What do Theologians do?
It’s a question I’ve been asked often enough, especially after I’ve introduced myself as a pastor and theologian, “So what do theologians do?” Let’s note the obvious. By definition, theology, being made up from two Greek words theos (God) and logos (the word about, or the study of), is the study of God. By implication then, all those who grapple with the question of God are, in one way or another, theologians. They might be very poor theologians, amateur theologians, professional theologians, perhaps even theologians whose work is widely recognized in the life of the church – but theologians...
Read MoreQuotable: For the New Year – take 2
As 2019 gets under way, here are a few gems for the journey. The first three are attributed to Mother Teresa, the remainder, unknown. In the end, dear friend, it is always between us and God, not between us and them. Mother Teresa If you judge people, you have no time to love them. Mother Teresa God speaks in the silence of the heart. Listening is the beginning of prayer. Mother Teresa In the blink of an eye it could all be taken away. Be grateful always. Unknown There will be many chapters in your life. Don’t get lost in the one you’re in now. Unknown You will never always be...
Read MoreReframing Change: 8 Guiding Principles
At the start of a new year it is common for people to dream about things they’d like to change. For most, dreams rarely move beyond the “wouldn’t it be lovely” stage, usually because the motivation to change is not well developed and is not accompanied by a sense of urgency. The bottom line for most of us is that if change is desirable but not essential, it won’t happen. Not that this is always the case. For some, too many previous failures and disappointments cast a long shadow. Desirable change is approached with the disbelief that it is possible – “tried it before, it didn’t work. Sure...
Read MoreQuotable: For the New Year…
With a new year almost upon us, I thought it appropriate to cite a few relevant quotes and thoughts that might provide some direction… But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Phil 3:13-14 (TNIV) Dear Past, Thanks for all the lessons. Dear Future, I am ready. Unknown Although no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending. Carl Bard There are far better things ahead than any we leave...
Read MoreA Christmas Letter…
After not having written a Christmas letter for a few years, Rosemary and I thought we’d make amends this year. Some of you will have already received it via email, but over the years we have lost the addresses of so many good friends that we thought we’d post it on the blog as well, in the hope that we will be able to make contact again through this forum. True, the blog usually deals with weightier matters than our family news, but Christmas is a different time of the year. I realise that many who follow this blog do it for its reflection on matters related to the Christian faith...
Read More