Signing Up for Bridge Building

Last week Union University hosted a conference on Baptist Identity with a variety of speakers included in the program. One of those speakers was Thom Rainer, current President of Lifeway Christian Resources. I have known of Dr. Rainer for many years and have become even more interested in his work since I recently started a Ph.D. program that he helped to start. The more I know of Dr. Rainer, the more I realize that his is a voice that we desperately need in the Southern Baptist Convention.

In an article following the conference, Dr. Rainer called on us as Southern Baptists to begin building bridges among our various groups. He states,

I am part of a denomination that has many tracks, but few bridges. And if we don't start building some bridges quickly, God's hand of blessing may move beyond us.

Later he says,

I was and still am a firm supporter of the conservative resurgence. I knew we could not continue down the path we were headed. But it seems as if we can't stop fighting even though the battle for the Bible is over and won. I understand the risk I am taking by writing these words. But silence is not an option. I must be about building bridges.

I for one agree wholeheartedly with the sentiment of the article and will gladly join Dr. Rainer in building bridges.

To read the full article, go here.

2 + 4 from 24 (1pm-3pm)

Because of a nasty sinus infection, I was not able to watch 24 until Tuesday. As a result, here is a delayed take on the episode.


2 Observations:

1. Observation: The two hours on Monday were the highpoint of the season following the 4 hr premiere for me. It seems that they are returning to what make 24 a successful show. And while some of the plot twists are becoming predictable (expected in a sixth season), those formulas are what make the show work. These episodes had the right mixture of action and drama. I am now anxious to see how it continues to unfold.

2. Quote of the Night: "There is a fine line between conviction and stubborness."

4 Questions:

1. How long will it be before we figure out who "Carson" is?

2. What will Morris do to redeem himself?

3. Is a romance brewing between Chloe and Jack (after Morris gave in to the terrorist in a matter of minutes while Jack withstood months of torture at the hands of the Chinese)?

4. Who will reach Gredenko first - father or son?

What were your top moments of the night? Favorite Quote? What questions do you have remaining?

Living Beyond Life's Limits - True Love

What does true love look like? Using Romans 12:9-10, I look at four characteristics of true love.

Just click play.

You Tube Friday - Evolution of Dance

Here is one of the first viral videos to get national attention as inspirational (whatever that means) comedian Judson Laipply tracks dance from the 50's until today. Enjoy the trip down memory lane.

Living Beyond Life's Limits - Making Ripples

Do we have a destiny, or are we all floatin' around accidental-like? This sermon examines how we can claim the destiny that God has for us and make an impact on our world. Looking at the life of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, we examine how to make a difference even in difficult circumstances.

Just click play.

2 + 4 from 24 (12 pm - 1pm)

2 Observations:

1. Observation: Both of the big reveals last night were a little too predictable in my opinion. First, Jack's dad's true colors started to come out when he shot the other attacker as Jack tried to protect him (24 Rule - If someone shoots somebody that Jack wants to keep alive, the person shooting has much to hide). The second reveal with Morris was given away when he was the only one able to work and then got mysteriously pulled away. Unlike most major reveals that I don't get early, I had both of those pegged very early.

2. Quote of the Night: "I've seen what happens when you try to protect people." (Marilyn, Graem's wife, to Jack after he and many of his CTU friends had just invaded their house.)

4 Questions:

1. How much more do Jack's sister-in-law (ex-girlfriend) and nephew (or possibly son) know?

2. How will Fayed attempt to get Morris to cooperate, and will it involve Chloe?

3. How will the Vice-President attempt to gain control of the White House?

4. So, if Graem has been answering to dad in the last two years, to whom is dad answering?

What were your top moments of the night? Favorite Quote? What questions do you have remaining?

You Tube Friday - Whitney Sings the National Anthem

Another week - another Super Bowl performance. This performance of "The Star-Spangled Banner" by Whitney Houston is one of the all time great performances. It was performed with the backdrop of the first Gulf War. I thought it would be a great way to kickoff Super Bowl Weekend.

Super Bowl Predictions

over

Score:
31-17

MVP (Headed to Disneyworld Award):
Peyton Manning (21-26, 272 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT)

LVP (Headed to QB Controversy Award):
Rex Grossman (15-31, 176 yards, 0 TD, 3 INT)

Super Bowl Record:
Devin Hester returns a punt for a TD