What is worship? Really. That’s a serious question. You see, I think worship is one of those things that we all know so well – or at least assume we know – that we don’t always think about it. And so, as I jump into an occasional series on worship, I’m interested in what you...
Malcolm Gladwell on David and Goliath
posted by DJL
Think you know the story of David and Goliath? Think again. In the hands of Malcolm Gladwell, the story of David and Goliath takes on new meaning. Or rather, Gladwell turns our typical interpretation of this classic biblical story on its head. As Gladwell points out, we tend to read the David and Goliath story as the tale of an improbable victory of a relative weakling over a mighty warrior. Indeed, the phrase has been so incorporated into our language that many use it – in describing the underdog victory of one sports team over another, for instance – without even knowing its source. But as Gladwell tells it, the story is really about a...
Phyllis Tickle and Brian McLaren Live Tonight
posted by DJL
Tonight I have the distinct privilege of sharing in a conversation with Phyllis Tickle and Brian McLaren on the future of the Church. Given that these two are among the most creative and provocative voices in the church today, I’m really looking forward to our conversation tonight, which begins at 6:30 (CDT). And I’m especially delighted that we are live streaming it for free to anyone who is interested. You can go to the live stream simply by clicking this link which will take you to the YouTube page set up for the event. Both Phyllis and Brian have written many, many worthwhile volumes. Most lately, Phyllis is the author of The...
What is Faith?
posted by DJL
In the gospel reading that many of us will hear this coming Sunday – Luke 17:5-10 – the disciples plead with Jesus to give them more faith. That may sound like an odd request to us, but Jesus has just been telling them there will be times when they will need to forgive someone over and...
Law, the First Use
posted by DJL
What do you think is the most difficult word in the English language? Would it be “lachrymose” (causing tears, tearful) or “contumacious” (insubordinate, rebellious) because we use them so rarely? Would it be “hemacytometer” (instrument for counting blood)...
Does The Universe Have A Purpose
posted by DJL
For the better part of the last year, I’ve been working on a book with a young man who grew up in a Lutheran home but now identifies as an atheist. The book is intended to be a dialogue, to explore what we each believe, why, how we came to those beliefs, and how we bridge our differences in an increasingly pluralistic world. It’s been an incredibly fun project, as Ryan and I have a fair amount in common, both love candid and challenging conversations, and because, frankly, he’s a really great person to work with. But it’s also been quite challenging, as he raises questions for me that I haven’t, quite honestly, had to think about...