Knolledge and Wisdom

On Understanding Trials in the Scope of God's Sovereignty

2010-08-30T20:35:00.000-05:00

"The sentences in the book of providence are sometimes long, and you must read a great way before you can apprehend the sense of them.”
Matthew Henry
via

Some humor from WWI Hero Sergeant York

2010-08-27T23:33:00.005-05:00

from Sergeant York and the Great War, by Tom Skeyhill (a study in English dialect as much as in WWI)

The pious Kentucky mountain boy in Paris, explaining how he got lost and got back to the hotel:

"So you see, I never takened home any girls in France, but one of them had to take me home, Ho! Ho!" pg195

And his experience with luxury in NYC:

"The were two beds in my room (at the Waldorf Astoria). Twin beds. That kinder tickled me. I didn't know which one to sleep in. So I tried them both." pg199

And on a serious note, considering and answering one of many "reasons" given for his safety and success in the battle:

"I ain't so foolish as to deny that I know a whole heap about guns. I do. I know, too, that I am a tol'able good shot. But I don't car how good a shot man is, hit ain't in the nature of thins for one man with an army rifle and a pistol to whip thirty-five machine guns that can each fire over six-hundred shots a minute; from a p'int blank range of between twenty and thiry yards." pg181

The sublime lyrics of The Gospel Song

2010-08-25T23:34:00.000-05:00

These 24 words contain the beautiful core of the Gospel, the Good News, rarely so concise and lyrical. The true beauty and power, though, is not in the creative word choice, rhyme, and meter, but the Gospel itself, the truths these words adorn. And further still, that such a truth can be so simple:

Holy God in love became
Perfect man to bear my blame
On the cross he took my sin
By his death I live again.

And this song illustrated and commentated:

from
via

Kendrick Getting Tickled

2010-08-25T10:22:00.000-05:00

Just like his dad, but not

Two good quotes on the balance of Church and Mission

2010-08-21T22:55:00.000-05:00

If you don't guard the deposit with fences, you won't have anything to take to the nations in 80 years.

-Adoniram Judson, via John Piper's sermon in the series Men of Whom the World are not Worthy

Our church gives 100% of its budget to missions. That’s because our church is a mission. Staff salaries are mission. Benevolence (our fund to support those who are in need financially) is about missions. Paying the rent, again, missions.

-David Dorr, blogpost

Spurgeon on Being "Fashioable"

2010-08-21T12:04:00.001-05:00

"The great guide of the world is fashion and it’s god is respectability–two phantoms at which brave men laugh! How many of you look around on society to know what to do? You watch the general current and then float upon it! You study the popular breeze and shift your sails to suit it. True men do not so! You ask, “Is it fashionable? If it is fashionable, it must be done.” Fashion is the law of multitudes, but it is nothing more than the common consent of fools."

via

Top Youth Group Movies

2010-08-17T19:18:00.000-05:00

My top picks for movies for the youth group, on the following criteria:

Must be clean.
Must be interesting enough for both guys/girls to watch together.
Failing the previous criteria, it must be crazy/stupid enough to cause division (almost always clean down the middle between guys and girls) for the duration of the movie and for weeks after.

Disney/Pixar Movies

LOTR
Facing the Giants/Fireproof

Star Wars

Princess Bride

Rocketman

Nacho Libre

UHF

Ultimate catch in Ultimate Frisbee

2010-08-15T13:32:00.000-05:00

via

Screwtape Letters Radio Theater

2010-08-15T10:49:00.003-05:00

A little late after the release, apparently, but looks great.

Man's Inability in Numbers 20:10-12

2010-08-13T22:43:00.000-05:00

"Not even Moses, the giver of the law, was able to keep the law."
- Elyse Fitzpatrick, Comforts from the Cross

Alternate Acronyms for PETA

2010-06-28T12:26:00.001-05:00

Great suggestions, such as: Standing for Treating Ethically the Animal Kingdom
from Abe Piper and followers.

Fatih and Reason according to Paul Tripp

2010-06-25T18:15:00.000-05:00

"Faith is not unreasonable, but it will take you beyond your ability to reason."

-Paul David Tripp, "What To Do When Life Doesn't Make Sense" FBCTC 2010

My two bits on the World Cup so far...

2010-06-22T20:34:00.000-05:00

The third round of group play has begun and that means there are still 28 games left. No, it is not nearly over yet. And I'm glad. Much more, and possibly better, to come.

The vuvuzelas aren't that bad.

If you don't like soccer, that's ok- I don't like baseball. But please don't pretend you represent all of America by hating soccer and the fact it's on American television.

The jabulani affects this tourney, yes. But its the same ball for every game, every practice, every team. The outcomes are not being affected, only the goal count (yes, there is a difference).

ESPN's gamecast is definitely the best.

Semi-related info:
"Soccer" as opposed to "football"
Diplomatic England vs US banter

Link Bundle 5/14/10

2010-05-14T10:13:00.000-05:00

Fun:
How to survive a shark attack
How to write an awful worship song
Japan's WWII super sub
Interesting Golf Courses
The true story of Hunt for the Red October

And Serious:
Interesting interview w/ Mark Driscoll (interesting membership policy)
One Survivor of plan crash
A great little bit about child-like faith
Great little sermon tidbits from 9marks
6 words to open doors to sharing the gospel

Baby Boy #2

2010-05-13T12:25:00.001-05:00

Somewhat freaky skull shot

Future apologies, son.

Contemporvent Church

2010-05-10T10:18:00.002-05:00

My church is really nothing like this, but it's funny anyway.

"Sunday's Coming" Movie Trailer from North Point Media on Vimeo.

(Late) Mother's Day Video

2010-05-10T10:04:00.002-05:00

Hopefully an encouraging message for Moms from Stephen Curtis Chapman's song " One Little Heartbeat at a Time."

We go to church vs. we are the church

2010-05-05T08:20:00.002-05:00

Different spin:
"We need to put to rest the mantra: we don’t go to church, we are the church (45, 19). Membership is New Testament language (1 Cor. 12:12-20) and so is the language of coming together as a church (1 Cor. 11:18). Going to church is biblical. Being a member is biblical. Discipline is biblical (1 Cor. 5). Church oversight is biblical (Acts 20:28; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:1-7; 5:17). Submitting to your leaders is biblical, and so is making the care of church members a serious priority (Heb. 13:17)."

from review of Missional Renaissance

Kendrick Doesn't Like Grass

2010-05-03T08:09:00.006-05:00

The Skies

2010-04-29T09:37:00.000-05:00

A rendering of the sun based on temperature (red=cool, blue=hot).

A new series of images and videos from a new solar observatory.

Other Great Links:

Nifty nebula (old, but cool)
NASA crew's top ten sat photos
Main gallery for Hubble
"Hubble's Best"
Celestron Photo Contest winners

Link Bundle: Random 4/28/10

2010-04-28T12:20:00.001-05:00

Fun:
Comprehensive gallery of Calvin and Hobbes snow art strips
Learn British Accents
Collection of cake mistakes
Gallery of Hunting Trophies
Place to Visit: Giraffe Manor

And serious:
New Christian Fiction: The Sword, Google Books
Good little(huge) tidbits on Fathering
New Noah's Ark claim, AIG statement
Great Summary of Larry King's show w/ Jennifer Knapp (lesbian Christian musician)
Anchor from Paul's Shipwreck? Own a piece?

My experience in the healthcare industry in a nutshell

2010-04-27T09:29:00.000-05:00

via

plus "and someone else to pay for it."

Quotes from T4G

2010-04-23T16:44:00.000-05:00

“Jesus’ evangelism plan is the community of faith living out the gospel.” ~ Mark Dever
“The church is multi-ethnical, not multi-cultural.” ~ Thabiti Anyabwile
“Sow the gospel … go to sleep … and it will grow [as God desires].” ~ John MacArthur
“[On teaching simply ...] you can feed a child a steak, but if you love him you’ll cut it into little pieces.” ~ Josh Harris
“[I commend to you] a lifelong meditation on the 4 Gospels to more fully see and savor the glories of the Savior and fellowship with him.” ~ John Piper
“The power is not in you, the power is under the hood [in the gospel]!” ~ C.J. Mahaney
“Prepare your people for suffering.” ~ Mahaney with Matt Chandler

copied from Z

And some of my own faves:
"A manifestly unhealthy church will undermine our careful proclamation (of the gospel)."~Mark Dever
"This is only 'Your Best Life Now' if you're an unbeliever." ~ Al Mohler
"Most of you will be ordinary pastors."~ C.J Mahaney

How to summarize T4G?

2010-04-23T12:59:00.002-05:00

How do I say it was amazing without meaning other things aren't (because it was easy to feel that way there)?

How do I say the teaching from God's Word was exceptional without meaning God's Word was better there than anywhere else?

How do I say these speakers were great without meaning they were great rather than the God whose Words they spoke?

How do I say the atmosphere and worship was encouraging without meaning it was better than being at church?

How do I say that fellowship with other denominations was indeed a blessing without meaning I like them more?

How do I say I really appreciated Southern Baptists, Presbyterians, Reformed, and charismatic Sovereign Gracers without meaning I want to be one of them?

How do I say the free books were a definite highlight without sounding greedy?

I guess that will have to do.

Youth Group Lesson on Sex and Lust

2010-04-23T09:53:00.002-05:00

was interrupted by a former youth group quasi-member who stopped in to say "hi," decided he wasn't mature enough to stay for this topic, and parted with the advice, "When the time comes, use protection." Not at all how I envisioned my lesson going.

A Unique Week and a Half

2010-04-21T16:48:00.000-05:00

Tuesday, 4/6

one of our cars broke down (need both for this weekend)

Wednesday, 4/7

miraculously (by virtue of my total ignorance) able to fix car

Friday, 4/9

Christie heads to a wedding rehearsal in Southeast Iowa and I follow after work

Saturday, 4/10

diagnosed with walking pneumonia
Christie plays piano in wedding
meet (brother) Gabe's China team at parents' home, blow up aerosal paint cans

Sunday, 4/11

travel 2.5 hrs, then attend sister/bro-in-law's church in Broadwell, IL
5 more hours to Cincinatti
laptop stolen from hotel room while eating supper

Monday, 4/12

laptop "found" in parking lot
visit Creation Museum
visit Big Bone Lick State Park
2 hours to Louisville

Tuesday, 4/13

wait 2.5 hrs in registration line for T4G
mother's registration error prohibited her attendance
T4G!

Wednesday, 4/14

T4G!

Thursday, 4/15

T4G!
8 hrs home to parents house

Friday, 4/16

Christie and I have dinner and movie (Date Night)
Pulled over on way home
Given warning

Saturday, 4/17

Attend part of Spiritual Disciplines Conference w/ Don Whitney at CBC in MP
Drive home

God Singing in Zephaniah 3:17

2010-04-06T14:40:00.000-05:00

The Lord, your God, is in your midst,
a warrior who gives victory;
he will rejoice over you with gladness,
he will renew you in his love [literally: be silent in his love]
he will exult over you with loud singing.

When I think of the voice of God singing, I hear the booming of Niagara Falls mingled with the trickle of a mossy mountain stream. I hear the blast of Mt. St. Helens mingled with a kitten's purr. I hear the power of an East Coast hurricane and the barely audible puff of a night snow in the woods. And I hear the unimaginable roar of the sun 865,000 miles thick, one million three hundred thousand times bigger than the earth, and nothing but fire, 1,000,000 degrees centigrade, on the cooler surface of the corona. But I hear this unimaginable roar mingled with the tender, warm crackling of the living room logs on a cozy winter's night.

And when I hear this singing I stand dumbfounded, staggered, speechless that he is singing over me. He is rejoicing over my good with all his heart and with all his soul (cf. Jeremiah 32:41)!

from sermon by John Piper

Sinclair Ferguson- "I've only got two sermons"

2010-04-05T15:35:00.002-05:00

"...and they usually appear in the same sermon. I have a sermon on sin and I have a sermon on grace. And as long as I'm your minister, those are the only two sermons you'll hear: Sin and me, grace and Jesus Christ. And I'll preach those sermons in as many different and imaginative ways as I can."

-- quote from Panel Discussion at Next 09 Conference

One of the sweetest Easter illustrations I've heard of recently

2010-04-02T09:48:00.002-05:00

"The Grass Crown or Blockade Crown (Latin: corona obsidionalis or corona graminea) was the highest and rarest of all military decorations in the Roman Republic... It was presented only to a general or commander who broke the blockade around a beleaguered Roman army, thus saving a legion or the entire army. The crown was made from plant materials taken from the battlefield, including grasses, flowers, weeds, and various cereals, such as wheat; it was presented to the general by the army he had saved."

According to Pliny:
But as for the crown of grass, it was never conferred except at a crisis of extreme desperation, never voted except by the acclamation of the whole army, and never to any one but to him who had been its preserver. Other crowns were awarded by the generals to the soldiers, this alone by the soldiers, and to the general. This crown is known also as the "obsidional" crown, from the circumstance of a beleaguered army being delivered, and so preserved from fearful disaster. wiki

It's amazing to see the parallels of this in Christ's Crown on Thorns, especially as drawn out in Why a Crown? by Brock and Bodie Thone.

Christ was presented a crown of thorns at His death, at His victory over sin, in which he rescued a besieged army, mankind. He rescued them from an enemy greater than Roman occupation and earned a crown other than the one the crowd wanted to offer Him a few days earlier. While it was presented as a statement of scorn, the killers offering it were unknowingly the rescued allies, offering the crown to their delivering general. The corona obsidionalis was made from thorns, the plants from the field of this battle against God that mankind has been fighting since the fall.

Sunday's Coming

2010-04-02T08:34:00.001-05:00

A great video from S.M. Lockridge, of "That's My King" fame

via

Normal Christian families and....the other people

2010-03-30T13:43:00.002-05:00

While musing recently on the demographics of the (universal) church, I was considering how certain Christian life things seem to be more complicated for the Christian population that comes from broken homes or non-Christian homes.

For instance, a man who grew up without a Christian father may experience hesitation from a future spouse and/or father-in-law because he may not understand what it means to be a Christian husband and father. The same for a child of divorced parents, and the same may be true for either example if he were looking to get into ministry.

I realized while musing thus that I have been thinking incorrectly about this Christian population, but not in regards to how we should respond to these brothers and sisters. While those experiences can be disproportionate and unfair, they may not always be wrong. What I thought was wrong was that I viewed these phenomena as a minority, and exception to the rule. What do we do with people who don't grow up in Christian homes and have good Christian instruction?

First, I needed to understand that everybody has a deficient upbringing. No one had a perfect childhood (duh).

Second, I needed to realize that brothers and sisters in Christ that have grown up without Christian parents or with divorced parents, or Christians saved in their 50's that don't have believing children should not be a minority. They are not an anomaly. If we are doing evangelism right, we will be taking the Gospel to to the unsaved at all stages of life and, by God's grace, welcoming new believers from every walk of life.

This, of course, does not discount the necessity and joy of families training up children in righteousness and many generations sharing a spiritual family as well. But, while we want this, we should just as often have a young mother/new believer relearning how to parent, a new believer teen boy learning how to be a man because his dad wasn't, and couples getting happily married even though their parents divorced. This should be happening as often as "normal" Christian families.

Fear when Jesus calmed the storm

2010-03-30T10:39:00.000-05:00

The only thing more frightening than being in a small boat in the middle of a big storm is being in a small boat with a man who shouts at big storms and succeeds.

from Kevin DeYoung, who gave a great sermon on this topic at Next 09

Some pictorial highlights of Oregon

2010-03-25T16:10:00.000-05:00

Fun around the Slaughterhouse

At Silver Creek Falls

At the Coast

Russel Moore on Healthcare, March Madenss, and Christians

2010-03-22T12:05:00.002-05:00

If we were half as outraged by our own sin and self-deception as we are by the follies of our political opponents, what would be the result? If we rejoiced as much that our names are written in heaven as we do about such trivialities as basketball brackets, what would be the result?

whole article

Definition of Abortion

2010-03-19T16:35:00.000-05:00

...according to a Planned Parenthood pamphlet in 1952.

via

Did you know...

2010-03-18T17:32:00.000-05:00

that part of Lewis and Clark's mission was to search for
mammoths because of an extreme interest from
Thomas Jefferson?

NatGeo

Truth and Love

2010-03-18T10:50:00.000-05:00

Tim Chester:

Love without truth is like doing heart surgery with a wet fish.
But truth without love is like doing heart surgery with a hammer.

via

Further, love (grace) without truth is not true love. And Truth without love is not true truth.
(Grace and truth- John 1:14)

Love cannot be expressed to another if truth is withheld. I cannot love an unbeliever and not tell them they are a sinner. The most loving thing I can do for them is to tell them the truth. Withhold that, and I am not loving.

Truth cannot be offered without love. I cannot share the truth, from one sinner to another, without first acknowledging that grace was extended to me and the same is offered to the recipient of my truth. If I speak truth in condemnation, lacking grace for the hearer, and forget the grace shown me, I am not sharing the whole truth.

Largest Tidal Wave in History- this blows my mind

2010-03-04T12:23:00.007-06:00

Due to the recurring theme of earthquakes and with the tidal wave scare in the recent Chile earthquake tragedy, I stumbled across this mind-blowing account:

On July 9, 1958, an earthquake (registering between 7.9 and 8.3 on the Richter Scale) in Lituya Bay, Alaska caused an enormous slab of rock (30.6 million cubic meters) to fall from its perch over the bay. It fell approximately 3000 feet into the water. This impact, concurrent with other seismic activities (tectonic movements, glacial lake drainage) caused the largest recorded tidal wave, also known as one of the few megatsunamis. The wave surged out toward sea and cleared the land of its trees and debris. Immediately near the impact site, trees were cleared from the slope face as high as 1720 feet!

geology.com, wiki

I want some of that cheese

2010-03-03T10:42:00.003-06:00

Bob- palindromes by Weird Al

2010-03-03T09:47:00.001-06:00

All lyrics are palindromes- not one huge palindrome, just one after the other.

The Worst Lip-synching ever

2010-03-02T12:03:00.001-06:00

Here.
Followed by one of the scariest music videos ever.

Which is correct?

2010-02-27T13:48:00.006-06:00

"People should not be afraid of their government, the government should be afraid of their people"

- V for Vendetta

"For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer."
-Rom. 13:3-4

or are they the same?

The Short Room

2010-02-26T11:56:00.000-06:00

Trying to find satisfaction (or meaning or purpose) in something in this world is like trying to stand up in a 3-foot tall room.

Some Star Wars Humor

2010-02-25T16:07:00.000-06:00

Books/stories I would like to see made into (better) movies

2010-02-25T13:35:00.000-06:00

Inspired by the coming epic Robin Hood, I would love to see these in similar epic form:
*Book vs Movie

Treasure Island- Muppets was great for comedy, but there's a real story there that could be a dramatic, action-packed masterpiece.

Scarlet Pimpernel- The TV special wasn't bad, but there's more that could be done- not switching the ending for starters.

Swiss Family Robinson- The old Disney bit was great, especially for kids. But some of the more romanticized elements (more elaborate treehouse, pirates) could be traded for others already in story that would make a great movie. It would probably not be fast-paced, but it would not be lacking in variety, interestingness, and action (shipwreck, lions, bears, snakes, etc).

Ender's Game- a sci-fi I actually enjoyed about a child prodigy saving the world from aliens. Rumors of it being made...

The Relic- the movie definitely could have been better.

Timeline- decent movie, could have been bigger and better.

Carlos Hathcock- The greatest sniper in American, perhaps world, history to date. Some spectacular mission chronicled in One Shot, One Kill, Marine Sniper, and Silent Warrior that would offer some great screen time

Lone Survivor- The story of a 4-man Navy Seal Team in Afghanistan with one survivor, Marcus Luttrel. rumors of it being made...

Ghost Soldiers- the movie The Great Raid was not terrible, but could have been better.

The Circle Trilogy- If you know the Circle trilogy, I don't need to describe it. 'Twould be simply awesome. I personally, though,could do without Green and just leave it at the Trilogy.

Bourne Trilogy- the recent Identity was great, but I would love to see a movie with the other half of the plot included. Perhaps the TV miniseries is more accurate. The book and the movie of Bourne Supremacy are approximately equal in quality, though they resemble each other to a very small degree. I do credit the movie trilogy, though, with ending better than the books.

Halo- a seeming no-brainer, but I'm not actually sure what I will think of passively seeing something I'm used to actively playing. Still, it would be an opportunity for impressive filmmaking. We shall see.

Obviously, the rest of Narnia- being made
and the Hobbit- being made
and the Bible, but specifically:
The story of David- in my mind I see a LOTR-esque series- trilogy or miniseries. Some great plots and characters and drama and intrigue and, of-course, action.

The story of Paul- also, a potential screen epic. The drama, the dangers, and a great opportunity to portray what Paul taught and how he magnified Christ.

others...?

I have mixed feelings about this.

2010-02-22T08:09:00.002-06:00

On the positive side, Kendrick's creativity is growing. He started this performance entirely without instruction or suggestion.

On the negative side, I'm not sure figure skaters are the athletes I want Kendrick to emulate. At least he was decidedly more masculine in dress.

Politico-Geographical Oddities

2010-02-16T15:45:00.000-06:00

See these points on GoogleMaps.

The uninhabited 8.2 acre island (Market Island) split between nations:
wiki

The parts of the US accessible by foot only through Canada:
Point Roberts, WA
wiki

The Northwest Angle, MN
wiki

Elm Point, MN (right below Northwest Angle)
wiki

Alburgh, VT (accessible by bridge from US)
wiki

The part of Kentucky only accessible by land through Tennesee:
wiki

The hodge-podge of Baarle-Hertog:
wiki

The territory stranded behind the Iron Curtain, Kalinigrad Oblast:
wiki

The countries entirely landlocked by another country:
San Marino
wiki
CIA World Fact Book

The Vatican
wiki

Lesotho
wiki
CIA World Factbook

The countries that span two continents:

Russia
Kazakhsta
Azerbaijan and Georgia
Turkey
Egypt

Some Interesting Volcanic Eruptions

2010-02-15T09:34:00.003-06:00

Eruption 3km under water near Samoa:

via CNN

Eruption at the surface in Tonga

via MSNBC

excellent still:

Eruption of Mt. Erebus in Antarctica seen from space:

via Nasa

Two reasons we don't know where the Garden of Eden is

2010-02-11T10:11:00.001-06:00

We don't know where the ark drifted in relation to its point of departure.

During and at the end of the flood, the geography was changed.

Robert E. Lee on why we need history

2010-02-11T09:40:00.000-06:00

"The truth is this: The march of Providence is so slow and our desires so impatient; the work of progress is so immense and our means of aiding it so feeble; the life of humanity is so long, that of the individual so brief, that we often see only the ebb of the advancing wave and are thus discouraged. It is history that teaches us to hope."

Great, packed lyrics in this mild rap/poem

2010-02-09T15:41:00.000-06:00

Shai Linne with "Spread His Fame." from Grace EV Free on Vimeo.

Kendrick Photo Update

2010-02-09T11:47:00.000-06:00

Halloween Costume (I know, old):

Christmastime Stunt:

The Yucky Face:

Book vs Movie

2010-02-05T09:49:00.004-06:00

It doesn't have to be a battle, but it often is. There are elements of the story that each magnify and handle better than the other, and that's why I want both. Ultimately, I understand that truth is communicated by words (John 1:1,14; 17:17) and books have a pretty big monopoly on those. But movies aren't' devoid of words (dialogue, etc) or purpose, because they offer a visual that books can't dream of. I enjoy using my imagination when I read and I like to see the visuals realized or enhanced by movies- I'm not of the opinion that movies destroy the need for imagination. So, in telling a story, the book and the movie have their place.

But I want them to work together, not against each other or one letting the other one down. In most cases, the second to come out, whether book or movie, is worse/weaker than the first (Timeline, Last of the Mohicans) or a departure from the original (Scarlet Pimpernel, Bourne Trilogy, Prince Caspian). I don't understand all that goes into filmmaking, but I'm still not sure you can call it the same story if you change it to "fit the screen" instead of going how the book went.

If Jack Bauer were my Pastor- by Stephen Altrogge

2010-02-05T09:31:00.000-06:00

Great Stuff.

Reading While Walking

2010-02-04T12:20:00.002-06:00

...caused me to run my head into a low-hanging pipe in my parking garage yesterday. I'm pretty certain it happened in front of a person sitting in his car.

Tolerance of Violence

2010-02-04T12:17:00.001-06:00

Regarding violence in entertainment, I don't think the question in many Christian's minds is whether or not violence is inherently wrong to see/read. I think the question for many (and myself) is whether the violence presented is tolerable or too much. Or in other words, does it contribute to the story or is it unnecessarily dwelling on evil? Answers to the last two questions will vary by person...

Culture and Church by Ryken

2010-01-29T12:27:00.001-06:00

"It is always dangerous for the church to marry the spirit of the age, for soon it will become a widow."
-Phillip Graham Ryken, from a sermon clip I just listened to on the emerging church downloaded from SermonAudio.com

Nifty Wallpapers- UPDATED

2010-01-27T15:28:00.000-06:00

I could never use all these- I change my wallpaper approximately every 4 months. But still, very nifty.
National Geographic
UPDATED Other Links: 1, 2

example:

Violence

2010-01-20T17:06:00.000-06:00

I am aware that our society is increasingly receptive to violence as entertainment. Yes, video games, movies, tv shows and news have saturated our lives with violence. But I'm still convinced that ours is one of the softest societies in history.

Let me offer more disclaimers and qualifications before I explain. I know we have our share of sickos who do live on violence and an entire generation of video gamers who vicariously enjoy it or tolerate in huge amounts. That is not in question. Nor is my suggestion that we're soft an appeal to hearken back to colder, bloodier days.

I'm just saying we're not as tough as we think we are. We could not stomach a victorious general putting to sword a whole conquered city, like Joshua or Scipio or Vlad the Impaler. We really couldn't go along with dismembering enemies to teach them a lesson, like the Romans or Crusaders or Huns.I don't think many of us would put to death a rival's entire family like ancient and middle age and 17th century dynasties. We certainly can't tolerate more than 3000 casualties in a decade of war, let alone tens or hundreds of thousands a day as in the Civil and Great Wars. In fact, I think most of us, from the casual first-person-shooter gamer to the bloodlusting-horror-movie-and-9-hours-a-day-shooting-aliens-and-civilians-just-for-fun freaks would wet our pants if we found ourselves in the same century as some of history's worst, let alone face-to-face.

History has already borne out how quickly rampant and unnecessary violence can become the stuff of everyday- Roman Gladiators, the French Revolution- so let us beware. The fascination with violence could quickly become a culture of violence, as history repeats itself...

Calling 911

2010-01-20T16:09:00.000-06:00

So, I called 911 for the first time (on purpose) yesterday. I reported an obviously drunk driver. This happened at 6:20 am. Kinda fun.

My God I Love Thee

2010-01-20T16:04:00.000-06:00

My God, I love Thee; not because
I hope for Heav’n thereby,
Nor yet because who love Thee not
May eternally die.
Thou, O my Jesus, Thou didst me
Upon the cross embrace;
For me didst bear the nails and spear,
And manifold disgrace.

And griefs and torments numberless,
And sweat of agony;
E’en death itself; and all for man
Who was Thine enemy.
Then why, O blessed Jesus Christ
Should I not love Thee well?
Not for the hope of winning Heaven,
Nor of escaping hell.

Not with the hope of gaining aught,
Nor seeking a reward,
But as Thyself hast loved me,
O everlasting Lord!
E’en so I love Thee, and will love,
And in Thy praise will sing,
Solely because Thou art my God,
And my eternal King.

Words by: Unknown
Recommended Performances: GLAD, A Capella Project III

Earthquakes (plural)

2010-01-19T12:11:00.001-06:00

Haiti is certainly devastated as was Sichaun two years ago. Drudge showed that Grand Cayman just got rocked, but not devastated. According to the USGS, there are quite a few earthquakes every day (as I write, one in Chile within the last hour) and thankfully not many of them carry the destruction and loss as in Haiti.

Caffiene chart

2010-01-12T09:51:00.002-06:00

Two drums and a cymbal fall off a cliff

2010-01-11T09:48:00.000-06:00

b'doom, tchhhh

via

It Feels Like Hoth

2009-12-31T17:53:00.000-06:00

according to this reputable weather site.

Stuff about Antarctica- becaue its cold and it feels like its Antarctic

2009-12-31T17:41:00.001-06:00

Antarctica is the 5th largest continent, larger than Australia and Europe.

It is smaller geographically than Russia.

Antarctica vs USA

Antarctica vs Europe

It is obviously covered by ice, but there is very little actual land in comparison.

via Wikipedia, CIA Factbook

My Top 17 Books of the year

2009-12-31T17:13:00.002-06:00

I can't pick just 10, like everyone else. I also won't link to Amazon like everyone else, because I won't make any money off of it and you're not likely to buy one from my recommendation. I will, however, be linking to my reviews of them whenever they get accomplished.

(in no particular order)
Christian Non-Fiction:
When Sinners Say "I Do" by Dave Harvey
Why We Love the Church by Kevin DeYoung and Ted Kluck
Just Do Something by Kevin DeYoung
This Momentary Marriage by John Piper
Instruments in the Redeemers Hands by Paul David Tripp
The Deliberate Church by Mark Dever and Paul Alexander
Stop Dating the Church by Joshua Harris
Instructing a Child's Heart by Ted and Margy Tripp
Humility by C.J Mahaney

Sex, Romance, and the Glory of God by C.J. Mahaney
Life in the Father's House by Wayne Mack and David Swavely
Relationships by Paul Tripp and Tim Lane
Why Government Can't Save You by John MacArthur

Fiction:
Ezekiel Option by Joel Rosenberg
The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C.S. Lewis
The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy

Other:
Scipio Africanus: Greater than Napoleon by B.H.Liddell Hart

Amos 5:18-20 and Christmas

2009-12-29T14:45:00.000-06:00

Christmas is a time that many people focus on peace, joy, happiness, and the baby in the manger. Unfortunately, many who dwell on such things (and there are admittedly many that don't) have the wrong understanding of the true nature of these concepts. Such were some Jews in regards to the day of the Lord when Amos 5:18-20 was written:

Woe to you who long
       for the day of the LORD!
       Why do you long for the day of the LORD ?
       That day will be darkness, not light.

¹⁹ It will be as though a man fled from a lion
       only to meet a bear,
       as though he entered his house
       and rested his hand on the wall
       only to have a snake bite him.

²⁰ Will not the day of the LORD be darkness, not light—
pitch-dark, without a ray of brightness?

What woe will be to those who only think they're actually celebrating Christmas (and Easter), to the stereotypical biannual church attenders. What is coming because the baby came in the manger will not be peace and joy for all.

Ode to Reggie White

2009-12-26T08:24:00.002-06:00

Reggie White- The Minister of Defense

All-Pro NFL Lineman and Record Holder

Ordained Baptist Minister

12/19/1961- 12/26/2004

Joseph's Lullaby

2009-12-20T18:52:00.002-06:00

Go to sleep my Son
This manger for your bed
You have a long road before You
Rest Your little head

Can You feel the weight of Your glory?
Do You understand the price?
Does the Father guard Your heart for now
So You can sleep tonight?

Go to sleep my Son
Go and chase Your dreams
This world can wait for one more moment
Go and sleep in peace

I believe the glory of Heaven
Is lying in my arms tonight
Lord, I ask that He for just this moment
Simply be my child

Go to sleep my Son
Baby, close Your eyes
Soon enough You'll save the day
But for now, dear Child of mine
Oh my Jesus, Sleep tight

lyrics by MercyMe
recommended performance: MercyMe (The Christmas Sessions)

World's Largest Snake(s)-

2009-12-19T15:08:00.001-06:00

(for my sisters)

Despite many claims and widely circulated photo-shopped proofs of monster serpents, the actual record in length is 28.5 feet. A captive reticulated python was so measured at the Pittsburgh Zoo in the 1950s. No other claims for length record have been substantiated with actual measurements, despite a reward once offered by the New York Zoological society for $50,000 for such evidence.

The record for weight is held by the anaconda species in general. I actually found no specific weight record (in my cursory search) but estimates for the species range from 330- 550 lbs.

Both are constrictors and not venomous. The reticulated python inhabits Southeastern Asia, while the anaconda hails from South America. Similar constrictors (the boa) also populate South America, Africa and Australia (other python species).

Fossils of the largest ever have popped up recently, for an animal measuring and estimated 43ft in length.

For perspective:

A bull snake (5ft)- the largest of my territory in Iowa:

the record live reticulated python (28.5 ft):

the fossil (43ft):

How did the Star of Jesus happen?

2009-12-19T13:40:00.000-06:00

There are two basic categories of explanation:

1) God caused it to appear by means consistent with scientific law (i.e., three stars converging in their normal routes, supernova, etc)
2) God caused it to appear by means outside of scientific law (i.e., star appearing for just wise men, etc)

The first, while containing God in the natural order, does still require the truth of God's sovereignty and omniscience. Three stars converging or a supernova occurring at exactly the right time could only be perfectly arranged by a Sovereign God with advanced omniscience.

The second is the very definition of a miracle- God's hand at work outside of the natural order, as opposed to the consistent sovereignty and providence by which God administers the world.

I personally think it could have been either- God at work through natural or miraculous means. In the end, it accomplished its intended purpose.

I do wonder, though, why some go to such great lengths to prove the scientific realities of this occurrence. It is the same with the the long days of Joshua, Hezekiah, etc. While not knowing, from the Scripture accounts, whether these events were natural or miraculous, Christians often feel the compulsion to offer naturalistic possibilities. Again, these explanations may have been the means God used, but we cannot be sure. The fickle nature of scientific "fact" could only give credence to a Biblical "miracle" for a short time and likely never to a "scientific community" intent on ignoring the scientific method and God's revealed Word.

We don't need NASA's confirmation to believe that it happened. We don't need to be able to explain it to make it real. And, like the rich man of Luke 16, unbelieving scientists or critics will not come to belief because of "proof" if they've rejected the Word.

So, whether natural or miracle, let us rejoice that it happened and that it made known the incarnation of God. That's what we need the world to know.

Snowfall Matters- UPDATED

2009-12-18T09:52:00.001-06:00

Since we got our first tangible snowfall last night (other than the 10/9 soliloquy), I researched record snowfalls. I'm simultaneously despondent and grateful I don't live in Thompson Pass, Alaska.

	Inches	Station Name	State	Date
Greatest daily snowfall	63	GEORGETOWN	CO	12/04/1913
Greatest 2-day snowfall	120.6	THOMPSON PASS	AK	12/30/1955
Greatest 3-day snowfall	147	THOMPSON PASS	AK	12/30/1955
Greatest 4-day snowfall	163	THOMPSON PASS	AK	12/30/1955
Greatest 5-day snowfall	175.4	THOMPSON PASS	AK	12/31/1955
Greatest 6-day snowfall	172.6	THOMPSON PASS	AK	02/24/1953
Greatest 7-day snowfall	186.9	THOMPSON PASS	AK	02/25/1953
Greatest monthly snowfall total	313	TAMARACK	CA	03/1907
Greatest Aug-July snowfall total	974.1	THOMPSON PASS	AK	1953
Greatest daily Snow Depth	293	RAINIER PARADISE	WA	04/12/1974

UPDATE: Valdez, AK- 68 inches 12/17/09

from NOAA, via Factcheck.org

Heartwarming Christmas Messages

2009-12-17T11:56:00.000-06:00

Chrsitmas Book Giveaway!

2009-12-17T11:17:00.000-06:00

Via Trevin Wax. Lots of books I've read and like or have on my wish list.

I think this was written about my blog

2009-12-08T14:05:00.000-06:00

Why Blogs Fail- especially #2 and #7

Nationalities you may have never heard of

2009-12-05T10:37:00.007-06:00

Azeri- Azerbaijan (Also Azerbaijani)

Basotho- Lesotho

Burkinabe- Burkina Faso

Cypriot- Cyprus

Ivorian- Cote d'Voire

Kirgiz- Kyrgyzstan (also Kyrgysztani)

Magyar- Hungary (also Hungarian)

Manx- Isle of Man

Monegasque- Monaco (also Monacan)

Motswana- Botswana

Timorese- East Timor

via Wikipedia

Happy RamaHanaKwanzmas

2009-12-05T09:25:00.000-06:00

from Glenn Beck

Accomplishment at Work!

2009-11-20T18:10:00.000-06:00

Today, I received a call from Wyoming which is the last of the 50 states from which I have received calls at work (+ Canada, Puerto Rico, and even Japan). There are 3 areas of the 50 states from which I have yet to receive calls and 24 other area codes that dually cover area codes I've already received.

So...

The Ultimate Christian Novel

2009-11-20T10:46:00.000-06:00

by Tim Challies. Hilarious.

"There's something wrong in the world, and the Bible says..."

2009-11-13T18:40:00.001-06:00

Many a (Christian) (non-fiction) book starts by revealing a current and/or cultural problem to set the stage for its solution. The Bible is (rightfully) trumped in as the solution, but sometimes it worries me. Not because the Bible is used, of course, but how. There is a difference in saying:

"The Bible says that we can fix the Christian/church/family/marriage/world by doing this and that, because things always used to be this way and we need to get back to the good old days and then the Christian/church/family/marriage/world will glorify God."

"The Bible says that we should be doing this and thinking that, even if the culture isn't changed or if trials still come or if I still fail at times, because man has always needed God's grace and we still need it in the same ways, and God will be glorified as we change and grow."

I see many books that seem to operate under the former assumption, as do I personally at times.When faced with a problem to which the world has no answer, let us be sure how we then use the Bible (note to self, especially if I ever write a book) for a solution.

This day in history...

2009-11-13T17:20:00.002-06:00

39 years ago, the deadliest cyclone in history struck East Pakistan (modern Bangladesh), killing est. 500,000, more than doubling even the Indian Ocean earthquake of 2004. The Bhola cyclone was a category 3, reaching winds up to 130mph.

What I didn't know (before today):

That it happened.
That the handling of disaster relief caused political turmoil in Pakistan and led to the formation of Bangledesh.

What's left at the end of the story

2009-10-24T12:28:00.000-05:00

It's not just bad stories that leave us wanting when they're over. Even good stories are followed by a void, the reader wanting more. It does not suggest that the story was not well-written or not worth it, only that it was created by a human being. And it is a good thing. The story may or may not serve a purpose in the actual reading and the lingering memories, but it will not ultimately satisfy the reader.

There is one story that will not leave us wanting, and that is the story of God's plan for the ages. Only when it's over will we truly understand the story and truly be satisfied.

Kendrick Update

2009-10-07T09:26:00.004-05:00

How many nuclear blasts since 1945 (including tests)?

2009-09-28T14:31:00.004-05:00

And a little nuclear humor: The Chernobyl Nesting Doll

Laminin by Louie Giglio

2009-09-25T08:11:00.000-05:00

I saw this video a time ago, as you may have, so it's past its youtube time. Nevertheless, 'tis interesting.

Does this mean that the fulfillment of Col. 1:17, that all things hold together in Christ, is laminin? No, but it is not coincidence, either.

Which is Correct?

2009-09-22T13:29:00.002-05:00

"Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed,"- from the Declaration of Independence

vs.

"for there is no power but of God; and the powers that be are ordained of God."- from Romans 13:1

Governments you may have never heard of (or properly distinguished)

2009-09-18T14:37:00.001-05:00

Diarchy (or dyarchy) is a form of government in which two diarchs are the heads of state.

An emirate is a political territory that is ruled by a dynastic Muslim Monarch styled emir.

Plutocracy (plutarchy) is rule by the wealthy, or power provided by wealth.

A stratocracy is a form of government headed by military chiefs. It is not the same as a military dictatorship where the military's political power is not enforced or even supported by other laws. In a stratocracy the state and the military are traditionally the same thing and government positions are always occupied by military leaders.

A timocracy is either:

a state where only property owners may participate in government
a government where rulers are selected and perpetuated based on the degree of honour they hold relative to others in their society, peer group or class

Ochlocracy is government by mob or a mass of people, or the intimidation of constitutional authorities.

An isocracy is a form of government where all citizens have equal political power.

Minarchism refers to a political ideology which maintains that the state's only legitimate function is the protection of individuals from aggression.

An Oligarchy is a form of government in which power effectively rests with a small elite segment of society distinguished by royal, wealth, intellectual, family, military or religious hegemony.

via the inscrutable wikipedia.

The Top %7.16

2009-08-24T11:23:00.002-05:00

...Richest People in the world. Me? Wow.

via Global Rich List

I'm bored with musicians' wardrobes.

2009-08-22T15:00:00.000-05:00

Whether it's the punk/trying-to-be-different-just-like-every-other-musician look or too-classy/I-bought-these-clothes-just-for-the-photoshoot-or-performance look, why can't musicians just be normal? Especially Christian musicians who are trying to promote a message instead of themselves. I want to see a guy in a solid-color polo and jeans at the next concert. Without a beret or some other funky hat.

* I willing and thankfully note exceptions to this phenomenon.

On Location: Gettysburg

2009-08-22T12:36:00.001-05:00

Just one of many (easily hundreds) monuments, though arguably the largest. Erected by the State of Pennsylvania in honor of its citizens involved in the battle.

From atop the monument: the battlefield under a blanket of early morning mist. I definitely recommend early morning- cool, serene, not busy. The enormous visitor center wasn't open as early as we went, but I'm sure it has much to offer as well.

The Gettysburg Address.

The focus of Pickett's Charge. The stone wall is original and a major focus of the battle, as was this copse of trees.

From atop Little Round Top, the scene of Chamberlain's defense and much sharpshooting.

One of the better historical sites I've been to. I enjoyed it despite the tragedy it represents and the many questions it brings up.

On funeral attendance

2009-08-22T10:58:00.000-05:00

Something I read recently caused me to think about the relationship of one's life service and his funeral attendance.

I read a fictional story of a soldier slain in combat and the following funeral, which was highly attended. My first thought was that it would be nice, if one died young, to have that many people who had been impacted by his life to be able to honor the deceased.

Then I thought that, while I know God will do what He wills, a long life allowing more ministry would also allow me to outlive those ministered to or at least their memory of me, leaving the glory to God and not this common vessel.

On Location: Other Philadelphia Historical Sites

2009-08-21T12:35:00.000-05:00

Tenth Presbyterian Church:

Philadelphia City Hall:
Old City Hall- the first Supreme Court

Christ Church- built 1695, place of worship and resting place of historical figures:

Elfreth's Alley- the oldest intact residential street in the USA. And I'm pretty sure people live there.
Don't remember, but classic Philly old look.
First War Office (right) and house of First Continental Congress (middle)

On Location: Liberty Bell and Independence Hall

2009-08-21T12:34:00.000-05:00

The Liberty Bell
Kendrick will appreciate it someday, if not today.
While a monsoon carried on out of doors, we saw as much inside as we could. Thankfully it didn't last all day.
I always thought it was a little bigger, but it was still nifty. There was a great display retracing its role as the symbol of American freedom.

Independence Hall:

The signing room.

The spot on the tour where you can escape upstairs, get out on the roof, and find clues to Masonic secrets.

That would be a very quiet Washington

2009-08-10T17:16:00.003-05:00

Book Report-- Debunking 9/11 Myths

2009-08-10T15:10:00.003-05:00

Debunking 9/11 Myths L, G
by David Dunbar and Brad Regan from Popular Mechanics

Non-Fiction

Which is correct?

2009-08-10T13:03:00.003-05:00

"The enemy of my enemy is my friend."
or
"Whoever is not for us is against us. (Matt. 12:30)"
?

In foreign policy: Alliance w/ Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Russia, etc

vs
War on terror

(no endorsement of any specific president's foreign policy intended)

Book Report-- The Man-eating Leopard of Rudraprayag

2009-08-10T12:36:00.000-05:00

The Man-eating Leopard of Rudraprayag M
by Jim Corbett

Non-fiction

Definitely recommend for hunter/readers: Of the hunting books I've read, this is one of the best-told stories. It is also one of the most remarkable stories in and of itself. Man-eaters are always a sad thing, but this author who was also the successful hunter handles the loss of human life and wildlife conservation in a fair manner.

The Monkees spoof w/ creationism

2009-08-08T11:11:00.002-05:00

Not a great video, but the imitation in the music is great and the lyrics are terribly witty and true.

Knolledge and Wisdom

On Understanding Trials in the Scope of God's Sovereignty

Some humor from WWI Hero Sergeant York

The sublime lyrics of The Gospel Song

Kendrick Getting Tickled

Two good quotes on the balance of Church and Mission

Spurgeon on Being "Fashioable"

Top Youth Group Movies

Ultimate catch in Ultimate Frisbee

Screwtape Letters Radio Theater

Man's Inability in Numbers 20:10-12

Alternate Acronyms for PETA

Fatih and Reason according to Paul Tripp

My two bits on the World Cup so far...

Link Bundle 5/14/10

Baby Boy #2

Contemporvent Church

(Late) Mother's Day Video

We go to church vs. we are the church

Other Back-logged Kendrick Videos

Kendrick Doesn't Like Grass

The Skies

Link Bundle: Random 4/28/10

My experience in the healthcare industry in a nutshell

Quotes from T4G

How to summarize T4G?

Youth Group Lesson on Sex and Lust

A Unique Week and a Half

God Singing in Zephaniah 3:17

Sinclair Ferguson- "I've only got two sermons"

One of the sweetest Easter illustrations I've heard of recently

Sunday's Coming

Normal Christian families and....the other people

Fear when Jesus calmed the storm

Some pictorial highlights of Oregon

Russel Moore on Healthcare, March Madenss, and Christians

Definition of Abortion

Did you know...

Truth and Love

Largest Tidal Wave in History- this blows my mind

I want some of that cheese

Bob- palindromes by Weird Al

The Worst Lip-synching ever

Which is correct?

The Short Room

Some Star Wars Humor

Books/stories I would like to see made into (better) movies

I have mixed feelings about this.

Politico-Geographical Oddities

Some Interesting Volcanic Eruptions

Two reasons we don't know where the Garden of Eden is

Robert E. Lee on why we need history

Great, packed lyrics in this mild rap/poem

Kendrick Photo Update

Book vs Movie

If Jack Bauer were my Pastor- by Stephen Altrogge

Reading While Walking

Tolerance of Violence

Culture and Church by Ryken

Nifty Wallpapers- UPDATED

Violence

Calling 911

My God I Love Thee

Earthquakes (plural)

Caffiene chart

Two drums and a cymbal fall off a cliff

It Feels Like Hoth

Stuff about Antarctica- becaue its cold and it feels like its Antarctic

My Top 17 Books of the year

Amos 5:18-20 and Christmas

Ode to Reggie White

Joseph's Lullaby

World's Largest Snake(s)-

How did the Star of Jesus happen?

Snowfall Matters- UPDATED

Heartwarming Christmas Messages

Chrsitmas Book Giveaway!

I think this was written about my blog

Nationalities you may have never heard of

Happy RamaHanaKwanzmas