Jesus.

Book Review.

Sweet, Leonard.  Viola, Frank.  Jesus.  A Theography.  Thomas Nelson.  2012.

Comment.  Henry.

By any other author this would be called a biography; Sweet comes up with an original, “Theography”.  To be tolerant, the authors have taken the subject beyond a simple biography hence the new term is probably warranted.  I found the material instructive, inspirational, and certainly edifying.  It has been a while since I have picked up a Sweet book (pun intended) and my read was quite enjoyable.

“The end product of biblical Christianity is a person.” (intro)  “The Bible is the narrative of Jesus- the Christ, the Savior, the living Lord, and our all.” (conclusion)

As part of the Godhead, Jesus Christ is eternal.  “God (Jesus Christ) finished all things before he began all things.” (9)  There are no time limits with him.  Logos gives a special meaning to who he was (is).

When God declared, “Let there be light” (the first day of creation), “Jesus was born.” (20)  Each successive day represented major events in Jesus’ life.  The ‘separation’ of day two represented his death.  Day three represented resurrection with the appearance of dry land.  The forms in the heavenlies represented ascension.  The creation of higher life forms of day five represents the indwelling Christ and Adam’s creation (day six) represents Christ’s rule. Day seven- rest-: ‘mission accomplished’.

The image of Christ finds a representation in both the Garden of Eden and the Temple.  Christ was revealed by the declaration of light.  He was heralded by the star of Bethlehem.  We are not just the benefactors but also the custodians of creation.

Very little is known about Jesus’ childhood and early adulthood. Some ‘speculative’ material is presented about this time of his life.

Jesus’ ministry was inaugurated with his baptism and time of temptation.  In his temptations Satan was refusing to acknowledge the humanity of Jesus.  They were a ‘playback’ of the temptations of Adam and Eve in the Garden and Israel’s temptations in the wilderness.  

When Jesus chose his disciples he broke the tradition of disciples choosing their master.  The number twelve was symbolic of “Reconstituting the kingdom of Israel.” (132)   Jesus had a radical view of women.

An important part of Jesus’ ‘theography’ was his healings, miracles, preaching, and teaching.  He was totally human while remaining divine.  He was a protector of children.  Jesus’ ‘prayer landscape’ involves “mountains, water, desert, and the garden.” (210)  His resurrection, ascension, and Pentecost brings his earthly career to an end.

The return of Christ will be marked by the creation (introduction) of a new heaven and a new (renovated) earth.  Earth will not be destroyed but rather restored.

henrydirksen.blogspot.com     

The Advantage.

Book Review.

Lencioni, Patrick.

The Advantage.  Why organizational health trumps everything else in business.  Jossey-Bass. 2012.

Comment.  Henry.

Since the contents of this book target organizations in general they have a very wide appeal.  Fundamental to organizational success is organizational health.  It “will one day surpass all other disciplines in business as the greatest opportunity for improvement and competitive advantage.” PL

The requirements of a smart organization are “strategy, finance, and technology”. (6)  The requirements for a healthy organization are, “minimal politics, minimal confusion, high morale, high productivity and low turn-over”. (6)  Together they result in a successful organization.  Health is more than intelligence, smarts.  “Health begets intelligence.” (9)

A healthy organization has as its foundation four building blocks, four disciplines:  “1.Build a cohesive leadership team.  2. Create clarity.  3. Overcommunicate clarity.  4. Reinforce clarity.” (15-16)

A cohesive leadership team is built on a foundation of trust.  This foundation supports a pyramid of “conflict, commitment, accountability and results.” (26)  Conflict, when dealt with from a position of trust results in commitment.  “To hold someone accountable is to care about them enough to risk having them blame you for pointing out their deficiencies.” (57)  Kindness is no excuse for avoiding accountability.  Behavioral accountability is difficult but necessary.  A “team effectiveness exercise” (60) is presented as a tool for holding one another accountable.

There are six questions that must be addressed to “Create Clarity”, the second discipline.  “1. Why do we exist?  2. How do we behave?  3. What do we do?  4. How will we succeed?  5. What is most important, right now?  6. Who must do what?” (77)

The third discipline, “Overcommunicate Clarity” (141) flows from the second discipline.  Repetition is important.  Rumors, “cascading communication” (144) reinforce, from the top down.

Clarity must be reinforced (fourth discipline).  It is all about “an organization institutionalizing its culture without bureaucratizing it.” (154)

Meetings are central to the four disciplines.  They are “administrative (daily check-in), tactical (weekly staff), strategic (adhoc topical) and developmental (quarterly off-site review).” (175)

 “Seizing the advantage” (188) is very much dependent on leaders and leadership.

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The Journey of Ministry

Book Review.

Gibbs,  Eddie.  The Journey of Ministry.  Insights from a life of practice.  IVP Books 2012.  

E.G.- Senior professor in the School of Intercultural Studies at Fuller Theological Seminary.

Comment.  Henry.

From his vantage point in his mid-seventies Eddie is drawing some practical lessons about ministry.  His journey has taken him to many different places and his experiences are certainly varied.  His endorsements describe him as a well- respected elder statesman in the ministry.

Most cultures in our world are still characterized by the fact that people get around by walking.  Scripture portrays the Christian experience as a walk.  As we walk together we learn together. 

There are three categories of hurdles that face churches in western culture; “individualism, consumerism and nominalism.” (45)

Dying is part of how life develops as a follower of Christ.  “When God brings about a dying process, it leads to resurrection.” (78)  This is part of the learning curve in ministry.  Jesus called this dying ‘cross-bearing’. 

Team work is a basic ingredient in effective ministry.  Teams demonstrate commitment that reflects chemistry.  They develop and demonstrate “family-life skills.” (116)

Networking has been a part of church life from the beginning but it is going through continual change.  “Networks help facilitate exponential growth.”  “126” Communication in church culture is evaluated according to “the five spheres of ministry identified- (by Paul) apostle, prophet, evangelist, pastor and teacher.” (147) 

Eddie closes his presentation with a brief biography outlining some the practical experiences that were significant in shaping his life, e.g. two years in the RAF, etc.

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From Willow Creek to Sacred Heart.

Book Review.

Haw, Chris.  From Willow Creek to Sacred Heart.  Rekindling my love for Catholicism.  Ave Maria Press.  2012.

C.H.-  born and baptized Catholic.  As a teen-ager he became very involved with Willow Creek.  A friend of Shane Claiborne with whom he co-led New Monasticism.  Converted (back) to Catholicism after moving to Camden, New Jersey where he became a part of Sacred Heart Church.

Comment.  Henry.

I use the word ‘converted’ to describe Chris’ spiritual journey although I am not comfortable with the term.  Conversion has always implied ‘to Christianity’.  Being an activist and protester were very much a part of that change.  He came to terms with those aspects of Catholic theology that are often seen as problematic for evangelicals.  He is celebrated by Catholics and accepted by (some) evangelicals.   An informative resource for learning about Catholicism.

Chris’ journey back to Catholicism is very much focused on the Mass and the Eucharist.  He makes an interesting presentation about “the ostensible paganism of Catholicism.” (80)   “The ‘sacrifice of Mass’ is not about repeating or re-enacting Christ’s death as much as making it present.” (122)  “Eucharistic sacrifice is the end of the violent sacrifice.” William Cavanaugh.

Chris explains about his “American cult of neutrality” (128) e.g. I’m not religious, I’m spiritual, etc.  When tolerance becomes paramount it can become a vicious form of intolerance.

As Chris was attempting to deal with his “annoyance of Church structures and traditions” (141) he received this theological advice: “You should take the time to understand something thoroughly before you go about trying to change it.” Christopher Hall. 

Assessing the ‘track record’ of the Church involved dealing with some problematic issues, e.g. child abuse by priests.   It is the whole tradition of the Church that becomes the platform from which he does his evaluation.  He concludes that leaving the Church is not the way to solve the problems. 

The tension between asceticism and aestheticism of the Catholic Church is viewed through “art and apocalypse”. (176)  “The challenge is to combine both an extraordinary appreciation of human creativity, beauty, art, and embellishment, while also orienting one’s mind, with apocalyptic eagerness, toward remedying our world’s decay and assisting the poor among us.” (193)

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Dealing Withn Doubt

Book Review.

Habermas, Gary R.  Dealing With Doubt.  Moody Press.  1990.

G.H.- chairman and professor of philosophy and apologetics at Liberty University in Lynchburg , Virginia.

Comment.  Henry.

Even though this is a twenty three old publication it is nevertheless relevant because of the nature of the subject.  Doubt has always been ‘in’.  It comes in various forms and levels.  Unresolved it can become devastating in a hurry.  If properly countered, doubt can be a faith-strengthening blessing.

“Doubts overlap and more than one type is frequently present.  Yet, proper identification of the primary form is still a major step in the healing process.” (11)  Doubt is fundamentally “a human problem”. (Os Guinness)   Deepened convictions are the result of intellectual struggles which include doubt.  Doubt and faith are not opposites.

There are three types of doubt, “factual, emotional, and volitional” (21) doubt.  Healing comes from God.”  If sin is the source (of doubting) then, conversely, God and his teachings are the answer.” (25)  Some ‘factual doubts’ are examined and dealt with.  Unresolved factual doubts can progress to emotional and volitional doubts.  Faith is part of resolving doubt.

Emotional doubt develops when imagination overwhelms reason in matters of faith.  “Scripture is central to the healing process” (71) coupled with counselling. 

Our volition is involved in our salvation in as much that it is “our choice to act in accordance with God’s will and power.” (94)  It is right choices that result in the growth and the exercise of our faith.  Such choices include “doubt prevention” (109) and “biblical meditations”. (111)

Serious doubt often surrounds such issues as unanswered prayer, the fact that Jesus is alive, the testimony of the Holy Spirit and heaven.

The book closes with an extensive Appendix, “Developmental Theory and Doubt” (189) This section contains very practical material. 

“If the unexamined life is not worth living, neither is the examined faith…  It is only by means of critical reflection on and evaluation of one’s religious commitment that faith becomes truly personal and more than a mere submission to religious convention.” (235) Doubt should be viewed from the larger perspective of holistic development: cognitive, emotional, social, and spiritual growth all play a part in the complete picture of maturation.” (242)

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UNTAMED

Book Review.

Hirsch, Alan.  Hirsch, Debra.  UTAMED.  Reactivating a missional form of discipleship.  Baker Books.  2010.

A.H.- founding director of Forge Mission Training Network.

D.H.- a minister at Tribe of Los Angeles.

Comment.  Henry.

As an octogenarian the term untamed (wild) does not really ‘turn my crank’.  Furthermore, the concept of discipleship like the concept of prayer usually becomes a source of guilt because of ‘short-comings’.  Having confessed that, I must say that this book is a very interesting, motivating read.  There is much to think about and it is the absolute intention of the authors to encourage us all to raise the level of our commitment to discipleship that will move us into the direction of “Christ likeness”.

“Jesus is, must be, the central reference point for the Christian.” (36)  We have been made in the image of God but there is a dangerous tendency to make God (Jesus) in our image. God is like Jesus so we do well to develop a proper image or understanding of who Jesus really was.  “All of us entertain false notions of God to some degree.  None of us gets it all right.” (57)  Discipleship is the result of “right thinking, right acting, and right feeling.”  It is “birthed and maintained” (84) in the Spirit.  “Constant change and a substantial amount of risk” (96) will be ongoing in discipleship.  Some ingredients of such discipleship will be love, learning, discernment, transformation, etc. 

The way to deal with the unavoidable affluence and consumerism of our culture is through generosity that is not threatened by poverty.  Discipling is not limited to believers.  “We are called to disciple everyone who comes into our orbit of influence.” (147)   Church organizations tend to form as an “open (or centred) set rather than a closed (or bounded) set.” (152-153)  A rethinking and refocusing of what it means to be a ‘God family’ is part of missional discipleship. 

“Loving God and loving others (Shema) is foundational to the formation of our identity, but knowing we are loved by God and others is perhaps even more important for us to arrive at healthy selfhood.”  (189)   We are made (created) in the image of God however we need to understand that becoming like him (Christ-likeness) is a process that will not be complete until we ‘see Him face to face’.  “Holistic discipleship” (215) must include sexuality and its spiritual power. 

A missional form of discipleship includes “six incarnational discipleship practices- presence, proximity, powerlessness, provenience, proclamation and passion.” (235)  The gospel was always meant to be conveyed incarnationally.

Receiving Love.

Book Review.

Hendrix, Harville.  Hunt, Lakelly, Helen.  Receiving Love.  Transform your relationship by letting yourself be loved.  Atria Books.  2004.

H.H.- Ph.D., pastoral counselor and co-creator of Imago Relationship Therapy.

H.H.- Ph.D., psychologist who helped develop I. R. T.  Was inducted into Women’s Hall of Fame.

Comment.  Henry.

I get the impression that this is a ‘handbook’ for Imago Relationship Therapy.  Both authors are involved with counselling couples whom deal with relationship problems.  They believe receiving love is the fundamental challenge that faces couples.  The self-help ingredient of this resource is strong.

“It turns out that loving your partner is the best way to facilitate your personal and spiritual growth.” (5)  Receiving love is the challenge and the concepts of “separate and connected knowing” (9) are relevant to such receiving.

Relationships between two people are represented by the “I-thou” (33) phrase where the hyphen represents a “between” (33) that represents the emotional ties that bind people together.  They are brought into the relationship and exert a great influence.  Here is the area where work needs to be done to address problems.  “Partners tend to be most unconscious in those situations in which they need to be most enlightened, cautious and aware.” (53)  Cycles of “unconscious wounding and defending” (60) become established.  Negative emotions projected on a partner result in “symbiosis in relationship”. (65) 

“Self- rejection is the most universal and least recognized problem of our lives.  It is the source of all our difficulties in giving and receiving love.” (72)   Self-rejection comes in many different forms.

The “science of relationship” (149) is helpful in addressing problems in receiving love.  Relationships have effects on the brain that can be measured.  Negative patterns can be restructured.  To demonstrate love parents have to be “attuned”. (140)  Receiving love has to be learned and often involves the need of healing.  It is a “voyage of discovery.” (162)  “The Imago Dialogue” (162) involving “mirroring, validating, and empathizing” (163) is very helpful in making this voyage. 

The last part of the book is a series of eleven exercises that relate to the challenge of “Receiving Love.”

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Christianity Rediscovered.

Book Review.

Donovan, Vincent J.  Christianity Rediscovered.  Twenty-fifth Anniversary Edition.  Orbis Books, Maryknoll.  2003.

V.D.- a Spiritan priest who spent seventeen years as a missionary in Tanzania. 

Comment.  Henry.

The contents of this book come primarily from the author’s experience as a missionary to the Masai people of Tanzania.  Working primarily by himself, he discovers some profound principles about evangelizing ‘pagans’, principles that have by and large been missing from missionary practices in in general.  Herein lays the value of what Vincent has contributed to missionary work.  There is an application of those principles to evangelization in general.

“Evangelization is a process of bringing the gospel to people where they are.. not where you would like them to be.” (Preface)  “If Christianity is of value to the world around it, what will happen when we bring Christianity and paganism together?” (Preface.)

The impact of slavery was a fundamental challenge for early missions in East Africa.  The practice of purchasing slaves and Christianizing them was not a sound type of evangelizing.  The establishing of schools and hospitals also fell short of missionary goals.  “To bring freedom or knowledge or health or prosperity to a people in order that they become Christians is a perversion of missionary work.” (10)  After his first year of missionary work (1966) Vincent writes a letter to his bishop outlining his ‘calling’ to launch a totally different approach to reaching the ‘pagans’.  It was rather simple.  His plan was to go to the Masai people and simply talk to them about God.  “I was trying to convince them directly of the inherent value of Christianity.” (19)

This new approach was very daring and was done with full knowledge and respect for Masai culture.  Mission practice needs to meet the following criteria: “Is it biblical? Is it evangelical? Is it scriptural?” (26)  Paul’s example of evangelizing is striking.  He labored for about ten years during his three missionary journeys planting churches and then his evangelizing was complete.  The churches carried on, on their own.  That doesn’t sound like modern missions.

Vincent’s missionary ‘experience’ is a very interesting story.  The Masai tribe accepted him and his presentation of the gospel and became an aboriginal church.  His evangelizing of this group was complete and he could now move on to another group (tribe).  “Christianity must be a force that moves outward, and a Christian community is basically in existence for others.” (79)

The task of missions is ‘finishable’ if we go about it the right way.  “The gospel is the affair of the missionary, and the interpretation of the gospel is the affair of the people who hear the gospel.” (122)

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With.

Book Review.

Skye,  Jethani.  With.  Reimagining the way you relate to God.  Thomas Nelson. 2011.

J.S.- managing editor of Leadership Journal, a publication of Christianity Today International.  He lives in Wheaton, Illinois.

Comment.  Henry.

Using the prepositions –under, over, from, and for- Jethani identifies four common lifestyles that describe our life with God.  By themselves they result in various levels of frustration and stress.  He goes on to present a fifth and all-encompassing option, i.e. a life with God.  His thesis is very relevant and he does a commendable job of unpacking that concept. 

Jethani gives a brief overview of each lifestyle that is reflected by the prepositions.  Life from God reflects a readiness to accept God’s blessings and gifts but is not really interested in God Himself.  Life over God focuses on the proven formulas and controllable outcomes in our life.  Life for God has to do with “accomplishing great things in God’s service”. (7)  Life under God is all about dos and don’ts and maintaining a lifestyle of good works. 

Life with God is demonstrated in Eden before the fall and the New Jerusalem when we will rule with Christ.  Subdue and reign are words that characterize this life.  Primitive religions illustrate life under God.  In its very extreme form this life is reflected in acts of terrorism.  Jesus was adamant in condemning this life under God. 

(Christian) consumerism is evidence of the negative aspect of life from God.  Ironically this kind of life ends in bankruptcy. 

When the only focus is life for God where service and mission are crucial the fear of failure is devastating. 

All the options we have considered thus far have this in common.  They result in “variations of fear and control.”(99)  They are “humanly devised ways of relating to God.” (99) 

The life with God involves communication and communion which is the environment for faith.  With surrender there is safety without fear and control.  Even death is no longer a threat having lost its sting.  It is a life with hope and love.  Gifts, knowledge, faith and service are incomplete if they are not anchored in love.  All together they become life with God. 

When we realize that we are more than a “sinner, a manager, a consumer, and a servant” (170) we discover the core of our identity enveloped by God’s love, we discover life with God.

henrydirksen.blogspot.com 

 

A New Climate For Theology

Book Review.

McFague, Sallie.  A New Climate For Theology.  God, the world, and global warming.  Fortress Press, Minneapolis. 2008.

S.M.-  Distinguished Theologian in Residence at the Vancouver School of Theology.  Carpenter Professor of Theology Emeritus at Vanderbilt Divinity School.

Comment.  Henry.

My reason for pulling this title off the library shelf has to do with the challenge of not becoming myopic in my reading.  As a theology resource this book would probably be found in a 300 or 400 course.  I have no prerequisites in theology so this read was somewhat beyond me.  There was enough material in the book that I did understand to give me an appreciation for the problem of global warming that I did not have before.

The case is made for the reality of global warming.  “The environmental crisis (GW) is a theological problem, a problem coming from views of God and ourselves that encourages or permits destructive, unjust actions.” (31)  The evidence of climate change has been substantiated by the United Nations Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Care for the creation must be part of the gospel message.  A comparison is presented between “A communitarian view of human beings (and) an anthropocentric view.” (32)

A paradigm change needs to happen from an “individualistic anthropology to an ecological anthropology.” (44)   “Ecology is the most fundamental study imaginable.” (50)  We need “ecological unity.” (53)

From anthropology the author turns to “a typology of God- world relationships.” (66)  An interesting conclusion to this discussion is posed, “Creation Christianity or Redemption Christianity.” (79)

Christianity should support an ecological model of economics.  “Living within the world as God’s Body” (112) presents the concept of the environment as a place and an object of worship.  The author admits to being a friend of pantheism.  As urban dwellers we must retain a focus on nature.

A different world of “human dignity and the integrity of creation” (143) is possible.  Because of God there is hope as we face the responsibility for the care of our ailing planet.

In Search Of Balance

Book Review.

Swenson, Richard A. M.D.  In Search Of Balance.  Keys to a stable life.  NavPress 2010.

R.S.-a futurist, physician-researcher, award-winning educator, and best-selling author.  Lives in Menomonie, Wisconsin.

Comment-  Henry.

The doctor has produced a very practical resource for anyone who is looking for balance in his/her life in a culture that is not known for balance and serenity.  He speaks from a rich background in medicine, academics, and research.  This is an easy read and I recommend it heartily.

“Many problems in life are best served by solving them rather than yielding to them.  Balance is one such issue.” (18)  The author explains his transitions from medicine to the academy to being a “futurist.” (27) 

Change as we know it began with the Industrial Revolution (1700-1900).  There has been more change in the last 250 years (for man) than all previous history.  Progress in in our culture is all about having more.  “It arrived as a friend then transformed itself into both friend and enemy.” (33)  A function of progress is profusion and herein lays the threat to balance.  Profusion has exploded in the past three decades.  “We are addicted to progress.” (43) 

All nature is a study in balance.  The function of our body in every aspect demonstrates balance.  E.g. A well struck golf ball is the result of a multitude of mental and bodily functions operating in perfect balance.

The first step to attain balance is to “place our priorities at the centre of our existence and our lives in balanced orbit about these priorities.” (65)   Priorities that transcend time are of utmost importance, e.g. God-centred life.

A margin for capacity is required for balance.  “Margin is productivity with sustainability.” (92)

Escalation in every area of living expenses (dying expenses) is a real threat to maintaining a balanced life.  Some practical suggestions are made on how to escape the escalation of change.  The challenge is to confront escalation as a norm.

We need to develop some “decent minimums” (186) as they relate to the basics of life, work finances, family, etc. 

By way of conclusion the author introduces a topic that remains undeveloped but is absolutely crucial for balance in life.  He calls this ‘key’ “securing a space for deep consecutive thoughts.” (201)

Final Gifts

Book Review.

Callanan, Maggie.  Kelly Patricia.  Final Gifts.  Understanding the special awareness, needs, and communications of the dying.  Poseidon Press, 1992

M.C. and P.K. - Both ladies have had extensive experience as hospice care givers.

Comment.  Henry.

In this resource the authors (hospice nurses) share from their extensive experiences with dying people gifts of insights and understanding that are significant in making dying a special experience for all concerned.  The bulk of the book consists of stories about how dying people dealt with their end of life.  I think this book is a very helpful for anyone dealing with the anticipation of death.  “Irrespective of belief, age, or diagnosis of the dying person, ‘Final Gifts’ conveys the awe and profundity of the moments surrounding death that we all feel.”  Madalon Amenta.

“These messages (of the book) fall into two categories: attempts to describe what someone is experiencing while dying and requests for something that a person needs for a peaceful death.” (14)  The stories related in the book come from individuals who have been recipients of hospice care. They confirm the validity of the expression ‘putting you house in order’ when it comes to end of life priorities.

The reactions to death are consistent with personal characteristics.   There will be “shock, disbelief, fear, anger, sadness, - or as often occurs, a continuously shifting blend of these and other strong emotions.” (31)  

The end of life experiences are sometimes described as some form of preparing to go on a trip.  Often this involves others, those who have gone before.  They become aware of an actual place to which they are going.  Sometimes they even know when they will leave. 

Often specific needs are expressed that are important for a peaceful death.  It will require sensitivity on the part of the care-givers to know what is requested.  There may be the need for reconciliation, getting permission to leave, etc.  Requests can be nonverbal. Dreams become symbolic.  Unmet needs may delay the timing of death. 

Some very practical issues are suggested for those who care for the dying.   “Pay close attention to everything the dying person is saying.  Remember that there may be important messages in any communication, however garbled or vague.”  Don’t be too quick to label these messages as confusion.  “Accept and validate what the dying person tells you.” (226)

“Life is eternal, and love is immortal, and death is only a horizon, and a horizon is nothing save the limit of our sight.”  Rossiter Worthington Raymond.

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Where God Was Born

Book Review.

Feiler, Bruce.  Where God Was Born.  A Journey by Land to the Roots of Religion.  Harper-Collins Publishers.  2005

B.F.-a New York journalist.  The writer/presenter of the television miniseries Walking the Bible. 

Comment.  Henry.

The reading of this book has given me a better understanding/appreciation of Judaism.  There is much historical information about Christianity and the other two faiths that claim Abraham as the progenitor.  The circumstances during which the “research” was done provide the excitement that is usually found in novels.  My impression of Bruce was that he came across as a devout Jew with a strong support for the Bible, especially the Torah.  A college of his referred to him as a Reform Jew and exhorted him to become an Orthodox Jew.  The book “combines the adventure of a wartime chronicle, the excitement of an archaeological detective story, and the insight of personal spiritual exploration.” (from fly-leaf).

Bruce visits Israel, Iraq, and Iran to explore the sites “Where God Was Born.”  His findings in most cases come as a result of local authorities; rabbis, museum curators, military and political authorities, etc.  The spiritual impact that his research has on him gives validity to the conclusions he arrives at.  He is a changed man because of his journeys. 

In his travels Bruce examines the question: Is religion tearing us apart… or can it bring us together? 

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Legacy, The Giving Of Life's Greatest Treasures.

Book Review.

Greiff, Barrie, Sandford. M.D.  Legacy, the Giving of Life’s Greatest Treasures.   Loving, learning, laboring, laughing, lamenting, linking, living, leading, and learning. ** (The ingredients of Legacy.)  Regan Books. 1999.

B.G. - conducts a private practice (psychiatry) and is a consultant to numerous business organizations.

Comment.

What a fine resource of practical wisdom about legacy from a professional counsellor who has drawn from his experiences and  has shared some wonderful stories from real life to help us get a balanced prospective about legacy.  I enjoyed my read of this book and received encouragement as I reflected on my own ‘legacy’.  I shall make sure my ‘inheritors’ hear about this one.

Noteworthy quotes from the Prologue and Introduction:  “We are all touched by the ocean, (of knowledge) yet we all remain on the shore.”  “What I know remains far greater than what I don’t know.”  “How he dies and how much he has gained is not the measure of a man but how he lived and how much he gave.”  “Eight themes play themselves over and over again in the music of people’s lives.” **  

“Self-love opens us to lasting relationships.  It allows us to trust and care and share.” (36)  Giving it away is a life-time job. 

Learning is much more than right answers and good grades.  “Wisdom (the result of learning) transcends disciplinary boundaries.” (48)  It is discovered.  “It’s what we learn, after we know it all that really counts.” (68)

In an ever changing world we must understand that rewarding work will involve risk.  “Above all we need to bear in mind that work remains at the center of a spiritual commodity.” (83)

“Laughing and lamenting restore our souls as we move through life.” (91)  Good relationships are all about linkage at significant levels.  “A life lived well is a life of risk (while) understanding the laws of opportunity and probability.” (143)

Leading is the ability to connect ideas to people, to inspire people, and then move these inspired people in the right direction.  “There is no crisis of leadership in this country- there is a crisis in the way we think of leadership.” (157)  “A leadership seminar does not make a leader.” (159)

We all experience loss (leaving) but those experiences are very personal (unique).  We are survivors by nature.  Losing is one of the risks of loving.  “With every good-bye you learn.” (198)

“Legacy is –a personal audit we construct around our own individual experiences as we exercise the right ‘elements’.” ** (203)

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Who Is This Man?

Book Review.

Ortberg, John.  Who Is This Man?  The unpredictable impact of the inescapable Jesus.  Zondervan, 2012.  Forward by Condoleezza Rice.

Comment.  Henry.

The list of endorsements is quite impressive.  Condoleezza make this assessment.  “The real power of this book is in its exploration of the paradox of our faith: the acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ is not a pathway to an easy life but a call to do the hard things if we are to live in the image of our Lord.”  John has done some very thorough research to support his presentation.  Good stuff!

John begins with an intense overview of the historical influence of Jesus during the last two millenniums.  None other has had a world influence that comes close to the influence that Jesus had. 

Jesus “entered the world with no dignity.” (21)  Herod was an example of Roman dignity.  Jesus was responsible for the complete collapse of that kind of dignity.  His criteria for dignity was, ‘become like a child’. 

Jesus began “a revolt in humanity” (33) when he explained what it meant for man/woman to be made in the image of God.  John tackles the delicate topic of the identity of woman.  In the account of Jesus’ interaction with Mary and Martha “Jesus was inviting women to be His disciples”. (54)

According to the Greco-Roman standards of greatness, Jesus certainly didn’t qualify for greatness.  He modeled humility and servant hood.  His command to ‘love your enemies’ was very counter cultural.  It still is. 

The disciple John gives a clear perspective of the kingdom of God as taught by Christ and compares it to the kingdom of this world, i.e. Caesar’s.

 The good life is taught in the Sermon on the Mount.  The good person is modeled by Jesus.  “The Person who changed marriage in the Western world more than anyone else was Himself never married.” (149)  His life has had a huge impact on the arts. 

“Who is this man?”  Heaven and earth intersect in Him.  “Humanity and divinity somehow intersect in this one man.” (200)  “All roads meet; all threads are woven together in the tapestry of this life.” (201)

henrydirksen.blogspot.com 

Letters to Myself on Dying.

Book Review.

Vos Myrth.  Letters to Myself on Dying.  A journal of hope, pain, & courage.  Baker Books 1999.

Comment. Henry.

What attracted me to this title on the library shelf was my previous read of “What Dying People Want” by David Kuhl.  What Myrth shares focuses more on what she, a dying person experienced but her ‘wants’ are not difficult to understand.  Not surprisingly her experience is in so many ways a spiritual, psychological, and emotional roller coaster.  She is an evangelical Christian.  She has been a marriage and family psychotherapist in practice for nearly twenty years. Her husband is a pastor.  They live in Barrie, Ontario.

Myrth was diagnosed with cancer in 1982, 1990, and 1996.  The third diagnosis revealed terminal lung cancer.  She decided to journal her journey.  This book is the result of that journey.  It spans a time period from April 22, 1998 till April 22, 1999.  There are Scriptures included in each entry which relate to the issues that are being dealt with.  The months become ‘chapter divisions’.

The information about the discovery of the cancer as a result of a cat-scan came through a telephone call from Myrth’s doctor.  She and her husband processed the information on their own and then gradually began to share their tragedy with an expanding circle of family and friends.  

Very early on in her experience Myrth shares about her struggles of making a practical application of her faith.  It is really a struggle (conflict) between heart and head, faith and reality, etc.  The material for her ‘letters’ comes from intense studies of Scripture as she seeks for answers to her questions.  In all this she is receiving huge support from her husband, family, and friends. 

There isn’t any area of her life that is not impacted by this journey of terminal cancer.  There seems to be an amazing ‘yo-yo’ element in her experience which adds ongoing stress.  At one point test results show evidence of the disappearance of tumors thanks to treatments.  However in short order new areas of infection appear and so it goes.  The mountains and valleys of spiritual victory continue.  The process of deterioration continues with its corresponding debilitation and agony.  The journaling comes to an end exactly one year after it was begun.  The story is obviously not over and there are no ‘follow-up’ comments about the actual end of Myrth’s life.  And so the book becomes a source of focus on an important ‘chapter’ of dealing with dying. 

henrydirksen.blogspot.com 

Being Catholic Now

Book Review. 

Kennedy,  Kerry.  Being Catholic Now.  Prominent Americans talk about change in the Church and the quest for meaning.  Crown Publishing.  2008

Kerry-  Daughter of Robert Kennedy.

Comment.  Henry.

My first response after reading this book was to reflect on my own change of understanding and opinion of the Catholic Church.  Being raised as a fundamentalist there was not much charity in the spiritual status of the Catholic Church.  It was portrayed as being unbiblical in its doctrine and practice.  There is still some misunderstanding and/or lack of understanding for me.  I have a better, more charitable attitude about ecumenicalism.  When I hear my pastor son talk about his Catholic friend, an ordained pastor  who is as evangelical as can be I realize there have been huge changes in Catholicism and Protestantism.

For the contents of this book Kerry has interviewed 38 individuals who are have been influenced by Catholicism.  They range from very strong supporters (clergy) to some who have actually left the Catholic Church for various reasons.  In her ‘Preface’ Kerry speaks at length about her own personal experience.  I found this the most engaging and informative section of the book. 

Kerry has been very forthright and transparent in her presentation of positives and negatives of the Church.  The Church has a great track record as an agency of social justice and providing for the needy, world-wide.  Probably the most negative issue for the Church has been the accusations and substantiation of abuse by some of the clergy. 

The strength of the Church is its tradition.  “Once a Catholic, always a Catholic.” The training of children in the doctrine and practice of Catholicism is a strong foundation of this tradition.   It is in this area where there has also been a serious vulnerability. 

To me this was a very informative read.

henrydirksen.blogspot.com

Red Letter Revolution

Book Review.

Claiborne, Shane.  Campolo, Tony.  Red Letter Revolution.  What if Jesus really meant what He said?  Thomas Nelson.

Comment.  Henry.

In recent history we have been introduced to religious designations such as ‘fundamentalists’ and ‘evangelicals’.  Shane and Tony are suggesting a new designation for those who consider the words of Christ in the New Testament as exclusively important.  They should go by the name “Red Letter Christians”.  This book consists of dialogues that Tony and Shane have on specific contemporary topics and how they feel Christ may have and did express Himself.  I found this a thought-provoking read.

The historical significance of fundamentalism and evangelicalism are discussed.  There is a great need for the church to return to the focus on community that characterized the early church.  In spite of the imperfections of the local church, as Christians we do not have the option of abandoning it.  We do well to review the contributions of the Saints.  The ‘dialogues’ on Islam and economics contain material for much thought.

The text that is used to discuss family is Mark 3: 31-35.  To Christ, family went way beyond biological family.  To be pro-life regarding abortion and euthanasia but supportive of the death penalty and war is an inconsistent position for a Christian.  Environmentalism is seen as a pro-life issue.  To differentiate gifting (including leadership) between men and women is unbiblical.  Our culture’s image of women is totally wrong.  “Racism- a system of advantage based on race- is wrong.” (120)   There needs to be a demonstration of love when sexual orientation is being discussed.  Hating the sin and loving the sinner seems to leave the discussion without resolution.  A case is made, with Scriptural support (of course) for civil disobedience.  Giving, in North American churches, is disproportionate because of the huge cost of maintaining the institution. 

America is showing strong signs of being a modern Babylon.  Politics must be practiced with compassion not just economics.  A distinction is made between “non-violent resistance to evil and pacifism”. (193)  There is a cost to peace-making.  Some serious objections are raised about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict with reference to Israel’s policies and how they impact Palestinian citizens, especially some Christians.  The exhortation for unity implies a need for serious reconciliation between groups within the church that are ‘worlds apart’.  Too much of what has been done in the name of missions has in fact focused on “dis-empowering” (242) those to whom the gospel has been preached.  There is not enough emphasis on indigenous leadership and culture.  The resurrected life is really life in a new earth with a new heaven.  It is hoped that the “Red Letter Christian movement will continue to be a positive irritant in the church”. (258)

henrydirksen.blogspot.com