One of my favourite theological discoveries this year has been John Zizioulas. He is best read with a glass of French red, a furrowed brow, and an air of pretension. Among many other gems, he talks about remembering the future. No, it’s not a new sci-fi time-travelling thriller. No, he’s not a new-age soothsayer. No, it’s not heresy. I think.… Read more →
Does anyone remember this ad promoting driving safety a few years back? Bobby McFerrin’s tender tones sharply juxtapose the footage of traffic accidents that progressively worsen as the ad goes on. The message “don’t worry, be happy” sounds good, but pushing a little deeper it is fairly problematic and quite frankly unhelpful advice at the best of times! The crumpled… Read more →
We hear the parable of the Good Samaritan so much that it’s hard to be impacted by it. And if we are impacted by it, it’s often to become more like the Samaritan — an admirable goal and one I’d in no way want to discourage! But is this all Jesus was wanting to say? The story ends with the… Read more →
This Sunday at the Living Room we have an exciting panel discussion on Christian unity and diversity, particularly in the Christchurch context. We have a top notch panel: Rev. Spanky Moore, whom you may know as the Salt&Light guy, the university chaplain, a radio DJ or all of the above. Chris Hannen, who is the Director at the Laidlaw Christchurch… Read more →
I have been invited to speak at St. Andrews College Chapel this Thursday. The theme for the term is “Faith”. So I’ve chosen to talk about the relationship between science and faith. It’s a relationship that is frequently fraught both inside the church and out. Based on the first creation narrative in Genesis 1, I’ve offered some thoughts. Let me… Read more →
I was asked the other day whether we can have more or less Holy Spirit, or do we have the whole holy Spirit the whole holy time? Instead of answering the person directly, I thought I’d place it in the public realm to see what others think. So let’s start up our new show, kind of like Dr. Phil or… Read more →
I’m reading a beautiful book at the moment entitled “Mister God, This Is Anna.” There are many gems, but this is one: “When you’re little you ‘understand’ Mister God. He sits up there on his throne, a golden one of course; he has got whiskers and a crown and everyone is singing hymns like mad to him. God is useful… Read more →
Well, if you clicked on this link because of the title “some juicy gossip” then firstly, shame on you! — for perpetuating the cycle of gossip! And secondly, you have successfully been duped because you’ll find no gossip here…mwa ha ha haa. Don’t leave. Please don’t leave… … But seriously, let’s talk about gossip… Our Mondayitis! series has come to… Read more →
Happy Earth Day everyone! In honour of this special occasion, let me give yet another shameless plug as to why we should care for our planet. Of the very limited readership to frequent the Living Room blogsite, there are probably three reactions right now: Huzzah! Yes! I’ve been holding out for yet another shameless creation care blog! This is so… Read more →
Roommates! I announced last Sunday that on 18th September I will finish my term at Hope in order to begin post-grad studies in Scotland. Aye, I’m excited! But I’m also sad to be leaving this vibrant community. In particular I will miss the Living Room gathering. This is an update both on my personal plans (on the off-chance anyone is… Read more →