Beholding the Beauty

From Apostolic Observation , by Fr. Patrick Reardon . [I]t is fundamental to the Christian faith that we are not saved by an idea, not even a religious and moral idea, but by God's direct intrusion into our history. This is the quote I originally started this post for, but here's the next paragraph, which, to me, is just awesome! This affirmation, we contend, pertains to the very essence of the Christian faith as expressed in its earliest formulation by St. Peter: "Therefore let all the house of Israel know assuredly that God has made this Jesus, whom you crucified, both Lord and Christ." This is the event by which human history acquires significance and every human life receives the offer of salvation. 'Nough said.

I've posted a lot on theological issues, and a couple of times on political issues. But I haven't really posted much on my life. A conversation with some (relatively new, but fairly awesome) friends recently has put it in my mind to write a short (by necessity) biography of my life so far. So that's in the works. But for this post, I just wanted to give a quick rundown of some things I've enjoyed recently. Here they are, in whatever order popped into my head at the moment. :) I very much enjoyed Becoming Orthodox , by Fr. Peter Gillquist. A couple of weeks ago, I went with a group from church to the Holy Virgin Cathedral in San Francisco for their Annual Lenten Retreat . I'm currently reading Changes , by Jim Butcher. It's pretty good so far! I need to get together with some friends for "powder therapy" (read: fun at the shooting range) again soon. :) I'm currently (like, as I type) listening to Ancient Faith Radio streaming live. I've a...

It has been nearly two months since I posted anything on here. Here are my excuses. :) I have been extremely busy, especially with Lent. I have several posts in the works (drafts), but I've not had the time to finish them. Hey, I'm posting now, am I not? LOL I'm exploring a much richer, deeper, older tradition of the church than the one I have, until recently, participated in; and the more I learn the less I know. Or at least, the more there is on which I feel I'm being completely arrogant to render an opinion. I sincerely hope that problem #4 never goes away, although I do hope it diminishes somewhat. I will still continue to post, but please just take the posts for what they are: my opinion, at the moment. There are certainly some things that are "written in stone," as it were. But not nearly everything I write or say. Ok, enough for now. Back to work for Steve. :)

I just finished reading this post, entitled "Why women cannot be head pastors", by C. Michael Patton, whose insights I usually find spot on. However, I must disagree with his argument on this one, for the simple reason that it's not rooted in anything but a generalization, as several of the egalitarians, and a couple of the complementarians even, have pointed out in the comments (to his post, not this one — as of the time of writing at least). I am a complementarian as well, and as such it pains me to see this kind of argument being offered, because of it's weakness. Since it comes from someone who normally offers great insights, my fear is that people will get the impression, as one commenter did, that this is the best complementarians have to offer. EDIT 2/16/2010 10:33PM PST: Mr. Patton has clarified that he was not making an argument for complementarianism, but rather speculating on God's reason for the design, assuming it's true. However, I believe t...

I absolutely love this song! I sang it this morning, and could not contain the joy and gladness that the Holy Spirit wrought in me by it. God's Perfect Lamb by Ron Hamilton God spoke to Israel, "Bring Me a sacrifice, Morning and evening, ev'ry day. Offer a spotless lamb, without a blemish. This is the command you must obey." Daily the lambs were brought. Daily the blood was shed, Laid on the altar built by man. Then at the perfect time, God said to Israel, "I will now provide the perfect Lamb." At God's appointed time, Jesus, Messiah, came To make the sacrifice for all sin. No longer bring a lamb, Jesus has paid the price, Clap your hands and let your psalms begin! CHORUS: Sing Hallelujah! Praise to Jehovah! Worship the God of Abraham! Sing Hallelujah! Praise to Jehovah! Once for all is slain God's perfect Lamb! If you've heard the song, you know it has an "Israeli" feel to the tune, and it's quite easy to get to clapping. (And a...

Before the Throne of God Above by Charitie L. Bancroft Before the throne of God above I have a strong and perfect plea. A great high Priest whose Name is Love Who ever lives and pleads for me. My name is graven on His hands, My name is written on His heart. I know that while in Heaven He stands No tongue can bid me thence depart. When Satan tempts me to despair And tells me of the guilt within, Upward I look and see Him there Who made an end of all my sin. Because the sinless Savior died My sinful soul is counted free. For God the just is satisfied To look on Him and pardon me. Behold Him there the risen Lamb, My perfect spotless righteousness, The great unchangeable I AM, The King of glory and of grace, One in Himself I cannot die. My soul is purchased by His blood, My life is hid with Christ on high, With Christ my Savior and my God!

From the First Oration of Gregory Nazianzen (St. Gregory the Theologian), in 379 A.D. (found here [PDF], p.24) [There are] persons who in the theatres perform wrestling matches in public, but not that kind of wrestling in which the victory is won according to the rules of the sport, but a kind to deceive the eyes of those who are ignorant in such matters, and to catch applause... And now you know why I don't watch Pro Wrestling. :P