God Blesses the Peacemakers, Not the Warmakers

coach lowe

Many have probably seen the recent video about an Oregon school coach disarming and hugging a student, one who had entered the school with a shotgun and the intent to use the weapon.

What takes place is powerful. But, in our world of cynicism, it is hard to believe this kind of move is the “best” move. Especially in light of much political debate around 2nd amendment gun rights.

Still, I am reminded of these words from author and activist, Shane Claiborne:

“God blesses the peacemakers, not the warmakers.” Continue reading

Decades Later, It’s the Same Ol’, Same Ol’

lost-voice

Last year, I shared a brief story, one that I believe speaks into our situation as Christians who live in America.

My boys love dinosaurs. And that’s an understatement, to say the least! I’ve actually learned more about dinosaurs from my 6-year old than I did in elementary school, probably due to the fact that there is so much more knowledge available 25-30 years later. But he has much knowledge to pass along about the Styracosaurus or Rebbachisaurus or Yangchuanosaurus! It’s truly amazing. Continue reading

Love Actually Wins

love-wins

Last Friday marked an historic date for the U.S. Even more historic, and unprecedented, might have been the vitriolic reactions across the various social media platforms. This all came on the heels of the Charleston, South Carolina, shooting and subsequent dispute regarding the Confederate flag. Consequently, with the two combined events, we reached a level of social media expression never before experienced in the 21st century. I can only expect the future holds an even greater magnitude of reaction for forthcoming events. Continue reading

Why Did Jesus, Moses, the Buddha and Mohammed Cross the Road?

imagesWhat an interesting title to a book. Yes, this is Brian McLaren’s newest release, though it came out a few months back: Why Did Jesus, Moses, the Buddha and Mohammed Cross the Road? The subtitle gives a bit more insight into the theme of the book: Christian Identity in a Multi-Faith World.

Even more interesting is the date that the book was released – September 11th, 2012 – the anniversary of the significant event etched in the minds of not only every American, but all humanity.

So how are Christians to engage with those of other faiths?

Now, I am aware that, at least for many evangelicals, the name, Brian McLaren, immediately sends off alarm bells. The question might arise: Does he really have anything truly and properly Christian to offer to this discussion?

Why this reaction? Mainly because of 2 reasons: 1) his openness to same-sex relationships/marriages (even leading the commitment ceremony at his son’s same-sex wedding) and 2) his not-so-clearly-defined view on whether God accepts or rejects those of other faiths and religions. These are currently two hot topic issues for evangelical Christians in the 21st century.

Now, I am very much aware that some might actually have a question for me due to my own reading of McLaren’s book: Where do you stand on these issues? Many will want me to clarify my person stance on these issues. Agree with McLaren and your suspect. Disagree with McLaren and you’re probably an ok guy.

Well, I’ll come on to that a bit later. But let’s first look at the text, since this is a book review of some sorts.

Continue reading

Girls & Dragon Tattoos

There is a craze in the world these days with regards to girls and dragon tattoos. It’s centred around the release of the new film, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo (2011 version, as there was also a 2009 version).

I’ll go ahead and say I’m not going to be seeing this movie. I, instead, read the first book of the Millennium Trilogy by Swedish author, Stieg Larsson. I wasn’t overly impressed and so I won’t be finishing the book series nor watching the movies. Continue reading