Category Archives: Uncategorized

“Wartime moral clarity and passion”

Posted on April 10, 2018 by

I had never heard of Nitsuh Abebe before he wrote this piece. In fact, I had failed to notice that the New York Times Magazine carried a feature every week called “First Words.” Since “First Words” is about language and … Continue reading →

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Turning the other cheek

Posted on March 18, 2018 by

When you come up against a vividly described ethical rule like this, you really need to decide what to do with it. This famous dictum is part of the famous Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5. “…but I say … Continue reading →

Posted in Biblical Studies, Books, Uncategorized | Tagged , , , , | 2 Comments

Being “snakebit”

Posted on March 12, 2018 by

I gave a small lecture recently to a Lenten class at our church. It was more a rant, really, but they seemed to be a tolerant mood. I called some scripture texts “flat” in the way a Pepsi might get … Continue reading →

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How to thrive while living

Posted on March 1, 2018 by

In May of last year, Carol Marat wrote a piece called “How to Thrive While Living Alone.” Nearly everything in my response to this lovely piece could be construed as criticism of it, so I want to take the time … Continue reading →

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Recharge your battery!

Posted on December 13, 2017 by

There is a new ad by a product called 5 Hour Energy that I found really appealing—until I had a chance to think about it. [1] Then I found it appalling. Today I’d like to write about the appalling part. … Continue reading →

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My first victory lap

Posted on December 10, 2017 by

The first day of my first victory lap is December 17, 2017. That will be the day after I turn 80. I can hardly wait. What is a “victory lap?” It’s an old story, well known by my family. Not … Continue reading →

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Righteousness v. Mercy in Matthew’s account

Posted on December 1, 2017 by

Joseph was a righteous man. Matthew 1:18 That’s what it says right there. “Her husband (it says in the previous line) being righteous AND not willing to expose her publicly.” OK, let’s start off with the apologies. First to Professor … Continue reading →

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