Too often even good stewards of our Lord Jesus Christ have their relationship with God backwards, believing it is they who took the first step to seek God's love and mercy. This kind of thinking is understandable when you consider how many Christian people subscribe to the notion, as a popular bumper sticker slogan states -- "I found Jesus"-- and never consider that maybe the exact opposite is true. Maybe it is God that finds us?
In our modern culture of putting the individual first it is hard to face the possibility that we don't find Jesus. He comes to us and calls us by name, sometimes in our deepest despair, sometimes during our greatest triumphs, then asks us to leave our boat on the shoreline and seek other seas. He will uproot us in times of our own worldly comfort and prosperity to put us upon a different path to do God's work. God will tear us down and challenge us to follow the path God has chosen for us.
"Then the Lord spoke to Jonah a second time, "Get up and go to the great city of Nineveh, and deliver the message I have given you.'"
This time Jonah obeyed the Lord's command and went to Nineveh, a city so large that it took three days to see it all. On the day Jonah entered the city, he shouted to the crowds: 'Forty days from now Nineveh will be destroyed!' The people of Nineveh believed God's message, and from the greatest to the least, they declared a fast and put on burlap to show their sorrow.
...When God saw what they had done and how they had put a stop to their evil ways, He changed his mind and did not carry out the destruction He had threatened."
Jonah 3:1-5, 10
Recall the story of Jonah who tries to flee his calling by sailing to another country, but God sends a storm and Jonah gets thrown overboard. He is then swallowed by a giant fish that spits him onto the shore to save him from drowning. It's interesting how God puts Jonah on the right path: a storm to throw him into a raging sea, then a fish swallows him. The images in this story reveal how God works. God's way isn't often easy to understand when the end result is not yet in view.
In anger Jonah carries out his task but hopes the people of Nineveh, the very people God sent him to warn, would ultimately be destroyed. God comes to Jonah again scolding him saying that it was God's desire that all people come to know God.
"This change of plans greatly upset Jonah, and he became very angry. So he complained to the Lord about it: 'Didn't I say before I left home that you would do this, Lord? That is why I ran away to Tarshish! I knew that you are a merciful and compassionate God, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. You are eager to turn back from destroying people. Just kill me now, Lord! I'd rather be dead than alive if what I predicted will not happen.'" (Jonah 4:1-3)
Jonah was right! God is filled with unfailing love, slow to anger, and ready at any moment to save God's people from the storm. It's difficult to understand God's methods -- God's purpose. Who would fully understand a God who works this way? The message is to trust and follow God--to be ready to answer God's call when it comes.
by Bob Chochola
July/August/September 2009 Issue to Feature Presbyterian Women
The July/August/September 2009 issue of These Days will feature devotions from representatives of the Churchwide Coordinating Team of Presbyterian Women. The Churchwide Gathering of Presbyterian Women will be held in Louisville, Kentucky, on July 11-15, and all those attending the event will receive a free copy of the July/August/September issue.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
An Interview with Derek Maul
Below is an interview with Derek Maul, the writer of the devotions for the week of February 24-March 1. Derek Maul is a freelance writer and teacher. In addition to writing a column that runs in several Tampa newspapers, Derek has written articles for These Days and Presbyterians Today and is a contributor to Faith in Words: A Celebration of Presbyterian Writers, published by Geneva Press. He is the author of the new book, Get Real: Spiritual Journey for Men.
1. How did you first become interested in These Days? Why is the magazine important to you and your faith and how do you think it can be beneficial to all Christians?
I've always been all too conscious of my need for ongoing help regarding spiritual discipline. I don't think I'll ever grow beyond my need for some kind of a daily prompt. When I first joined a Presbyterian congregation I pulled a copy of These Days off the information table - I've been hooked ever since.
These Days stood out for me because the format allows writers to develop a theme over several days. God often works in my life over the long haul, and I realized right away that something more than a simple devotional thought emerged from the inspirational readings.
Later I sent Vic Jameson (former These Days editor) a series of meditations. Vic wrote right back. "I was so delighted," he said, "that I read them aloud to my wife that very evening." His response was so genuine and so encouraging that he helped release a gift that had been waiting for just the right time. I know I'm not alone in needing the kind of direction and focus These Days brings to a spiritual life.
In my These Days devotion for February 28, 2008 I reference my book. "Research reveals that less than 10 percent of Christians set aside time for regular devotional reading and prayer…. But 100 percent of Christians who do a devotional reading say the daily routine is inarguably life- changing…" (condensed from Get Real: a Spiritual Journey for Men, pp 81-82).
2. What do you think others should take from reading the devotions you write in These Days?
I want readers to be encouraged in their faith. Typically my writing provides a glimpse into the struggles, the tentative steps forward, and the joys that characterize my own spiritual journey. I want God's nourishing word to connect with readers in ways that leave them breathless with wonder and motivated to go deeper with God. I want them to know Jesus more intimately, and I want them to take firsthand knowledge of that wonder from every devotion I share.
3. You are the author of a relatively new book, Get Real. What is this book about? What inspired you to write it?
First, I'm passionate about connecting men with Jesus. I'm part of a dynamic, growing congregation, and I've observed that congregations where men get excited about their faith are congregations that grow in other amazing ways.
Get Real: a Spiritual Journey for Men was written in response to the crying need for an easy-to-read book that will inspire and encourage men to follow Jesus. Too many Christian men shy away from a dynamic spiritual journey because it is so often "bundled" with conservative politics and an "evangelical" package many find hard to swallow.
Get Real outlines how desire, discipleship, devotion, and daring can lead us into an authentic and life-changing encounter with the living Christ. My These Days devotions (February 24-March) introduce this content.
The editors at Upper Room Books invited me to write Get Real because my devotional writing touched a nerve in the United Methodist Church. Methodist churches all over the United States are reading the book. This book is exactly what Presbyterian congregations need to be reading, and it's my prayer that they will.
4. What do you think is so unique about the spiritual development of men?
We (men) are so performance-oriented and individualistic that we're nervous about opening up. We want everything to be clear-cut, manageable, and pretty much in our control. That makes Christ's message challenging – because so much of the language Jesus uses about spiritual life is relational. That's hard for men – so we need a little help. That's why I believe Christianity is often best understood and experienced as a team sport. Most of the solid progress I have made spiritually has been in the context of small groups, and my men's Bible-study group is the basis for much of what I share in Get Real.
Let's face it guys, we need each other. The principles, of course, speak to both men and women.
5. Do you have plans to write another book? If so, what will it address?
I'm actually editing the final proofs this week! In My Heart I Carry A Star: Stories for Advent is being released by Upper Room Books this August. The book is designed to prepare us for Christmas. It's all too easy to get sidetracked by the razzmatazz, the noise, and the cultural overlay. Most of us arrive at Christmas Eve too exhausted to appreciate the coming of Christ.
In my other life I'm a columnist for The Tampa Tribune. The 33 chapters read much like my (award-winning) Op-Ed column. The book includes loads of amazing scripture (some you wouldn't have expected), great stories, and some creative ideas you won't want to miss.
I can guarantee that if you read In my Heart I Carry A Star your experience of Christmas 2008 will be so meaningful that you'll want to get a copy for everyone you know.
Thanks, Vince, I've enjoyed chatting with you.
Derek
http://www.derekmaul.net/
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=430180&ep_id=120
1. How did you first become interested in These Days? Why is the magazine important to you and your faith and how do you think it can be beneficial to all Christians?
I've always been all too conscious of my need for ongoing help regarding spiritual discipline. I don't think I'll ever grow beyond my need for some kind of a daily prompt. When I first joined a Presbyterian congregation I pulled a copy of These Days off the information table - I've been hooked ever since.
These Days stood out for me because the format allows writers to develop a theme over several days. God often works in my life over the long haul, and I realized right away that something more than a simple devotional thought emerged from the inspirational readings.
Later I sent Vic Jameson (former These Days editor) a series of meditations. Vic wrote right back. "I was so delighted," he said, "that I read them aloud to my wife that very evening." His response was so genuine and so encouraging that he helped release a gift that had been waiting for just the right time. I know I'm not alone in needing the kind of direction and focus These Days brings to a spiritual life.
In my These Days devotion for February 28, 2008 I reference my book. "Research reveals that less than 10 percent of Christians set aside time for regular devotional reading and prayer…. But 100 percent of Christians who do a devotional reading say the daily routine is inarguably life- changing…" (condensed from Get Real: a Spiritual Journey for Men, pp 81-82).
2. What do you think others should take from reading the devotions you write in These Days?
I want readers to be encouraged in their faith. Typically my writing provides a glimpse into the struggles, the tentative steps forward, and the joys that characterize my own spiritual journey. I want God's nourishing word to connect with readers in ways that leave them breathless with wonder and motivated to go deeper with God. I want them to know Jesus more intimately, and I want them to take firsthand knowledge of that wonder from every devotion I share.
3. You are the author of a relatively new book, Get Real. What is this book about? What inspired you to write it?
First, I'm passionate about connecting men with Jesus. I'm part of a dynamic, growing congregation, and I've observed that congregations where men get excited about their faith are congregations that grow in other amazing ways.
Get Real: a Spiritual Journey for Men was written in response to the crying need for an easy-to-read book that will inspire and encourage men to follow Jesus. Too many Christian men shy away from a dynamic spiritual journey because it is so often "bundled" with conservative politics and an "evangelical" package many find hard to swallow.
Get Real outlines how desire, discipleship, devotion, and daring can lead us into an authentic and life-changing encounter with the living Christ. My These Days devotions (February 24-March) introduce this content.
The editors at Upper Room Books invited me to write Get Real because my devotional writing touched a nerve in the United Methodist Church. Methodist churches all over the United States are reading the book. This book is exactly what Presbyterian congregations need to be reading, and it's my prayer that they will.
4. What do you think is so unique about the spiritual development of men?
We (men) are so performance-oriented and individualistic that we're nervous about opening up. We want everything to be clear-cut, manageable, and pretty much in our control. That makes Christ's message challenging – because so much of the language Jesus uses about spiritual life is relational. That's hard for men – so we need a little help. That's why I believe Christianity is often best understood and experienced as a team sport. Most of the solid progress I have made spiritually has been in the context of small groups, and my men's Bible-study group is the basis for much of what I share in Get Real.
Let's face it guys, we need each other. The principles, of course, speak to both men and women.
5. Do you have plans to write another book? If so, what will it address?
I'm actually editing the final proofs this week! In My Heart I Carry A Star: Stories for Advent is being released by Upper Room Books this August. The book is designed to prepare us for Christmas. It's all too easy to get sidetracked by the razzmatazz, the noise, and the cultural overlay. Most of us arrive at Christmas Eve too exhausted to appreciate the coming of Christ.
In my other life I'm a columnist for The Tampa Tribune. The 33 chapters read much like my (award-winning) Op-Ed column. The book includes loads of amazing scripture (some you wouldn't have expected), great stories, and some creative ideas you won't want to miss.
I can guarantee that if you read In my Heart I Carry A Star your experience of Christmas 2008 will be so meaningful that you'll want to get a copy for everyone you know.
Thanks, Vince, I've enjoyed chatting with you.
Derek
http://www.derekmaul.net/
http://www.upperroom.org/bookstore/description.asp?item_id=430180&ep_id=120
Friday, January 11, 2008
Happy New Year These Days Readers
All of us at These Days wish you a Happy New Year!
January 17, 2008 marks the first day of the These Days blog. By now readers should have received the January/February/March 2008 issue of the magazine. If you or your church have not received this quarter's issue, please contact our Customer Service Department at 800-624-2412, fax us at 800-541-5113, or visit http://www.ppcbooks.com/.
WRITE FOR THESE DAYS
If you wish to write for These Days, please send your requests to vpatton@presbypub.com or These Days, Room 2005, 100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40203.
These Days Sends Free Gift Packages to New Ministers
These Days continues to set the standard for churchwide contributions to the larger church. In December These Days mailed out free packages of resources to approximately three hundred eighty newly ordained ministers through the Presbyterian Publishing Corporation's "Equipping the Saints" program. In 2006 - 2007 These Days donated free copies of the magazine to volunteer work crews engaged in efforts to help churches suffering from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. In addition, the magazine donated free copies to more than 650 mission personnel committed to carrying out mission service throughout the world. Church, seminary, and individual subscriptions to These Days make it possible for it to continue to make these significant contributions to the larger church.
Featured Book
Great Themes of the Bible, Volume 1
Great Themes of the Bible, Volume 1 is the first volume in a series for laity that provides an accessible study of some of the Bible's most important themes. March traces the understanding of key themes, such as God, covenant, and sin, through the Old and New Testaments and demonstrates their importance for Christian life today. Discussion questions are included at the end of each chapter to enhance the usefulness of the book for church study groups.
W. Eugene March is A.B. Rhodes Old Testament Professor Emeritus at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. He wrote the concluding These Times article for the January/February/March issue and devotions for the week of January 27 - February 4. He excerpted portions of his book in the devotions.
More about W. Eugene March
W. Eugene March is the author of God's Land on Loan, The Wide, Wide Circle of Divine Love: The Biblical Case for Religious Diversity, and editor of The Mighty Acts of God: Revised Edition, all published by Westminster John Knox Press.
Below is a recent interview with him.
Question: What has your ability to communicate biblical issues and themes to pastors and laity meant for you and your ministry?
Early on I decided that one of the major breakdowns in our church educational program was the failure of pastors and scholars to communicate the results of serious biblical study to the laity. Part of the problem was that pastors didn’t feel competent enough to deal with the technical issues. Another part of the difficulty was that scholars tended to write for their peers and not provide adequate explanation for non-specialists. So I decided that I should work on the problem and have dedicated much of my energy to trying to bridge the gap, so to speak. Too many people say “the Bible says” without actually knowing what it does day.
Question: How do you anticipate that the book [Great Themes] will be used? What do you hope those who read your book will take from it? How do you think the book is relevant for Christians today?
I hope contemporary Christians will find my work useful in better understanding what the Bible says on some of the more important theological topics that are foundational for Christian faith. I have tried to use non-technical language, so far as possible, to discuss what the Bible “means” when it addresses these topics or themes. Of course, every reader “interprets” to some degree, and I know I certainly do, but there is a lot of factual data that folk need to know about if they want to speak with any degree of integrity about what they think “the Bible says” on these issues. I hope my work will help people do that with better knowledge and with more confidence. Further, there was a conscious effort to approach these topics in light of the whole Bible and not simply one Testament or the other. The old Marcion heresy (the Old Testament is about a ‘bad god’ and the New Testament about a “good god”) is still alive and well in the church and needs to be put to rest.
Question: How do you think your new book, God’s Land on Loan, will help Presbyterians and others in faith communities understand the relationship between Israel and Palestine and the conflict that exists between the two countries? How do you hope this book will be used? What can you say to help people understand these issues a bit differently that they may have in the past?
To begin, there is an awful lot of ignorance – I don’t mean to sound judgmental, but I think that is just a fact – about the whole mid-East. Many people, Christians included, simply do not know much of the history that has led to the present state of affairs. I hope my book will help some people gain a better understanding of this history. Second, many Christians in the United States (and in the mid-East for that matter) tend to have a built-in bias either for or against Jews. Our denomination has long championed the cause of the Palestinians, and rightly so, but in so doing we have also fed a certain form of “anti-Jewish” prejudice. I think that my book presents a more balanced view than is sometimes found. I hope that the book may be used as a starting place for discussion about the issues. It would be good if groups of Christians and Jews could study the book together, but I know that might be difficult to arrange. One of the biggest problems, I think, is the tendency of many to confuse “biblical Israel” with “modern Israel,” so I spend a good bit of time trying to redress this “misinterpretation.” Many books approach the problems in the mid-East basically on the grounds of practical politics. While that is good, I feel that Christians should reflect theologically about the problems as well. So long as anyone thinks that God only loves the Jews or only loves the Palestinians or only favors any one group, misunderstanding is bound to occur. I hope my book will help people avoid that error.
Question: Can you talk a little bit about how that project [Wide, Wide Circle] was developed?
The book, in a way, is the culmination of a decade of reflection on the matter of theological diversity. It seems to me that this is one of the major theological issues of our time. In a nutshell: what do/should Christians think about people of other faith traditions? The long history of an “exclusivistic” interpretation – namely, that the Christian faith is the only legitimate way to experience God – is well-known. But is that actually what the Bible teaches? There are some passages that clearly support the traditional view, but there are many others that raise significant questions about the way other religions have been viewed in the past. So, I decided to explore some of these lesser-known passages and consider what they might suggest. In conversation with many lay people, I came to the conclusion that questions about pluralism/diversity and how to view the status of non-Christians in relation to God, was very important and needed to be addressed directly in light of the whole of the biblical message – not just the few “proof texts” that are regularly presented – and that is what I have tried to do. I hope the book will “give permission” for thinking Christians to recognize that we do not have to approach others in the exclusive way that has traditionally been taught. Many passages suggest that a more inclusive interpretation is quite in order.
Question: How dopes your faith inform and guide what you teach and what you write?
I work and write as a follower of Jesus Christ. I regularly worship with others of Christ’s followers and understand myself to be an advocate of and witness to the Lord Jesus. I believe that Christians have been given a special mission to testify to any and all about the all-embracing love of God as made incarnate in Jesus of Nazareth. That is who I am and it is from this perspective that I try faithfully to articulate what I understand the Bible to say and to require. My study and writing is my current vocation and I rejoice in it.
Below is an interview with W. Eugene March.
Question: What has your ability to communicate biblical issues and themes to pastors and laity meant for you and your ministry?
Early on I decided that one of the major breakdowns in our church educational program was the failure of pastors and scholars to communicate the results of serious biblical study to the laity. Part of the problem was that pastors didn’t feel competent enough to deal with the technical issues. Another part of the difficulty was that scholars tended to write for their peers and not provide adequate explanation for non-specialists. So I decided that I should work on the problem and have dedicated much of my energy to trying to bridge the gap, so to speak. Too many people say “the Bible says” without actually knowing what it does day.
Question: How do you anticipate that the book [Great Themes] will be used? What do you hope those who read your book will take from it? How do you think the book is relevant for Christians today?
I hope contemporary Christians will find my work useful in better understanding what the Bible says on some of the more important theological topics that are foundational for Christian faith. I have tried to use non-technical language, so far as possible, to discuss what the Bible “means” when it addresses these topics or themes. Of course, every reader “interprets” to some degree, and I know I certainly do, but there is a lot of factual data that folk need to know about if they want to speak with any degree of integrity about what they think “the Bible says” on these issues. I hope my work will help people do that with better knowledge and with more confidence. Further, there was a conscious effort to approach these topics in light of the whole Bible and not simply one Testament or the other. The old Marcion heresy (the Old Testament is about a ‘bad god’ and the New Testament about a “good god”) is still alive and well in the church and needs to be put to rest.
Question: How do you think your new book, God’s Land on Loan, will help Presbyterians and others in faith communities understand the relationship between Israel and Palestine and the conflict that exists between the two countries? How do you hope this book will be used? What can you say to help people understand these issues a bit differently that they may have in the past?
To begin, there is an awful lot of ignorance – I don’t mean to sound judgmental, but I think that is just a fact – about the whole mid-East. Many people, Christians included, simply do not know much of the history that has led to the present state of affairs. I hope my book will help some people gain a better understanding of this history. Second, many Christians in the United States (and in the mid-East for that matter) tend to have a built-in bias either for or against Jews. Our denomination has long championed the cause of the Palestinians, and rightly so, but in so doing we have also fed a certain form of “anti-Jewish” prejudice. I think that my book presents a more balanced view than is sometimes found. I hope that the book may be used as a starting place for discussion about the issues. It would be good if groups of Christians and Jews could study the book together, but I know that might be difficult to arrange. One of the biggest problems, I think, is the tendency of many to confuse “biblical Israel” with “modern Israel,” so I spend a good bit of time trying to redress this “misinterpretation.” Many books approach the problems in the mid-East basically on the grounds of practical politics. While that is good, I feel that Christians should reflect theologically about the problems as well. So long as anyone thinks that God only loves the Jews or only loves the Palestinians or only favors any one group, misunderstanding is bound to occur. I hope my book will help people avoid that error.
Question: Can you talk a little bit about how that project [Wide, Wide Circle] was developed?
The book, in a way, is the culmination of a decade of reflection on the matter of theological diversity. It seems to me that this is one of the major theological issues of our time. In a nutshell: what do/should Christians think about people of other faith traditions? The long history of an “exclusivistic” interpretation – namely, that the Christian faith is the only legitimate way to experience God – is well-known. But is that actually what the Bible teaches? There are some passages that clearly support the traditional view, but there are many others that raise significant questions about the way other religions have been viewed in the past. So, I decided to explore some of these lesser-known passages and consider what they might suggest. In conversation with many lay people, I came to the conclusion that questions about pluralism/diversity and how to view the status of non-Christians in relation to God, was very important and needed to be addressed directly in light of the whole of the biblical message – not just the few “proof texts” that are regularly presented – and that is what I have tried to do. I hope the book will “give permission” for thinking Christians to recognize that we do not have to approach others in the exclusive way that has traditionally been taught. Many passages suggest that a more inclusive interpretation is quite in order.
Question: How dopes your faith inform and guide what you teach and what you write?
I work and write as a follower of Jesus Christ. I regularly worship with others of Christ’s followers and understand myself to be an advocate of and witness to the Lord Jesus. I believe that Christians have been given a special mission to testify to any and all about the all-embracing love of God as made incarnate in Jesus of Nazareth. That is who I am and it is from this perspective that I try faithfully to articulate what I understand the Bible to say and to require. My study and writing is my current vocation and I rejoice in it.
January 17, 2008 marks the first day of the These Days blog. By now readers should have received the January/February/March 2008 issue of the magazine. If you or your church have not received this quarter's issue, please contact our Customer Service Department at 800-624-2412, fax us at 800-541-5113, or visit http://www.ppcbooks.com/.
WRITE FOR THESE DAYS
If you wish to write for These Days, please send your requests to vpatton@presbypub.com or These Days, Room 2005, 100 Witherspoon Street, Louisville, KY 40203.
These Days Sends Free Gift Packages to New Ministers
These Days continues to set the standard for churchwide contributions to the larger church. In December These Days mailed out free packages of resources to approximately three hundred eighty newly ordained ministers through the Presbyterian Publishing Corporation's "Equipping the Saints" program. In 2006 - 2007 These Days donated free copies of the magazine to volunteer work crews engaged in efforts to help churches suffering from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. In addition, the magazine donated free copies to more than 650 mission personnel committed to carrying out mission service throughout the world. Church, seminary, and individual subscriptions to These Days make it possible for it to continue to make these significant contributions to the larger church.
Featured Book
Great Themes of the Bible, Volume 1
Great Themes of the Bible, Volume 1 is the first volume in a series for laity that provides an accessible study of some of the Bible's most important themes. March traces the understanding of key themes, such as God, covenant, and sin, through the Old and New Testaments and demonstrates their importance for Christian life today. Discussion questions are included at the end of each chapter to enhance the usefulness of the book for church study groups.
W. Eugene March is A.B. Rhodes Old Testament Professor Emeritus at Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. He wrote the concluding These Times article for the January/February/March issue and devotions for the week of January 27 - February 4. He excerpted portions of his book in the devotions.
More about W. Eugene March
W. Eugene March is the author of God's Land on Loan, The Wide, Wide Circle of Divine Love: The Biblical Case for Religious Diversity, and editor of The Mighty Acts of God: Revised Edition, all published by Westminster John Knox Press.
Below is a recent interview with him.
Question: What has your ability to communicate biblical issues and themes to pastors and laity meant for you and your ministry?
Early on I decided that one of the major breakdowns in our church educational program was the failure of pastors and scholars to communicate the results of serious biblical study to the laity. Part of the problem was that pastors didn’t feel competent enough to deal with the technical issues. Another part of the difficulty was that scholars tended to write for their peers and not provide adequate explanation for non-specialists. So I decided that I should work on the problem and have dedicated much of my energy to trying to bridge the gap, so to speak. Too many people say “the Bible says” without actually knowing what it does day.
Question: How do you anticipate that the book [Great Themes] will be used? What do you hope those who read your book will take from it? How do you think the book is relevant for Christians today?
I hope contemporary Christians will find my work useful in better understanding what the Bible says on some of the more important theological topics that are foundational for Christian faith. I have tried to use non-technical language, so far as possible, to discuss what the Bible “means” when it addresses these topics or themes. Of course, every reader “interprets” to some degree, and I know I certainly do, but there is a lot of factual data that folk need to know about if they want to speak with any degree of integrity about what they think “the Bible says” on these issues. I hope my work will help people do that with better knowledge and with more confidence. Further, there was a conscious effort to approach these topics in light of the whole Bible and not simply one Testament or the other. The old Marcion heresy (the Old Testament is about a ‘bad god’ and the New Testament about a “good god”) is still alive and well in the church and needs to be put to rest.
Question: How do you think your new book, God’s Land on Loan, will help Presbyterians and others in faith communities understand the relationship between Israel and Palestine and the conflict that exists between the two countries? How do you hope this book will be used? What can you say to help people understand these issues a bit differently that they may have in the past?
To begin, there is an awful lot of ignorance – I don’t mean to sound judgmental, but I think that is just a fact – about the whole mid-East. Many people, Christians included, simply do not know much of the history that has led to the present state of affairs. I hope my book will help some people gain a better understanding of this history. Second, many Christians in the United States (and in the mid-East for that matter) tend to have a built-in bias either for or against Jews. Our denomination has long championed the cause of the Palestinians, and rightly so, but in so doing we have also fed a certain form of “anti-Jewish” prejudice. I think that my book presents a more balanced view than is sometimes found. I hope that the book may be used as a starting place for discussion about the issues. It would be good if groups of Christians and Jews could study the book together, but I know that might be difficult to arrange. One of the biggest problems, I think, is the tendency of many to confuse “biblical Israel” with “modern Israel,” so I spend a good bit of time trying to redress this “misinterpretation.” Many books approach the problems in the mid-East basically on the grounds of practical politics. While that is good, I feel that Christians should reflect theologically about the problems as well. So long as anyone thinks that God only loves the Jews or only loves the Palestinians or only favors any one group, misunderstanding is bound to occur. I hope my book will help people avoid that error.
Question: Can you talk a little bit about how that project [Wide, Wide Circle] was developed?
The book, in a way, is the culmination of a decade of reflection on the matter of theological diversity. It seems to me that this is one of the major theological issues of our time. In a nutshell: what do/should Christians think about people of other faith traditions? The long history of an “exclusivistic” interpretation – namely, that the Christian faith is the only legitimate way to experience God – is well-known. But is that actually what the Bible teaches? There are some passages that clearly support the traditional view, but there are many others that raise significant questions about the way other religions have been viewed in the past. So, I decided to explore some of these lesser-known passages and consider what they might suggest. In conversation with many lay people, I came to the conclusion that questions about pluralism/diversity and how to view the status of non-Christians in relation to God, was very important and needed to be addressed directly in light of the whole of the biblical message – not just the few “proof texts” that are regularly presented – and that is what I have tried to do. I hope the book will “give permission” for thinking Christians to recognize that we do not have to approach others in the exclusive way that has traditionally been taught. Many passages suggest that a more inclusive interpretation is quite in order.
Question: How dopes your faith inform and guide what you teach and what you write?
I work and write as a follower of Jesus Christ. I regularly worship with others of Christ’s followers and understand myself to be an advocate of and witness to the Lord Jesus. I believe that Christians have been given a special mission to testify to any and all about the all-embracing love of God as made incarnate in Jesus of Nazareth. That is who I am and it is from this perspective that I try faithfully to articulate what I understand the Bible to say and to require. My study and writing is my current vocation and I rejoice in it.
Below is an interview with W. Eugene March.
Question: What has your ability to communicate biblical issues and themes to pastors and laity meant for you and your ministry?
Early on I decided that one of the major breakdowns in our church educational program was the failure of pastors and scholars to communicate the results of serious biblical study to the laity. Part of the problem was that pastors didn’t feel competent enough to deal with the technical issues. Another part of the difficulty was that scholars tended to write for their peers and not provide adequate explanation for non-specialists. So I decided that I should work on the problem and have dedicated much of my energy to trying to bridge the gap, so to speak. Too many people say “the Bible says” without actually knowing what it does day.
Question: How do you anticipate that the book [Great Themes] will be used? What do you hope those who read your book will take from it? How do you think the book is relevant for Christians today?
I hope contemporary Christians will find my work useful in better understanding what the Bible says on some of the more important theological topics that are foundational for Christian faith. I have tried to use non-technical language, so far as possible, to discuss what the Bible “means” when it addresses these topics or themes. Of course, every reader “interprets” to some degree, and I know I certainly do, but there is a lot of factual data that folk need to know about if they want to speak with any degree of integrity about what they think “the Bible says” on these issues. I hope my work will help people do that with better knowledge and with more confidence. Further, there was a conscious effort to approach these topics in light of the whole Bible and not simply one Testament or the other. The old Marcion heresy (the Old Testament is about a ‘bad god’ and the New Testament about a “good god”) is still alive and well in the church and needs to be put to rest.
Question: How do you think your new book, God’s Land on Loan, will help Presbyterians and others in faith communities understand the relationship between Israel and Palestine and the conflict that exists between the two countries? How do you hope this book will be used? What can you say to help people understand these issues a bit differently that they may have in the past?
To begin, there is an awful lot of ignorance – I don’t mean to sound judgmental, but I think that is just a fact – about the whole mid-East. Many people, Christians included, simply do not know much of the history that has led to the present state of affairs. I hope my book will help some people gain a better understanding of this history. Second, many Christians in the United States (and in the mid-East for that matter) tend to have a built-in bias either for or against Jews. Our denomination has long championed the cause of the Palestinians, and rightly so, but in so doing we have also fed a certain form of “anti-Jewish” prejudice. I think that my book presents a more balanced view than is sometimes found. I hope that the book may be used as a starting place for discussion about the issues. It would be good if groups of Christians and Jews could study the book together, but I know that might be difficult to arrange. One of the biggest problems, I think, is the tendency of many to confuse “biblical Israel” with “modern Israel,” so I spend a good bit of time trying to redress this “misinterpretation.” Many books approach the problems in the mid-East basically on the grounds of practical politics. While that is good, I feel that Christians should reflect theologically about the problems as well. So long as anyone thinks that God only loves the Jews or only loves the Palestinians or only favors any one group, misunderstanding is bound to occur. I hope my book will help people avoid that error.
Question: Can you talk a little bit about how that project [Wide, Wide Circle] was developed?
The book, in a way, is the culmination of a decade of reflection on the matter of theological diversity. It seems to me that this is one of the major theological issues of our time. In a nutshell: what do/should Christians think about people of other faith traditions? The long history of an “exclusivistic” interpretation – namely, that the Christian faith is the only legitimate way to experience God – is well-known. But is that actually what the Bible teaches? There are some passages that clearly support the traditional view, but there are many others that raise significant questions about the way other religions have been viewed in the past. So, I decided to explore some of these lesser-known passages and consider what they might suggest. In conversation with many lay people, I came to the conclusion that questions about pluralism/diversity and how to view the status of non-Christians in relation to God, was very important and needed to be addressed directly in light of the whole of the biblical message – not just the few “proof texts” that are regularly presented – and that is what I have tried to do. I hope the book will “give permission” for thinking Christians to recognize that we do not have to approach others in the exclusive way that has traditionally been taught. Many passages suggest that a more inclusive interpretation is quite in order.
Question: How dopes your faith inform and guide what you teach and what you write?
I work and write as a follower of Jesus Christ. I regularly worship with others of Christ’s followers and understand myself to be an advocate of and witness to the Lord Jesus. I believe that Christians have been given a special mission to testify to any and all about the all-embracing love of God as made incarnate in Jesus of Nazareth. That is who I am and it is from this perspective that I try faithfully to articulate what I understand the Bible to say and to require. My study and writing is my current vocation and I rejoice in it.
Friday, July 13, 2007
July 13: Not So Unlucky
Welcome to a new blog site related to These Days devotional magazine. It is our hope that the site will maintain the enthusiasm that exists for this important resource for spiritual formation. The site includes articles, inspiring stories from Christians committed to living by faith, occasional meditations, and news and notes of interest to These Days readers.
Individuals interested in contributing articles to the blog site or writing for These Days devotional magazine should contact Vince Patton at vpatton@presbypub.com.
While listening to the radio on this slightly rainy morning, I was reminded that it was Friday, July 13, a supposedly unlucky day. Ironically, as I write this opening reflection, I am feeling especially lucky on this day. On Wednesday of this week my wife returned home from the hospital after having exploratory surgery last Friday. Our prayers and those of our pastors, friends, and families have been answered. Skilled nurses have cared for her, dedicated doctors have prescribed medicine for her to take, and after two days she appears to be on the way to a full recovery. On the evening of my wife's return home, our parents met each other for the very first time and appeared to enjoy taking time getting to know each other before my parents headed back for Cincinnati, Ohio, and my wife's parents settled into our house to help her in the early days of her recovery.
A section of Psalm 30, one of the recommended passages from the Revised Common Lectionary, reminds me of the thanks I want to express for my wife's much improved health. It is one of many passages in the Bible that help us understand God's ability to heal and deliver us from harm's way. More significantly, the psalm reminds us of God's providence and presence in our lives. The psalm has relevance for communities as well as for individuals who seek to experience life in relation to the God who is with us These Days and all the days to come.
God, let us remember that you are always with us. Give us the courage to share this part of our faith with others who doubt your presence. Amen.
by Vince Patton, editor of These Days
WHY SUBSCRIBE TO THESE DAYS
For more than thirty-five years, These Days devotional magazine has been the concrete expression of the love of Jesus Christ for Christians throughout the world. The magazine features devotions, Scripture passages, prayers, and practical action steps for each day of the year--all at incredibly low subscription prices.
These Days continues to make significant contributions to the larger church. In 2006 and 2007 These Days donated copies of the magazine to volunteer work groups from churches involved in Hurricane Katrina relief efforts and hospital chaplains of New Orleans hospitals. In addition, These Days covered the costs of a mailing of free resources to more than 500 newly ordained ministers. A similar mailing is planned for the fall of this year.
News and Notes
Members of PC(USA) Committees on Ministry and Committees on Preparation for Ministry have written devotions for the month of July in the July/August/September 2007 issue. Individuals attending the "Rooted in Faith, Thriving in Ministry Conference," the national conference for Committees on Preparation for Ministry and Committees on Ministry will receive a free copy of the July/August/September 2007 issue. The event will be held in Salt Lake City, Utah, on July 26-29. Frances Taylor Gench, professor at Union-PSCE in Richmond, Virginia, author of Encounters with Jesus and Back to the Well and Eugene Petersen are two of the featured speakers at the event.
More about Jean Markham
Jean Markham wrote the devotions for July 14 and September 30 in the July/August/September 2007 issue. In addition, Jean wrote devotions for the July/August/September 2006 issue, which featured devotions from thirty-one Presbyterian Women. Jean is an elder of Grace Presbyterian Church in Bartlett, Tennessee. She is a member of the chancel and bell choirs and is the leader of the Presbyterian Women's Bible study group. She is the president of Johnson Auxiliary at The Med in Memphis, Tennessee. In her spare time, she volunteers at the Wings Cancer Foundation, sewing caps for cancer patients. She is the widow of Robert E. Markham, a Cumberland Presbyterian minister.
In Memoriam
Longtime These Days writer William Ramsay passed away in May. He was the author of The Westminster Guide to the Books of the Bible, The Layman's Guide to the New Testament(Westminster John Knox Press), and Church History 101 (Geneva Press). Bill taught many years at Bethel College and Memphis Theological Seminary. He is survived by his wife DeVere, another popular These Days writer.
Individuals interested in contributing articles to the blog site or writing for These Days devotional magazine should contact Vince Patton at vpatton@presbypub.com.
While listening to the radio on this slightly rainy morning, I was reminded that it was Friday, July 13, a supposedly unlucky day. Ironically, as I write this opening reflection, I am feeling especially lucky on this day. On Wednesday of this week my wife returned home from the hospital after having exploratory surgery last Friday. Our prayers and those of our pastors, friends, and families have been answered. Skilled nurses have cared for her, dedicated doctors have prescribed medicine for her to take, and after two days she appears to be on the way to a full recovery. On the evening of my wife's return home, our parents met each other for the very first time and appeared to enjoy taking time getting to know each other before my parents headed back for Cincinnati, Ohio, and my wife's parents settled into our house to help her in the early days of her recovery.
A section of Psalm 30, one of the recommended passages from the Revised Common Lectionary, reminds me of the thanks I want to express for my wife's much improved health. It is one of many passages in the Bible that help us understand God's ability to heal and deliver us from harm's way. More significantly, the psalm reminds us of God's providence and presence in our lives. The psalm has relevance for communities as well as for individuals who seek to experience life in relation to the God who is with us These Days and all the days to come.
God, let us remember that you are always with us. Give us the courage to share this part of our faith with others who doubt your presence. Amen.
by Vince Patton, editor of These Days
WHY SUBSCRIBE TO THESE DAYS
For more than thirty-five years, These Days devotional magazine has been the concrete expression of the love of Jesus Christ for Christians throughout the world. The magazine features devotions, Scripture passages, prayers, and practical action steps for each day of the year--all at incredibly low subscription prices.
These Days continues to make significant contributions to the larger church. In 2006 and 2007 These Days donated copies of the magazine to volunteer work groups from churches involved in Hurricane Katrina relief efforts and hospital chaplains of New Orleans hospitals. In addition, These Days covered the costs of a mailing of free resources to more than 500 newly ordained ministers. A similar mailing is planned for the fall of this year.
News and Notes
Members of PC(USA) Committees on Ministry and Committees on Preparation for Ministry have written devotions for the month of July in the July/August/September 2007 issue. Individuals attending the "Rooted in Faith, Thriving in Ministry Conference," the national conference for Committees on Preparation for Ministry and Committees on Ministry will receive a free copy of the July/August/September 2007 issue. The event will be held in Salt Lake City, Utah, on July 26-29. Frances Taylor Gench, professor at Union-PSCE in Richmond, Virginia, author of Encounters with Jesus and Back to the Well and Eugene Petersen are two of the featured speakers at the event.
More about Jean Markham
Jean Markham wrote the devotions for July 14 and September 30 in the July/August/September 2007 issue. In addition, Jean wrote devotions for the July/August/September 2006 issue, which featured devotions from thirty-one Presbyterian Women. Jean is an elder of Grace Presbyterian Church in Bartlett, Tennessee. She is a member of the chancel and bell choirs and is the leader of the Presbyterian Women's Bible study group. She is the president of Johnson Auxiliary at The Med in Memphis, Tennessee. In her spare time, she volunteers at the Wings Cancer Foundation, sewing caps for cancer patients. She is the widow of Robert E. Markham, a Cumberland Presbyterian minister.
In Memoriam
Longtime These Days writer William Ramsay passed away in May. He was the author of The Westminster Guide to the Books of the Bible, The Layman's Guide to the New Testament(Westminster John Knox Press), and Church History 101 (Geneva Press). Bill taught many years at Bethel College and Memphis Theological Seminary. He is survived by his wife DeVere, another popular These Days writer.
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