Nanny State?

While I would not state as strongly what Staub says here, I do agree with much of his assertion: "I guess I'm stunned that evangelicals, who set out in the 50's to 'engage the culture,' are still dialoguing about whether or not to go to movies." I diverge from his thought, however, where his broad strokes paint why evangelicals might not want to go to a movie: "Can you imagine the New Yorker reminding readers that, 'skipping a movie is a viable option?' These kind of comments make evangelicals seem like babies strapped into a high chair waiting for Dr. Dobson to tell them what to do next."

I'm one who likes to skip many movies and chooses not to "engage culture" with most of what's on TV or in the theater, but it's not because I want a nanny state or live in fear - it's because I think so much of it is garbage that is not worth my time. I think Staub might benefit by giving many intelligent Christians the benefit of the doubt when it comes to their hearts and minds. Many are so linked to God's word and the meat of his truth and work in this world, that devoting energy engaging pop culture seems unchallenging and time-wasting.

Words of submission

I find great joy in the old discipline of submission - a discipline rarely mentioned or cherished, but more freeing that many others. Enjoy these insightful statements that capture the simplicity and beauty of submission:

Thomas a Kempis: "As thou wilt; what thou wilt; when thou wilt."

T.S. Eliot:
"Seek not to count the future waves of Time;
But be ye satisfied that you have light
Enough to take your step and find your foothold."

Sobering and Encouraging

It is no wonder that we are advised by the writer of Ecclesiates that it is better to be around death than carousing life. Seeing it, we must face our own inevitable end, and articulate to ourselves what our intentions and priorities are. The log linked to here is about a man whom I knew in college - and his experiences sober me up and remind me how important my faith really is. May I love God so fervantly that I would honor Him as Pete has through his illness.