I realize I'm due for a real post, and I'll get to it as soon as possible. Until then, however, I'd like to draw your attention to a little something at the bottom of the screen. The Prince Caspian widget.
*grins* I'm such a nerd. Bear with me, however.
Deus paxque vobiscum.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Friday, February 22, 2008
Worlds Apart
Kaci and I decided to start a blog hosted by, at the moment, two of our characters. Others will follow, in time.
So then, without any ado whatsoever, may I present Worlds Apart.
Deus paxque vobiscum.
So then, without any ado whatsoever, may I present Worlds Apart.
Deus paxque vobiscum.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
A Little Update
I swear, I posted more in the first three days of my last blog than I have in over a month of having this blog.
As the title says, a small update.
For those of you whom I haven't informed already, I am severing almost all ties to the computer. IM is deleted. Permanently. The Dragons in our Midst forum...Let's just say that as soon as Messiah is over, I'll be leaving there, too. As it is, you won't see me anywhere other than Dragon Academy, really.
In the past couple of days, my world has revolved around school and online sermons. Kaci introduced me to Matt Chandler's podcasts. Haven't stopped listening to them since. For once, a senior pastor who is real. (And I'll get kicked out of my church for that one. Not really, but I think you get the picture.) Someone who is dynamic.
An overview on how the writing is coming:
Unfortunately...I haven't been getting as much done as I would have liked. I've worked some on a short story for a contest, and edited a couple of my poems. Other than that...Just plotting. And some DA, of course.
On the bright side, I finally have the official title for the first book. And a tentative overarching series title. "Light of Terros." For the few of you who know the story line, tell me what you think.
So far, it looks like:
The Kindred Blade
Terror's Shadow
Lightbringer
And I'm beginning to write up a summary for a set placed a few generations after the above cycle. (Yes, Kaci, I'm copying you. What's a Mini-Me for?) I'm excited for that one.
I've been studying Tolkien quite a bit lately. I got three of the "History of Middle-Earth" books for Christmas, and ordered most of the rest in January. I've poured over them, studying his style, how he develops the story, the characters, the worlds--even the language. As one of the world's bestselling authors, I thought it might be a good idea to see how he created this masterpiece of literature. On my Amazon wish-list I also have a list of books on plot and character development, as well as setting and dialogue.
Oh, that money grew on trees...
As it is, I'll have to wait on those. And on the contents of the Barnes and Noble.com wish-list.
I'm also delving into 1 Corinthians. I wanted to get to the "Love" chapter, but thought it might be best just to start with the beginning of the letter. Work my way through the Epistles.
Finally. Yes, I realize I have to go back and do Romans first. I'll get there.
Another thought that's repeated itself over and over again is on "I surrender all." My second post concerns itself with that (as there's only four, it shouldn't be too difficult to find.)
So that's my world nowadays.
Deus paxque vobiscum.
As the title says, a small update.
For those of you whom I haven't informed already, I am severing almost all ties to the computer. IM is deleted. Permanently. The Dragons in our Midst forum...Let's just say that as soon as Messiah is over, I'll be leaving there, too. As it is, you won't see me anywhere other than Dragon Academy, really.
In the past couple of days, my world has revolved around school and online sermons. Kaci introduced me to Matt Chandler's podcasts. Haven't stopped listening to them since. For once, a senior pastor who is real. (And I'll get kicked out of my church for that one. Not really, but I think you get the picture.) Someone who is dynamic.
An overview on how the writing is coming:
Unfortunately...I haven't been getting as much done as I would have liked. I've worked some on a short story for a contest, and edited a couple of my poems. Other than that...Just plotting. And some DA, of course.
On the bright side, I finally have the official title for the first book. And a tentative overarching series title. "Light of Terros." For the few of you who know the story line, tell me what you think.
So far, it looks like:
The Kindred Blade
Terror's Shadow
Lightbringer
And I'm beginning to write up a summary for a set placed a few generations after the above cycle. (Yes, Kaci, I'm copying you. What's a Mini-Me for?) I'm excited for that one.
I've been studying Tolkien quite a bit lately. I got three of the "History of Middle-Earth" books for Christmas, and ordered most of the rest in January. I've poured over them, studying his style, how he develops the story, the characters, the worlds--even the language. As one of the world's bestselling authors, I thought it might be a good idea to see how he created this masterpiece of literature. On my Amazon wish-list I also have a list of books on plot and character development, as well as setting and dialogue.
Oh, that money grew on trees...
As it is, I'll have to wait on those. And on the contents of the Barnes and Noble.com wish-list.
I'm also delving into 1 Corinthians. I wanted to get to the "Love" chapter, but thought it might be best just to start with the beginning of the letter. Work my way through the Epistles.
Finally. Yes, I realize I have to go back and do Romans first. I'll get there.
Another thought that's repeated itself over and over again is on "I surrender all." My second post concerns itself with that (as there's only four, it shouldn't be too difficult to find.)
So that's my world nowadays.
Deus paxque vobiscum.
Sunday, February 3, 2008
"American Pie"
I am not yet sure if the title has anything to do with this post. I'm listening to the song, however, so I decided to use it.
In this note, I've decided to dispense with some of the eloquence seen before hand, and allow some of the edgier, "Cali beach baby" talk come out. It's fun, it's colorful; what's to lose?
At least, I think I will.
But to give this as of now bare post some meat on its bones, I'll fill you in, I suppose, on life.
Three things make up most of my day. School, which is going well. Writing, which I wish I was doing more of. And...my arch nemesis, the dishes.
God, why were plastic cups invented? Why does paper have to come from trees? If it didn't, I'd probably dispense with all dishes save that which can go in the dishwasher.
Hardly anyone really *likes* the dishes. But why do I have such an abhorrence for them?
Simple, really. I'm too slow, and it takes forever to do a simple load.
Now I'm rambling.
To leave the dishes behind, a few more items will soon be added to the list of what takes up my time. Included, rehearsals.
I have again committed to another production at my church. This one is much smaller than our presentation of "The Gospel According to Scrooge" at Christmas; a shorter script, less rehearsal time, and only one weekend of performing. Easter weekend; Good Friday, Saturday, and Easter Sunday.
I'm looking forward to it. What my role will be, I cannot yet say. Tomorrow night, ask again.
Well, I owe a friend a game post, and will now take my leave to do so.
Deus paxque vobiscum.
In this note, I've decided to dispense with some of the eloquence seen before hand, and allow some of the edgier, "Cali beach baby" talk come out. It's fun, it's colorful; what's to lose?
At least, I think I will.
But to give this as of now bare post some meat on its bones, I'll fill you in, I suppose, on life.
Three things make up most of my day. School, which is going well. Writing, which I wish I was doing more of. And...my arch nemesis, the dishes.
God, why were plastic cups invented? Why does paper have to come from trees? If it didn't, I'd probably dispense with all dishes save that which can go in the dishwasher.
Hardly anyone really *likes* the dishes. But why do I have such an abhorrence for them?
Simple, really. I'm too slow, and it takes forever to do a simple load.
Now I'm rambling.
To leave the dishes behind, a few more items will soon be added to the list of what takes up my time. Included, rehearsals.
I have again committed to another production at my church. This one is much smaller than our presentation of "The Gospel According to Scrooge" at Christmas; a shorter script, less rehearsal time, and only one weekend of performing. Easter weekend; Good Friday, Saturday, and Easter Sunday.
I'm looking forward to it. What my role will be, I cannot yet say. Tomorrow night, ask again.
Well, I owe a friend a game post, and will now take my leave to do so.
Deus paxque vobiscum.
Friday, January 18, 2008
The Knightess' Oath.
"Do you solemnly swear to serve the Lord God and to obey Him in whatever calling he doth give, not excepting anything, no matter how difficult or impossible it may seem?"
The above is the oath of the Knightesses of the Round Table, a fellowship of girls and women on the Dragons in our Midst forum who come together to pray for and encourage one another.
It looks so simple written down. So, so simple.
So do the words, "I surrender all."
But when you go to live them out, you find it's a much different story. Whatever calling, we swear. Whatever calling? That includes the things we wouldn't think to do. The tasks that require a sacrifice. The ones that leave you feeling as if there is no one for you. Even when it feels as if you're alone in a sea of despair and hatred, pressing onward. Going to the places that you wouldn't have chosen to. Reaching out to those who under any other circumstances you wouldn't speak to.
Whatever calling, not excepting anything.
That's a high bar to set.
I'm not saying it should be lowered. Not at all. I'm just wondering, though, and I'm talking to myself here as well, how many of us are really that ready to give it all up for Him. To not just stick a toe out of our comfort zone and decide we've done enough for God today, but to literally throw ourselves out of what we know into what we don't. To dive into it, not just splash in the edges, but dive and keep diving, pressing on according to His direction and purpose no matter what the obstacles.
The words "I surrender all" pose the same question.
All, my friends, doesn't just mean the things you're proud of. The things you love. Those are actually easiest to give away. Dreams are more difficult, but still easier.
What about the things you would never reveal to the world? The thoughts and past sins you've locked away in a chest and buried, never to be seen.
"All" means those things too.
Our depression.
Our sin.
Our despair.
Our anger.
Our temptations.
Our faults.
All the things we are not proud of.
"Take the beauty take my tears; sin-soaked heart make it yours. Take my world, it all is yours. Take it now. Take it now." *
Thoughts. Maybe it's just me.
But think some. Read the pledge again. Would you go absolutely anywhere, do absolutely anything, to the point of death or alienation from family or friends, for the sake of the cross?
Do you surrender all?
This isn't meant to depress. Please, don't take this as an excuse to cry out from lack of hope. But take hope, I urge you. And be free.
For whomever the Son sets free is free indeed.
*World Apart, Jars of Clay
The above is the oath of the Knightesses of the Round Table, a fellowship of girls and women on the Dragons in our Midst forum who come together to pray for and encourage one another.
It looks so simple written down. So, so simple.
So do the words, "I surrender all."
But when you go to live them out, you find it's a much different story. Whatever calling, we swear. Whatever calling? That includes the things we wouldn't think to do. The tasks that require a sacrifice. The ones that leave you feeling as if there is no one for you. Even when it feels as if you're alone in a sea of despair and hatred, pressing onward. Going to the places that you wouldn't have chosen to. Reaching out to those who under any other circumstances you wouldn't speak to.
Whatever calling, not excepting anything.
That's a high bar to set.
I'm not saying it should be lowered. Not at all. I'm just wondering, though, and I'm talking to myself here as well, how many of us are really that ready to give it all up for Him. To not just stick a toe out of our comfort zone and decide we've done enough for God today, but to literally throw ourselves out of what we know into what we don't. To dive into it, not just splash in the edges, but dive and keep diving, pressing on according to His direction and purpose no matter what the obstacles.
The words "I surrender all" pose the same question.
All, my friends, doesn't just mean the things you're proud of. The things you love. Those are actually easiest to give away. Dreams are more difficult, but still easier.
What about the things you would never reveal to the world? The thoughts and past sins you've locked away in a chest and buried, never to be seen.
"All" means those things too.
Our depression.
Our sin.
Our despair.
Our anger.
Our temptations.
Our faults.
All the things we are not proud of.
"Take the beauty take my tears; sin-soaked heart make it yours. Take my world, it all is yours. Take it now. Take it now." *
Thoughts. Maybe it's just me.
But think some. Read the pledge again. Would you go absolutely anywhere, do absolutely anything, to the point of death or alienation from family or friends, for the sake of the cross?
Do you surrender all?
This isn't meant to depress. Please, don't take this as an excuse to cry out from lack of hope. But take hope, I urge you. And be free.
For whomever the Son sets free is free indeed.
*World Apart, Jars of Clay
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Introductions: Take Two
Salvete!
Once again I came on and decided to create a blog. Mainly for my own use, as a place to jot down thoughts and questions that may come to me throughout the day. My posting will likely be sporadic, as the things to be done are many and time in which to do them in little.
On that note, my first post will be a bit unique as introductory posts go. You see, I have a very dear friend of the family who is a man of integrity, faith, and discipline. And he has a take on Christians and their behavior that is not claimed by many. He believes that the true Christian is one who is holy, sinless. Not that they were perfect; no, that Christians are still saved by grace and belief in Christ, yet when they accept Christ, they become Holy, as he is Holy.
Which makes sense, in a way.
I am currently involved in a semi-debating regarding- what do you know!- this particular topic. As I am defending his stance, I find myself considering his view more and more. He has the Scriptural backing for it, and actually looking at it from this perspective takes care of many of the "contradictory" verses in the New Testament.
Addendum: I believe that this world was created by a supreme deity who is omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent. I believe that the only type of evolution that actually takes place is the adaption of an organism to its environment. I believe that two thousands years ago a Man who was also God named Jesus bar Joseph, of Nazareth, walked this earth and was crucified for the sins of Mankind, only to rise again on the third day. I believe that he is alive today, having ascended into Heaven and sits at the right hand of the Father, God. I believe in the Trinity, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. I believe that the Holy Ghost is active in this world today.
I believe that the Bible as was written is inerrant, that it was penned over thousands of years by those dedicated to faith, inspired by the words of God and his Spirit. I believe that the Bible has all authority over the believer's life, and that the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are the only true, divinely inspired Gospels of Christ.
I believe in the Second Coming of Christ.
If I've deterred any one in declaring these, then this blog is not one that you will find appealing. Even so, I exhort you to hear me out.
To return to my story, the Sinless Christian doctrine has been growing on me. The verses I read that my friend has given for it work. "What about Paul?" some of you who are familiar with the Pauline Epistles may ask. "The 'Greatest Sinner of all?'"
There are such things as translation errors. Hence why I have a desire to learn Greek and Hebrew (and have already spent a year on the former.)
But, you see, Paul seems to contradict himself in his letters, if you look at it as most readers do. In 1 Timothy we find the "Greatest sinner of all" verse, but in 1 Corinthians he exhorts the Corinthians to imitate him as he imitates Christ (the word used that has been translated as imitate also means "follow").
Is he saying Christ was a sinner, thus refuting other verses? Something doesn't add up.
This is where one must return to the Greek and pay attention to the tenses of the verbs. According to my friend, these are often mistranslated, giving us what we have today in most versions of the Bible.
Now, my friend is not the only one who believe this, or to make these observations. A Bible commentary my father received a year ago for Christmas makes the same points.
So in viewing all these and reading multiple documents in which my friend has defended his position, I am left with this question. Does a Christian sin, or does he not?
And if he does, where does that leave me?
From what I've seen of both sides of the debate, the Sinless Christian stance makes the most sense, and has the most backing. But one of the main things that keeps me from embracing this is that I have sinned, even while professing to follow Christ. Am I now made a hypocrite by that which tugs at my heart and even my mind? And what of friends and acquaintances, who have the faith...yet stumble at times?
I am still searching, studying; pouring over Scripture concerning this.
An so I leave you now, Reader, with these points having been made. If I'm rambling, forgive me; I am wont to do so as I puzzle out a theory.
Deus paxque vobiscum.
EDIT: Even as I've posted this, I'm still struggling with it. It seems like something more of the human will, yet my friend insists it's not.
"Curiouser and curiouser," as Alice would say. Not really. More like I don't yet understand what it truly means.
Once again I came on and decided to create a blog. Mainly for my own use, as a place to jot down thoughts and questions that may come to me throughout the day. My posting will likely be sporadic, as the things to be done are many and time in which to do them in little.
On that note, my first post will be a bit unique as introductory posts go. You see, I have a very dear friend of the family who is a man of integrity, faith, and discipline. And he has a take on Christians and their behavior that is not claimed by many. He believes that the true Christian is one who is holy, sinless. Not that they were perfect; no, that Christians are still saved by grace and belief in Christ, yet when they accept Christ, they become Holy, as he is Holy.
Which makes sense, in a way.
I am currently involved in a semi-debating regarding- what do you know!- this particular topic. As I am defending his stance, I find myself considering his view more and more. He has the Scriptural backing for it, and actually looking at it from this perspective takes care of many of the "contradictory" verses in the New Testament.
Addendum: I believe that this world was created by a supreme deity who is omnipresent, omniscient, and omnipotent. I believe that the only type of evolution that actually takes place is the adaption of an organism to its environment. I believe that two thousands years ago a Man who was also God named Jesus bar Joseph, of Nazareth, walked this earth and was crucified for the sins of Mankind, only to rise again on the third day. I believe that he is alive today, having ascended into Heaven and sits at the right hand of the Father, God. I believe in the Trinity, the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. I believe that the Holy Ghost is active in this world today.
I believe that the Bible as was written is inerrant, that it was penned over thousands of years by those dedicated to faith, inspired by the words of God and his Spirit. I believe that the Bible has all authority over the believer's life, and that the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are the only true, divinely inspired Gospels of Christ.
I believe in the Second Coming of Christ.
If I've deterred any one in declaring these, then this blog is not one that you will find appealing. Even so, I exhort you to hear me out.
To return to my story, the Sinless Christian doctrine has been growing on me. The verses I read that my friend has given for it work. "What about Paul?" some of you who are familiar with the Pauline Epistles may ask. "The 'Greatest Sinner of all?'"
There are such things as translation errors. Hence why I have a desire to learn Greek and Hebrew (and have already spent a year on the former.)
But, you see, Paul seems to contradict himself in his letters, if you look at it as most readers do. In 1 Timothy we find the "Greatest sinner of all" verse, but in 1 Corinthians he exhorts the Corinthians to imitate him as he imitates Christ (the word used that has been translated as imitate also means "follow").
Is he saying Christ was a sinner, thus refuting other verses? Something doesn't add up.
This is where one must return to the Greek and pay attention to the tenses of the verbs. According to my friend, these are often mistranslated, giving us what we have today in most versions of the Bible.
Now, my friend is not the only one who believe this, or to make these observations. A Bible commentary my father received a year ago for Christmas makes the same points.
So in viewing all these and reading multiple documents in which my friend has defended his position, I am left with this question. Does a Christian sin, or does he not?
And if he does, where does that leave me?
From what I've seen of both sides of the debate, the Sinless Christian stance makes the most sense, and has the most backing. But one of the main things that keeps me from embracing this is that I have sinned, even while professing to follow Christ. Am I now made a hypocrite by that which tugs at my heart and even my mind? And what of friends and acquaintances, who have the faith...yet stumble at times?
I am still searching, studying; pouring over Scripture concerning this.
An so I leave you now, Reader, with these points having been made. If I'm rambling, forgive me; I am wont to do so as I puzzle out a theory.
Deus paxque vobiscum.
EDIT: Even as I've posted this, I'm still struggling with it. It seems like something more of the human will, yet my friend insists it's not.
"Curiouser and curiouser," as Alice would say. Not really. More like I don't yet understand what it truly means.
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