American Christians, why are we so afraid?
Of what are American Christians so afraid? I ask that question intentionally because it seems that our most important political decisions are made, not out of a theologically-informed world-view but out of a world-view that is permeated by fear.
Two examples...
Refugees from the Middle East: One of the most polarizing issues . . .
the children still suffer
thoughts on Holy Innocents' Day
We remember today, O God, the slaughter of the holy innocents of Bethlehem by the order of King Herod. Receive, we beseech thee, into the arms of thy mercy all innocent victims; and by thy great might frustrate the designs of evil tyrants and establish thy rule of justice, love, and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and . . .
Lord Jesus Christ, all praise to Thee!
Lord Jesus Christ, all praise to Thee!
Thou wast born a child like me.
To tell abroad that God is love
The angel choirs hymn Thee above.
Hallelujah!
Behold the eternal Father's Child
Cradled by a Virgin mild,
In flesh and blood so weak and small
Is clothed the Savior . . .
Posted in: hymns
"this is not a day care..."
an indictment of American Christianity's self-centeredness
Until this morning, I had never heard of Oklahoma Wesleyan University, nor could I point out Bartlesville, Oklahoma, on a map. Then I read this brilliantly-written piece from the University President, Dr. Everett Piper. What is remarkable is not Dr. Piper's prose but the very fact that he had occasion to write it. As a conservative . . .
a Thanksgiving prayer
Almighty and gracious Father, we give thee thanks for the fruits of the earth in their season and for the labors of those who harvest them. Make us, we beseech thee, faithful stewards of they great bounty, for the provision of our necessities and the relief of all who are in need, to the glory of thy Name; through Jesus Christ our Lord, . . .
9 signs your theology is driven more by politics than historic Christianity
This post offers something to offend almost every American Christian. Do you know why? Contemporary American Christianity–both on the right and the left–is powerfully influenced by politics. The stereotype, of course, is that Republicans are in bed with conservative Evangelicals; however, it would be extremely misleading to suggest that . . .
collect for Trinity 25
Lord God, heavenly Father, we most heartily thank Thee that by Thy word Thou hast brought us out of the darkness of Papacy into the light of Thy grace: We beseech Thee, mercifully help us to walk in that light, guard us from all error and false doctrine, and grant that we may not, as the Jews, become ungrateful and despise and persecute . . .
