Author Archives: Benj

My best man finished his undergraduate studies last year. His course of study spanned ten years and three institutions. He worked hard, and his wife is very proud of him (and relieved). After a B.A. in Mathematics, he’s now beginning … Continue reading →

Brett McCracken, author of Hipster Christianity, has written a thoughtful piece on the WSJ website. McCracken offers a scathing critique of evangelical churches that use stunts like sex billboards and online services to attract the young folks. Here’s a choice … Continue reading →

Koeljamm brought this to my attention: Grammatrain, one of our favorite bands from the ’90s, is back after a hiatus of over 10 years! They’ve released video of their entire reunion concert, and it’s available for free download here. You … Continue reading →

I was in the restroom today (which is the only place I read magazines anymore), and I was browsing this week’s issue of Time. I don’t usually care much for Joe Klein’s column, but he has some astute observations about … Continue reading →

Right now, I’m listening to an interesting book called Evolving in Monkey Town, by Rachel Held Evans. A young evangelical, Evans chronicles her experiences growing up fundamentalist in the American South and attending a very conservative Christian college. So far, … Continue reading →

Here’s some more pictures that are not up on Facebook…

If, as some cultures believe, a photograph steals a bit of its object’s soul, then my son ran out of soul last Thursday. As the first grandchild, great-grandchild, nephew, grandnephew, etc., on both sides of the family, this kid has … Continue reading →

When I read a text, I feel that it is important to read that text “on its own terms,” insofar as I am able.  By this, I mean reading it in its original context as best as I can understand … Continue reading →

YHWH, your mercies are new in the morning and great at night. You are faithful to your promises, remembering your covenant to children, and to children’s children. YHWH God, my sins are great. I stand before you as Israel: broken … Continue reading →

I’ve commented on Bekah’s lengthy but excellent post over at The Primary Word entitled, "My Personal Jesus and the Story of Israel."