him a special mention. May his family and friends be comforted during this time.

Politics and Prophecy: The West Wing

2008-06-13T15:24:00.001-07:00

So, just to gave a disclaimer, the purpose of this post is in no way to support a candidate for president, but simply to give credit where credit is due. Some credit is due to The West Wing.
If you have ever watched the show (it is no longer on), you know that the story revolves around the president and his staff. The final two seasons of the show (seasons 6-7) chronicle a presidential race after the main character (Martin Sheen) has completed his two terms as the president. Karina and I did not watch the show while it was on, but we got into it later on DVD. When we watched seasons 6 and 7 (about two years ago), I looked at the two candidates that they had running for president and I said to Karina, "They are running Obama against McCain." Allow me to make my case:
The Overview
On the West Wing, the Republican candidate was Arnold Vinick, played by Alan Alda. Vinick was an aging, well-respected senator who swept the Republican primaries. Vinick's age was brought into question over the course of the campaign, but he had some strong things going for him. He had great crossover appeal and had successfully worked with Democrats in the past. Working against him, however, was the fact that his pro-life stance was less than impressive. The far right had problems with Vinick because they wondered whether or not he would appoint pro-life judges.
The Democratic candidate was Matt Santos, played by Jimmy Smitts. Santos was the first minority candidate ever to be nominated by a major political party. He was a young hispanic congressman who came out of nowhere to win a closely contested Democratic nomination. Santos was young and energetic, with two young children in the home. His youth attracted young voters, but his inexperience was brought up as a major issue.
Not Convinced?
Maybe that was enough to convince you. Maybe not. Here are some other factors:
1. When Matt Santos announced his candidacy for president, his speech centered on one buzzword: Hope. You may know that Barak Obama splashed onto the scene with his speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. The title of the speech was The Audacity of (wait for it) Hope.
2. Matt Santos, although he was a Democrat, had an easier time talking about his Christian faith than did the Republican, Arnold Vinick. Vinick struggled to communicate with evangelical voters.
3. Santos' wife got dragged into some media issues and he sent a clear message that the press was to stay away from his wife. Have you been keeping up with current events with the Obamas?

Anyway, in case you are wondering, on The West Wing, Santos won an incredibly close race. To be fair, though, on The West Wing, by and large, the Democrats are the good guys, so Santos' win has to have that taken into consideration.

Kid Stuff

2008-06-04T09:07:00.000-07:00

Well, I thought it would be fun to take a look at what is going on with the boys. Here is a brief video of Jack as he grows in his crawling ability. Pretty fun stuff.

Matt got his kid bike. If you know the facts, then you know that this means that he is potty trained. He is doing great on his bike (with training wheels, of course). It is pretty fun to see him go for it.

This picture has very little to do with Jack's development, but I think it is a fun picture.

Both boys are sick right now, so that is a bummer. It is so fun, though, to see them grow and learn and develop. Hope you enjoy the pics and the video.

Emerging Church Books

2008-06-02T10:54:00.000-07:00

Lately I have had the privilege of reading a number of books related to the subject of the emerging church. In case the term "emerging church" has no meaning to you, it is a catch-all phrase to refer to churches that are adjusting in some way to speak to the emerging, postmodern culture. The emerging church is not a denomination with creeds, spokesmen, and doctrinal statements. It is simply a descriptive term for some things that are happening. Because of that, there is no central voice, and very few things are matters of consensus.
I thought it would be fun to give some thoughts on a few of the books I have read on the subject.
Disclaimer: I am aware that it might seem strange for me to toss out compliments and criticisms of these authors and pastors. They do not need my approval. They are certainly not sitting around waiting for my review. These are all just my opinions as I process some different things.
I'll start with this book because it was the first one that I read on this recent spree. Listening to the Beliefs of Emerging Churches is one of those "five views" books. Each author writes a chapter, and then the other four write responses. So, this one has multiple authors. I have to admit that when I first read Mark Driscoll in this book, I was not crazy about him. I did not disagree with much of his objective theology, but I did not like his presentation, and he came across as very dismissive of those who disagreed with him on points that I thought were disputable within evangelicalism, and certainly within Christian orthodoxy. I also was not sure that Mark should be considered a voice within the emerging church. I don't mean that as an insult. I don't think everyone needs to be part of the emerging church, whatever that means. I then read a full book by Driscoll (more on this later), and my opinion of him has gone up (again, not that he is awaiting my thumbs-up).
The two authors that I loved in this book, though, were John Burke and Dan Kimball. Both hold firmly to biblical truth, both have a great perspective on how we re-evaluate how we have lived out and presented Christianity and how we need to. If you are interested, you can check out John Burke in his book No Perfect People Allowed (I haven't read it yet, but I hope to soon), and you can get the podcast of his church, Gateway Church (I now subscribe).
Karen Ward's chapter was tough to read. It was not very coherent. I had problems with her and Doug Pagitt because both of them have a vague (at best) view of Scripture. They like the Bible, but they both are dismissive of using the Bible as primary revelation from God. They vaguely talk about how it is good and how we should use it, but talk about how we have overused it. There is not a real solution given, unfortunately.
While our theology of Scripture is, truly, only one area of our theology, it impacts all other areas. Pagitt (along with McLaren) is weak on bibliology and it leaves him largely rudderless. It saddens me. As all our churches seek to minister to the postmodern culture, I hope that we can emulate Bruke and Kimball more than Pagitt and McLaren (although Pagitt and McLaren have some GREAT contributions to the overall discussion).
I was so thrown off my Mark Driscoll from this first book that I decided to read his book Radical Reformission. I also subscribed to his podcast at Mars Hill Church in Seattle (not to be confused with Rob Bell's Mars Hill). I now understand why Driscoll is included amongst emerging voices. I thought his book was great (and very humorous). He is interesting because he teaches theology hardcore at his church. He is uber-reformed (almost militant at times). He is brilliant in my estimation (although sometimes he annoys me because he makes fun of others). He has some great stuff in this book about, amongst other things, the difference between culture and worldliness. I think his book is a great contribution to the discussion. He is not pro-postmodern. I think this makes his voice unique. He thinks postmodernism and modernism both have issues. He is not attached to either.
Just a note, his preaching style does not seem like it would appeal to a postmodern culture, but here are a couple of interesting things:
1. He is blunt. There is no BS with Mark Driscoll. He just puts it out there. I think that connects well with people of a postmodern mindset (although it also offends many people of a postmodern mindset).
2. He has lots of Q & A times. This allows for major interaction, which I think all our churches should do more of.
3. In the Q & A times, he will answer questions on forbidden topics. He unblushingly answers questions about masturbation, oral sex, and abortion. He contributes by helping these topics not to be off-limits.
I liked Dan Kimball so much that I just had to read his book The Emerging Church. Also, if you see a picture of Dan Kimball, he has the coolest flat-top ever! I loved this book, and Kimball has lots of helpful charts to contrast modernism and postmodernism. Kimball is more favorably disposed to postmodernism because he sees problems with modernism. At the same time, he focused his main problems with modernism on consumerism (which, hopefully, we could all agree is a problem to be combatted). Kimball also does great work in demonstrating that ministering to the emerging culture means more than just "refluffing the pillows" by bringing in candles and growing goatees. I really recommend this book. Great stuff, and very thought-provoking.

Okay, so I have issues with Brian McLaren. To be honest, it saddens me that he is one of the chief voices for the emerging church (although many who are identified within the emerging church have expressed major concerns about him). At the same time, to talk about this issue and not talk about McLaren would be like talking about civil rights without talking about Martin Luther King, Jr. McLaren has great contributions to this discussion. I think he often does a great job diagnosing some major problems in our churches today. At the same time, I think some of his solutions don't move us forward. Again, as was the case with Pagitt, McLaren's bibliology is very poor. It puts him off-base at some major points (in my opinion). At the same time, his book Everything Must Change has some great thoughts on how we as the church serve the world and become advocates for justice and for the needy. Good stuff. Major discernment is needed, in my opinion.

I also read Becoming Conversant with the Emerging Church by D.A. Carson. This book is sort of conservative evangelicalism's response to the movement. The difficulty is that there is not a creed, denomination, doctrinal statement, or spokesman for the movement. This is where I think Carson's book is not entirely productive. He is not all-critical with the emerging church, but I think that he is dismissive in some ways that are not helpful (again, my opinion). I have no issue with him being dismissive of certain values, or even certain people. But when the reasoning is, "The emerging church is like this, and that is bad," Carson falls short of recognizing the diversity within the emerging church. I also think that he falls short in really understanding some of the very real problems with modernism that are being positively addressed by people who are associated with the emerging church. It may be arrogant for me to critique D.A. Carson, but, hey, this is just my two cents on my blog. Also, I am a Master of Divinity now, so that must count for something :).

Well, I am impressed if any of you actually read this whole thing. Have a great day.

Graduation!!!

2008-05-19T14:16:00.000-07:00

As many of you know, on Friday I had my graduation from Multnomah Biblical Seminary. It was a long time in the coming (6 years). We had a great weekend celebrating. Here are some pics.

Mom and Dad made the trip up, which was a great treat for me, for Karina, and for the boys.

Here is a family picture at the Baccalaureate (a word, by the way, that Matthew thinks it is really fun to say)

Here we are at the seminary building right before the Class Photo was taken.

Here is part of the Class Photo. I am in the third row up, the second from the right.

Here is a picture of the actual ceremony, as I am (joyfully) receiving my MDiv diploma.

Here are Karina and I celebrating after the ceremony.

Karina was pretty into my cool hood. Pretty impressive, huh?

Here we are with Mark and Heather Harris, our good friends. Smiles all around. Seminary is great, but being done is also great.

Quick sidenote. When we finally got home from the ceremony, I went online and found out that the Lakers had closed out their series with the Jazz. What a great day.

Bourne

2008-05-07T13:50:00.000-07:00

So, Karina and I watched The Bourne Identity last night. It had been a while since we had last seen it, and we own the second Bourne movie. I have to say. The Bourne Identity rocks. It is so, so good. I had seen it at least twice before, and yet I was so engrossed the entire time. Great movie.

I also think the second two Bourne movies are great. But I have one issue with them. . .

The Bourne Identity is a good title. The movie is about Jason Bourne and it is about him trying to figure out his identity. But why is the second one called The Bourne Supremacy. I mean, come on. It is not a movie about him taking over the world, or even a country or a mini-mart. It is just a movie about Jason Bourne doing the same thing he did in the first one. He dominates bad guys and tries to figure out who he is. Why is he supreme in this one? Anybody have an answer?
And the third one is called The Bourne Ultimatum. I don't remember an ultimatum in the third movie any more than I remember one in the first or second one. As in the others two, in The Bourne Ultimatum, Jason Bourne is defeating and exposing bad guys, and (wait for it) he is trying to figure out who he is.

Now, I am not ripping on the movies at all. I think they are great. But what is with the titles? Come on Robert Ludlum! I guess The Bourne Identity 2 just didn't sound right.

In fact, there are a lot of movies that could have come from this series:
Bourne Yesterday (a prequel dealing with his past)
Bourne Again (where he deals with ultimate questions)
Bourne to be Wild (where he decides to stop exposing bad guys and simply listens to loud music and rides a motorcycle)

I am open to more suggestions.

Exciting New Video

2008-04-29T13:35:00.000-07:00

Day Has Dawned

2008-04-28T13:14:00.000-07:00

So, today I turned in my last seminary assignment. . .ever!
Now all I have to do is wait until graduation day on May 16th. Karina and I are so, so excited to be finished with the MDiv degree. Crazy. We are also really thankful for all the ways that God has provided for us financially during this time. No debt, and we didn't take a decade to do it (only about 6 years).
Ahhhhh. Soon this will sink in.
Today is a good day.

8 Months Old

2008-04-23T11:40:00.000-07:00

Today is April 23rd, and that means that Jack Timothy Franklin is 8 months old. I know that 8 months is not any kind of huge watershed event in a person's life, but I thought I would take it as an opportunity to talk about my son.
Some of you know that Jack is not quite as big as we would like to see him (not that we want a future sumo wrestler) because of his spitting up problems. Those have been getting better with some medication that we have him on. He is still kind of a little guy, but nothing that is causing long-term concern. He is starting to get some chunkiness on him.
Jack is following in the footsteps of his older brother, in that he is becoming more and more independent each day. He likes to be held, but more and more he will squirm around in my arms until I put him down on the floor. Then he rolls, scoots, and semi-crawls to wherever his heart desires. I think he will be full-blown crawling within a couple of weeks. He is right on the verge.
Jack is the most delightful little baby I have ever been around. If he is crying or upset, all it takes is Karina or I smiling at him, and he returns to being in good spirits. It is a blast to be across the room from him, to hear him start to grumble, and then to see his face light up when I give him a big open-mouth smile.
Jack is a funny baby because of some of his favorite things. He still loves having his diaper changed. He shrieks with delight when we do it.
Jack also loves sucking on his socks. Now he is not to the level of his older cousin Jack, who often had to go barefoot because of his sock-sucking. Still, Jack loves to grab his feet, bring them up to his mouth, and go to town.
Jack also loves to dance with his daddy as he sings "Thank You for Loving Me" by Bon Jovi (usually accompanied by the actual song playing on my laptop). Of course, it is possible that I love this a lot more than he does. Still, he seems to get a kick out of it.
I am really thankful for my family. Jack is a great and fun kid. Karina and I really look forward to getting to know him better as he grows and gets older.

Something New

2008-04-15T08:48:00.000-07:00

Here are a few things that are new. . .

New Song that I am Loving: Flake by Jack Johnson

New Book that I am Reading: Listening to the Beliefs of Emerging Churches: Five Views

New Favorite Activity for Jack: Getting up on his hands and knees and rocking back and forth

New Favorite Activity for Matt: Identifying letters and sounding them out

New Favorite Activity for Karina: Composting (that's right)

New Sports Focus: Lakers (now that UCLA's season is over)

New Favorite TV Show: Eli Stone (favorite in a relative sense, since 24 has not been on for over a year)

New Countdown to turning 30: 74 days

New Countdown until I turn in my final Seminary Assignment: 14 days

And. . .

New Countdown until Seminary Graduation: 31 Days!

Some good NEW things going on with us.

Family Haircuts

2008-04-08T11:13:00.000-07:00

My best friend Dave and his wife Kelly visited us this past week. It was great to hang out and catch up. I will post more on that later because the pictures of that are at home.

For now, I need to post on. . .

FAMILY HAIRCUT NIGHT!

Jack, Matt, and I all received haricuts Sunday night. Here are the highlights.

Here are Matt and I with our sloppy hair. This is a "before" picture. Earlier on Sunday I had a classic conversation with Matt that I just have to share with you.

Dan: Matt, we're going to get haircuts tonight.

Matt: Haircuts? But why? (his favorite question these days)

Dan: Because we need them.

Matt: I don't want one.

Dan: Well, I'm going to get one. Don't you want to get one also? Then we could be handsome together.

Matt: Handsome together?

Dan: Yeah.

Matt: (with a sincerely confused look on his face) But we're already handsome.

Dan: (after composing himself from a good burst of laughter) Yeah, but after our haircuts, we'll be more handsome.

Matt: More handsome. Why?

Dan: Because it is always good to be more handsome.

Jack isn't at the point of conversation about haircuts, but he got one also. As you will see in a moment, he was not crazy about it. Still, you can kind of see his fro in this picture.

Nooooooooooooooo!!!!

Here is our "after" picture. Jack has recovered, and, as you can see, the three of us are much more handsome than when we started.

Family Fun

2008-03-31T08:41:00.000-07:00

For the second year in a row, I got to go out to Ecola Bible School and teach a class for a week. Not that they begged me to come back after last year. More the opposite. Back in September I called them to say that I was available if they wanted me, and they asked me to fill a spot and teach the Minor Prophets. I said, "This is not an area of primary study for me, but I am willing to research it so that I can teach it well." They said that was okay.
The class seemed to go well. It was great to teach, to get to know some students, and to have some family time. I taught an hour each morning and evening, but we had the daytime to hang out. Here are some pics.

Being in the area, we hit the Tillamook Cheese Factory. Matt loved it! Here we are by the official cow.

Here it Matt enjoying the results of a trip to the Cheese Factory. He is having Chocolate and Peanut Butter ice cream. He shared it with his mom. I had German Chocolate Cake ice cream. Wow.

There were also some fun times together for the boys. Here they are after their baths.

But Matt's favorite part was the game room at Ecola. Here he is learning to play chess.

We also played some rounds of mini golf at the game room.

Jack didn't get to play yet, but he had a good time watching us.

Matt gradually improved his swing with each round.

And, by the way. . .

Woo hooo!!!!! Final Four in three straight years! I love Howland. I love Love. I really love to watch Westbrook. He has great speed and power. Now lets see if they can bring the championship home. I am nervous to see how they match up with Memphis.

My Endorsement

2008-03-26T21:47:00.001-07:00

I know some of you have been wondering from previous posts whether or not I would end up officially endorsing anyone.

I have given this a lot of thought. It is sometimes difficult to think about the impact that my choice will have on those around me.

After much thoughout, though, I have decided to throw my choice in the mix.

I would, therefore, like to throw my full support behind. . .

UCLA for the College Basketball National Championship.

I think they have the coach, the defense, and possibly the offense to make real change happen. We have had enough of Florida the last two terms. . .err. . .years. It is time for a fresh face that we can look to.

They are not necessarily conservative, but they are trustworthy.

They can bring change.

And they have the experience.

I support the Bruins.

Brothers Because of Easter

2008-03-24T09:07:00.000-07:00

This week at our Department Heads meeting we read through the death and resurrection of Jesus in the Gospel of John. Something was really striking to me, and Stu later mentioned it in his Easter sermon. It takes place when Jesus, after being raised, reveals himself to Mary. He says to her, "Stop clinging to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father; but go to my brethren and say to them, 'I ascend to my Father and your Father, and my God and your God.'"
I had read this passage many times, but I was struck by the fact that in John's account, Jesus tells Mary to go to his brothers. In other Gospels he tells her to tell his disciples. In John's account, though, he uses the term "brothers" to refer to his disciples. On top of that, he reinforces the statement by saying that he was going to ascend to his Father, who also happened to be their Father. If he is Jesus' Father, and he is the disciples' Father, then that makes them all brothers. That is just basic family theory. :)
It is possible to respond to this and say, "Well, in one place he says disciples, and in another he says brothers. No big deal."That might be true if not for the fact that Jesus' brotherhood with humanity is not something only mentioned here in passing. Hebrews 2:11 says,

"For both he who sanctifies and those who are sanctified are all from one Father; for which reason he is not ashamed to call them brethren."

And then in 2:17 the writer says,

"Therefore, he had to be made like his brethren in all things, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people."

We call Jesus Christ our Lord, our King, and our Savior. But do we dare to call him our older brother? It just seems irreverent. "Make Jesus your buddy. In fact, he is your older brother." Well, it might be irreverent if we had made this up. But the writer of Hebrews says that Jesus is not ashamed to call those who are sanctified through him brothers (inclusive of sisters also, of course).
I am not going to act like some expert on brothers. In fact, while I am an older brother, I don't have an older brother. However, I do have an older sister and a younger brother. While we are all different in many ways, the thing that strikes me most when I think about Ami or Chris is that we are all the same. No matter how different in personality, demeanor, or anything else, there is a great sameness that pulls us all together. It is powerful. Why does it exist? Because we all come from the same parents. We are forever identified with one another.
This just blows my mind, and reminds me that I don't really tend to get what it means that Jesus is fully human. I like to think, "Yes, he is human and divine, but he is more divine than human." This is simply not true. He is fully both, and to deny either is to deny who he is. In fact, when you read the New Testament, you might be able to argue that the writers were more defensive of his humanity than they were defensive of his deity (this was probably because the attacks at the time were specifically against his humanity; Gnosticism, etc.).
The great hymn says, "God our Father, Christ our Brother." Do we really embrace this? Jesus Christ, our brother. That is not meant to exalt us. It is meant to exalt him. He has shown such humility and sacrificial love that he has eternally identified himself with us as our brother. What could be closer than a brother?
All praise and honor and glory to Jesus! He is the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. And he is our brother, our friend.

Worlds Colliding!!!

2008-03-18T13:56:00.000-07:00

Last week I got the opportunity to attend a prayer retreat with my seminary class on, you guessed it, Prayer. It was a very interesting time.
First of all, it was great to get to know people in my class. I am only out at school Monday mornings, so I don't know many people very well. We got to spend two days getting to know one another. I got to meet everyone (there are 20 of us), and got to spend some meaningful time with a number of people.
More than that, though, the cool thing about the retreat was that it was a pretty diverse group. There was certainly some diversity in ethnicity and in age, but there was also a lot of denominational diversity. It was a prayer retreat, and we got to experience the fact that we all prayed and worshiped differently. In particular, I got to experience prayer with brothers and sisters who are from a more charismatic tradition. I was so blessed by the opportunity to experience togetherness with people whose Christian experience is so different from mine. After all, our differences seemed to be small when we were praying and seeking God together.
I am so thankful for the body of Christ. God is such a genius in making us all so different. God is really stretching me in getting out of my comfort zone, both culturally and theologically. He is teaching me so much about how to be humble and learn from those who are different from me. I am so thankful for what I get to experience when I do this.

For he himself is our peace, who made both groups into one and broke down the barrier of the dividing wall, by abolishing in his flesh the enmity, which is the law of commandments contained in ordinances, so that in himself he might make the two into one new man, thus establishing peace, and might reconcile them both in one body to God through the cross, by it having put to death the enmity.

I know this passage in Ephesians is talking about Jews and Gentiles, but it certainly seems to be applicable to God's heart in breaking down walls and bringing people together in Christ.
Enmity is put to death. Someone who disagree with me theologically is not my enemy. Someone who does church differently than me is not my enemy. Someone who prays differently, someone who frequently gives me "a word from the Lord," someone who dances while they sing songs to God, someone who simply sits in silence and prays to God. All of these are people who are not enemies.
He is our peace. He has established peace. Peace is not just the absence of conflict. It is not superficial. It is me looking at someone with whom I disagree with and clash with and embracing who they are. That's hard sometimes. I want to just avoid people because it is hard to be at peace with them. Can I, though, experience deep fellowship with a brother or sister who does things so differently? Why not?! Do I really think that I am not off-base in anything I do or believe? Seems a bit arrogant. Do I really not have anything to learn from others, even if they do, in fact, have things to learn from me? Seems a bit off.
Peace is a powerful thing. And Jesus said that others will know us by our love. One brother on this retreat mentioned this verse and then said, "And Jesus never told a lie." His implication was that Jesus said we would be known for love, and yet someone might conclude that he lied about this, since often we are not.
It is not the time to criticize.
It is the time to be part of healing and reconciliation.
It is time to be part of peace at a real, deep level that will show people the Person who is our true peace.

Baby Nicknames

2008-03-10T14:47:00.000-07:00

We have a new trend with Matthew. After each bath, he asks either Karina or me to carry him like a baby. It's pretty funny. So, if I give him a bath, afterwards I wrap him in a towel, pick him up like a baby, and take him to see Karina and his "big brother" Jack. He laughs the whole way and then finally says, "I'm not a baby. I'm Matthew."
As this grew to become a pattern, I thought it would be appropriate for Matthew to have a formal identity as this baby that he pretends to be after his bath. In order to solidify this identity, he needed to be complete with a silly baby name. Our favorite silly baby name, Zamzubar, was already taken, however. That is the name we gave the baby on Jack's rice cereal box. So, after much consideration, we came up with Romococo. It is pronounced just as you would expect. So, Matthew is now known as Romococo whenever he gets carried around after his bath time. This lasts precisely until he breaks the spell and informs us that he is not really a baby, but is in fact Jack's older brother Matthew.

The more I thought about it, I realized that it was only fair for Jack to have a silly baby nickname also. Now, you may be saying, "Jack is a baby. Why does he need a silly baby nickname?" Good point. But it just seems like the fair thing to do. So Jack's new baby nickname is Fozzberry. There is no real rhyme or reason for when he is Jack and when he is Fozzberry because he pretty much always acts like a baby. Karina and I will just have to use our best judgment. We'll get by.
Jack's new baby nickname, though, created a little confusion between me and Karina. the conversation went something like this.
Karina: So, remind me, what is Jack's baby nickname?
Dan: Fozzberry.
Karina: Ha! I love it. So, it's like F-O-S. . .
Dan: No. F-O-Z-Z.
Karina: Oh! So it's F-O-Z-Z-B-U-R-Y?
Dan: No. B-E-R-R-Y.
Karina: Oh, so it's Fozz-Berry. Not Fosbury.
Dan: Right.
Karina: So, it's more silly baby, and less English servant.
Dan: Of course.
Karina: (with English accent) Fosbury, please have tea ready when we get back from the hunt.
The conversation went on from there as we pretended to order around the fictional Fosbury with bad English accents.
(Is anyone still reading this post?)

Well, there you go. Updates on the Baby nicknames. Romococo and Fozzberry.

The Weak and the Strong

2008-03-03T15:41:00.000-08:00

If you have experienced life in the Christian community for any length of time, you have likely heard the term “weaker brother.” There are two major questions about this term. First of all, what qualifies someone as a weaker brother? Secondly, how does God call believers to interact when a weaker brother is involved? Romans 14 is a key passage that deals with this issue.

1As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions.

Paul begins this passage by giving us an immediate clue as to what it means to be a weaker brother. He uses the phrase, “weak in faith.” So, the weaker brother is one who is somehow weak in what or how he believes. And Paul tells believers to welcome him, or to receive him. The weaker brother is to be fully accepted, and is not to be forced to become “strong” before experiencing a full embrace by his brothers and sisters.

2One person believes he may eat anything, while the weak person eats only vegetables.

So, Paul’s uses an example to illustrate his point. The issue he raises is that some Christians believe that they can eat anything and everything set before them. Others only eat vegetables. The issue is probably not the vegetarian issue that we are accustomed to in our culture. More likely this was a situation in which some were more stringent about how they followed Jewish kosher laws, or how they avoided eating meat that had been sacrificed to idols.
So, who is who? The weak person only eats vegetables. This means that the weaker brother is the person who tends toward a more stringent practice of the Christian life. He avoids certain things that seem questionable to him. And, more than this, for him it is an issue of faith. Remember that Paul spoke about the one who is “weak in faith.” Then he says in verse 2 that some believe that they can eat anything, and others do not. The weaker brother is weak because he does not believe that it is permissible for him to do certain things that other Christians think are okay.

3Let not the one who eats despise the one who abstains, and let not the one who abstains pass judgment on the one who eats, for God has welcomed him.

Now Paul gives dual commands. The first command is to the one who eats. The one who eats is the stronger brother. He is the one who believes that it is permissible for him to do things that the Bible has not forbid. So Paul commands the strong person not to despise the one who abstains, the weaker brother.
The tendency of the strong person will be to despise, or think poorly of, the one who abstains. This certainly holds true to life. If a group of people sit down to dinner, and one person says, “I would rather that we not have wine with this,” it is likely that others, who were looking forward to a glass of wine, will be irritated. “Why is this person ruining our enjoyment of a gift of God?” they may ask. And then, in their minds, they may think, “What’s wrong with this person, that this is such a hang up for them?” And days later, when two or more of these friends are out, they may joke, “Let’s grab a drink. After all, that person isn’t here to stop us.” And in the end, that weaker brother may not be invited to the next dinner event.
On the other hand, the tendency of the weaker brother will be to pass judgment on the one who eats. “How can they drink wine? Don’t they know that drunkenness is a sin? Why would they put themselves in the way of temptation? They must simply not care about personal purity and righteousness as much as I do!” And then this person may very well gather together with others who have an objection toward drinking, and talk about how sad it is that so many brothers and sisters do not have their same desire to follow Christ.
Don’t despise the weak. Instead, accept them (verse 1). And don’t judge the strong. Accept them (verse 3).

4Who are you to pass judgment on the servant of another? It is before his own master that he stands or falls. And he will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make him stand.

This command in verse 4 is then tacked on. It is a command to the weak because he is still talking about passing judgment (which is the tendency of the weak). He gives the reason why it is ridiculous to pass judgment. It is ridiculous because that person does not answer to us. That person answers to Christ (his own master). And just in case the weak person might respond in his mind by saying, “Fine, I’ll leave it to Christ to condemn him,” Paul adds in that the strong person will in fact be upheld because Christ will make him stand.
Who would you rather be? The weak or the strong? Well, while none of us would want to be labeled as the weaker brother, most of us have at least some areas in which we do not believe it is permissible for us to do something, even though the Bible does not forbid it. I may be fine with drinking a glass of wine, but I would never listen to secular music. I may think it is okay to watch an R-rated movie, but I would never wear jeans to church. I may go ahead and work sometimes on Sundays, but I would never permit my children to dress up on Halloween.
Why is this important? Because Paul does not command the weak to become strong. And he does not command the strong to become weaker. He simply tells the strong to accept the weak and not to despise them. And he tells the weak to accept the strong, and not to judge them.
Paul’s solution to the fact that we have different convictions within the Christian church is not to force us all to think the same thing. And his solution is not that we have a table for the weak and a table for the strong. His solution is that we all sit at the same table. And when the weak person humbly requests that we skip the wine, the strong person is more than happy to forgo a pleasure out of love for his brother. And when the strong person mentions that he just saw a movie that seems questionable to some at the table, the weak person chooses to think the best and does not condemn him in his mind.

Together. The Jew and the Gentile. The male and the female. The rich and the poor. The weak and the strong.

Spring is Here?

2008-02-28T14:19:00.001-08:00

Get ready for a ton of pictures.
We are having our Spring teaser right now in Oregon. The sun is out. I know this is no big deal to those of you in SoCal, but it is a rarity up here. That said, we have been having us some outside fun.

Matt and I hiked Latourell again.

He did a great job. We probably hiked for an hour in a half before he asked me to carry him. Which I did. For another 45 minutes. I kept telling myself, "This is why I go to the gym. I go so that I will have the energy to do things like this with my kids."

It was a great time. We are hoping to go back as a whole family soon.

Then last Friday the Ritter kids came over. I had to include this pic of Matt and Hanah. Friends.

Jacob and Sarah had fun playing some fun playing baseball in our backyard. Jacob kept telling Sarah, "You can't be afraid of the ball." Good advice from an older bro. Matt played a little baseball too. He wore his pirate hat and asked us to call him, "The Captain." So, when I would say, "You ready, Matt?" right before I pitched, he would not respond. Then I would say, "You ready, Captain?" and then everything would kick in.

Later that day, Jake and Ty came over.

Last time they were over in good weather was the Fall, and I let Jake and Matt bury me with leaves. Jake asked to do it again, but there were not enough. Instead, they played in the ivy.

Jack got in on the outside-action too, but he's not quite ready to be running around with the guys.

Now, two videos. I will title the first one "Wake up!" Listen to it from Matt. Also, listen for Ty's greeting when he joins Matt and Jake in the ivy.

This next one is of Jack making his happy noises. It is funny, though, because you can hear Karina in the background giving instructions to the other boys.

Fun, fun stuff. Love the sun. Love being outside.

Ordinary People

2008-02-25T12:33:00.000-08:00

On Friday night Karina and I watched one of the more powerful movies that I have ever seen. The movie was called Ordinary People. It was the first movie that Robert Redford ever directed, and it won the 1980 Academy Award for Best Picture.
The movie is about a family (father, mother, and son) grieving the loss of their son/brother. It chronicles how each of them deal with the pain differently, and how this threatens to tear them apart. Donald Sutherland (Jack Bauer's dad) plays the father. I can't think about his character without getting emotional. He loves his son so much, and tries so hard to hold his family together. He has his own set of issues, but he tries so hard to do what is right. He finds himself breaking down, though, and the gap between his wife and his son grows wider and wider.
Most of the movie, though, follows the son, Conrad (16-17 years old), as he tries to come to grips with his pain. He loves his parents, but each of them is contributing to the problem. His father is a teddy bear who will not embrace his pain. His mother is in complete denial and wants to act as if everything is fine.
My favorite part of the movie is the Conrad's interactions with his psychiatrist, played by Jedd Hirsch. I think believers need to watch this movie for this part alone. It is so, so powerful to watch this doctor. He is such an example of someone who is secure, and thus is able not to be threatened by someone else. At times Conrad lashes out at him because his pain is so deep. The doctor is never phased by this, and he continues to draw Conrad out, and finally to bring him to face his pain and emotions.
It would be great if we as believers could respond this way to those around us. I often only think of the pain of others in the context of how it impacts me personally. I was so inspired to see someone who genuinely died to himself in order to help someone else. He took nothing personally. How much more could I help others if I did not take pain or attacks personally?
The movie, of course, also made me think of my own family. I certainly never want to face the pain that the family in Ordinary People faced. At the same time, I know that each of us will have hurts. How will we respond to them?

Will we acknowledge our pain, or will we bury it?
And will I do things that will force my precious sons to feel that they cannot be real about what they are going through? I hope not. But the fact is that just because I love my family does not mean that I will not respond to difficulty in a way that will make things more difficult for them.

This movie raised the issue of pain. It dealt with it tragically and beautifully. As believers in Jesus Christ, though, we know a comfort that is so profound and real. It does not take pain away. That will happen in the new earth. In this present time, though, the comfort of Christ is more powerful than any comfort or distraction we can receive from anyone or anything else.

We can only really be prepared to suffer well if we embrace the comfort of Christ each and every day, and if we find our hope in him alone.

Dreams

2008-02-18T13:27:00.000-08:00

Everyone has a bad dream every once in a while. Sometimes Matthew wakes up in the middle of the night because he is out of sorts. Sometimes it is because he seems to have had a bad dream. A couple of weeks ago he woke up and was crying. I went in to be with him. While he was still out of sorts and crying he said, "No, I want to do it myself!" I couldn't help but laugh afterwards. Unless I am mistaken, Matthew was having his greatest fear realized in his nightmare. He was not being allowed to do something himself. Someone else was doing it for him. Like many kids his age, Matt is obsessed with doing things himself, and he can get pretty cranky (even devastated) if someone does for him what he wants to do for himself.
This got Karina and I talking (and joking a little) about what might be some equivalent nightmares. What would we wake up screaming? As far as our son Jack goes, I think he would wake up crying if he had a dream that he had just finished potty training. Now, understand, I am not saying that the potty training process would be a nightmare to him. I am saying that being done with diapers would be a nightmare to him. The reason is that his favorite activity seems to be having his diaper changed by his mom or dad. If he is in a bad mood, we change his diaper, and this always seems to cheer him up. It does not cheer him up just because he is uncomfortable and wants a new diaper. It cheers him up because he seems to love the process. We put him down on that changing table and he is just glowing with joy.
Let me tell you, There are a lot worse things in life than a kid who loves having his diaper changed.
That only leaves Karina and me. Karina said that she could see herself waking up screaming, "No, take away the raw chicken!" My wife is notoriously thorough when it comes to cleaning up after raw meat. Again, I can think of a lot of things that would be worse to obsess about. I could also see Karina waking up and screaming, "Enough with the mattress commercials!" She hates the cheesy local ads.
As for me, I am not sure. I mean, let's face it, I have survived a lot. I am still functioning even though 24 has not been on the air for 9 months (and it looks like it may not return until next January).
I survived Shaw leaving the Lakers, winning a title with the Heat, and now returning to the Western Conference to play with the Lakers' division rival, the Suns. What else can they do to me?
Seriously, though, I think I might wake up in terror if I dreamed that I was on an international flight and they were playing a Mr. Bean marathon on the movie screens.
Now that is a nightmare.

Survivor Pick 'Em

2008-02-13T14:57:00.001-08:00

So, the Survivor picks are in. What I have decided to do is to create a separate blog for Survivor Pick 'Em. The address is www.survivorpickem.blogspot.com. All the picks are up. You should pretty well know who you have, but you can check out who everyone else has. I will update the blog on a weekly basis (at least).
I decided to do a separate blog for two reasons:
1. I like to keep it to no more than 2-3 posts per week on the blog because I don't want people to check my blog and then find out they have missed like 17 posts (not that you all care so much). That said, if I am committing myself to at least 1 Survivor post per week, I am greatly limited in wha tI can post about. This frees it up.
2. Some people check the blog and get annoyed when I am posting about Survivor (not to mention any names, DK; hope you're enjoying LOST). This will allow people to check the blog without being affronted with our Survivor fun.
Anyway, I have a link to the Pick 'em blog on this post, and also on the links on the side.

Who Is This For?

2008-02-11T12:40:00.000-08:00

A little while ago I was watching a podcast in which Senator Obama had dinner with four people who had contributed to his campaign. One of the cool things about it, though, was that it was obvious that the four contributors were not chosen because they were the larges contributors. It must have been a raffle or something because none of them was rich.
It was kind of cool to watch Obama sit and listen to them. One of the main questions he asked each of them was, "What are the issues that you would like to see raised?" Each person got a chance to voice the things on his or her mind. It made me think, "If I was one of those people, what issues would I raise?"
Election time is interesting because it reveals that issues that are important to us. Some of us are fired up about immigration or tax cuts. Some of us are passionate about the war in Iraq or education. I certainly have issues about which I get riled up. Something occurred to me, though, as I thought about how I would respond to the opportunity to tell a politician, or a potential president, what issues I wanted to see raised. What occurred to me was this:

Government has existed for me for a very long time. Maybe it is time that it benefited someone other than me.

What I mean is this: I am about as mainstream as a person can be in American culture. I am a white, middle-class male. Our country is geared for me because I am in the majority. And when it comes down to us, most of us tend to vote for the things that will benefit us, and against the things that will cost us money, time, or freedom. It was a bit revolutionary for me to consider that it might be better for me to vote and involve myself in the political process in such a way that I, and people like me, are not the direct beneficiaries. I probably have enough going for me in this life. I don't have a lot of complain about. I don't have a lot of needs that are not already taken care of. Maybe government should exist to even the score so that those in the minority could have the opportunity to catch up with some of the opportunities that I have had access to simply because of the color of my skin, my gender, and the fact that I had the opportunity to go to college (which I owe to my parents; I didn't pay a dime for my college education).
That said, my attention, as usual was turned then to the church. How am I interacting in the church. I have a lot of things that I want to see happen. I have a lot of preferences and values. Still, I need to ask myself, "Do I believe that the church should gear itself to people like me?"
Well, maybe not.
Maybe it would be appropriate for me to have to be the one to work hard to fit in, find a place, feel comfortable. After all, people of different races and socio-economic standings than me find themselves in a perpetual state of being the ones who need to work hard to fit in, find a place, and feel comfortable. It made me realize that I need to get over myself and be thankful for how much God has given me. I can thankfully step aside and let the focus be on someone else. In fact, I can be a voice for someone else.
Who is all this for? How does this question impact my politics, both in my country and in my church?

BY THE WAY!!!!
A while ago, I posted about this book called "Consuming Jesus." It is a great, great book calling those of us in the church to work toward breaking down barriers related to race and class. It was written by one of my professors at Multnomah, Dr. Metzger. This Wednesday, February 13, Dr. Metzger will be speaking about this book at Powell's in Portland. It will be at 7:30. I really encourage anyone and everyone to go. It will be well worth it!

Eat, Sit, Roll Over

2008-02-02T12:24:00.001-08:00

So, Jack has been hitting some milestones lately. A little over a month ago, we started him on rice cereal. He has taken too it pretty well, but it is still kind of hit and miss.

Jack has also been honing the skill of sitting up on his own. He can't do it indefinitely, but he is growing in his balance.
And, last but not least, Jack has been learning to roll over. At first he only did it from him tummy to his back, but now he has been doing it both ways.
I am still trying to get a better video of the full roll-over. Here is one that is just the end of the accomplishment.

Hope you enjoyed these. More to come.

With the First Pick in the 2008 Draft. . .

2008-01-30T21:51:00.000-08:00

Okay, so we have 18 players and we will have 19 contestant after the first episode. First the rules, then the order:
1. The top three picks will need to be made on Friday the 8th (the first episode will be on the 7th). Picks 4-6 will need to be made on Saturday. Picks 7-9: Sunday. Picks 10-12: Monday. Picks 13-15: Tuesday. Picks 16-18: Wednesday. They will all be in before the next episode.
2. Email me you top 3 when you send in your pick. That way, if you are picks #3 on the first day, you are assured to get a pick, and you won't have to wait for me to tell you that picks 1 and 2 have got their picks in.
3. After each day, I will email the picks that have been made to everyone. I got email addresses from some of you. I still need some, though. If you have any doubt about whether or not I have your email address, shoot it over to me (dan.franklin@goodshepherdcc.org).
4. If you fail to make your pick on your day, you go to the bottom of the list for the next day. For example, if you are pick #2 and you don't get me a pick on Friday, you go down below picks 4-6. So you will actually get to pick 6th if you get it in on Saturday. Make sense? You won't have to worry about this if you get your pick in on time.
5. Good luck.

Here is the order from last to first.
With the 18th pick: Dan Stump. Sorry, man. You'll get to choose between the last two remaining contestants.
With the 17th pick: Eric Wood. At least you can't do worse than Jean Robert this time.
With the 16th pick: Curtis Lillie. Newcomer. Sorry about the high pick.
With the 15th pick: Greg Moffat. You picked late last year and still got Jaime, and she made the jury.
With the 14th pick: Kelly McAllister. Thanks for joining us.
With the 13th pick: Dave McAllister. Weird, huh? Back to back. Not planned.
With the 12th pick: Ruth King. I think you can pull it off with a twelfth pick.
With the 11th pick: Daren Blomquist. Glad you are joining us again.
With the 10th pick: Dan Franklin. Last year's winner. Me.
With the 9th pick: Karina Franklin. Back to back again. Weird.
With the 8th pick: Ami McNay. Starting to get to the low picks. Good positioning.
With the 7th pick: Rich Stafford. Another newcomer. Good luck.
With the 6th pick: Mirranda Meacham. Welcome. Lucky draw.
With the 5th pick: Megan Wood. Sorry for misspelling your name.
With the 4th pick: Angela Stump. You can comfort your husband with the fact that you will be picking so early.
With the 3rd pick: Sarah Blomquist. Who just reminded me that we have been friends for about 15 years.
With the 2nd pick: Alison Gentry. Another newcomer. Great positioning.
And with the 1st pick: Andrea Moffat. Congrats. Andrea picked late last time and still got Amanda, who finished third. Look out!

I will do another email as the first episode approaches. Can't wait to see what happens.
Remember, picking late is not a death sentence. Last year, Stump picked last and finished 2nd with Courtney. Karina picked 11th and ended up 4th with Denise. Andrea picked 9th and ended up 3rd with Amanda. So, Stump, Eric, Curtis, Greg, take heart.
By the way, my wife witnessed the picking process. It was all above board (not that you were doubting, with Karina and I being 9th and 20th).
Also by the way, the top 6 picks all went to women, even though the male/female ratio is pretty even (10 gals, 8 guys).
Can't wait.

Heroes, and My Apologies to LOST Fans

2008-01-29T11:42:00.000-08:00

So, I avoided the Heroes craze for a pretty long time. It was not because I was against the show, but simply because I knew that I was likely to become totally engrossed in it. This is a problem because I can only really watch a couple of shows with any regularity. 24 is king, and Survivor is number 2 (number one during the writer's strike).

That said, my wife decided she wanted to check out Heroes because she had seen a couple of episodes. We just got done watching Season 1.

So, I thought that I would become totally compelled by the show. The good news is that I am not hopelessly addicted. That said, I thought the first season was excellent. Before I get into it. . .

Things I did not like about Heroes:

1. Too bloody. I did not think it was inappropriate that people died in the show. I just thought that sometimes it was over the top bloody. I thought it was not necessary. I get that Sylar is bad and that he takes people's brains. I don't need to see it every episode.

2. Niki/Jessica. Thankfully they got away from the inappropriate stuff with this character. The first couple of episodes always had her doing something raunchy. I think they realized that the show was good enough that they don't need to drag in people with totally superfluous sexual content.

3. Slow in the middle. More on this later. The show definitely stalled for a while in the middle of the season.

Reasons I Liked Heroes:

1. Great characters. Of course I loved Peter Petrelli, Professor Suresh and Hiro Nakamura. Great, great characters. Complicated, likeable, and (obvoiusly) heroic.

2. Comic Book Feel. Great job keeping up the comic book feel. Really cool.

3. Villains. The whole Sylar concept was a great villain concept. So was the old guy. . .the mob guy. . .his name escapes me. I know I could just pause writing and look it up, but I don't want to.

4. The Finale. I love to see a plan come together. I kept wondering if the finale would really deliver on all the buildup of the conflicts. It really did resolve them. The finale was phenomenal. Can't say enough good stuff about it. It totally delivered, but still left plenty of places for the show to go.

Did Dan say that he was going to apologize to LOST fans?

Yes, I did. Especially to David and Mirranda because I have relentlessly tormented them about the fact that LOST never wraps things up. Here is what I realized while watching Heroes. I just don't like a mystery that takes that long to unravel. LOST is a fine show. It is just not my kind of show. If you like it, congratulations. Enjoy.

There, I said it.

By the way, on the subject of TV.

Daren and Sarah Blomquist and Dan and Angela Stump are all in for Survivor Pick 'em. That makes 17 of us. That all but secures things. Thursday I will write a post explaining how this whole picks thing will work, and I will post the picks order. If you want me to email you about your turn, make sure I have your email address. I am not sure I have email addresses for:

Eric and Meagan Wood

Greg and Andrea Moffat

Daren and Sarah Blomquist

Mirranda Meacham

This is going to be fun.

Sorry, Mirranda. I can't reveal my top 3 until other people have made their picks. I know that all of you are just waiting to hear my picks so that you can steal them. Come on, admit it. After all, I am the reigning champ.

Survivor Picks

2008-01-28T13:40:00.000-08:00

February 7th is the premier of Survivor Micronesia. Last season I hosted a Survivor Pick 'em, in which 12 people participated. It was so much fun that we are going to do it again. After the first episode you get to pick a winner. If we have enough of us, one of us is bound to get it right.
Time for someone to dethrone me because I successfully predicted Todd's victory last season in Survivor China.
This season has past favorites versus super fans of the show. Jonathan Penner (right) from Survivor Cook Islands is one of the returning favorite (and a personal favorite of mine.

Okay, here is the status. I have 13 people who have expressed interest in being in on Survivor Pick 'em, Part 2.

Dan Franklin

Karina Franklin

Greg Moffat

Andrea Moffat

Ami McNay

Eric Wood

Meagan Wood

Dave McAllister

Mirranda Meacham

Ruth King

Rich Stafford

Curtis Lillie

Alison Gentry

Still time for

Angela Stump

Dan Stump

Sarah Blomquist

Daren Blomquist

Others who want to get in on this

The Plan

This Thursday I will put all the names into a hat and draw for picking position. As of now, I will pick from 13 names. Then I will report on the blog who will pick when. If you email me (dan.franklin@goodshepherdcc.org) or comment that you want in before Thursday, I will put your name in the hat also. After Thursday, it is first come first serve. So, if we stay with 13 through Thursday, and you email me on Friday, you will be picking in 14th position.

Again, there are 20 players, so we can have 19 people picking (we will pick after episode 1 so that no one gets a raw deal).

Some of you already emailed me some picks. That is fine, and I wrote them down. But that does not mean that you get who you picked. But if your pick is still free when it is your turn, then you get your pick. That said, everyone can feel free to email me your picks, knowing that this will not necessarily secure that person for you.

Dave, you gonna take James again? It worked so well last time.

And if you email me about your pick, don't be concerned that this will influence my pick. I already have my top 3.

MLK Day, 2008

2008-01-24T12:19:00.000-08:00

Last year I really desire to do something on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in order to participate in what it is all about. After looking online for some events, I found an annual celebration that takes place at Highland Christian Center, which is just about 25 minutes from our home. Last year I took Matthew, and this year our whole family was able to come. There were speakers, musicians, artists, and opportunities for involvement offered by organizations. One that I signed up for was an organization that works against housing discrimination. I am looking forward to hearing back from them to see if I can be involved in a justice issue like that.

Before we left for the celebration on Monday morning I sat at the computer with Matthew and showed him some pictures and speeches of Dr. King. It was interesting to try to describe Dr. King in a way that a 3 year-old would grasp. I said thing like,

"You know how mommy and daddy love you and Jack the same? Dr. King wanted everyone to love each other the same."

"Dr. King was very brave because he knew that God was with him."

Words just can't sum it up at this point. Next year he may be at a point when I can actually talk to him about ethnicity and racism to some extent.

That said, I was reading Dr. King's Letter from a Birmingham Jail. If you have not read it, you can click here and check out the whole thing: http://coursesa.matrix.msu.edu/~hst306/documents/letter.html. It is well worth it.

Here are some highlights that really pierced my heart in reading this letter from Dr. King.

"I must make two honest confessions to you, my Christian and Jewish brothers. First, I must confess that over the past few years I have been gravely disappointed with the white moderate. I have almost reached the regrettable conclusion that the Negro's great stumbling block in his stride toward freedom is not the White Citizen's Councilor or the Ku Klux Klanner, but the white moderate, who is more devoted to 'order' than to justice; who prefers a negative peace which is the absence of tension to a positive peace which is the presence of justice; who constantly says, 'I agree with you in the goal you seek, but I cannot agree with your methods of direct action'; who paternalistically believes he can set the timetable for another mans freedom; who lives by a mythical concept of time and who constantly advises the Negro the wait for a 'more convenient season.' Shallow understanding from people of good will is more frustrating that absolute misunderstanding from people of ill will. Lukewarm acceptance is much more bewildering than outright rejection. "

This struck me because I feel that I tend to be the white moderate. If not, then I am certainly most in danger of falling into this category. Am I more attached to order than to justice?

The following section hits me hard because it is about the church. It is really worth the read:

"Yes, these questions are still in my mind. In deep disappointment I have wept over the laxity of the church. But be assured that my tears have been tears of love. Yes, I love the church. How could I do otherwise? I am in the rather unique position of being the son, the grandson, and the great-grandson of preachers. Yes, I see the church as the body of Christ. But, oh! How we have blemished and scarred that body through social neglect and through fear of being nonconformists.
"There was a time when the church was very powerful -- in the time when the early Christians rejoiced at being deemed worthy to suffer for what they believed. In those days the church was not merely a thermometer that recorded the ideas and principles of popular opinion; it was a thermostat that transformed the mores of society. Whenever the early Christians entered a town, the people in power became disturbed and immediately sought to convict the Christians for being 'disturbers of the peace' and 'outside agitators.' But the Christians pressed on, in the conviction that they were 'a colony of heaven,' called to obey Gad rather than man. Small in number, they were big in commitment. They were too God-intoxicated to be 'astronomically intimidated.' By their effort and example they brought an end to such ancient evils as infanticide and gladiatorial contests.
"Things are different now. So often the contemporary church is a weak, ineffectual voice with an uncertain sound. So often it is an archdefender of the status quo. Far from being disturbed by the presence of the church, the power structure of the average community is consoled by the church's silent -- and often even vocal -- sanction of things as they are. But the judgment of God is upon the church as never before. If today's church does not recapture the sacrificial spirit of the early church, it will lose its authenticity, forfeit the loyalty of millions, and be dismissed as an irrelevant social club with no meaning for the twentieth century. Every day I meet young people whose disappointment with the church has turned into outright disgust."

May all of our churches choose to be agents of change and justice instead of being the "archdefender of the status quo." I remember my dad commenting a while ago (in regards to politics) that the group in power will always strive to maintain the status quo. The status quo is never good for minority and oppressed groups. Change is always needed.

I think it is appropriate for all of us to be thankful to Dr. King. He sacrificed his life. And I don't just mean that he died for his cause. I mean that he sacrificed his life. For years and years and years he was poured out for needy and oppressed people. His assassination was not an abberation from the rest of his life. It fit perfectly with his daily death to himself in favor of those who longed for justice.

It should remind all of us of our Lord.

I hope this post is not so long that people don't read it. But, if you're reading this line, hopefully that means that you read the whole post.

Scary Moment, Happy Ending

2008-01-23T11:41:00.000-08:00

Some of you have already heard, but we had a scary moment with Matthew on Monday night. He had been fine all day, and we were getting ready to go to a staff party. I was in the playroom with him, and he suddenly stiffened up and fell flat on the ground. I went over to him, and picked him up. His whole body was limp and he was not responding as I said his name. I told Karina to call 9-1-1, and I continued to try to get Matthew to respond. Within about a minute, Matthew vomited and then began to respond. The paramedics were there within about 5 minutes, and within 10 minutes Matthew was pretty much back to his old self, fully responsive.

Matthew and I went to the ER in an ambulance, and Karina and Jack met us there. Matthew got progressively better over the next two hours, and by about 8:00pm we were home. The ER doctor basically let us know that Matthew had a Fibral Seizure, which means that his temperature spiked really rapidly, and his body responded by seizing. Right now there is no reason to believe that this will be ongoing, but we will need to be especially vigilant to keep Matt's temperature down anytime that he is sick.

So, it was pretty scary. We're grateful, though, that Matt is back to acting normally (at least how he normally is when he is sick).

The Last Will Be First

2008-01-17T09:24:00.000-08:00

Matthew 20:16: So the last will be first, and the first last.

The first will be last. This is one of those famous statements made by Jesus. In the Christian community, this phrase shows up all over the place. Our normal understanding of this statement made by Jesus is this: Jesus is saying that those who are first in this life will be last in the next life. The rich, privileged, and famous in this life will find that those things do not make them important in eternity. And the poor, forgotten, and ignored in this life will be blessed in the life to come.
The question is not whether everything said in the paragraph above is true. The question is whether everything said in the paragraph above is what Jesus was saying in Matthew 20:16 when he said, “So the last will be first, and the first last”?
The first clue in discovering the answer to this question is that almost exactly the same phrase appears in Matthew 19:30. After watching the rich young ruler walk away from Jesus’ call to leave all behind to follow him, Peter says to Jesus in Matthew 19:27, “See, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?” Jesus responds to Peter (and the others) in verses 28-30, saying,

Truly, I say to you, in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or lands, for my name’s sake will receive a hundredfold and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.

In verse 30 Jesus again says that the last will be first and the first will be last. What was his meaning here? In this context, who are the first and who are the last? Are Peter and his fellow-apostles the last who will be first? That would be great for Peter. Unfortunately the answer is No. Instead, Peter and the other apostles are the first who will be last.
Is this hard to believe? If the apostles are the first who will be last, then who are the last who will be first? The answer is found in Jesus’ statement. Jesus began his response to Peter by saying that the apostles will have a special place in the kingdom. But then he says two words: And everyone. Everyone who leaves things behind to follow Jesus will inherit great reward. So the formula, if we were looking for one might look like this:

The First = Peter and the Apostles

The Last = Everyone who follows Jesus

So, is Jesus really saying that the apostles will be last, and that others who follow Jesus will be first? Yes. And he explains more fully by launching immediately into a parable in chapter 20.
This parable is about a landowner who went to hire workers for his vineyard. At 6:00am he went out and hired several and promised them a denarius. He then went out again at 9:00am, 12:00pm, and 3:00pm and kept hiring more workers. Finally, at 5:00pm, one hour until closing time, he went and hired more workers.
At the end of the day, 6:00pm, the landowner lined up all the workers to pay them. At the front of the line were the workers who had only worked one hour, and at the back were the workers who had worked all 12 hours. To the surprise of everyone, the landowner paid the one-hour-workers a full denarius. When the 12-hour-workers saw this, they assumed that this meant that they would be receiving much more. To their great dismay, they also received only one denarius. Their response to the landowner is very telling:

These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat.

Their words ring in our ears, and they certainly rang in Peter’s ears. You have made them EQUAL TO US! We worked 12 hours and they only worked one. They don’t deserve to be made equal to us! Jesus conclusion to this scandalous parable is the same as his response to Peter:

So the last will be first, and the first last.

The last are first are easier to spot in this context. The first are the first workers who were hired. And the last are the last workers hired, who worked for only one hour.
But when Jesus says that the last will be first, he is not saying that the last workers, who only worked one hour, will be exalted about the first, who worked all twelve hours. And he is not saying that the first will be demoted to the last. Instead he is saying that they will all be the same. After all, that is what happened in the parable. The first and the last were made equal. The last are first, the first are last, the new are old, the old are new, the good are best, and the best are good. Equality.
The 12-hour workers were not looking for equality. They wanted an elevated position above the 1-hour workers. Peter also was not looking for equality. He was asking what he and his friends would receive, and Jesus gently helped him to see that they should not be looking to be in an elevated position above others who choose to follow Jesus, even if their sacrifices come much later in life than the apostles’ sacrifices.
What about us? Do we want equality? Do we want equality with the deathbed convert? That just doesn’t seem fair to those of us who have served God our whole lives. Do we want equality with the converted homosexual and the repentant stripper? Not if we are under the impression that we have kept ourselves unstained by the world. But Jesus’ scandalous words must ring in our ears: THE FIRST WILL BE LAST, AND THE LAST FIRST!
This new understanding of this famous phrase should not make the phrase any less prevalent in our Christian circles. But instead of serving as a reminder that the humble will be exalted, it should serve as a reminder that there is not meant to be a hierarchy within the Christian community. Instead there is to be equality.

Survivor Micronesia

2008-01-15T13:51:00.001-08:00

Well, it was so much fun to do Survivor Pick 'em that I am offering to do it again. I have already got interest from the following 9 people

Dan Franklin, Karina Franklin, Dave McAllister, Ami McNay, Mirranda Meacham, Greg Moffat, Andrea Moffat, Eric Wood, Meagan Wood

Still offering spots to

Dan Stump, Angela Stump, Rich Stafford, Dawna Stafford,
Sarah Blomquist, Daren Blomquist, Ruth King, anyone else who
watches.

If you have not heard, the cast has been revealed. I care little about the fans, but I will list off the favorites and comment briefly.
Guys:
1. Jonathan from Survivor Cook Islands: Stoked that he is back. Great schemer. Good athlete. Great player. Finished in 7th first time around.
2. Ozzy from Survivor Cook Islands: Perhaps the best individual competitor of all time. Came in a close 2nd to Yul first time around.
3. James from Survivor China: A best in team challenges, but only did okay in individual ones. Good guy, but left 2 Immunity Idols in his bag as he got voted off in 7th place.
4. Yau Man from Survivor Fiji: Victim of the most horrific betrayal in the history of Survivor (Dreams). So glad he is back. Finished 4th in Fiji.
5. Johnny Fairplay from Survivor Pearl Islands: One of the great villians ever in Survivor. Finished 3rd the first time around.
Gals:
1. Amanda from Survivor China: Finished 3rd this past season. Was great up until she tanked it at the Final Tribal Council.
2. Cirie from Survivor Exile Island: So stoked that she will be back. Great social player! Finished 4th the first time around.
3. Parvati from Survivor Cook Islands: Good returner. Good in the challenges and a good social player. She will need help from a stronger player, though. Finished 6th the first time around.
4. Eliza from Survivor Vanuatu: Finished 4th in Vanuatu. She was decent in the challenges, but struggled with the social part of the game. Also has a big mouth.
5. Amy from Survivor Vanuatu: Great, great player. She finished 6th after being the victim of a major swing. So glad she's going to be back.

How It Works:
As already mentioned, 9 people are currently in. If you want to be in, email me dan.franklin@goodshepherdcc.org in order to let me know, or you can comment on this post. When we have everyone in (we can have up to 19) I will put the names in a hat and pull them out for order of picking. Then, after the first episode, we will make picks. If you want to email me your picks before then, I will keep them, and if one of your choices is still around for your turn, I will mark it down.

Most Stoked About:
Four players: Jonathan, Fairplay, Cirie, and Amy.
Least Stoked About:
The fans. Hope I'm wrong. I would rather that it was a fully blown All Stars.

A Brave Woman

2008-01-09T16:47:00.000-08:00

I have been doing a Bible Readthrough since September. I just recently finished reading through the book of Esther. I am so stirred by Mordecai's words to Esther when she is afraid to act in behalf of her people Israel. He says,

Do not imagine that you in the king's palace can escape any more than all the Jews. For if you remain silent at this time, relief and deliverance will arise for the Jews from another place and you and your father's house will perish. And who knows whether you have not attained royalty for such a time as this?

Esther became queen. God was certainly in charge of this event. But she was not put in that position of power in order to save herself. She was put their in order to save others. So often I seek to be in positions of influence, large and small. Most of the time it is because I want to save myself from boredom or irrelevancy or poverty or a number of other things. But why would God ever decide to put me into a position of power or influence? I can't imagine that it would be for any reason other than helping and saving those who cannot help or save themselves.

What a call on a pastor, a father, a husband, a friend, a white middle-class man. To use any power or influence that God has allowed me to have in order to save and help others. What an amazing way to reflect the life of our Lord, who used his power, his wisdom, his divinity in order to save helpless rebels.

Dare We Speak of Politics?

2008-01-07T12:30:00.000-08:00

I mostly watched the NFL playoffs on Saturday. During the Jacksonville/Pittsburgh game (which, by the way, was a great game) the Republican debate at New Hampshire was showing on another channel. I am not going to lie. I mostly watched the game, but I was on the debate during any slow points or commercial breaks. Then the Democrat debate toook place after the game was over. I watched pretty much all of it.
I am becoming more aware of and interested in politics. I'm not saying everyone has to be, but I personally am. I find it interesting, and I see it as more of a value as a follower of Jesus to be engaged in our culture and our structure as a country. That said, I wanted to mention some stuff from the debates.

First of all, on the Democratic side, John Edwards. I am not going to vote for Hillary Clinton. I just see her as being really slippery. Interestingly, though, for a while she looked like she would run away with the nomination. Now it is a bit more up for grabs. At the debate she seemed frustrated. Obama seemed to be on the attack (not against Hillary, but on the attack in terms of presenting himself as the front-runner). The person who impressed me (and Karina) most, however, was Edwards. He was confident and articulate. One of his big points about himself was that he has not gotten into bed with any special interest groups. He has a strong message for holding corporations responsible, and he has a passion for the working poor. I really liked much of what he had to say.
As I said, I will not vote for Hillary, so I won't even mention her. Obama, however, is the other Democrat who appeals to me. I really like his vision for bringing the parties together. I also think he would do an excellent job with foreign policy, both because of his ideals and because of his ability to work with others and communicate articulately.
Of course, the troubling thing to me about both Edwards and Obama is their stances on the issue of abortion. It greatly saddens me that both of them are so pro-choice (not that it is a huge surprise coming from Democratic candidates).

On the Republican side, there are only two candidates that I could see myself voting for. Just as I could not bring myself to vote for Hillary Clinton, I could never bring myself to vote for Giuliani. If Hillary is slippery, then Giuliani takes it to a whole new level for me. McCain on the other hand has a certain appeal to me. He has been a good unifier of the parties and I think he seems to have a fairly healthy mix of values that both parties can get on board with. He has experience and a good track record. He has not been consistently pro-life, but his stance is closer than the Democrats to what I believe.

The other Republican that I like is Mike Huckabee. He won Iowa, which makes him now seems like a viable candidate, while still a longshot. He seems to be the only truly pro-life candidate, and that is really refreshing and comforting. I also think that he just seems very comfortable with who he is. This makes him able to be himself and to be consistent. I don't agree with him on his foreign policy, though. That is a bit of a struggle, but I would be much happier with him in the White House than Romney or Giuliani.

All of this brings up lots of questions. Is it okay for Christians to vote for a candidate that is pro-choice? If not, then why is this issue (which is a big issue) the trump card, while others need to take a back seat? If other issues should be considered, which ones? What does it mean to follow the lead of a president? How much should Christians be involved in pursuing structural change in our country?
I certainly don't have a lot of answers to these, but they are questions that must be wrestled with, especially since Christians have been so closely linked together with the Republican Party. This can put us in bed with people like Rush Limbaugh and Ann Coulter, people who share Republican ideals, but not from a Christian motivation (especially not the latter).
Anyway, enough of that. Hope I didn't offend either of the people who regularly read my blog.