Author Archives: Benj

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About Benj

I’m a native North Jerseyan, transplanted to Pennsylvania...lived and taught in Eastern Europe for six years…Old Testament professor, author, minister, musician, liturgist…husband to Corrie…father to Daniel and Elizabeth.

Links: 9 January 2015

In the culture department: John Oliver: Prison (HBO). Very sobering, but every American should watch (NSFW). Gay Marriage Prompts Call for Clergy to Shun Civil Ceremonies. In the economics department: Why Swedish men take so much paternity leave | The … Continue reading

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St. Ephraim on the Eternal Fount of Scripture

“The thirsty man rejoices when he drinks and he is not downcast because he cannot empty the fountain. Rather let the fountain quench your thirst than have your thirst quench the fountain.” Continue reading

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Links 3 January 2015: Russia-Ukraine Edition

I’m hoping to get back to our usual schedule of “Friday links” next week. Things have been a little irregular over the Christmas break–we were away last weekend (travelogue forthcoming) But here are some interesting stories I’ve read over the … Continue reading

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No Apocalypse Yet

I paid in litai and received my change in euros. Continue reading

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Rethinking Sanctions: Putin’s Peaches

I’ve started using the expression “Putin gets his peaches” as shorthand for the unintended consequences of economic sanctions. Perhaps it will catch on, like “Bootleggers and Baptists.” You read it here first… Continue reading

Posted in Culture-Economics-Society, Giffones in Lithuania | 1 Comment

American Missionaries and Politics

Tom Wright tells his students, “One-third of what I’m telling you is wrong. The trouble is, I don’t know which third it is.” Continue reading

Posted in Culture-Economics-Society, Giffones in Lithuania | 1 Comment

December Update: Greetings from Lithuania!

Dear Friends and Family: Below you will find our monthly update for December. Merry Christmas, and Happy Hanukkah! Be sure to write back and tell us how we can pray for you. Giffone December 2014 Update In Christ, Benj and … Continue reading

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Tetelestai

Finished! Continue reading

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Important Questions

In the spirit of the shortest day of the year, snuggle up inside with a hot beverage of choice, and your favorite book or comedy videos, and ponder these difficult questions. Continue reading

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Links: 19 December 2014

Much in this essay resonates with my experience and current tendencies: My Journey Away from Contemporary Worship Music. A Lehrer-esque take on a Gilbert & Sullivan classic: I Am the Very Model of a Biblical Philologist. My exposure to Eastern … Continue reading

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