January 31, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 28-29 and Acts 7
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Dr Was (Daily Rations with a Smile)
Bible and comics on-line @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
January 31, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 28-29 and Acts 7
January 31, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 28-29 and Acts 7
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Isaiah 7:9b: Stand Firm!
Presented to Swift Current Corps on January 31, 2010
By Captain Michael Ramsay
I remember when I was in elementary school: when I was in the intermediate grades, probably Grade 5 or Grade 6. Across the street from our elementary school there was a senior high school for Grade 11 and 12 students, sixteen and seventeen year-olds. Every spring, it would seem, there was a ritual. (For the record, where I grew up there was no snow on the ground in March – ever) At lunch time, some of us grade fives and sixes would get up the nerve to go across the street and provoke some grade eleven’s and twelve’s who would be smoking outside or just lounging on the lawn. At first one or two of us would run across the street and call a small group of the high school students various names hoping that the sixteen and seventeen year-olds would chase us back across the street to the elementary school… where we had a trap set for them. We had a plan: the entire grade five and six classes were lying in wait ready to ambush them, dog pile on them, jump on them. We were looking for a play fight.
At first we -the selected two or three Grade fives and sixes- would go across the street to try to get the high school students to chase us. But as soon as the high school students just moved or said ‘boo’ we grade fives would be running back across the street as fast as we could. The teenagers would then go back to whatever they were doing until we would return. Eventually we grade fives and sixes would get braver and the high school students would actually have to get up before we fled. Then we kids became even braver and so the high school students would have to stand up before we ran away. And then we became even braver still so that the older students would actually have to run right at us before we would flee. Then the moment would finally come – the moment we were waiting for – the moment finally comes when there is a group of about eight of us grade fives and sixes brave enough to actually entice some Grade 11/12s to chase us back to the elementary school where, remember, there are about sixty grade fives and sixes ready to pounce on them so the Grade 11/12s come running across the street right into the trap with 50 grade fives and sixes waiting for them and inevitably as soon as the teenagers fall right in our trap and we have them right where we want them, when the time we are waiting for has come about and everything is perfectly set-up… we run away…we aren’t really brave enough to stand our ground…and instead of us now pursuing them, they continue to chase us.
Isaiah 7:9b: “If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.’”
We remember from the historical context of the time of the prophet Isaiah from our message last week that the countries of Israel and Judah (as well as other Palestinian states such as Aram/Syria and the Philistines, Edom, etc.) were threatened by the superpower of their day, Assyria. Israel and Aram/Syria propose that Judah team up with them like a group of grade five students and attack the high school of Assyria.
read more: http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/01/isaiah-79b-stand-firm.html
---
www.sheepspeak.com
By Captain Michael Ramsay
I remember when I was in elementary school: when I was in the intermediate grades, probably Grade 5 or Grade 6. Across the street from our elementary school there was a senior high school for Grade 11 and 12 students, sixteen and seventeen year-olds. Every spring, it would seem, there was a ritual. (For the record, where I grew up there was no snow on the ground in March – ever) At lunch time, some of us grade fives and sixes would get up the nerve to go across the street and provoke some grade eleven’s and twelve’s who would be smoking outside or just lounging on the lawn. At first one or two of us would run across the street and call a small group of the high school students various names hoping that the sixteen and seventeen year-olds would chase us back across the street to the elementary school… where we had a trap set for them. We had a plan: the entire grade five and six classes were lying in wait ready to ambush them, dog pile on them, jump on them. We were looking for a play fight.
At first we -the selected two or three Grade fives and sixes- would go across the street to try to get the high school students to chase us. But as soon as the high school students just moved or said ‘boo’ we grade fives would be running back across the street as fast as we could. The teenagers would then go back to whatever they were doing until we would return. Eventually we grade fives and sixes would get braver and the high school students would actually have to get up before we fled. Then we kids became even braver and so the high school students would have to stand up before we ran away. And then we became even braver still so that the older students would actually have to run right at us before we would flee. Then the moment would finally come – the moment we were waiting for – the moment finally comes when there is a group of about eight of us grade fives and sixes brave enough to actually entice some Grade 11/12s to chase us back to the elementary school where, remember, there are about sixty grade fives and sixes ready to pounce on them so the Grade 11/12s come running across the street right into the trap with 50 grade fives and sixes waiting for them and inevitably as soon as the teenagers fall right in our trap and we have them right where we want them, when the time we are waiting for has come about and everything is perfectly set-up… we run away…we aren’t really brave enough to stand our ground…and instead of us now pursuing them, they continue to chase us.
Isaiah 7:9b: “If you do not stand firm in your faith, you will not stand at all.’”
We remember from the historical context of the time of the prophet Isaiah from our message last week that the countries of Israel and Judah (as well as other Palestinian states such as Aram/Syria and the Philistines, Edom, etc.) were threatened by the superpower of their day, Assyria. Israel and Aram/Syria propose that Judah team up with them like a group of grade five students and attack the high school of Assyria.
read more: http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/01/isaiah-79b-stand-firm.html
---
www.sheepspeak.com
Friday, January 29, 2010
Men's Camp is February 19-21
Hebrews 8:13:Covenant, Milkshakes, and Coming of Age
Journal of Aggressive Christianity, Issue 64, December 2009 – January 2010, pp. 16-20.
by Captain Michael Ramsay
“By calling this covenant ‘new,’ he has made the first one obsolete;
and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear.”
What is this old covenant that is now obsolete?
This old covenant was very important to the Hebrew people. Their whole society was founded upon it. It was more important than but not entirely dissimilar to the Canadian Constitutional Act of 1982 and 1867, the American Declaration of Independence or even the Magna Carta and its very important Habeus Corpus clause. There were a number of activities, ceremonies and cultural traditions related to this old covenant that were cherished by the Hebrews such as circumcision (this actually relates to Abraham’s covenant but often is seen in light of the Mosaic covenant; John 7:22, see Genesis 17:11); ceremonial hand-washing; worshipping at the Temple; priests and Levites who had various jobs relating to the covenant; Sabbath (this has its roots even before Moses, in creation itself; see Genesis 2:2, Exodus 20:11, Hebrews 4); the Ten Commandments; the Law and the prophets (see Exodus 20, 34; Deuteronomy 5, 10); frequent sacrifices and much more.
Between all of these things relating to Moses, the election of the Hebrews for the task of proclaiming salvation to the world (see Genesis 12:3), the Temple and the Torah (even though the people did not live up to the terms of this old covenant): these ceremonies were very significant to the people. They loved them. It was like a number of things are to some of us who have been involved with The Salvation Army for a while: the band, timbrels, Songsters, Soldiers, Officers, uniforms, League of Mercy (Community Care Ministries), thrift stores, emergency disaster work, community and family social work, evangelism, social justice, etc. Even more than that: Moses, election, the Temple, Torah, all their ceremonies and holidays were as important to them as is to us: our national anthem at sporting events, birthday parties, Sunday church services, New Years celebrations, Christmas, Christmas Eve, and Easter. It would be as difficult for the Hebrews to imagine life without the ceremonies of the old covenant as it would be for us to imagine winter without Christmas.
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article3-64.html
---
http://www.sheepspeak.com/
Journal of Aggressive Christianity, Issue 64, December 2009 – January 2010, pp. 16-20.
by Captain Michael Ramsay
“By calling this covenant ‘new,’ he has made the first one obsolete;
and what is obsolete and aging will soon disappear.”
What is this old covenant that is now obsolete?
This old covenant was very important to the Hebrew people. Their whole society was founded upon it. It was more important than but not entirely dissimilar to the Canadian Constitutional Act of 1982 and 1867, the American Declaration of Independence or even the Magna Carta and its very important Habeus Corpus clause. There were a number of activities, ceremonies and cultural traditions related to this old covenant that were cherished by the Hebrews such as circumcision (this actually relates to Abraham’s covenant but often is seen in light of the Mosaic covenant; John 7:22, see Genesis 17:11); ceremonial hand-washing; worshipping at the Temple; priests and Levites who had various jobs relating to the covenant; Sabbath (this has its roots even before Moses, in creation itself; see Genesis 2:2, Exodus 20:11, Hebrews 4); the Ten Commandments; the Law and the prophets (see Exodus 20, 34; Deuteronomy 5, 10); frequent sacrifices and much more.
Between all of these things relating to Moses, the election of the Hebrews for the task of proclaiming salvation to the world (see Genesis 12:3), the Temple and the Torah (even though the people did not live up to the terms of this old covenant): these ceremonies were very significant to the people. They loved them. It was like a number of things are to some of us who have been involved with The Salvation Army for a while: the band, timbrels, Songsters, Soldiers, Officers, uniforms, League of Mercy (Community Care Ministries), thrift stores, emergency disaster work, community and family social work, evangelism, social justice, etc. Even more than that: Moses, election, the Temple, Torah, all their ceremonies and holidays were as important to them as is to us: our national anthem at sporting events, birthday parties, Sunday church services, New Years celebrations, Christmas, Christmas Eve, and Easter. It would be as difficult for the Hebrews to imagine life without the ceremonies of the old covenant as it would be for us to imagine winter without Christmas.
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article3-64.html
---
http://www.sheepspeak.com/
Dr Was (Daily Rations with a Smile)
Bible and comics on-line @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
January 30, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 25-27 and Acts 6
January 30, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 25-27 and Acts 6
A 'Philli' pie graph
Bible and comics on-line @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
January 29, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 23-24 and Psalm 14 and Acts 5
January 29, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 23-24 and Psalm 14 and Acts 5
Bible and comics on-line @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
January 28, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 21-22 and Psalm 12 and Acts 4
The Tower of Babel
January 28, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 21-22 and Psalm 12 and Acts 4
The Tower of Babel
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Men's Camp is February 19-21
Numbers 6: Habeas Corpus and Covenant
THE OFFICER, JULY/AUGUST 2009 P.7
By Captain Michael Ramsay
We Salvationists have sometimes been compared to the Nazirites of the Old Testament. The Nazirites, like us, are people bound by a covenant to the Lord. One aspect of their oath that obviously parallels our soldiership covenant is the promise to abstain from alcohol. Another parallel is that both Nazirites and Salvationists are easily identified as such. Salvationists have their uniform; Nazirites wore their hair long. A third aspect of the Nazirite vow which I suggest has applications for our soldiership covenant – though less immediately obvious – is their prohibition against contact with dead bodies.
read more: http://www.sheepspeak.com./HabeusCorpusandCovenant.pdf
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http://www.sheepspeak.com/
THE OFFICER, JULY/AUGUST 2009 P.7
By Captain Michael Ramsay
We Salvationists have sometimes been compared to the Nazirites of the Old Testament. The Nazirites, like us, are people bound by a covenant to the Lord. One aspect of their oath that obviously parallels our soldiership covenant is the promise to abstain from alcohol. Another parallel is that both Nazirites and Salvationists are easily identified as such. Salvationists have their uniform; Nazirites wore their hair long. A third aspect of the Nazirite vow which I suggest has applications for our soldiership covenant – though less immediately obvious – is their prohibition against contact with dead bodies.
read more: http://www.sheepspeak.com./HabeusCorpusandCovenant.pdf
---
http://www.sheepspeak.com/
From Denial to Reality: Darkness to Light
from Christianity.ca
by Gary Moore
Denial of reality is a fairly common human condition. Sometimes there is a fear of facing the truth, and sometimes there is so much pain involved people simply shut things out. There may be a number of other factors involved in living in such denial.
For me, the existence of God is part of reality. I have lived in relationship with Him for a long time now, and have experienced the reality of a God who is interested in my life. I have always enjoyed discussing proofs for God’s existence— and no doubt one of the biggest proofs of all has to be the very existence of the world and the wider universe (see Romans 1:20). The matter that makes up the universe had to have a cause. Science debates that cause, but it had to come from somewhere, and be caused by something. So a creation is evidence of a creator.
Yet, for me, the strongest proof for God’s existence is my own experience of Him. I find this experience has been guided and defined by the Bible. The God it portrays is the same one I experience.
read more: http://www.christianity.ca/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=7131
by Gary Moore
Denial of reality is a fairly common human condition. Sometimes there is a fear of facing the truth, and sometimes there is so much pain involved people simply shut things out. There may be a number of other factors involved in living in such denial.
For me, the existence of God is part of reality. I have lived in relationship with Him for a long time now, and have experienced the reality of a God who is interested in my life. I have always enjoyed discussing proofs for God’s existence— and no doubt one of the biggest proofs of all has to be the very existence of the world and the wider universe (see Romans 1:20). The matter that makes up the universe had to have a cause. Science debates that cause, but it had to come from somewhere, and be caused by something. So a creation is evidence of a creator.
Yet, for me, the strongest proof for God’s existence is my own experience of Him. I find this experience has been guided and defined by the Bible. The God it portrays is the same one I experience.
read more: http://www.christianity.ca/NetCommunity/Page.aspx?pid=7131
Haiti updates
for immediate release
Salvation Army Designated by United Nations as Lead Agency Responsible for Care of 20,000
Toronto, ON January 27, 2010 – The United Nations has designated The Salvation Army as the “lead agency” responsible for the care of 20,000 people made homeless by the earthquake in Haiti. Survivors have erected tents at both a soccer stadium and another plaza adjacent to The Salvation Army’s main compound at Delmas 2 in Port-au-Prince.
As the lead agency, The Salvation Army assumes the responsibility of housing people in family units that meet UN approved standards. The Army will also provide clean water, medical supplies, basic health supplies, safe hygiene and sanitation. The Army, in cooperation with the United Nations World Food Programme will also handle the safe distribution of food to those within its care.
The Salvation Army continues to provide relief and supplies to the thousands within its care. More than 350,000 meals, 18,000 gallons of water, hundreds of tents, baby items and medical supplies have been distributed. In addition, a 10,000 gallon water purification system is operational, more than 1,200 people have received medical aid and The Salvation Army has re-opened a school for children aged 3 to 6 in a temporary site at the organization’s compound.
“The Salvation Army compound is now home to thousands of families,” said Brian Burditt, Director of World Missions. “It will be our responsibility to look after these families and do our utmost to support them as relief continues and as the rebuilding begins.”
The Salvation Army has had a presence in Haiti since 1950 and its personnel who were affected by the earthquake are now working to assist others in need. The Salvation Army in Haiti operates three medical facilities, schools that serve at least 10,000 children, feeding programs, children’s homes and church-related activities.
Please support The Salvation Army’s relief effort in Haiti. Financial contributions can be made by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), by visiting our website, www.SalvationArmy.ca, or by texting HAITI to 45678 for most carriers in Canada, to make $5 donation. You can also give by mailing donations to The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, Canada and Bermuda, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto, Ontario M4H 1P4, or dropping off financial donations at the closest Salvation Army unit in your area. Donors should specify their gift to the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 119 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.
When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.
regular updates at www.salvationarmy.ca
---
www.sheepspeak.com
Salvation Army Designated by United Nations as Lead Agency Responsible for Care of 20,000
Toronto, ON January 27, 2010 – The United Nations has designated The Salvation Army as the “lead agency” responsible for the care of 20,000 people made homeless by the earthquake in Haiti. Survivors have erected tents at both a soccer stadium and another plaza adjacent to The Salvation Army’s main compound at Delmas 2 in Port-au-Prince.
As the lead agency, The Salvation Army assumes the responsibility of housing people in family units that meet UN approved standards. The Army will also provide clean water, medical supplies, basic health supplies, safe hygiene and sanitation. The Army, in cooperation with the United Nations World Food Programme will also handle the safe distribution of food to those within its care.
The Salvation Army continues to provide relief and supplies to the thousands within its care. More than 350,000 meals, 18,000 gallons of water, hundreds of tents, baby items and medical supplies have been distributed. In addition, a 10,000 gallon water purification system is operational, more than 1,200 people have received medical aid and The Salvation Army has re-opened a school for children aged 3 to 6 in a temporary site at the organization’s compound.
“The Salvation Army compound is now home to thousands of families,” said Brian Burditt, Director of World Missions. “It will be our responsibility to look after these families and do our utmost to support them as relief continues and as the rebuilding begins.”
The Salvation Army has had a presence in Haiti since 1950 and its personnel who were affected by the earthquake are now working to assist others in need. The Salvation Army in Haiti operates three medical facilities, schools that serve at least 10,000 children, feeding programs, children’s homes and church-related activities.
Please support The Salvation Army’s relief effort in Haiti. Financial contributions can be made by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), by visiting our website, www.SalvationArmy.ca, or by texting HAITI to 45678 for most carriers in Canada, to make $5 donation. You can also give by mailing donations to The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, Canada and Bermuda, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto, Ontario M4H 1P4, or dropping off financial donations at the closest Salvation Army unit in your area. Donors should specify their gift to the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 119 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.
When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.
regular updates at www.salvationarmy.ca
---
www.sheepspeak.com
DR Was (Daily Rations with a Smile)
Bible and comics on-line @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
January 27, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 17-20 and Acts 3
January 27, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 17-20 and Acts 3
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Men's Camp is February 19-21
Berit[h] (Covenant)
Journal of Aggressive Christianity, Issue 40, December 2005 – January 2006 pp (16-17)
by Michael Ramsay
Covenant is obviously an important concept in Salvation Army with full membership requiring a signing of the Soldier’s Covenant. It is also a very important idea in the Old Testament. The word 'testament' itself can be translated as covenant! berit[h] is the most common term translated as ’covenant’ in the Hebrew Bible: it appears 286 times thus proving it an extremely important word.[1]
The origin of this word is not entirely conclusive. It is a form of the word brh, which refers to the meal that accompanies the covenantal ceremony [2].brh, however, is not the usual verb to indicate eating so this origin is not the most likely [3]. berith is identical to the Akkadian word birit which means "between" or "among" so that is a possible origin.[4] Most probably though, berith comes from the Akkadian word biritu, which means "to fetter".
read more here: http://www.sheepspeak.com./Michael_Ramsay_JAC.htm#Berit[h] (Covenant) or (if that doesn't work) here: http://www.armybarmy.com/pdf/JAC_Issue_040.pdf
---
www.sheepspeak.com
Journal of Aggressive Christianity, Issue 40, December 2005 – January 2006 pp (16-17)
by Michael Ramsay
Covenant is obviously an important concept in Salvation Army with full membership requiring a signing of the Soldier’s Covenant. It is also a very important idea in the Old Testament. The word 'testament' itself can be translated as covenant! berit[h] is the most common term translated as ’covenant’ in the Hebrew Bible: it appears 286 times thus proving it an extremely important word.[1]
The origin of this word is not entirely conclusive. It is a form of the word brh, which refers to the meal that accompanies the covenantal ceremony [2].brh, however, is not the usual verb to indicate eating so this origin is not the most likely [3]. berith is identical to the Akkadian word birit which means "between" or "among" so that is a possible origin.[4] Most probably though, berith comes from the Akkadian word biritu, which means "to fetter".
read more here: http://www.sheepspeak.com./Michael_Ramsay_JAC.htm#Berit[h] (Covenant) or (if that doesn't work) here: http://www.armybarmy.com/pdf/JAC_Issue_040.pdf
---
www.sheepspeak.com
DR Was (Daily Rations with a Smile)
Bible and comics on-line @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
January 26, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 14-16 and Acts 2
January 26, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 14-16 and Acts 2
Ahab pursues Elijah
Monday, January 25, 2010
Dr Was (Daily Rations with a Smile)
Bible and comics on-line @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
January 25, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 12-13 and Psalm 21 and Acts 1
Moses and the bull rushes
(Happy Robbie Burns Day...)
January 25, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 12-13 and Psalm 21 and Acts 1
Moses and the bull rushes
(Happy Robbie Burns Day...)
Sunday, January 24, 2010
DR Was (Daily Rations with a Smile)
Bible and comics on-line @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
January 23, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 9-11 and Luke 24
January 23, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 9-11 and Luke 24
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Paul and Caesar: A New Reading of Romans
By NT Wright (Originally published in A Royal Priesthood: The Use of the Bible Ethically and Politically, ed. C. Bartholemew, 2002, Carlisle: Paternoster, 173–193. Reproduced by permission of the author.)
We have moved away quite rapidly in recent years from the old split, which was assumed by and built into the fabric of Western biblical studies, between ‘religion’ and ‘politics’. We have come to see that trying to separate the two in the ancient world, not least in the Middle East, is as futile as trying to do so in certain parts of the modern world. There is a quantum leap now being made from the old way of reading the Bible, in which certain political ‘implications’ could be drawn here and there from texts which were (of course) about something else, and the occasional concentration on rather isolated texts — one thinks of the ‘Tribute question’ in the synoptic tradition, and of the notorious first paragraph of Romans 13 — as being the only places in the New Testament at least where real ‘political’ issues came to the fore. (Until recently, Revelation remained outside the implicit canon of many New Testament scholars, and even when it was considered its striking political significance was often limited to reflections on its thirteenth chapter.)
Now, however, we have all been alerted to the fact that the kingdom of God was itself, and remained, a thoroughly political concept; that Jesus’ death was a thoroughly political event; that the existence and growth of the early church was a matter of community-building, in conflict, often enough, with other communities. There is of course a danger, not always avoided in recent studies, of seeing the New Testament now simply the other way up but still within the Enlightenment paradigm: in other words, of declaring that it’s all ‘politics’ and that to read it as ‘religion’ or ‘theology’ is to domesticate or privatize it. The fact that for some that might still be so doesn’t excuse us from doing our best to reintegrate what the Enlightenment had pulled apart, both in the name of serious ancient historical study and in the name of responsible biblical study for today’s world.
I want in this paper to introduce, by means of a sharply focused piece of exegesis, the question of how to rethink and remap Paul within this new world...
read more: http://www.ntwrightpage.com/Wright_Paul_Caesar_Romans.htm
---
www.sheepspeak.com
We have moved away quite rapidly in recent years from the old split, which was assumed by and built into the fabric of Western biblical studies, between ‘religion’ and ‘politics’. We have come to see that trying to separate the two in the ancient world, not least in the Middle East, is as futile as trying to do so in certain parts of the modern world. There is a quantum leap now being made from the old way of reading the Bible, in which certain political ‘implications’ could be drawn here and there from texts which were (of course) about something else, and the occasional concentration on rather isolated texts — one thinks of the ‘Tribute question’ in the synoptic tradition, and of the notorious first paragraph of Romans 13 — as being the only places in the New Testament at least where real ‘political’ issues came to the fore. (Until recently, Revelation remained outside the implicit canon of many New Testament scholars, and even when it was considered its striking political significance was often limited to reflections on its thirteenth chapter.)
Now, however, we have all been alerted to the fact that the kingdom of God was itself, and remained, a thoroughly political concept; that Jesus’ death was a thoroughly political event; that the existence and growth of the early church was a matter of community-building, in conflict, often enough, with other communities. There is of course a danger, not always avoided in recent studies, of seeing the New Testament now simply the other way up but still within the Enlightenment paradigm: in other words, of declaring that it’s all ‘politics’ and that to read it as ‘religion’ or ‘theology’ is to domesticate or privatize it. The fact that for some that might still be so doesn’t excuse us from doing our best to reintegrate what the Enlightenment had pulled apart, both in the name of serious ancient historical study and in the name of responsible biblical study for today’s world.
I want in this paper to introduce, by means of a sharply focused piece of exegesis, the question of how to rethink and remap Paul within this new world...
read more: http://www.ntwrightpage.com/Wright_Paul_Caesar_Romans.htm
---
www.sheepspeak.com
The Salvation Army’s Canadian Team Returns from Haiti
Toronto, ON January 22, 2010 – The Salvation Army’s Canadian Assessment Team returned from Haiti in the early hours of Friday January 22nd. The three-man team, consisting of Brian Burditt, Director of World Missions, Major Rick Shirran, Territorial Disaster Services Director and Jeremy Watt, Web Producer/Photographer returned safely to Toronto via Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
While on the ground in Port-au-Prince, the team assisted with the relief effort and completed their initial assessment to prepare for long-term aid and redevelopment. The Salvation Army in Canada will also play a role in the establishment of several supply lines for regular shipments of food, water, medical supplies and other goods as needed.
“The Salvation Army continues to provide immediate aid and relief,” said Brian Burditt, Director of World Missions. “However, initial plans and assessments are underway to assist with the rebuilding and long-term development of this proud country.”
The Salvation Army has had a presence in Haiti since 1950 and its personnel who were affected by the earthquake are now working to assist others in need. The Salvation Army in Haiti operates three medical facilities, schools that serve at least 10,000 children, feeding programs, children’s homes and church-related activities.
Please support The Salvation Army’s relief effort in Haiti. Financial contributions can be made by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), by visiting our website, www.SalvationArmy.ca , or by texting HAITI to 45678 for most carriers in Canada, including Rogers Wireless, Bell Mobility, Telus and Virgin Mobile to make $5 donation. You can also give by mailing donations to The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, Canada and Bermuda, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto, Ontario M4H 1P4, or dropping off financial donations at the closest Salvation Army unit in your area. Donors should specify their gift to the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 119 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.
When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.
News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca
For further information or to arrange interviews, please contact:
Andrew Burditt
Territorial Public Relations Director
The Salvation Army
416-845-8231
andrew_burditt@can.salvationarmy.org
While on the ground in Port-au-Prince, the team assisted with the relief effort and completed their initial assessment to prepare for long-term aid and redevelopment. The Salvation Army in Canada will also play a role in the establishment of several supply lines for regular shipments of food, water, medical supplies and other goods as needed.
“The Salvation Army continues to provide immediate aid and relief,” said Brian Burditt, Director of World Missions. “However, initial plans and assessments are underway to assist with the rebuilding and long-term development of this proud country.”
The Salvation Army has had a presence in Haiti since 1950 and its personnel who were affected by the earthquake are now working to assist others in need. The Salvation Army in Haiti operates three medical facilities, schools that serve at least 10,000 children, feeding programs, children’s homes and church-related activities.
Please support The Salvation Army’s relief effort in Haiti. Financial contributions can be made by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), by visiting our website, www.SalvationArmy.ca , or by texting HAITI to 45678 for most carriers in Canada, including Rogers Wireless, Bell Mobility, Telus and Virgin Mobile to make $5 donation. You can also give by mailing donations to The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, Canada and Bermuda, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto, Ontario M4H 1P4, or dropping off financial donations at the closest Salvation Army unit in your area. Donors should specify their gift to the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 119 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.
When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.
News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca
For further information or to arrange interviews, please contact:
Andrew Burditt
Territorial Public Relations Director
The Salvation Army
416-845-8231
andrew_burditt@can.salvationarmy.org
Missions Fest @ Millar
If you haven't been out yet - come and join the fun!
Friday, January 22
8:00 – Breakfast
8:30 – Reps Session
10:00 – Main Session
11:45 – Role Meal
1:30 – Rest Hour
3:00 - Coffee Break
3:30 – Reps and Halls meet – prayer together and preparation for the Marketplace
6:00 – Marketplace in the gym – includes supper meal, monologue, interaction with Reps
9:30 – Coffee and Snacks in the Dining Hall
Saturday, January 23
8:00 – Breakfast
9:00 – Prayer Focus – Classroom #1
10:00 – Main Session – Doug Nichols
12:00 – Lunch
2:00 – Panel Discussions
3:30 – Coffee Break / Visiting with Reps at Displays
5:00 – Supper
7:00 – Main Session – Doug Nichols
8:00 – Concert – Music and Drama Presentations
Sunday, January 24
8:00 – Breakfast
9:00 – Prayer Focus – Classroom #1
10:00 – Main Session – Doug Nichols
12:00 – Lunch
Friday, January 22
8:00 – Breakfast
8:30 – Reps Session
10:00 – Main Session
11:45 – Role Meal
1:30 – Rest Hour
3:00 - Coffee Break
3:30 – Reps and Halls meet – prayer together and preparation for the Marketplace
6:00 – Marketplace in the gym – includes supper meal, monologue, interaction with Reps
9:30 – Coffee and Snacks in the Dining Hall
Saturday, January 23
8:00 – Breakfast
9:00 – Prayer Focus – Classroom #1
10:00 – Main Session – Doug Nichols
12:00 – Lunch
2:00 – Panel Discussions
3:30 – Coffee Break / Visiting with Reps at Displays
5:00 – Supper
7:00 – Main Session – Doug Nichols
8:00 – Concert – Music and Drama Presentations
Sunday, January 24
8:00 – Breakfast
9:00 – Prayer Focus – Classroom #1
10:00 – Main Session – Doug Nichols
12:00 – Lunch
Dr Was (Daily Rations with a Smile)
Bible and comics on-line @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
January 23, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Numbers 12-13 and Psalm 90 and Mark 2
January 23, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Numbers 12-13 and Psalm 90 and Mark 2
Bible and comics on-line @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
January 22, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 3-5 and Luke 22
January 22, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 3-5 and Luke 22
Bible and comics on-line @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
January 21, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 1-2 , Psalm 88, and Luke 21
January 21, 2009
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Exodus 1-2 , Psalm 88, and Luke 21
Sweeping and Washing of Teeth
(weeping and gnashing)
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Hyperseeing and the Towers of Babel
by Jill Carattini, the is managing editor of A Slice of Infinity at Ravi Zacharias International Ministries in Atlanta, Georgia.
... “Is Google making us stupid?” “Is Twitter bad for the soul?” “Is Facebook changing the way we relate?”2 In fact, there seems a recent upsurge in articles questioning our faltering minds, morals, and communities (ironically reaching us through the very mediums that are blamed for it). Some note the shifting of thought patterns, attention spans that are beginning to prefer 140 characters or less, information gluttony, news addiction, and so on.
In fact, there is good reason, I think, to step away from the torrent surges of information and hyper-networking to think meaningfully about how it all might be changing us—for good and for ill.
read more: http://www.rzim.org/JustThinkingFV/tabid/602/ArticleID/10337/CBModuleId/1297/Default.aspx
---
www.sheepspeak.com
... “Is Google making us stupid?” “Is Twitter bad for the soul?” “Is Facebook changing the way we relate?”2 In fact, there seems a recent upsurge in articles questioning our faltering minds, morals, and communities (ironically reaching us through the very mediums that are blamed for it). Some note the shifting of thought patterns, attention spans that are beginning to prefer 140 characters or less, information gluttony, news addiction, and so on.
In fact, there is good reason, I think, to step away from the torrent surges of information and hyper-networking to think meaningfully about how it all might be changing us—for good and for ill.
read more: http://www.rzim.org/JustThinkingFV/tabid/602/ArticleID/10337/CBModuleId/1297/Default.aspx
---
www.sheepspeak.com
Supreme Court ruling re Anglicans mixed
From The Anglican Planet
www.anglicanplanet.net
Sunday, December 27, 2009 at 01:00PM
(Staff) Four Vancouver-area churches are struggling with whether to appeal a B.C Supreme Court ruling that, for the most part, came down against them. They must decide by Dec. 29.
On Nov. 25 Justice Stephen Kelleher ruled that a $2.2 million bequest to a Chinese congregation which has left the Anglican Church of Canada should remain with the departing congregation, not the diocese. He also ruled that the Trustees elected by the four congregations that left the Vancouver-based Diocese of New Westminster in 2008 can't be terminated by its bishop, Michael Ingham. That was all good news for the congregations.
read more: http://www.anglicanplanet.net/canadian-news/2009/12/27/supreme-court-ruling-mixed.html
---
www.sheepspeak.com
www.anglicanplanet.net
Sunday, December 27, 2009 at 01:00PM
(Staff) Four Vancouver-area churches are struggling with whether to appeal a B.C Supreme Court ruling that, for the most part, came down against them. They must decide by Dec. 29.
On Nov. 25 Justice Stephen Kelleher ruled that a $2.2 million bequest to a Chinese congregation which has left the Anglican Church of Canada should remain with the departing congregation, not the diocese. He also ruled that the Trustees elected by the four congregations that left the Vancouver-based Diocese of New Westminster in 2008 can't be terminated by its bishop, Michael Ingham. That was all good news for the congregations.
read more: http://www.anglicanplanet.net/canadian-news/2009/12/27/supreme-court-ruling-mixed.html
---
www.sheepspeak.com
Dr Was: Daily Rations with a Smile
January 20, 2009
more Bible and comics @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 49-50 , Psalm 8, and Luke 20
Noah's Art
more Bible and comics @ http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 49-50 , Psalm 8, and Luke 20
Noah's Art
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Be Bold for the Gospel (exerpt from)
Journal of Aggressive Christianity
Issue #64, (April 2008 - May 2008), pp. 20-25
Paul is even in jail right now as he writes this letter to the Phillipians. Paul is in a jail and jails then, like now, really are not the best places in the world to be and not only that, Paul is facing a capital charge[4]. Paul, if convicted, is facing execution. Paul is seemingly cornered by a larger and an aggressive part of the pre- and non-Christian world of his day but he is not afraid of this dog nor is he even apparently concerned for himself.
Imagine with me that you are in that prison with him. I don't know how many of you have ever seen the inside of a prison here. I've seen a couple. I can tell you that they themselves can be more than a little intimidating – even when you aren't confined there.
Now imagine that you aren't just in any prison. Imagine that you are in an off shores American prison – the Super Power of our day – imagine that you are in Guatanamo or something and they've actually charged you OR even imagine that you are in Afghanistan or Pakistan and in the hands of the Taliban or another such group and imagine that you are facing a capital charge. Imagine that you are facing execution if you are convicted…
What would you write in your letters home? If you could make a video tape or leave a phone message, what would it say? I imagine that we would be more than a little afraid. I imagine that we would ask for everyone to pray for us. We would try to activate a prayer chain on our behalf and we would get everyone that we could to pray for our safe return, right? We would send up the prayer alert and ask everyone to pray for our deliverance…
Now this is interesting because this isn't what Paul does here at all. Paul mentions that he is in prison but it is not with his own state that he is concerned (1:18b-26).[5] He is bold and he is concerned with how well the Philippians are doing at standing firm in preparing to meet Christ (cf. 1:11) on the balcony as it were, on the 'Day of the Lord'.
He is encouraging them to not be afraid and to be prepared for this 'Day of the Lord' by living in a manner worthy of the Gospel (1:27) by being united in purpose (1:18; 2:1-8; 3:15-16), staying the course, fighting the foe, and he is even now rejoicing (cf. 1:3, 6) in the Lord's accomplishments through them;[6] he is encouraging them to be bold in making preparations for the day of the Lord's return. Are they ready for Christ's return?
Look at Chapter One. Instead of 'Please pray for me', Paul writes in verse 3, 'I thank my God every time I remember you'. Paul is not concerned about himself. He is thinking about others and about their participation in the Gospel and Kingdom of the Messiah. Paul goes on; verse 6: he tells them how confident he is that God will complete the good work in them that God has already started. Verses 9 and 10: he speaks of his desire that their love may overflow with wisdom and knowledge to help them determine what is best so that they and, by extension, we are prepared when day of the Lord does arrive – and He's coming soon – when everyone meets Goldie on the balcony, Paul wants the Philippians to be prepared; we should be prepared.
Paul is not worried about his own self and neither should we be. Paul is concerned about others' ability to stand firm and be prepared for the Kingdom of God. This is a man in chains writing here. This is a man facing a death sentence. This is a man who has put his life on the line for the Gospel and right now is in jail awaiting appeal. He is in jail and we don't read in his letter any 'Oh why is this happening to me, Lord', do we? We don't read any of the, 'What have I done to deserve this?' or 'How could this be happening to me?', talk; do we? NO, we don't! Rather Paul is bold because he is prepared; he says to live or die, both are good. Death is gain (because of the resurrection) and life, life, is Christ.
We don't hear him whining and complaining (cf. Romans 8:19). We don't hear accusations about his captors. We don't hear him calling down curses upon Caesar. We don't read of complaints about even the food or his fellow inmates. What do we hear? We hear that his captors are hearing the Gospel and we hear Paul encouraging others to be bold and be prepared to share the Gospel in Philippi.
Paul is in jail and he is concerned about the Philippians and their courage to fully participate in the Messianic Kingdom of Jesus when Jesus returns. We should likewise be bold for the Gospel and concerned that others can be the same rather than consentrate on what we may or may not like about our own lives.
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article6-54.html
read the most recent issue of JAC: http://www.armybarmy.com/jac.html
or simply go home: http://www.sheepspeak.com/
Issue #64, (April 2008 - May 2008), pp. 20-25
Paul is even in jail right now as he writes this letter to the Phillipians. Paul is in a jail and jails then, like now, really are not the best places in the world to be and not only that, Paul is facing a capital charge[4]. Paul, if convicted, is facing execution. Paul is seemingly cornered by a larger and an aggressive part of the pre- and non-Christian world of his day but he is not afraid of this dog nor is he even apparently concerned for himself.
Imagine with me that you are in that prison with him. I don't know how many of you have ever seen the inside of a prison here. I've seen a couple. I can tell you that they themselves can be more than a little intimidating – even when you aren't confined there.
Now imagine that you aren't just in any prison. Imagine that you are in an off shores American prison – the Super Power of our day – imagine that you are in Guatanamo or something and they've actually charged you OR even imagine that you are in Afghanistan or Pakistan and in the hands of the Taliban or another such group and imagine that you are facing a capital charge. Imagine that you are facing execution if you are convicted…
What would you write in your letters home? If you could make a video tape or leave a phone message, what would it say? I imagine that we would be more than a little afraid. I imagine that we would ask for everyone to pray for us. We would try to activate a prayer chain on our behalf and we would get everyone that we could to pray for our safe return, right? We would send up the prayer alert and ask everyone to pray for our deliverance…
Now this is interesting because this isn't what Paul does here at all. Paul mentions that he is in prison but it is not with his own state that he is concerned (1:18b-26).[5] He is bold and he is concerned with how well the Philippians are doing at standing firm in preparing to meet Christ (cf. 1:11) on the balcony as it were, on the 'Day of the Lord'.
He is encouraging them to not be afraid and to be prepared for this 'Day of the Lord' by living in a manner worthy of the Gospel (1:27) by being united in purpose (1:18; 2:1-8; 3:15-16), staying the course, fighting the foe, and he is even now rejoicing (cf. 1:3, 6) in the Lord's accomplishments through them;[6] he is encouraging them to be bold in making preparations for the day of the Lord's return. Are they ready for Christ's return?
Look at Chapter One. Instead of 'Please pray for me', Paul writes in verse 3, 'I thank my God every time I remember you'. Paul is not concerned about himself. He is thinking about others and about their participation in the Gospel and Kingdom of the Messiah. Paul goes on; verse 6: he tells them how confident he is that God will complete the good work in them that God has already started. Verses 9 and 10: he speaks of his desire that their love may overflow with wisdom and knowledge to help them determine what is best so that they and, by extension, we are prepared when day of the Lord does arrive – and He's coming soon – when everyone meets Goldie on the balcony, Paul wants the Philippians to be prepared; we should be prepared.
Paul is not worried about his own self and neither should we be. Paul is concerned about others' ability to stand firm and be prepared for the Kingdom of God. This is a man in chains writing here. This is a man facing a death sentence. This is a man who has put his life on the line for the Gospel and right now is in jail awaiting appeal. He is in jail and we don't read in his letter any 'Oh why is this happening to me, Lord', do we? We don't read any of the, 'What have I done to deserve this?' or 'How could this be happening to me?', talk; do we? NO, we don't! Rather Paul is bold because he is prepared; he says to live or die, both are good. Death is gain (because of the resurrection) and life, life, is Christ.
We don't hear him whining and complaining (cf. Romans 8:19). We don't hear accusations about his captors. We don't hear him calling down curses upon Caesar. We don't read of complaints about even the food or his fellow inmates. What do we hear? We hear that his captors are hearing the Gospel and we hear Paul encouraging others to be bold and be prepared to share the Gospel in Philippi.
Paul is in jail and he is concerned about the Philippians and their courage to fully participate in the Messianic Kingdom of Jesus when Jesus returns. We should likewise be bold for the Gospel and concerned that others can be the same rather than consentrate on what we may or may not like about our own lives.
read more: http://www.armybarmy.com/JAC/article6-54.html
read the most recent issue of JAC: http://www.armybarmy.com/jac.html
or simply go home: http://www.sheepspeak.com/
Dr Was: Daily Rations with a Smile
January 19, 2009
more Bible and comics @
http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 47-48 , Psalm 8 and Luke 19
Levi follows Jesus
more Bible and comics @
http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 47-48 , Psalm 8 and Luke 19
Levi follows Jesus
Monday, January 18, 2010
Devastation in Haiti, a First-Hand Account
More info: www.salvationarmy.ca
Words cannot begin to describe the devastation that has taken place in Port au Prince, Haiti.
I am the Director of Disaster Services for The Salvation Army in Haiti, and I am from the United States. My wife and I have been in Port au Prince since April, and have fallen deeply in love with the country and its people.
When the earthquake struck, I was driving down the mountain from Petionville. Our truck was being tossed to and fro like a toy, and when it stopped, I looked out the windows to see buildings “pancaking” down, like I have never witnessed before. Traffic, of course, came to a stand-still, while thousands of people poured out into the streets, crying, carrying bloody bodies, looking for anyone who could help them. We piled as many bodies into the back of our truck, and took them down the hill with us, hoping to find medical attention. All of them were older, scared, bleeding, and terrified. It took about 2 hours to go less than 1 mile. Traffic was horrible, devastation was everywhere, and suffering humanity was front and center.
When we could drive no further, we left the truck parked on the side of the street, and walked the remaining 2 miles to get back to the Army compound. What I found was very sad! All of the security walls were down. The Children’s Home itself seems pretty intact, but our quarters, which is attached, are destroyed. Unliveable. The walls and ceiling are still standing – but so badly compromised that I wouldn’t even think of trying to stay there. All of the children, and hundreds of neighbors, are sleeping in our playground area tonight. Occasionally, there is another tremor – another reminder that we are not yet finished with this calamity. And when it comes, all of the people cry out and the children are terrified.
As I am sitting outside now, with most people trying to get a little sleep, I can hear the moans and crys of the neighbors. One of our staff went to a home in the neighborhood, to try to be of assistance to the woman who lived there. But she was too late.
The scene will be repeated over and over again. Tomorrow, we will begin the process of assessing damage, learning about casualties, and preparing for the future.
God bless Haiti.
Bob Poff
Divisional Director of Disaster Services in Haiti
The Salvation Army
Words cannot begin to describe the devastation that has taken place in Port au Prince, Haiti.
I am the Director of Disaster Services for The Salvation Army in Haiti, and I am from the United States. My wife and I have been in Port au Prince since April, and have fallen deeply in love with the country and its people.
When the earthquake struck, I was driving down the mountain from Petionville. Our truck was being tossed to and fro like a toy, and when it stopped, I looked out the windows to see buildings “pancaking” down, like I have never witnessed before. Traffic, of course, came to a stand-still, while thousands of people poured out into the streets, crying, carrying bloody bodies, looking for anyone who could help them. We piled as many bodies into the back of our truck, and took them down the hill with us, hoping to find medical attention. All of them were older, scared, bleeding, and terrified. It took about 2 hours to go less than 1 mile. Traffic was horrible, devastation was everywhere, and suffering humanity was front and center.
When we could drive no further, we left the truck parked on the side of the street, and walked the remaining 2 miles to get back to the Army compound. What I found was very sad! All of the security walls were down. The Children’s Home itself seems pretty intact, but our quarters, which is attached, are destroyed. Unliveable. The walls and ceiling are still standing – but so badly compromised that I wouldn’t even think of trying to stay there. All of the children, and hundreds of neighbors, are sleeping in our playground area tonight. Occasionally, there is another tremor – another reminder that we are not yet finished with this calamity. And when it comes, all of the people cry out and the children are terrified.
As I am sitting outside now, with most people trying to get a little sleep, I can hear the moans and crys of the neighbors. One of our staff went to a home in the neighborhood, to try to be of assistance to the woman who lived there. But she was too late.
The scene will be repeated over and over again. Tomorrow, we will begin the process of assessing damage, learning about casualties, and preparing for the future.
God bless Haiti.
Bob Poff
Divisional Director of Disaster Services in Haiti
The Salvation Army
Dr Was: Daily Rations with a Smile
Dr Was for January 18, 2009
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 44-46 and Luke 18
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 44-46 and Luke 18
Sunday, January 17, 2010
WEEK OF PRAYER FOR CHRISTIAN UNITY
Tonight.
YOU ARE WITNESSES OF THESE THINGS : LUKE 24:48
Read more: http://www.oikoumene.org/fileadmin/files/wcc-main/documents/p2/2009/WOP2010eng.pdf
YOU ARE WITNESSES OF THESE THINGS : LUKE 24:48
Read more: http://www.oikoumene.org/fileadmin/files/wcc-main/documents/p2/2009/WOP2010eng.pdf
Dr Was (Daily Rations with a Smile)
Dr Was for January 17, 2009
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 42-43, Psalm 5 and Luke 17
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 42-43, Psalm 5 and Luke 17
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Analysis of 'The Use of Money': Sermon 50 by John Wesley
Sermon 50 by John Wesley launches into his discussion of the use of money from the base of Luke 16:9: I say unto you, make unto yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into the everlasting habitations.
The primary metaphor that Wesley uses to unite the discussion is that of one’s talent/money; he begins by referring to the parable of the shrewd/dishonest manager and then relates it to the Kingdom of God through the following three sections:
I. We ought to gain all we can gain but this it is certain we ought not to do; we ought not to gain money at the expense of life, nor at the expense of our health.
II. Do not throw the precious talent into the sea.
III. Having, first, gained all you can, and, secondly saved all you can, then "give all you can."
I found it very interesting the way Wesley intertwines the plot and theme of money with a recurring reference to love. It is this that pulls the sermon together in such a detailed, precise way, that one really needs to read – or hear - the sermon in one sitting (probably more than once given both the detail and the eighteenth century language) rather than by reading it a little bit at a time.
In this paper I will address the strengths and weaknesses of this sermon in each of the three above identified sections as well as the very important introductory section that sets the tone of the paper to follow. I will then evaluate the overall effectiveness of the sermon and respond to the question, “Does this sermon preach today?”
Introductory Section
Wesley begins this sermon by citing the Lord’s extended metaphor/parable commonly known as the ‘Prodigal Son’ and then launching into the parable about the shrewd/dishonest manager. This serves to provide a context for his unfolding argument since the scripture upon which this sermon is based concludes the latter parable.
Wesley intentionally explores the relevant context of the scriptures in this sermon. I would be remiss if I did not acknowledge however that the use of money does not seem to be the intended theme of the parable of the shrewd manager. The parable is specifically addressing the concept of ‘prolipses’ and “through this parable Jesus admonishes his hearers to cast caution aside, seize the moment of opportunity and make provision for their future before God. The Kingdom of God is at hand” (Culpepper 1995, 309). That being noted, it should in no way discredit Wesley’s argument that there are principles from this parable that apply to our use of money. In support of this, I draw on the example of the Apostle Paul who while speaking about righteousness in Romans 7:2-3, instructs us that a man and woman are united in marriage until the death of one of the parties. I also note that the verse from which Wesley’s sermon is launched, Luke 16:9, functions not only as a conclusion to the parable of the manager but also as a transition into Jesus’ teachings about money (Luke 16:10-15) and later the futility of putting one’s faith in riches (Luke 16:19-31). Therefore the introductory metaphor/parable is appreciated as it does set the stage nicely for what is to follow. It is “of the highest concern that all who fear God know how to employ this valuable talent” (Outler & Heitzenrater 1991, 350).
Principle I: We ought to gain all we can gain but this it is certain we ought not to do; we ought not to gain money at the expense of life, nor at the expense of our health.
Wesley’s first principle that we should ‘gain all we can’, will cause most devout Wesleyans to stop in their tracks at first read. One’s mind naturally races to the ideas of the so-called prosperity gospel and of trying to serve two masters. It is important to read on. Wesley espouses a number of useful caveats: our pursuit should not lesson our physical or mental health or those of our neighbours. Wesley argues that even the non-believer should be able to understand this. He bolsters his argument by mentioning from Scripture that “whatever thy hand findeth to do, do it with they might.” Thus, with respect to money, he argues that one must ‘gain all you can’. This section cannot stand alone, but it does build the first story upon the introductory foundation and make it possible for him to develop his second principle.
Principle II: Do not throw the precious talent into the sea (Save all you can).
Now that one has gained all one can, Wesley argues that one should save all that one can. As with the first principle, upon reading the second, ‘red flags’ are raised. One immediately thinks of Jesus’ parable of the rich fool (Luke 12) whose only sin was displayed by the fact that he did just what Wesley seems to be suggesting here. The rich fool gained all he could and then he saved all he could and then God called him a fool and took his very life from him. It is good that Wesley elaborates. We should not simply throw away that which God has given us “to gratify the desire of the flesh, desire of the eye, or the pride of life” (Outler & Heitzenrater 1991, 353). Wesley goes on to advocate a life of simplicity so radical that I personally have never seen a living example of it: not only are we not to indulge ourselves at all but Wesley argues that out of love we should not provide superfluities for our children for to do this would be to “increase their temptations and snares, and to pierce them through with more sorrows” (Outler & Heitzenrater 1991, 354). His argument at this point is not yet complete. The third principle still needs to be added to the first two.
Principle III: Having, First, gained all you can, and, Secondly saved all you can, Then "give all you can."
It is only when this principle is added to the preceding principles that the argument gains its full strength. Wesley acknowledges that if one stops prior to this step one has actually done nothing. He argues that we are merely stewards of the Lord’s goods; therefore we should take from Him only as much as is absolutely required to provide for the needs of our household and ourselves. Next, we should provide for the ‘household of faith’ and with all the remainder (and there is much remaining in most households in our contemporary society), we have the opportunity to give to all people and in so doing we will actually be giving to the Lord himself. Wesley encourages us to cut off every expense whose only purpose is to indulge our ‘foolish desires’ and we should give God not only a tenth but everything we have in the manner of the three principles that Wesley has laid out. It is only as we do this that we will be “laying up in store for yourselves a good foundation against the time to come, that ye may attain eternal life! (SIC)” (Outler & Heitzenrater 1991, 357).
Conclusion
This sermon is highly effective. I most certainly felt the conviction of the Spirit upon reading it. In my life, I have been trying to eliminate all that might be considered excess frivolity. It has been difficult for even me who naturally errs towards simplicity. Is this sermon preachable today? I don’t know if Canadian society is ready for it yet. I believe that its message is needed. I think however that we have strayed so far down the staircase of self-indulgence that we may need one or two smaller steps before this one in order to be effectively encouraged to continue climbing the stairway to heaven (holiness).
Dr Was: Daily Rations with a Smile
DR Was for January 16th
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 39-41 and Luke 16
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 39-41 and Luke 16
Friday, January 15, 2010
The Salvation Army Responds to Devastating Earthquake in Haiti
Wed Jan 13 2010, 11:22am ET
Dateline: TORONTO, Jan. 13
TORONTO, Jan. 13 /CNW/
- The Salvation Army is mobilizing resources to respond to the destructive earthquake that struck the Caribbean island of Haiti on Tuesday. The country is paralyzed and many are
without power, clean water, and food after the quake all but destroyed the city of Port au Prince.
The Salvation Army in Canada is sending an immediate $100,000 USD and a fundraising
campaign has begun to support the humanitarian response.
"We are compelled to do whatever we can to help the victims of this terrible disaster", said Commissioner William Francis, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army for Canada & Bermuda. "Our prayers are with the people of Haiti and we will continue to respond in the best manner possible." The country's infrastructure has been shattered and many of The Salvation Army's buildings and facilities have seen significant damage, but personnel on the ground responded immediately, offering as much assistance as possible, including some shelter,
food and clean water. The organization's administrative compound is being used as an emergency operations centre with people sleeping in the parking lot.
The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) is standing by to assist the
public with Health and Welfare requests from individuals seeking information on family members in the affected area of Haiti. To submit a request, please go to www.satern.org and click on the "Health and Welfare Information Request" link.
The Salvation Army began its work in Haiti in 1950. Currently, services offered include 3 medical facilities, social service institutions and dozens of schools serving more than 10,000 children.
Please support The Salvation Army's relief effort in
Haiti.
Financial contributions can be made by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), by visiting our website, www.SalvationArmy.ca , by mailing donations to The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, Canada and Bermuda, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto, Ontario M4H 1P4, or dropping off financial donations at the closest Salvation Army unit in your area. Donors should specify their gift to the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services
in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 119 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.
When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and
overlooked people in your community. News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca
© 2010 CNW Group Ltd.
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www.sheepspeak.com
Dateline: TORONTO, Jan. 13
TORONTO, Jan. 13 /CNW/
- The Salvation Army is mobilizing resources to respond to the destructive earthquake that struck the Caribbean island of Haiti on Tuesday. The country is paralyzed and many are
without power, clean water, and food after the quake all but destroyed the city of Port au Prince.
The Salvation Army in Canada is sending an immediate $100,000 USD and a fundraising
campaign has begun to support the humanitarian response.
"We are compelled to do whatever we can to help the victims of this terrible disaster", said Commissioner William Francis, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army for Canada & Bermuda. "Our prayers are with the people of Haiti and we will continue to respond in the best manner possible." The country's infrastructure has been shattered and many of The Salvation Army's buildings and facilities have seen significant damage, but personnel on the ground responded immediately, offering as much assistance as possible, including some shelter,
food and clean water. The organization's administrative compound is being used as an emergency operations centre with people sleeping in the parking lot.
The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) is standing by to assist the
public with Health and Welfare requests from individuals seeking information on family members in the affected area of Haiti. To submit a request, please go to www.satern.org and click on the "Health and Welfare Information Request" link.
The Salvation Army began its work in Haiti in 1950. Currently, services offered include 3 medical facilities, social service institutions and dozens of schools serving more than 10,000 children.
Please support The Salvation Army's relief effort in
Haiti.
Financial contributions can be made by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), by visiting our website, www.SalvationArmy.ca , by mailing donations to The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, Canada and Bermuda, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto, Ontario M4H 1P4, or dropping off financial donations at the closest Salvation Army unit in your area. Donors should specify their gift to the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services
in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 119 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.
When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and
overlooked people in your community. News releases, articles and updated information can be found at www.SalvationArmy.ca
© 2010 CNW Group Ltd.
---
www.sheepspeak.com
Haiti updates
Click the headlines to read the information:
Jan 15
Millions Injured, Homeless in Wake of Haiti Earthquake
Jan 14
Government of Canada to Match Generosity of Canadians in Response to the Devastating Earthquake in Haiti
Jan 14
Salvation Army Haiti Earthquake Relief: Update 2
Jan 14
Google Earth Map Shows the Earthquake Damage in Haiti
Jan 14
Salvation Army to Accept Haiti Relief Donations via Text Message
Jan 13
Salvation Army Haiti Earthquake Relief Video Update - Major Busroe’s interview with MSNBC
more info at www.salvationarmy.ca
Jan 15
Millions Injured, Homeless in Wake of Haiti Earthquake
Jan 14
Government of Canada to Match Generosity of Canadians in Response to the Devastating Earthquake in Haiti
Jan 14
Salvation Army Haiti Earthquake Relief: Update 2
Jan 14
Google Earth Map Shows the Earthquake Damage in Haiti
Jan 14
Salvation Army to Accept Haiti Relief Donations via Text Message
Jan 13
Salvation Army Haiti Earthquake Relief Video Update - Major Busroe’s interview with MSNBC
more info at www.salvationarmy.ca
Dr Was: Daily Rations with a Smile
DR Was for January 15th
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 37-38, Psalm 7, and Luke 15
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 37-38, Psalm 7, and Luke 15
Thursday, January 14, 2010
The Messiah and the World:Isaiah Chapters 7-9
Let us jump ahead to Isaiah Chapters 7-9, which those of you who have been following our reading plan have read by now. It is in the context of the destruction of Israel, and the impending destruction of Judah, Jerusalem, and the Temple (which some people thought could never be destroyed because that is where they believed that God Himself dwelt); it is in this context that God -through Isaiah- tells us about Jesus, about Immanuel, who is ‘God with us’ (Isaiah 7:14, 8:8; see also Matthew 1:23). God - through Isaiah - tells us that in His impending society, when the Messiah comes, those who oppose God (and do not love their neighbour and stand up for the disenfranchised) will be brought low (Isaiah 9:8-11:16; see also Isaiah 3:14, 15, 10:2, 11:4, 26:6, 32:7, 41:17, 58:7, 61:1).[24] They shall stumble on the Messiah. To them he will be a stumbling block and stone of offence (Isaiah 8:15, 28:16; See Romans 9:33; 1 Peter 2:8; See also Matthew 21:42; Mark 12:10; Luke 20:17) but for the rest of us who do serve Jesus, the Messiah, we will experience His Salvation.
The nations of Israel and Judah are finished by the time the book of Isaiah is finished but in Isaiah’s future he sees not only Israel’s but the whole world’s salvation (See Isaiah 42:12, 49:6, 49:13, 57:18, 60:1-3, 61:2, Zechariah 8:20-23; Luke 2:30-32; Acts: 13:47;cf.also Matthew 4:16; Luke 17:24; John 1:4-9, 3:19-21, 5:35, 8:12, 9:5, 11:9-10, 12:36, 12:46; Acts 26:23; Romans 2:18; 1 Corinthians 4:5; 2 Corinthians 4:4-6; Ephesians 4-5; Colossians 1:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:5; 1 Timothy 6:16…). It is in this context that Isaiah proclaims that very famous prophecy that we quote every Christmas (Isaiah 9:6-7 ESV):
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.”
This is the good news and this good news is the same for us today. When we are in our darkest spots; when we have placed our faith in our country, our rituals, our laws, our humanity, or whatever other else we are tempted to erroneously place our faith in and when that all comes crashing down – which it inevitably will; when all else fails and the days seem dark and our struggles seem immense; we, like Isaiah, can look to Immanuel; we, like Isaiah can look to the Jesus. Isaiah looked forward to and foretold Jesus’ birth to the virgin Mary and the proleptic proclamation of his Kingdom to come (Isaiah 7:14; see Matthew 1:23 and Luke 1:27-34).[25] We can now look back with certainty upon that fulfilled prophecy, as Jesus has already come, and we can also eagerly look forward to Jesus’ coming again because our Lord who promised never to leave us nor forsake us (Romans 3:3,4; see also Judges 2:1), our Lord who has given us his comfort, our Lord Jesus Christ is coming back and He’s coming back soon (see Revelation 22:20) and this is good news.
Let us pray.
http://www.sheepspeak.com/
The nations of Israel and Judah are finished by the time the book of Isaiah is finished but in Isaiah’s future he sees not only Israel’s but the whole world’s salvation (See Isaiah 42:12, 49:6, 49:13, 57:18, 60:1-3, 61:2, Zechariah 8:20-23; Luke 2:30-32; Acts: 13:47;cf.also Matthew 4:16; Luke 17:24; John 1:4-9, 3:19-21, 5:35, 8:12, 9:5, 11:9-10, 12:36, 12:46; Acts 26:23; Romans 2:18; 1 Corinthians 4:5; 2 Corinthians 4:4-6; Ephesians 4-5; Colossians 1:12, 1 Thessalonians 5:5; 1 Timothy 6:16…). It is in this context that Isaiah proclaims that very famous prophecy that we quote every Christmas (Isaiah 9:6-7 ESV):
“For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will do this.”
This is the good news and this good news is the same for us today. When we are in our darkest spots; when we have placed our faith in our country, our rituals, our laws, our humanity, or whatever other else we are tempted to erroneously place our faith in and when that all comes crashing down – which it inevitably will; when all else fails and the days seem dark and our struggles seem immense; we, like Isaiah, can look to Immanuel; we, like Isaiah can look to the Jesus. Isaiah looked forward to and foretold Jesus’ birth to the virgin Mary and the proleptic proclamation of his Kingdom to come (Isaiah 7:14; see Matthew 1:23 and Luke 1:27-34).[25] We can now look back with certainty upon that fulfilled prophecy, as Jesus has already come, and we can also eagerly look forward to Jesus’ coming again because our Lord who promised never to leave us nor forsake us (Romans 3:3,4; see also Judges 2:1), our Lord who has given us his comfort, our Lord Jesus Christ is coming back and He’s coming back soon (see Revelation 22:20) and this is good news.
Let us pray.
http://www.sheepspeak.com/
Dr Was: Daily Rations with a Smile
DR Was for January 14th
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 34-36 and Luke 14
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line:
Genesis 34-36 and Luke 14
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Salvation Army Kettles Bring in Record-Breaking $18 Million
Donations Shatter $16 million Campaign Goal as Needs Continue to Rise
Toronto, ON January 13, 2009 – With demand for Salvation Army services at an all-time high, Canadians dug deep this Christmas season, making more than $18 million in Christmas Kettle donations. The Salvation Army continues to count donations made to the 2009 National Christmas Campaign, but already the total has surpassed last year’s record-breaking $16 million.
“The results are a testament to the remarkable generosity of the Canadian public – we’re humbled that so many heeded the call of their neighbors in need,” said Commissioner William Francis, Territorial Commander for The Salvation Army in Canada & Bermuda. “For the past year, we have been challenged to meet an increased demand for our service. Thanks to the support of the Canadian public, we are confident that we can meet this demand.”
Current estimates show that client demand has risen between 10-40 percent across Canada. In 2008, The Salvation Army saw demand for services increase at feeding centres, food banks and Christmas hamper drives.
“Given current economic conditions, we don’t expect client demand to drop-off anytime soon,” said Commissioner Francis. “We will continue to rely on direct public support to meet the basic services we provide to hundreds of thousands in need each year.”
The $18 million figure includes only money donated to The Salvation Army’s physical kettles. The Salvation Army is continuing to tally dollars raised through phone, direct mail and other sources during the Christmas Campaign season – which runs from late November through Christmas Eve.
In addition to Kettle donations raised on street corners and in shopping centres, The Salvation Army also saw an increase in online giving during November and December. In both months, more than $3.4 million was raised online, an 18 percent increase from 2008. Also, more donors went online to collect money for The Salvation Army’s Christmas Campaign. There was a 43 percent increase in iKettle users, making this the fourth consecutive year that the site has grown in popularity.
Also, as part of the 2009 National Christmas Campaign, The Salvation Army relied on a number of partnerships and programs that contributed to the overall success of the campaign. For the first-time ever, The Salvation Army introduced an innovative text-to-give program with mobile technology company Zipstripe. The program allowed donors to text donations from any Rogers Wireless or Bell Mobility mobile phone. The Salvation Army also introduced a new ambient media and advertising campaign, created by GREY Canada. The campaign used online and street-level marketing strategies to communicate a message that poverty shouldn’t be a “revolving door” issue in Canada.
Other sustained partnerships grew stronger this year. A network of thousands of volunteer bell ringers gave of their time to stand alongside Kettles, collecting funds for the 2009 Christmas Campaign. Retail chains, including Walmart and Loblaws, made giving accessible and easy by welcoming Christmas Kettles into their stores. And, more than 10,000 runners turned out, nationwide, to raise money for the poor and homeless at the 19th Annual Santa Shuffle Run.
The Salvation Army’s National Christmas Campaign helps the Army provide direct, compassionate, hands-on service to more than 1.5 million people in Canada each year, restoring hope and dignity to the most vulnerable in society. The Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Campaign has grown into one of Canada’s most significant and recognizable annual charitable events.
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www.sheepspeak.com
Toronto, ON January 13, 2009 – With demand for Salvation Army services at an all-time high, Canadians dug deep this Christmas season, making more than $18 million in Christmas Kettle donations. The Salvation Army continues to count donations made to the 2009 National Christmas Campaign, but already the total has surpassed last year’s record-breaking $16 million.
“The results are a testament to the remarkable generosity of the Canadian public – we’re humbled that so many heeded the call of their neighbors in need,” said Commissioner William Francis, Territorial Commander for The Salvation Army in Canada & Bermuda. “For the past year, we have been challenged to meet an increased demand for our service. Thanks to the support of the Canadian public, we are confident that we can meet this demand.”
Current estimates show that client demand has risen between 10-40 percent across Canada. In 2008, The Salvation Army saw demand for services increase at feeding centres, food banks and Christmas hamper drives.
“Given current economic conditions, we don’t expect client demand to drop-off anytime soon,” said Commissioner Francis. “We will continue to rely on direct public support to meet the basic services we provide to hundreds of thousands in need each year.”
The $18 million figure includes only money donated to The Salvation Army’s physical kettles. The Salvation Army is continuing to tally dollars raised through phone, direct mail and other sources during the Christmas Campaign season – which runs from late November through Christmas Eve.
In addition to Kettle donations raised on street corners and in shopping centres, The Salvation Army also saw an increase in online giving during November and December. In both months, more than $3.4 million was raised online, an 18 percent increase from 2008. Also, more donors went online to collect money for The Salvation Army’s Christmas Campaign. There was a 43 percent increase in iKettle users, making this the fourth consecutive year that the site has grown in popularity.
Also, as part of the 2009 National Christmas Campaign, The Salvation Army relied on a number of partnerships and programs that contributed to the overall success of the campaign. For the first-time ever, The Salvation Army introduced an innovative text-to-give program with mobile technology company Zipstripe. The program allowed donors to text donations from any Rogers Wireless or Bell Mobility mobile phone. The Salvation Army also introduced a new ambient media and advertising campaign, created by GREY Canada. The campaign used online and street-level marketing strategies to communicate a message that poverty shouldn’t be a “revolving door” issue in Canada.
Other sustained partnerships grew stronger this year. A network of thousands of volunteer bell ringers gave of their time to stand alongside Kettles, collecting funds for the 2009 Christmas Campaign. Retail chains, including Walmart and Loblaws, made giving accessible and easy by welcoming Christmas Kettles into their stores. And, more than 10,000 runners turned out, nationwide, to raise money for the poor and homeless at the 19th Annual Santa Shuffle Run.
The Salvation Army’s National Christmas Campaign helps the Army provide direct, compassionate, hands-on service to more than 1.5 million people in Canada each year, restoring hope and dignity to the most vulnerable in society. The Salvation Army’s annual Christmas Campaign has grown into one of Canada’s most significant and recognizable annual charitable events.
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www.sheepspeak.com
The Salvation Army Responds to Devastating Earthquake in Haiti
Toronto, ON January 13, 2010 – The Salvation Army is mobilizing resources to respond to the destructive earthquake that struck the Caribbean island of Haiti on Tuesday. The country is paralyzed and many are without power, clean water, and food after the quake all but destroyed the city of Port au Prince.
The Salvation Army in Canada is sending an immediate $100,000 USD and a fundraising campaign has begun to support the humanitarian response.
“We are compelled to do whatever we can to help the victims of this terrible disaster”, said Commissioner William Francis, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army for Canada & Bermuda. “Our prayers are with the people of Haiti and we will continue to respond in the best manner possible.”
The country’s infrastructure has been shattered and many of The Salvation Army’s buildings and facilities have seen significant damage, but personnel on the ground responded immediately, offering as much assistance as possible, including some shelter, food and clean water. The organization’s administrative compound is being used as an emergency operations centre with people sleeping in the parking lot.
The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) is standing by to assist the public with Health and Welfare requests from individuals seeking information on family members in the affected area of Haiti. To submit a request, please go to www.satern.org and click on the "Health and Welfare Information Request" link.
The Salvation Army began its work in Haiti in 1950. Currently, services offered include 3 medical facilities, social service institutions and dozens of schools serving more than 10,000 children.
Please support The Salvation Army’s relief effort in Haiti. Financial contributions can be made by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), by visiting our website, www.SalvationArmy.ca, by mailing donations to The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, Canada and Bermuda, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto, Ontario M4H 1P4, or dropping off financial donations at the closest Salvation Army unit in your area. Donors should specify their gift to the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 119 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.
When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.
---
www.sheepspeak.com
The Salvation Army in Canada is sending an immediate $100,000 USD and a fundraising campaign has begun to support the humanitarian response.
“We are compelled to do whatever we can to help the victims of this terrible disaster”, said Commissioner William Francis, Territorial Commander of The Salvation Army for Canada & Bermuda. “Our prayers are with the people of Haiti and we will continue to respond in the best manner possible.”
The country’s infrastructure has been shattered and many of The Salvation Army’s buildings and facilities have seen significant damage, but personnel on the ground responded immediately, offering as much assistance as possible, including some shelter, food and clean water. The organization’s administrative compound is being used as an emergency operations centre with people sleeping in the parking lot.
The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) is standing by to assist the public with Health and Welfare requests from individuals seeking information on family members in the affected area of Haiti. To submit a request, please go to www.satern.org and click on the "Health and Welfare Information Request" link.
The Salvation Army began its work in Haiti in 1950. Currently, services offered include 3 medical facilities, social service institutions and dozens of schools serving more than 10,000 children.
Please support The Salvation Army’s relief effort in Haiti. Financial contributions can be made by calling 1-800-SAL-ARMY (725-2769), by visiting our website, www.SalvationArmy.ca, by mailing donations to The Salvation Army Territorial Headquarters, Canada and Bermuda, 2 Overlea Blvd., Toronto, Ontario M4H 1P4, or dropping off financial donations at the closest Salvation Army unit in your area. Donors should specify their gift to the Haiti Earthquake Disaster Relief Fund.
The Salvation Army is an international Christian organization that began its work in Canada in 1882 and has grown to become the largest non-governmental direct provider of social services in the country. The Salvation Army gives hope and support to vulnerable people today and everyday in 400 communities across Canada and 119 countries around the world. The Salvation Army offers practical assistance for children and families, often tending to the basic necessities of life, provides shelter for homeless people and rehabilitation for people who have lost control of their lives to an addiction.
When you give to The Salvation Army, you are investing in the future of marginalized and overlooked people in your community.
---
www.sheepspeak.com
Dr Was: Daily Rations with a Smile
DR Was for January 13th:
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 31-33 and Luke 13
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 31-33 and Luke 13
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Old Testament Married Women Officers?
Isaiah’s wife and children:
Isaiah had a wife who was a prophetess, as recorded in Isaiah 8:3. This is neat: this is similar to our Salvation Army where the husband and wife are in ministry together. Isaiah was a prophet and his wife was a prophetess.[14] They had children whose lives were wrapped up in the ministry as well, not unlike the Salvation Army, and just like many Salvationists have a habit of naming their children something to do with the Army: William, Catherine, Evangeline, Bramwell, etc.; Isaiah and his wife’s children were named according to their ministry. The prophets’ children’s names were prophetic (reminiscent of Hosea; see Hosea 2:1-11): they were named Maher-shalal-hash-baz, meaning ‘the spoil speeds, the prey hastens’ or ‘Quick loot, fast plunder’, and Shear-jasub, meaning ‘a remnant shall return’ (Isaiah 7:3; 8:3, 18; cf. Isaiah 1:9, 7:1-4, 8:1-4, 10:20-23). These names refer to the Assyrian invasion and the survival of a faithful remnant.[15] These were his children’s names. This is Isaiah, the person. He and his family were prophets and he ministered from about 740 BCE until his death around 690 BCE.
read more: http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/01/isaiah-1-39-1st-isaiah-later-world.html
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home: www.sheepspeak.com
Isaiah had a wife who was a prophetess, as recorded in Isaiah 8:3. This is neat: this is similar to our Salvation Army where the husband and wife are in ministry together. Isaiah was a prophet and his wife was a prophetess.[14] They had children whose lives were wrapped up in the ministry as well, not unlike the Salvation Army, and just like many Salvationists have a habit of naming their children something to do with the Army: William, Catherine, Evangeline, Bramwell, etc.; Isaiah and his wife’s children were named according to their ministry. The prophets’ children’s names were prophetic (reminiscent of Hosea; see Hosea 2:1-11): they were named Maher-shalal-hash-baz, meaning ‘the spoil speeds, the prey hastens’ or ‘Quick loot, fast plunder’, and Shear-jasub, meaning ‘a remnant shall return’ (Isaiah 7:3; 8:3, 18; cf. Isaiah 1:9, 7:1-4, 8:1-4, 10:20-23). These names refer to the Assyrian invasion and the survival of a faithful remnant.[15] These were his children’s names. This is Isaiah, the person. He and his family were prophets and he ministered from about 740 BCE until his death around 690 BCE.
read more: http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/01/isaiah-1-39-1st-isaiah-later-world.html
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home: www.sheepspeak.com
Isaiah’s dad:
Isaiah 1:1 tells us that Isaiah’s father’s name was Amoz but nothing else is really known about his father. (Amoz, by the way is not the same person as the prophet Amos whose prophecy is also included in the Bible.) Jewish tradition declares Isaiah to be of royal stock. Tradition claims that Isaiah’s father was a brother of Amaziah, the king of Judah; this would make Isaiah part of the royal family.[12] While this claim cannot be substantiated, Isaiah may have been an aristocrat or he may have had the support of a powerful aristocrat for he seemed to have ready access to kings of Judah (Isaiah 7:3; 37:21-22, etc.).[13]
Dr Was: Daily Rations with a Smile
DR Was for January 12th:
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 29-30 and Luke 12
'The Book of Axe'
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 29-30 and Luke 12
'The Book of Axe'
Monday, January 11, 2010
Salvation Army Opens Work in 119th Country
"GENERAL Shaw Clifton is pleased to announce that the work of The Salvation Army has been officially established in the west African country of Sierra Leone, bringing the total number of countries in which the Army operates to 119.
"An enquiry was first made as to the possibility of The Salvation Army establishing a presence in Sierra Leone in 2003. That led to a long period of discussion, prayerful consideration, careful research and waiting upon the Lord to reveal his will in this regard. Further enquiries came in 2005 and then, in 2006, Auburn Corps in the Australia Eastern Territory expressed a keen desire to support any project the Army might consider running in Sierra Leone.
"Later in 2006, Major Robert Dixon – then serving as Officer Commanding of the Liberia Command – undertook a feasibility study in Sierra Leone. There was a positive response from the government at that time. When serving at International Headquarters as the General’s Representative for World Evangelisation, Colonel (now Commissioner) Dick Krommenhoek visited Sierra Leone, met with government officials and other authorities, and submitted a positive report to the General.
"At a meeting of the International Management Council in December 2009, Commissioner Amos Makina (International Secretary for Africa, IHQ) reported that The Salvation Army had been legally registered to operate in Sierra Leone and officers from Liberia (Captains John and Roseline Bundu) had arrived in the country, ready to start work with the group of local people who had already expressed interest. Captain John Bundu originates from Sierra Leone.
"The General has thus approved the official opening of The Salvation Army’s work in Sierra Leone, under the supervision of the Liberia Command, as from 1 January 2010." Hat tip Rob Reardon (and www.armybarmy.com)
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www.sheepspeak.com
"An enquiry was first made as to the possibility of The Salvation Army establishing a presence in Sierra Leone in 2003. That led to a long period of discussion, prayerful consideration, careful research and waiting upon the Lord to reveal his will in this regard. Further enquiries came in 2005 and then, in 2006, Auburn Corps in the Australia Eastern Territory expressed a keen desire to support any project the Army might consider running in Sierra Leone.
"Later in 2006, Major Robert Dixon – then serving as Officer Commanding of the Liberia Command – undertook a feasibility study in Sierra Leone. There was a positive response from the government at that time. When serving at International Headquarters as the General’s Representative for World Evangelisation, Colonel (now Commissioner) Dick Krommenhoek visited Sierra Leone, met with government officials and other authorities, and submitted a positive report to the General.
"At a meeting of the International Management Council in December 2009, Commissioner Amos Makina (International Secretary for Africa, IHQ) reported that The Salvation Army had been legally registered to operate in Sierra Leone and officers from Liberia (Captains John and Roseline Bundu) had arrived in the country, ready to start work with the group of local people who had already expressed interest. Captain John Bundu originates from Sierra Leone.
"The General has thus approved the official opening of The Salvation Army’s work in Sierra Leone, under the supervision of the Liberia Command, as from 1 January 2010." Hat tip Rob Reardon (and www.armybarmy.com)
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www.sheepspeak.com
PASTORAL LETTER SEVENTEEN
BEGINNINGS
Dear Fellow Salvationists,
Through this first Pastoral Letter of 2010 I greet you warmly in the sacred name of Jesus. In these opening weeks of the New Year I lift you up to God in prayer. May the Divine Presence be very real to each one of you at this time of new beginnings. May you sense the Lord's nearness day by day, moment by moment.
The theme of this 17th Pastoral Letter is 'Beginnings'.
Another year is a gift from God to each of us. The very newness of it causes us to pause and take stock of our lives. It is good to do this from time to time.
We can, first of all, cast a backward glance over our shoulders to review the year that has just closed. Can you see the gracious hand of the Lord in it: in the things that have happened in your life, and in the events impacting the lives of your loved ones and friends? It is a time to pause and give thanks to Almighty God for his promised presence with us through all the days of 2009. He has been there in the good and in the bad times. He has seen us through. He has been faithful.
Next we look ahead. It is a very great mercy that the future is veiled. This prompts our hearts to reach out still further to God as consciously we put our trust in him for the unknown days ahead. A time of new beginnings is a time also for new trust.
Let us find a quiet moment in which to tell the Lord that we do indeed love and trust him. It is a very great help to our souls to do this deliberately, with full intentionality. This quiet moment of rededication will become perhaps a source of great strength, of great grace, in the days ahead. Let it be a renewing of your love for God, a renewing of your devotion, a renewing of your willingness to serve him and to be seen and known by all as his disciple.
Then having placed our lives afresh before him in this manner, we can place our loved ones again into his loving care and protection.
For example, how good it is to pray for one's spouse, to speak aloud the name of a husband or a wife in prayer. The best marriages, marriages that endure, are built on such foundations. How helpful it is when a husband and wife can sit quietly together to pray aloud for each other and for the whole family circle. It is especially important to do this at a time of new beginnings and before the gentle, calm blessedness of Christmas has faded.
How good it is also to pray for one's children, naming them aloud before the Throne of Grace. God hears these prayers. They are never wasted. God's ear is inclined toward those who seek his guidance and protection for their children. Christian parents often make such prayers, as do Christian grandparents and Christian aunts and uncles. I say again: these prayers are never wasted.
This season of new beginnings allows us to place before the Lord also the hopes we have in our hearts concerning our daily work. Many of you reading this are Salvation Army officers making plans for the spiritual advancement of those you lead and those you serve in Christ's name. I say to you, 'May God bless those plans, those sacred ambitions for the souls of others.'
Many of you are local officers in the Army, holding sacred hopes that 2010 will see your service more fruitful for God than ever before. I join you in that good hope and I share the Spirit-prompted ambitions for your Kingdom-work.
I know also that many of you have influence over our young people in the Army. God bless you for that! I pray that you will be guided in all things by the Holy Spirit and that you will be given wisdom to lead many a young person into a new beginning with God.
Finally, I request that you continue to pray for me as we enter 2010. I need your prayers. Please pray for wisdom from God to be my portion, and also for physical strength to be granted day by day.
Commissioner Helen Clifton joins me in greeting you as we commend you each one to the matchless love of the Saviour.
God be with you.
Yours in Christ
Shaw Clifton
General
Dear Fellow Salvationists,
Through this first Pastoral Letter of 2010 I greet you warmly in the sacred name of Jesus. In these opening weeks of the New Year I lift you up to God in prayer. May the Divine Presence be very real to each one of you at this time of new beginnings. May you sense the Lord's nearness day by day, moment by moment.
The theme of this 17th Pastoral Letter is 'Beginnings'.
Another year is a gift from God to each of us. The very newness of it causes us to pause and take stock of our lives. It is good to do this from time to time.
We can, first of all, cast a backward glance over our shoulders to review the year that has just closed. Can you see the gracious hand of the Lord in it: in the things that have happened in your life, and in the events impacting the lives of your loved ones and friends? It is a time to pause and give thanks to Almighty God for his promised presence with us through all the days of 2009. He has been there in the good and in the bad times. He has seen us through. He has been faithful.
Next we look ahead. It is a very great mercy that the future is veiled. This prompts our hearts to reach out still further to God as consciously we put our trust in him for the unknown days ahead. A time of new beginnings is a time also for new trust.
Let us find a quiet moment in which to tell the Lord that we do indeed love and trust him. It is a very great help to our souls to do this deliberately, with full intentionality. This quiet moment of rededication will become perhaps a source of great strength, of great grace, in the days ahead. Let it be a renewing of your love for God, a renewing of your devotion, a renewing of your willingness to serve him and to be seen and known by all as his disciple.
Then having placed our lives afresh before him in this manner, we can place our loved ones again into his loving care and protection.
For example, how good it is to pray for one's spouse, to speak aloud the name of a husband or a wife in prayer. The best marriages, marriages that endure, are built on such foundations. How helpful it is when a husband and wife can sit quietly together to pray aloud for each other and for the whole family circle. It is especially important to do this at a time of new beginnings and before the gentle, calm blessedness of Christmas has faded.
How good it is also to pray for one's children, naming them aloud before the Throne of Grace. God hears these prayers. They are never wasted. God's ear is inclined toward those who seek his guidance and protection for their children. Christian parents often make such prayers, as do Christian grandparents and Christian aunts and uncles. I say again: these prayers are never wasted.
This season of new beginnings allows us to place before the Lord also the hopes we have in our hearts concerning our daily work. Many of you reading this are Salvation Army officers making plans for the spiritual advancement of those you lead and those you serve in Christ's name. I say to you, 'May God bless those plans, those sacred ambitions for the souls of others.'
Many of you are local officers in the Army, holding sacred hopes that 2010 will see your service more fruitful for God than ever before. I join you in that good hope and I share the Spirit-prompted ambitions for your Kingdom-work.
I know also that many of you have influence over our young people in the Army. God bless you for that! I pray that you will be guided in all things by the Holy Spirit and that you will be given wisdom to lead many a young person into a new beginning with God.
Finally, I request that you continue to pray for me as we enter 2010. I need your prayers. Please pray for wisdom from God to be my portion, and also for physical strength to be granted day by day.
Commissioner Helen Clifton joins me in greeting you as we commend you each one to the matchless love of the Saviour.
God be with you.
Yours in Christ
Shaw Clifton
General
Dr Was: Daily Rations with a Smile
DR Was for January 11th:
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 27-28, Psalm 4, Luke 11
The Inn Carnation
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 27-28, Psalm 4, Luke 11
The Inn Carnation
Sunday, January 10, 2010
The Government Shall Be Upon His Shoulders
Isaiah 9.2–7; Luke 2.1–20
sermon at the Midnight Eucharist on Christmas Eve 2008 in the Cathedral Church of Christ, Blessed Mary the Virgin and St Cuthbert, Durham
by the Bishop of Durham, Dr N. T. Wright
‘Unto us a child is born; unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulders.’ Unless you sigh with relief at those words, you haven’t really been listening. What we need just now, more obviously than ever in my lifetime, is someone to shoulder the burden, someone who can get under pick up our multiple problems and carry them for us.
It should be obvious by now that nobody locally or globally has the slightest idea how to address, let alone solve, the crisis that has come swiftly upon us. And I’m not simply talking about the voting methods in Strictly Come Dancing. I’m talking about those admittedly lesser concerns, the problems of global power, global finance, global humanity as a whole.
We have of course just witnessed a kind of secular version of Isaiah 9. The election of Barack Obama has been hailed with wild delight around the world. Desmond Tutu sounded crazy with joy talking about him on the radio – even while being realistic about the fact that the black revolution he helped to inspire has failed to confront Robert Mugabe. Oprah Winfrey said on election night that there had ‘never been a night like this on the planet earth’, which may have been over-egging the Christmas cake just a little. The whole world was hungry for hope, and now Obama, who is indeed brilliant, charming, shrewd and very capable, is being told that the government of the world is upon his shoulders, and we expect him to solve its problems. Poor man: no ordinary mortal can bear that burden. Nor should we ask it of him. The irrational joy and hope at his election only shows the extent to which other hopes have failed, making us snatch too eagerly at sudden fresh signs. And that can only be because we have forgotten the Christmas message, or have neutered it, have rendered it toothless, as though the shoulder of the child born this night was simply a shoulder for individuals to lean on rather than the shoulder to take the weight of the world’s government.
read more: http://www.ntwrightpage.com/sermons/ChristmasMidnight08.htm
---
http://www.sheepspeak.com/
sermon at the Midnight Eucharist on Christmas Eve 2008 in the Cathedral Church of Christ, Blessed Mary the Virgin and St Cuthbert, Durham
by the Bishop of Durham, Dr N. T. Wright
‘Unto us a child is born; unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulders.’ Unless you sigh with relief at those words, you haven’t really been listening. What we need just now, more obviously than ever in my lifetime, is someone to shoulder the burden, someone who can get under pick up our multiple problems and carry them for us.
It should be obvious by now that nobody locally or globally has the slightest idea how to address, let alone solve, the crisis that has come swiftly upon us. And I’m not simply talking about the voting methods in Strictly Come Dancing. I’m talking about those admittedly lesser concerns, the problems of global power, global finance, global humanity as a whole.
We have of course just witnessed a kind of secular version of Isaiah 9. The election of Barack Obama has been hailed with wild delight around the world. Desmond Tutu sounded crazy with joy talking about him on the radio – even while being realistic about the fact that the black revolution he helped to inspire has failed to confront Robert Mugabe. Oprah Winfrey said on election night that there had ‘never been a night like this on the planet earth’, which may have been over-egging the Christmas cake just a little. The whole world was hungry for hope, and now Obama, who is indeed brilliant, charming, shrewd and very capable, is being told that the government of the world is upon his shoulders, and we expect him to solve its problems. Poor man: no ordinary mortal can bear that burden. Nor should we ask it of him. The irrational joy and hope at his election only shows the extent to which other hopes have failed, making us snatch too eagerly at sudden fresh signs. And that can only be because we have forgotten the Christmas message, or have neutered it, have rendered it toothless, as though the shoulder of the child born this night was simply a shoulder for individuals to lean on rather than the shoulder to take the weight of the world’s government.
read more: http://www.ntwrightpage.com/sermons/ChristmasMidnight08.htm
---
http://www.sheepspeak.com/
Dr Was: Daily Rations with a Smile
DR Was for January 10th:
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 25-26, Psalm 6, Luke 10
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 25-26, Psalm 6, Luke 10
Isaiah, the person:
Does anyone know how, according to tradition, the prophet Isaiah died? Have you ever seen some of those live magic/illusionist shows where everything appears one way but it is really something entirely different? There is this one act where inevitably the magician/illusionist climbs into a box and is cut in half and then his assistant puts the box back together and the magician/illusionist gets out and walks around perfectly in tact. Isaiah’s adversaries – King Manasseh of Judah et el. (cf. 2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33) – pulled off the first part of this trick perfectly, sawing him in half, but all the king’s horses and all the king’s men didn’t bother to try to put Isaiah back together again. Isaiah, according to tradition, was captured and then killed by being sawed in half with a wooden saw by the King of Judah (cf. Hebrews 11:37). This probably happened around 690 BCE (cf. Ascension of Isaiah, Martyrdom of Isaiah 5:1-15, Lives of the Prophets 1.1).[10]
Isaiah was most likely somewhat educated as he had knowledge of history, economics and religion. He was probably born in Jerusalem -which was the capital city of the country of Judah, which was just south of Israel - around 760 BCE.
Isaiah entered into ministry after experiencing a vision in the Temple in the year 740 BCE, the year King Uzziah died (Isaiah 6).[11] Isaiah 1:1 states that he ministered during the reigns of the Kings Uzziah (AKA Azariah, 2 Kings), Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah of Judah. Manasseh, the king who traditionally had him cut in half, was King Hezekiah’s son. He was the longest reigning monarch of Judah and it seems, the most evil (cf. 2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33).
read more:
http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/01/isaiah-1-39-1st-isaiah-later-world.html
more sermons: www.sheepspeak.com/sermons.htm
home: www.sheepspeak.com
Isaiah was most likely somewhat educated as he had knowledge of history, economics and religion. He was probably born in Jerusalem -which was the capital city of the country of Judah, which was just south of Israel - around 760 BCE.
Isaiah entered into ministry after experiencing a vision in the Temple in the year 740 BCE, the year King Uzziah died (Isaiah 6).[11] Isaiah 1:1 states that he ministered during the reigns of the Kings Uzziah (AKA Azariah, 2 Kings), Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah of Judah. Manasseh, the king who traditionally had him cut in half, was King Hezekiah’s son. He was the longest reigning monarch of Judah and it seems, the most evil (cf. 2 Kings 21; 2 Chronicles 33).
read more:
http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/01/isaiah-1-39-1st-isaiah-later-world.html
more sermons: www.sheepspeak.com/sermons.htm
home: www.sheepspeak.com
Saturday, January 09, 2010
Is Life after Death Boring?
By Matt Gunter
The Anglican Planet
IN A PROVOCATIVE essay for the New York Times, philosopher Todd May suggests, “This is the paradox death imposes upon us: it grants us the possibility of a meaningful life even as it takes it away.” He begins by pointing out that, as essentially forward-looking creatures, the finality of death offends us. But, he goes on to argue that without death, life would lose its shape and become formless. He alludes to a story, “Immortality,” by Jorge Louis Borges in which immortal beings become unconcerned with their lives or surroundings. Immortality, which he characterizes as one damn thing after another, would be boring.
“Once you’ve followed your passion — playing the saxophone, loving men or women, traveling, writing poetry — for, say, 10,000 years, it will likely begin to lose its grip. There may be more to say or to do than anyone can ever accomplish. But each of us develops particular interests, engages in particular pursuits. When we have been at them long enough, we are likely to find ourselves just filling time. In the case of immortality, an inexhaustible period of time.”
I suppose he’s on to something. If immortality is just mortal life extended indefinitely there might not be much to commend it. Our limited mortal selves cannot bear immortality in that sense. Borges gets at this. So does Anne Rice in the desperate and lonely immortality “lived” by the vampire, Lestat, in her Vampire Chronicles. Living forever in the sense of life as we know it is less attractive than might be assumed at first.
But, as a Christian, I have to say that is not my hope. Mere immortality is not the same thing as eternal life. The Bible is surprisingly circumspect in describing just what eternal life means. But there are hints.
click here to read the hints:
http://www.anglicanplanet.net/tapintotheword/2009/12/27/the-boredom-of-heaven.html
---
www.sheepspeak.com/
The Anglican Planet
IN A PROVOCATIVE essay for the New York Times, philosopher Todd May suggests, “This is the paradox death imposes upon us: it grants us the possibility of a meaningful life even as it takes it away.” He begins by pointing out that, as essentially forward-looking creatures, the finality of death offends us. But, he goes on to argue that without death, life would lose its shape and become formless. He alludes to a story, “Immortality,” by Jorge Louis Borges in which immortal beings become unconcerned with their lives or surroundings. Immortality, which he characterizes as one damn thing after another, would be boring.
“Once you’ve followed your passion — playing the saxophone, loving men or women, traveling, writing poetry — for, say, 10,000 years, it will likely begin to lose its grip. There may be more to say or to do than anyone can ever accomplish. But each of us develops particular interests, engages in particular pursuits. When we have been at them long enough, we are likely to find ourselves just filling time. In the case of immortality, an inexhaustible period of time.”
I suppose he’s on to something. If immortality is just mortal life extended indefinitely there might not be much to commend it. Our limited mortal selves cannot bear immortality in that sense. Borges gets at this. So does Anne Rice in the desperate and lonely immortality “lived” by the vampire, Lestat, in her Vampire Chronicles. Living forever in the sense of life as we know it is less attractive than might be assumed at first.
But, as a Christian, I have to say that is not my hope. Mere immortality is not the same thing as eternal life. The Bible is surprisingly circumspect in describing just what eternal life means. But there are hints.
click here to read the hints:
http://www.anglicanplanet.net/tapintotheword/2009/12/27/the-boredom-of-heaven.html
---
www.sheepspeak.com/
Ecumenical Brief on Canada's Role in Afghanistan
The Canadian Council of Churches, December 10, 2009
Executive Summary
The Canadian Council of Churches calls on Canada to mount a new peace mission in Afghanistan that focuses on two priorities:
1) support Afghans in implementing participatory reconciliation programs and responsive governance at district and local levels;
2) urge the international community to pursue diplomatic efforts to end the war.
Studies consistently show that the conflict in Afghanistan has multiple and diverse sources, including:
conflict over land and water;
family and tribal grievances;
the presence of Taliban, warlords and criminal elements;
international forces;
corrupt Afghan security forces and government officials.
National-level diplomacy that does not reach into communities and address these grievances will not be successful. Accordingly, while we welcome Canada’s efforts to facilitate Afghan-led reconciliation, it is clear that these require attention to sub-national conflict analysis and reconciliation possibilities.
read more: http://www.ploughshares.ca/libraries/Statements/CCCAfghanDec2009.pdf
---
www.sheepspeak.com
Executive Summary
The Canadian Council of Churches calls on Canada to mount a new peace mission in Afghanistan that focuses on two priorities:
1) support Afghans in implementing participatory reconciliation programs and responsive governance at district and local levels;
2) urge the international community to pursue diplomatic efforts to end the war.
Studies consistently show that the conflict in Afghanistan has multiple and diverse sources, including:
conflict over land and water;
family and tribal grievances;
the presence of Taliban, warlords and criminal elements;
international forces;
corrupt Afghan security forces and government officials.
National-level diplomacy that does not reach into communities and address these grievances will not be successful. Accordingly, while we welcome Canada’s efforts to facilitate Afghan-led reconciliation, it is clear that these require attention to sub-national conflict analysis and reconciliation possibilities.
read more: http://www.ploughshares.ca/libraries/Statements/CCCAfghanDec2009.pdf
---
www.sheepspeak.com
Isaiah the book:
Sword drill: ready? One, two, three, who can find First Isaiah, first? Psst, there isn’t a book called First Isaiah. I will get someone to find and read Isaiah 1:1, though: “The vision concerning Judah and Jerusalem that Isaiah son of Amoz saw during the reigns of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah.” This is what we are speaking about over the next few weeks.
Susan taught us last week a bit about Isaiah and the historical context leading up to the time of the prophet last week. We are going to build on that somewhat today.
To review: there is only one book actually called ‘Isaiah’ in our Bible but it was probably written over a period of up to four hundred years and scripture (Genesis 6:3), reason, tradition, and experience all lead us to the conclusion that Isaiah did not live to be 400+ years old. When was the last time you met a 400 year-old? The book of Isaiah speaks about three successive superpowers: Assyria, Babylon, Persia. The first 39 chapters of this book were written when Assyria was the superpower.
As a bit of a reference point, in recent history the last three significant world superpowers have spanned a comparable time period to date: the USA, 1945-Present; England, 1588-1945; Spain, 1493-1588.[5] I don’t know about you but I haven’t met anyone who has been alive since Spain ruled the world. No one since the time of Noah, the scriptures state, has lived to be 400 years old (Genesis 6:3). This is the same scenario as with the book of Isaiah: for the prophet Isaiah (who was dead before the existence of the Babylonian or Persian empires) to write the whole book it would be as if someone from the Spanish Empire wrote a book as if they lived in present day America. This is one reason among many, that many (but not all) scholars in this day and age believe that Isaiah was written by up to three groups of people.[6]
Isaiah has three distinct divisions that academics often refer to as 1st Isaiah (Chapters 1-39), 2nd or Deutero-Isaiah (Chapters 40-55), and Third or Trito-Isaiah (Chapters 56-66). Second and Third Isaiah were probably composed by his disciples after the prophet Isaiah’s death (cf. Isaiah 8:16).[7] You will note as we read through Isaiah together as a congregation that there is a significant stylistic difference between Chapters 1-39 and Chapter 40 onwards.
Another key difference between the sections, as Susan told us last week, relates to the conquest of Judah and the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. The first temple was probably destroyed (586 BCE) about one hundred years after the prophet Isaiah was dead (690 BCE) and it is still recorded in the book of Isaiah as both an impending event (Isaiah 1-39) and an accomplished fact (Isaiah 39-66). It was certainly destroyed after 1st Isaiah was written and probably long before 2nd and 3rd Isaiah’s composition.[8]
However, even though this book likely has two or even three sets of authors, it is important to read it through as whole.[9] After all it is contained in our Bible as one entity. That being said, today we are looking primarily at the life and times of the author of so called ‘First Isaiah’. We are looking at Isaiah the prophet, Isaiah the son of Amoz (Isaiah 1:1).
read more: http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/01/isaiah-1-39-1st-isaiah-later-world.html
more sermons: http://sheepspeak.com/sermons.htm
home: www.sheepspeak.com
Susan taught us last week a bit about Isaiah and the historical context leading up to the time of the prophet last week. We are going to build on that somewhat today.
To review: there is only one book actually called ‘Isaiah’ in our Bible but it was probably written over a period of up to four hundred years and scripture (Genesis 6:3), reason, tradition, and experience all lead us to the conclusion that Isaiah did not live to be 400+ years old. When was the last time you met a 400 year-old? The book of Isaiah speaks about three successive superpowers: Assyria, Babylon, Persia. The first 39 chapters of this book were written when Assyria was the superpower.
As a bit of a reference point, in recent history the last three significant world superpowers have spanned a comparable time period to date: the USA, 1945-Present; England, 1588-1945; Spain, 1493-1588.[5] I don’t know about you but I haven’t met anyone who has been alive since Spain ruled the world. No one since the time of Noah, the scriptures state, has lived to be 400 years old (Genesis 6:3). This is the same scenario as with the book of Isaiah: for the prophet Isaiah (who was dead before the existence of the Babylonian or Persian empires) to write the whole book it would be as if someone from the Spanish Empire wrote a book as if they lived in present day America. This is one reason among many, that many (but not all) scholars in this day and age believe that Isaiah was written by up to three groups of people.[6]
Isaiah has three distinct divisions that academics often refer to as 1st Isaiah (Chapters 1-39), 2nd or Deutero-Isaiah (Chapters 40-55), and Third or Trito-Isaiah (Chapters 56-66). Second and Third Isaiah were probably composed by his disciples after the prophet Isaiah’s death (cf. Isaiah 8:16).[7] You will note as we read through Isaiah together as a congregation that there is a significant stylistic difference between Chapters 1-39 and Chapter 40 onwards.
Another key difference between the sections, as Susan told us last week, relates to the conquest of Judah and the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem. The first temple was probably destroyed (586 BCE) about one hundred years after the prophet Isaiah was dead (690 BCE) and it is still recorded in the book of Isaiah as both an impending event (Isaiah 1-39) and an accomplished fact (Isaiah 39-66). It was certainly destroyed after 1st Isaiah was written and probably long before 2nd and 3rd Isaiah’s composition.[8]
However, even though this book likely has two or even three sets of authors, it is important to read it through as whole.[9] After all it is contained in our Bible as one entity. That being said, today we are looking primarily at the life and times of the author of so called ‘First Isaiah’. We are looking at Isaiah the prophet, Isaiah the son of Amoz (Isaiah 1:1).
read more: http://sheepspeaks.blogspot.com/2010/01/isaiah-1-39-1st-isaiah-later-world.html
more sermons: http://sheepspeak.com/sermons.htm
home: www.sheepspeak.com
Friday, January 08, 2010
Dr Was: Daily Rations with a Smile
DR Was for January 9th:
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 23-24, Luke 9
DR Was for January 8th:
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 20-22 , Luke 8
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 23-24, Luke 9
DR Was for January 8th:
Click the Scriptures to read them on-line.
Home: http://drwas.blogspot.com/
Genesis 20-22 , Luke 8
Thursday, January 07, 2010
From Army Barmy
General William Booth, in the preface of IN DARKEST ENGLAND AND THE WAY OUT, makes this important, but sometimes overlooked, explanation:
"I have no intention to depart in the smallest degree from the main principles on which I have acted in the past. My only hope for the permanent deliverance of mankind from misery, either in this world or the next, is the regeneration or remaking of the individual by the power of the Holy Ghost through Jesus Christ. But in providing for the relief of temporal misery I reckon that I am only making it easy where it is now difficult, and possible where it is now all but impossible, for men and women to find their way to the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ."
He is asserting that social action is intended to make it easy where difficult and possible where impossible for people to get saved. This is consistent with his simple yet striking statement a dozen years earlier, in the 1879 edition of 'The Salvationist', summing up our identity and purpose:
"We are a salvation people - this is our speciality - getting saved and keeping saved, and then getting somebody else saved, and then getting saved ourselves more and more until full salvation on earth makes the heaven within."
www.armybarmy.com
---
www.sheepspeak.com
"I have no intention to depart in the smallest degree from the main principles on which I have acted in the past. My only hope for the permanent deliverance of mankind from misery, either in this world or the next, is the regeneration or remaking of the individual by the power of the Holy Ghost through Jesus Christ. But in providing for the relief of temporal misery I reckon that I am only making it easy where it is now difficult, and possible where it is now all but impossible, for men and women to find their way to the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ."
He is asserting that social action is intended to make it easy where difficult and possible where impossible for people to get saved. This is consistent with his simple yet striking statement a dozen years earlier, in the 1879 edition of 'The Salvationist', summing up our identity and purpose:
"We are a salvation people - this is our speciality - getting saved and keeping saved, and then getting somebody else saved, and then getting saved ourselves more and more until full salvation on earth makes the heaven within."
www.armybarmy.com
---
www.sheepspeak.com
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