My blog has been on hiatus for some time. With Facebook, Twitter, and a third kid, blogging has seemed a bit hard to piece together lately...
However, for those of you who actually take a moment to read my updates, I want to thank you and reward you with a few insider updates.
First, for those wondering what I've been up to, the latest book on the way is called "Undefending Christianity." Yes, I know "undefending" is not a word and is the polar opposite of most of my work in defending the Christian faith. The point is to highlight that our faith often needs more action and less reaction. Each chapter is written in a memoir-like fashion and hits all the controversial topics ranging from poverty to gluttony to pornography and far more. I even get to include a fair dose of humor in this one, so be ready to question everything you thought about my crazy life starting next March (including comments on The Shack, Oprah, and calling Barnes and Noble my "other church"; I might have even mentioned you!).
The next book in progress is called "Not in My Town" with my friend, film producer, and abolitionist Charles J. Powell. He's traveled undercover in some dicey places and hangs out with others who are going to the hard places around the planet to document and deter modern slavery.
If there's one issue everyone on this planet should agree on, it's that buying and selling people is a bad idea. Hopefully by the time this book and related documentary comes out next summer, more Christians will choose to get in on the effort to stop slavery, both around the globe and in their own communities (And yes, slavery still happens in America, too!).
Despite rumors that I've become a professional wrestler for a living or am funding a research project to fly to Mars, I'm still serving as staff writer at the John Ankerberg Show. We've been self-publishing a ton of new resources related to our programs, with 10 study guides or books in the past year and a half (That's way more work than just writing a book, since we not create the whole thing and sell it ourselves!). We're currently airing a series called "The Case for Traditional Marriage," which goes to show we're still taking on just about the most controversial issues we can find... (COMMERCIAL: Visit JAShow.org to see what we do.)
Though I'm not on the road much this fall, I'm still teaching some online courses for TN Temple and will be back in the classroom next semester to teach Apologetics. Some students and I are even going beyond the classroom and restarting the student-led Project Freedom prayer and worship movement from last year, taking it downtown. You've probably seen my posts about it every five minutes on Facebook.
And YES, I believe people praying together is about the best thing we can do to make a difference in our community and world. The next one is Thursday, Nov. 4th, 7pm on 412 Market St. in Chattanooga. Come and see what God is up to.
And some of you might have noticed about 3 trillion posts last week on Soddy Daisy High School's prayer situation. The short version is that the school was told to no longer allow prayer before football games over the PA system. I felt led to get involved to fight this and connected with some students at the school in the process. Thousands are now connected online, it made front page news in our local paper, was on the local TV networks, and was mentioned in dozens of papers, radio stations, and news programs across the country, even making FOX News.
The best part is that last Friday night, Soddy Daisy played an away game at neighboring Rhea County High School. That school invited anyone who wanted to pray to come down to the field before the game. BOTH sides of the stands emptied. A student from Rhea County led a prayer in the middle of the field surrounded by hundreds of people supporting prayer and standing for their faith. Amazing!
Over the next view months, I'll be completely revamping what I do in terms of blogging and online communications. The short version is that with over 100,000 people in various social networks I've developed the past two years, communicating is a bit out of control.
I had a plan all set up with FOX to launch a blog on Beliefnet, the world's largest spiritual website, and then the company got sold off and everyone I knew who worked there left for new jobs. I then planned to coordinate a new faith and action blog site with my buddy Dan King and didn't feel right about the timing at the moment. Now I have some people telling me to start some kind of blog about the rising generation of Christians or conservatives while other people are calling me to do interviews on Halloween and my kids just want to play at the park. For now, I'm praying and seeking God's will on just what it is that will glorify Him the most, since that's really the point of my life.
All that to say, pray a lot, hang out with your spouse and kids, quit skipping class, stand up for Christ, vote next week, eat chocolate, get outside and enjoy God's creation, drink a strong cup of coffee (especially if you can get to the Starbucks on Hamilton Place, the best coffee spot on the planet), sleep in sometime soon (unless you have an exam that day), read the Bible, quit calling people names, pray for our president, eat healthier, get a cat (Ours just showed up on our porch!), serve the poor, eat your vegetables, laugh more, turn off your cell phone, jump in a big pile of leaves just for fun, check out my crazy family pictures on Facebook (but not at work), and whatever you do, do it for God's glory, because we'll all soon see Him face to face.
That Jesus-loving guy who keeps sending you messages,
Dillon
Showing posts with label Dillon Burroughs. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dillon Burroughs. Show all posts
Monday, October 25, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
What Is God Calling You to Do?
“It is easier to serve God without a vision, easier to work for God without a call, because then you are not bothered by what God requires; common sense is your guide, veneered over with Christian sentiment. You will be more prosperous and successful, more leisure-hearted, if you never realize the call of God. But if once you receive a commission from Jesus Christ, the memory of what God wants will always come like a goad; you will no longer be able to work for Him on the common-sense basis.” -Oswald Chambers, My Utmost for His Highest
Thursday, May 6, 2010
National WMU hosts WorldCrafts Fair Trade Coffee Break
WorldCrafts will host a Fair Trade Coffee Break on May 11 from 9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m. at the national WMU building located in Birmingham, Alabama. The Fair Trade Federation celebrates World Fair Trade Day every spring. In honor of this day, WorldCrafts will be having a coffee break and informative presentation on human exploitation/sex trafficking by New Hope® Publishers authors Dillon Burroughs and Charles Powell.
Charles Powell is a social justice activist, film producer, conference speaker, and founder of Joshua’s Mission, a Christian nonprofit organization whose mission is to abolish human trafficking and modern slavery. Over the past three decades Charles has trained in counter-terrorism, worked as a bodyguard for royalty, and lived undercover in the war on drugs. Dillon Burroughs (readdB.com) is a best-selling writer of more than 26 books. He is best known for his collaborative works with faith-based leaders, authors, and athletes, though he has also earned a growing reputation within the social justice movement. There will be a special sale of 40 percent off and 75 percent off select WorldCrafts items. Kindly RSVP by May 7, 2010, by calling (205) 991-8100.
Charles Powell is a social justice activist, film producer, conference speaker, and founder of Joshua’s Mission, a Christian nonprofit organization whose mission is to abolish human trafficking and modern slavery. Over the past three decades Charles has trained in counter-terrorism, worked as a bodyguard for royalty, and lived undercover in the war on drugs. Dillon Burroughs (readdB.com) is a best-selling writer of more than 26 books. He is best known for his collaborative works with faith-based leaders, authors, and athletes, though he has also earned a growing reputation within the social justice movement. There will be a special sale of 40 percent off and 75 percent off select WorldCrafts items. Kindly RSVP by May 7, 2010, by calling (205) 991-8100.
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Help End Modern Slavery
My friend Jolene at Free the Slaves needs your help. They're one of the main groups in the US working to end modern slavery. To improve their efforts and the efforts of many others, funding is required. The US government has some pending legislation that can help in this area, but THEY NEED TO HEAR FROM PEOPLE LIKE YOU.
I've copied her request below. Please pitch in and help end modern slavery. Every action helps.
Thanks!
COPIED MESSAGE:
We urgently need your help to ensure that Congress continues to fund crucial programs that combat slavery in the U.S. and around the globe.
It’s a critical time in the annual appropriations process, and you can have a big impact. We must let Congress know that the fight against slavery has widespread public support. Federal programs help prosecute traffickers, assist slavery survivors, and ensure that U.S. foreign aid does not inadvertently promote trafficking and slavery.
In just three minutes, you can e-mail messages to your representative and the two senators that represent you. I have included a copy-and-paste e-mail below to make it easy.
You can quickly find your representatives’ e-mail address at: www.contactingthecongress.org
Take a stand against slavery today.
Thanks,
Jolene Smith
Free the Slaves CEO
COPY AND PASTE: (be sure to type in your name and city at the bottom)
I am writing to you, my Congressional representative, to let you know that I want you to take a stand against human trafficking and modern-day slavery. There are tens of thousands of slaves inside the U.S. today, and 27 million people in slavery throughout the world. I want the U.S. government to help prosecute traffickers, assist slavery survivors, and ensure that U.S. foreign aid does not inadvertently promote trafficking and slavery overseas.
I urge you to support the funding and report language in the State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Bill.
Specifically:
1) Please support the president’s budget request of $6.8 million in funding for administration costs of the Trafficking in Persons Office/Country Programs/Trafficking in Person.
2) Please support the president’s $25 million request to be used for trafficking prevention, victim services and prosecution in International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INCLE) grants to fight human trafficking internationally.
3) Please include report language to ensure that foreign assistance does not inadvertently promote human trafficking and slavery.
Fighting slavery is important to me. I hope it is just as important to you.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
I've copied her request below. Please pitch in and help end modern slavery. Every action helps.
Thanks!
COPIED MESSAGE:
We urgently need your help to ensure that Congress continues to fund crucial programs that combat slavery in the U.S. and around the globe.
It’s a critical time in the annual appropriations process, and you can have a big impact. We must let Congress know that the fight against slavery has widespread public support. Federal programs help prosecute traffickers, assist slavery survivors, and ensure that U.S. foreign aid does not inadvertently promote trafficking and slavery.
In just three minutes, you can e-mail messages to your representative and the two senators that represent you. I have included a copy-and-paste e-mail below to make it easy.
You can quickly find your representatives’ e-mail address at: www.contactingthecongress.org
Take a stand against slavery today.
Thanks,
Jolene Smith
Free the Slaves CEO
COPY AND PASTE: (be sure to type in your name and city at the bottom)
I am writing to you, my Congressional representative, to let you know that I want you to take a stand against human trafficking and modern-day slavery. There are tens of thousands of slaves inside the U.S. today, and 27 million people in slavery throughout the world. I want the U.S. government to help prosecute traffickers, assist slavery survivors, and ensure that U.S. foreign aid does not inadvertently promote trafficking and slavery overseas.
I urge you to support the funding and report language in the State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Bill.
Specifically:
1) Please support the president’s budget request of $6.8 million in funding for administration costs of the Trafficking in Persons Office/Country Programs/Trafficking in Person.
2) Please support the president’s $25 million request to be used for trafficking prevention, victim services and prosecution in International Narcotics and Law Enforcement (INCLE) grants to fight human trafficking internationally.
3) Please include report language to ensure that foreign assistance does not inadvertently promote human trafficking and slavery.
Fighting slavery is important to me. I hope it is just as important to you.
Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely,
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Help Haiti Live Event
One month following the 7.1 earthquake that struck Haiti, an all-star cast of musicians is gathering for “Help Haiti Live,” a two-city ticketed concert event taking place on February 27th, 2010 to benefit Compassion International’s Haiti disaster relief fund. The concerts are sponsored by Gaylord Entertainment Company, They will be ticketed and also streamed live at HelpHaitiLive.com.
With extraordinary need still existing in the devastated country, Alison Krauss & Union Station (featuring Jerry Douglas), Amy Grant, Big Kenny, Mat Kearney, Jars of Clay, Rebecca St. James, NEEDTOBREATHE, Brandon Heath, and a to-be-announced special headliner will participate in two concert events, live from Los Angeles at the historic Wiltern Theater and at Nashville’s famed and Gaylord-owned Ryman Auditorium.
Produced to inspire live concert and on-line audiences to financially support the relief work of Compassion International in Haiti, all talent and production fees have been donated, along with streaming services (Livestream.com), allowing proceeds to go toward Compassion’s disaster relief fund.
“This cause has been something our employees have taken very close to heart in recent weeks, and they’re thrilled for Gaylord to be involved in such an inspiring event. We’re also proud to support the generous efforts of all the artists who are donating their time and talent to make this concert a success,” said Colin Reed, Chairman and CEO of Gaylord Entertainment Company.
Tickets for each event will range in price from $25-75 and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster locations beginning Monday, February 15th, as well as through The Ryman box office: 800-745-3000 or ryman.com, and through Live Nation for The Wiltern at http://www.livenation.com/venue/the-wiltern-tickets
Nashville/Ryman Auditorium, 7:30pm cst:
Hosted by Big Kenny. Performances by Alison Krauss & Union Station (featuring Jerry Douglas), Jars of Clay, Mat Kearney, Dave Barnes, Matt Wertz, Brandon Heath.
Los Angeles/Wiltern Theater, 7:30pm pst:
Message from pastor Francis Chan. Performances by Special Guest headliner, Amy Grant, Leann Rimes, Rebecca St. James, NEEDTOBREATHE
All net proceeds from Help Haiti Live will go to Compassion International’s Haiti disaster relief fund. All money raised in response to the Haiti earthquake will be used immediately to re-equip Compassion’s local support structure and to provide for the immediate needs of Compassion-assisted children and families.
Compassion has been meeting the physical and spiritual needs of Haitians for more than forty years and will continue to serve them in this time of extreme need. Already Compassion International has supplied more than 15,000 families with clean water, food, blankets, temporary shelter, medical supplies and counseling. Donations will lay bricks, feed, educate, clothe, heal and rebuild Haiti for many months to come in Jesus’ name.
Compassion International is the world’s largest Christian child development organization that permanently releases children from poverty. Founded in 1952, Compassion successfully tackles global poverty one child at a time, serving more than 1 million children in 26 of the world’s poorest countries. Recognizing that poverty is more than a lack of money, Compassion works holistically through local churches to address the individual physical, economic, educational and spiritual needs of children, enabling them to thrive, not just survive. Charity Navigator, America’s largest charity evaluator, has awarded Compassion its highest rating “four stars” for eight consecutive years.
For more, see www.helphaitilive.com or Compassion.com.
Thanks!
With extraordinary need still existing in the devastated country, Alison Krauss & Union Station (featuring Jerry Douglas), Amy Grant, Big Kenny, Mat Kearney, Jars of Clay, Rebecca St. James, NEEDTOBREATHE, Brandon Heath, and a to-be-announced special headliner will participate in two concert events, live from Los Angeles at the historic Wiltern Theater and at Nashville’s famed and Gaylord-owned Ryman Auditorium.
Produced to inspire live concert and on-line audiences to financially support the relief work of Compassion International in Haiti, all talent and production fees have been donated, along with streaming services (Livestream.com), allowing proceeds to go toward Compassion’s disaster relief fund.
“This cause has been something our employees have taken very close to heart in recent weeks, and they’re thrilled for Gaylord to be involved in such an inspiring event. We’re also proud to support the generous efforts of all the artists who are donating their time and talent to make this concert a success,” said Colin Reed, Chairman and CEO of Gaylord Entertainment Company.
Tickets for each event will range in price from $25-75 and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com and all Ticketmaster locations beginning Monday, February 15th, as well as through The Ryman box office: 800-745-3000 or ryman.com, and through Live Nation for The Wiltern at http://www.livenation.com/venue/the-wiltern-tickets
Nashville/Ryman Auditorium, 7:30pm cst:
Hosted by Big Kenny. Performances by Alison Krauss & Union Station (featuring Jerry Douglas), Jars of Clay, Mat Kearney, Dave Barnes, Matt Wertz, Brandon Heath.
Los Angeles/Wiltern Theater, 7:30pm pst:
Message from pastor Francis Chan. Performances by Special Guest headliner, Amy Grant, Leann Rimes, Rebecca St. James, NEEDTOBREATHE
All net proceeds from Help Haiti Live will go to Compassion International’s Haiti disaster relief fund. All money raised in response to the Haiti earthquake will be used immediately to re-equip Compassion’s local support structure and to provide for the immediate needs of Compassion-assisted children and families.
Compassion has been meeting the physical and spiritual needs of Haitians for more than forty years and will continue to serve them in this time of extreme need. Already Compassion International has supplied more than 15,000 families with clean water, food, blankets, temporary shelter, medical supplies and counseling. Donations will lay bricks, feed, educate, clothe, heal and rebuild Haiti for many months to come in Jesus’ name.
Compassion International is the world’s largest Christian child development organization that permanently releases children from poverty. Founded in 1952, Compassion successfully tackles global poverty one child at a time, serving more than 1 million children in 26 of the world’s poorest countries. Recognizing that poverty is more than a lack of money, Compassion works holistically through local churches to address the individual physical, economic, educational and spiritual needs of children, enabling them to thrive, not just survive. Charity Navigator, America’s largest charity evaluator, has awarded Compassion its highest rating “four stars” for eight consecutive years.
For more, see www.helphaitilive.com or Compassion.com.
Thanks!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
To Be Free
In 1845, American slave "Aaron" recorded the following story regarding the importance of freedom. I could not read it without weeping:
"A poor slave being on his death bed, begged of his master to give him his liberty before he died, 'I want to die free massa.' His master replied, you are going to die soon, what good will your liberty do? 'O master, I want to die free.' He said to the slave, 'you are free.' 'But do write it master, I want to see it on paper.' At his earnest request he wrote that he was free, the slave took it in his trembling hand, looked at it with a smile and exclaimed, 'O how beautiful, O how beautiful,' and soon fell asleep in the arms of death."
(from The Light and Truth of Slavery: Aaron's History; electronic text available at http://docsouth.unc.edu/neh/aaron/aaron.html)
"A poor slave being on his death bed, begged of his master to give him his liberty before he died, 'I want to die free massa.' His master replied, you are going to die soon, what good will your liberty do? 'O master, I want to die free.' He said to the slave, 'you are free.' 'But do write it master, I want to see it on paper.' At his earnest request he wrote that he was free, the slave took it in his trembling hand, looked at it with a smile and exclaimed, 'O how beautiful, O how beautiful,' and soon fell asleep in the arms of death."
(from The Light and Truth of Slavery: Aaron's History; electronic text available at http://docsouth.unc.edu/neh/aaron/aaron.html)
Friday, November 6, 2009
Praying for Obama
My first article with the Presidential Prayer Team was posted today at http://www.presidentialprayerteam.com/opinion. Please share your comments. The title is "Presidential Prayer: The Christian's High Calling" and is based on 1 Timothy 2:1-3:
“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior…”
Please join the Presidential Prayer Team's Facebook Page now.
“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior…”
Please join the Presidential Prayer Team's Facebook Page now.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Calling All Wiccans
In October, I was asked to share a few interviews for print, online, and radio publications related to my 2008 work on "Generation Hex," a book on Wicca from a Christian perspective. To date, my coauthor and I have conducted nearly 100 interviews on the topic, interviewed numerous current and former Wiccans, and helped foster greater understanding and awareness of Wicca among Evangelical Christians.
Some have begun to ask whether I would be interested in a book or conference to publicly discuss Christian-Wiccan issues with leading Wiccans. Why? In some of my radio interviews, Wiccans would call in with a comment or question that often turned into a fascinating spiritual discussion. I did not expect this. So my answer, after much prayer and consideration, is a definite yes.
So here's my request: If you are a Wiccan or are friends with Wiccan leaders or adherents who would be interested in such a discussion, please send them my way at dillon AT dillonburroughs DOT org. The door is open. Let's talk.
Some have begun to ask whether I would be interested in a book or conference to publicly discuss Christian-Wiccan issues with leading Wiccans. Why? In some of my radio interviews, Wiccans would call in with a comment or question that often turned into a fascinating spiritual discussion. I did not expect this. So my answer, after much prayer and consideration, is a definite yes.
So here's my request: If you are a Wiccan or are friends with Wiccan leaders or adherents who would be interested in such a discussion, please send them my way at dillon AT dillonburroughs DOT org. The door is open. Let's talk.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
More Free Stuff
What can be better than free? In addition to the free sample chapter of Generation Hex from my previous post, here are free samples of some of my other recent works. Enjoy!
Generation Hex
What Can Be Found in LOST?
What's the Big Deal about Other Religions?
Taking a Stand for the Bible
God in 60 Seconds (Coming January 2010!)
[If links do not work, see original post at http://readdb.blogspot.com.]
Generation Hex
What Can Be Found in LOST?
What's the Big Deal about Other Religions?
Taking a Stand for the Bible
God in 60 Seconds (Coming January 2010!)
[If links do not work, see original post at http://readdb.blogspot.com.]
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Faith in Action
The words of James continue to echo in my mind today:
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." -James 1:27
Two callings:
1. Care for orphans and widows (the fatherless and women in need)
2. Personal purity
Caring for orphans, widows, and others in need is a calling deeply rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Personal purity is a moment-by-moment pursuit to live a life of faith pleasing to God.
May God give us the strength to do both--care for those in need and to live with integrity in His sight.
"Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world." -James 1:27
Two callings:
1. Care for orphans and widows (the fatherless and women in need)
2. Personal purity
Caring for orphans, widows, and others in need is a calling deeply rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition. Personal purity is a moment-by-moment pursuit to live a life of faith pleasing to God.
May God give us the strength to do both--care for those in need and to live with integrity in His sight.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Are Gay Rights Right? Share Your Thoughts...
Following President Obama's remarks at the Human Rights Campaign event and last weekend's march in Washington, everyone is talking about gay rights. But are gay rights right?
In other words, are there any additional rights gays lack in American society? The three big ones under discussion currently include:
1. Don't Ask, Don't Tell: Should the military discharge openly gay homosexuals?
2. Hate Crimes: Should a person who physically hurts someone due to their color or sexual orientation be punished for an additional crime?
3. Same Sex Marriage/Civil Unions/Domestic Partnerships: Four states have legalized same-sex marriage; one (Nevada) has approved domestic partnerships (for both same-sex and heterosexual couples). Eventually, the national level will have to make a decision. What decision is best for the nation?
As a person who follows the teachings of the Bible, I consider these three issues extremely important. For example, "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" is conflicting because it deals both with a person's personal actions and national security. There's a lot to debate here, but the numbers are already in favor of this law being ended soon, so I'm not going to dive into it more here.
Hate crimes are a second distinct category. Gay activists argue it is necessary, appealing to the case of Matthew Shepard. While his case was a tragedy, I see two problems with this bill. First, it is currently lumped in with the military spending bill. Does anyone else see this as a conflict of interests? Hate crimes are important enough to be handled separately, and I propose that they should be.
In addition, hate crimes appear redundant. If one person beats up another person, it is a crime (assault). But if the victim claims to be beaten due to racism or sexual orientation, it is suddenly two crimes: assault and a hate crime. Is this really necessary?
Finally, there is the same-sex marriage issue. As a Christian, I hold to marriage as a sacred covenant between a man an a woman. I've been married for 11 years and plan to stay that way. However, I understand there are legal and insurance issues at stake for same-sex couples. Couldn't a domestic partnership of some type (similar to Nevada's recently passed law) address this concern without changing the definition of marriage? If not, why not?
I realize in posting on this controversial topic, people from all sides will end up angry. I encourage you to comment on this issue in a civil way and not personally attack others who comment. Let's have a healthy debate on this issue and show the same respect Christ would for opposing views in the process.
In other words, are there any additional rights gays lack in American society? The three big ones under discussion currently include:
1. Don't Ask, Don't Tell: Should the military discharge openly gay homosexuals?
2. Hate Crimes: Should a person who physically hurts someone due to their color or sexual orientation be punished for an additional crime?
3. Same Sex Marriage/Civil Unions/Domestic Partnerships: Four states have legalized same-sex marriage; one (Nevada) has approved domestic partnerships (for both same-sex and heterosexual couples). Eventually, the national level will have to make a decision. What decision is best for the nation?
As a person who follows the teachings of the Bible, I consider these three issues extremely important. For example, "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" is conflicting because it deals both with a person's personal actions and national security. There's a lot to debate here, but the numbers are already in favor of this law being ended soon, so I'm not going to dive into it more here.
Hate crimes are a second distinct category. Gay activists argue it is necessary, appealing to the case of Matthew Shepard. While his case was a tragedy, I see two problems with this bill. First, it is currently lumped in with the military spending bill. Does anyone else see this as a conflict of interests? Hate crimes are important enough to be handled separately, and I propose that they should be.
In addition, hate crimes appear redundant. If one person beats up another person, it is a crime (assault). But if the victim claims to be beaten due to racism or sexual orientation, it is suddenly two crimes: assault and a hate crime. Is this really necessary?
Finally, there is the same-sex marriage issue. As a Christian, I hold to marriage as a sacred covenant between a man an a woman. I've been married for 11 years and plan to stay that way. However, I understand there are legal and insurance issues at stake for same-sex couples. Couldn't a domestic partnership of some type (similar to Nevada's recently passed law) address this concern without changing the definition of marriage? If not, why not?
I realize in posting on this controversial topic, people from all sides will end up angry. I encourage you to comment on this issue in a civil way and not personally attack others who comment. Let's have a healthy debate on this issue and show the same respect Christ would for opposing views in the process.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
How Would Jesus Treat Obama?
How would Jesus treat Obama? The only way to really find out is to look at how Jesus treated the governing leaders of his day. How did Jesus respond to Herod, Pilate, and others who led his nation?
A quick summary reveals some mundane yet significant highlights:
1. Jesus paid taxes.
2. Jesus obeyed the law.
3. Jesus never mocked or made fun of his nation's leaders.
4. Jesus showed love to all without favoritism.
The first two (taxes and obeying the law) are usually understood by those who claim to follow Jesus (excluding music piracy and a few other so-called acceptable exceptions).
Number three, not ridiculing national leaders, has been a tough one for the Christian community. At some point along the way, I think Christians forgot that the President, Speaker of House, and others who serve in Washington are people who Christ died for as well.
Here's how I prove this point: When people think of Christians and politics, what comes to mind? Is it, "So many Christians are praying for our nation's leaders and have a high respect for their governing authorities. We should all strive to be more like them."? Unfortunately, this has not been my experience.
Christians+Politics usually ends up meaning conservative, white, Republican, talk-show loving, socialist-hating, Obama-administration bashing, rednecks and neanderthals (or worse). This stinks, but is too often true.
What can be done? Number four would be a great place to start: showing love to all without favoritism. If my Senator or President of Vice-President had a recording of your conversations for past two weeks about them, how excited would you be about meeting together face-to-face? I'm all for healthy debate on faith issues, but the basis for meaningful conversations with governing authorities, according to the example of Jesus, is prayer and love.
I'm planning to keep praying for and showing respect to my nation's leaders. If you want to laugh at late-night TV spoofs or spread gossip about your national leaders, please reconsider. There are plenty of people already doing that. Be like Christ. Pray for your leaders. Show some respect.
A quick summary reveals some mundane yet significant highlights:
1. Jesus paid taxes.
2. Jesus obeyed the law.
3. Jesus never mocked or made fun of his nation's leaders.
4. Jesus showed love to all without favoritism.
The first two (taxes and obeying the law) are usually understood by those who claim to follow Jesus (excluding music piracy and a few other so-called acceptable exceptions).
Number three, not ridiculing national leaders, has been a tough one for the Christian community. At some point along the way, I think Christians forgot that the President, Speaker of House, and others who serve in Washington are people who Christ died for as well.
Here's how I prove this point: When people think of Christians and politics, what comes to mind? Is it, "So many Christians are praying for our nation's leaders and have a high respect for their governing authorities. We should all strive to be more like them."? Unfortunately, this has not been my experience.
Christians+Politics usually ends up meaning conservative, white, Republican, talk-show loving, socialist-hating, Obama-administration bashing, rednecks and neanderthals (or worse). This stinks, but is too often true.
What can be done? Number four would be a great place to start: showing love to all without favoritism. If my Senator or President of Vice-President had a recording of your conversations for past two weeks about them, how excited would you be about meeting together face-to-face? I'm all for healthy debate on faith issues, but the basis for meaningful conversations with governing authorities, according to the example of Jesus, is prayer and love.
I'm planning to keep praying for and showing respect to my nation's leaders. If you want to laugh at late-night TV spoofs or spread gossip about your national leaders, please reconsider. There are plenty of people already doing that. Be like Christ. Pray for your leaders. Show some respect.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
The Bible in Dan Brown's "The Lost Symbol"
[NOTE: This is a longer post than usual, featuring every occurrence of the word Bible/Bibles in The Lost Symbol.]
The Use of the Bible in Dan Brown’s “The Lost Symbol”
Disclaimer: This book is a novel and should be treated as such. Whether the author, Dan Brown, agrees or disagrees with the views of his characters is a completely different story. You can investigate Dan Brown and/or his works at danbrown.com.
This information is provided as a personal analysis of the times the word “Bible” is mentioned in The Lost Symbol. It is based on a keyword search of the e-book version after having read the entire book in its context. As such, it is certainly imperfect and clearly biased (I am personally an evangelical Christian seeking to understand the influence of this book on culture.).
However, it will be helpful to readers, pastors and otherwise, interested in what is said about the Bible in this The Lost Symbol.
[NOTE: I refer to chapters rather than page numbers due to the fact that the e-book version I used included different pagination and the future paperback version will as well.]
Summary:
The word “Bible” in singular or plural form is mentioned a total of 52 times in The Lost Symbol. The chapters most focused on the Bible are, in descending order, chapters 131, 111, 133, and 49.
How is the Bible used?
A complete listing follows, but readers may find the following classifications helpful:
Bible used in reference to a physical book: 13 times.
Commentary or comments about the Bible: 24 times, or approximately half of the times the Bible is mentioned. Of these 24 times, all or nearly all would be considered negative or exaggerated from the perspective of evangelical or biblical theology (Again, this is a novel.).
Other various uses (passing references, etc.): 15 times.
Of the times the Bible itself is mentioned (not including commentary on specific books of the Bible, views of God, and other aspects of theology), the following are, in my view, the most concerning:
1. God and humans as co-equals: Chapter 49 notes a character named Bellamy, who reinterprets God’s reference that “God created man in his own image,” to mean we are co-equals with God rather than only being made in God’s image. Chapter 82 references Psalm 82:6 as “proof” of this point.
2. A call to search the Bible for hidden meanings and allegorical interpretations: Chapter 111: “The prophecy of the Apocalypse is just one of the Bible’s beautiful messages that has been distorted.” The context later discusses that the “real” meaning of the Bible is allegorical rather than literal, a so-called hidden knowledge that sounds very closely related to Second-Century Gnosticism.
3. The Bible as only one of many holy books: Chapter 131 discusses the Bible, specifically mentioning it as a holy book alongside the Bhagavad Gita and Koran. However, if the Bible is true, then other so-called holy books are only “true” when they agree with the statements of the Bible. In other words, from a biblical perspective, all holy books are not created equal.
4. An unnecessary skepticism regarding biblical miracles: In chapter 131, Langdon expresses his skepticism: “You can point to the alleged miracles of the Bible, or any other religious text, but they are nothing but old stories fabricated by man and then exaggerated over time.” The novel unfolds to point out that Langdon’s view is not taking all information into account, but later points to a human source of power for miracles rather than a perfect, all-powerful God.
5. All religions are created equal: A theme woven throughout the The Lost Symbol is that all religions are basically the same in their core beliefs. Those who seriously study world religions could offer a thousand reasons why this is not true. If one religion believes in one God, the next believes in two gods, and the third believes in thousands of gods, they cannot all be equally valid.
6. We are God? Though the novel launches with a rapid and intriguing pace, the last page ends with equating God with people (Humans=God?).
This fallacy, popularized by the teachings from books like A New Earth (Eckhart Tolle) and The Secret (Rhonda Byrne) simply repackage ancient religious teachings and so-called new age ideas to claim that God is all things (pantheism) and we are God (or gods or goddesses). Therefore, we do not sin, do not need a Savior, and the biblical idea of god is unnecessary for life. Such a worldview is certainly concerning for Christians who desire that all people would embrace Jesus as Savior of the world and acknowledge that all humans fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23).
[On a side note, The Lost Symbol includes much information on Freemasonry. Though beyond the scope of this article, there is much to investigate on this issue. See more in the Freemasonry section at www.johnankerberg.org.]
The Full List (52 occurrences of Bible or Bibles)
Chp. 24: A reference to an illuminated Bible manuscript chewed on by a dog.
Chp. 46: A reference to the Giant Bible of Mainz.
Chp. 46: A reference to the Gutenberg Bible.
Chp. 49: “Even the Bible concurs,” quotes a character named Bellamy, who reinterprets God’s reference that “God created man in his own image,” to mean we are co-equals with God rather than only made in God’s image.
Chp. 49: “Because most Christians want it both ways. They want to be able to proudly declare they are believers in the Bible and yet simply ignore those parts they find too difficult or too inconvenient to believe.” This comment, though used to further the character’s argument in the novel, is often all too true.
Chp. 49: A reference to a Latin mistranslation regarding Moses having a “horned face.”
Chp. 82: “Even the Holy Bible cried out in Pslams 82:6: Ye are gods!” The idea in this context is the message of man’s own divinity or humans as divine. Not a biblical concept, yet Langdon reflects on this verse a connecting point at this stage in his adventure.
Chp. 96: A reference to a televangelist quoting Bible verses about angels, demons, and spirits that ruled in heaven and hell.
Chp. 111: Peter Solomon encourages his students to “Study the Bible. …Especially the final pages.”
Chp. 111: “The last book of the Bible tells the identical story as countless other traditions.” A clear comment blending the end-times account of Revelation with other religious end-times traditions. Not exactly accurate, although it is true that similarities can be found.
Chp. 111: “The Book of Reveal-ation in the Bible predicts and unveiling of great truth and unimaginable wisdom.”
Chp. 111: “The prophecy of the Apocalypse is just one of the Bible’s beautiful messages that has been distorted.” The context later discusses that the “real” meaning of the Bible is allegorical rather than literal, a so-called hidden knowledge that sounds very closely related to Second-Century Gnosticism.
Chp. 130: The Bible referred to as the sacred book or “word” for Christians.
Chp. 130: “For America’s Masonic forefathers, the Word had been the Bible.”
Chp. 130: “…he placed his hands upon the Word—a well-worn copy of his own Masonic Bible.”
Chp. 130: “This treasured book, like all Masonic Bibles, contained the Old Testament, the New Testament, and a trove of Masonic philosophical writings.”
Chp. 131: Reference to a hidden Bible.
Chp. 131: An index finger pointed toward a large open Bible.
Chp. 131: “Why do you think the Bible has survived thousands of years of tumultuous history?” Christians are not going to like this character’s answer.
Chp. 131: “…Christian monks spend lifetimes attempting to decipher the Bible.”
Chp. 131: A cloaked figure pointing at a Bible.
Chp. 131: “If the Bible does not contain hidden meanings, then why do so many of history’s finest minds—including brilliant scientists at the Royal Society—become so obsessed with studying it?” I could think of some other reasons than the one given in this chapter.
Chp. 131: “…a 1704 manuscript that claimed he had extracted hidden scientific information from the Bible!”
Chp. 131: A reference to the making of the King James Bible.
Chp. 131: Sir Frances Bacon’s conviction that the Bible contained cryptic meanings.
Chp. 131: William Blake quote: “Both read the Bible day and night, but thou read black where I read white.”
Chp. 131: America’s forefathers allegedly warning of interpreting the Bible literally.
Chp. 131: “…Thomas Jefferson was so convinced the Bible’s true message was hidden that he literally cut up the pages and reedited the book.” Partly true, but is only part of Jefferson’s issue with the Bible.
Chp. 131: A reference to the Jeffersonian Bible.
Chp. 131: Another Jeffersonian Bible reference.
Chp. 131: “Robert, the Bible does not talk openly for the same reason the Ancient Mystery Schools were kept hidden. …This information is powerful, Robert.” Interesting take on why the character claims the Bible must be interpreted allegorically and sought for hidden meanings.
Chp. 131: “Peter, I’m talking about the Bible. Why are you talking about the Ancient Mysteries?”
Chp. 131: SIX times the Bible is mentioned here. I would comment, but that would spoil the surprise ending for you. (An interesting total of seven times on this one highly-controversial page.)
Chp. 131: The Bible mentioned as a holy book alongside the Bhagavad Gita and Koran.
Chp. 131: Langdon’s skepticism: “You can point to the alleged miracles of the Bible, or any other religious text, but they are nothing but old stories fabricated by man and then exaggerated over time.”
Chp. 131: Another physical Bible is referenced.
Chp. 131: A reference to the Bible talking about the power of the human mind.
Chp. 131: “Your brother tried to convince me that the Bible is encoded with scientific information.”
Chp. 131: TWO additional references to the Bible as a commentary on the study of the human mind.
Chp. 131: SPOILER ALERT: “When the Bible tells us to ‘go build our temple’…a temple that we must ‘build with no tools and making no noise,’ what temple do you think it’s talking about?”
Chp. 131: Langdon replies, “I’m no Bible scholar, but I’m pretty sure the Scriptures describe in detail a physical temple that needs to be built.”
Chp. 131: Katherine: “Pretty good recall for a Bible skeptic.”
Chp. 131: The Bible referenced regarding the story of manna from heaven.
Chp. 133: “The Bible, like many ancient texts, is a detailed exposition of the most sophisticated machine ever invented…the human mind.”
Chp. 133: “We’ve been reading the Bible too literally. We learn that God created us in his image, but it’s not our physical bodies that resemble god, it’s our minds.”
Chp. 133: (Last page of the book.) A Bible reference to God as a plural being. The conclusion? “God is plural,” Katherine whispered, “because the minds of man are plural.”
Please submit corrections, comments, or other thoughts to dillon@dillonburroughs.org or www.readdB.com. Thanks!
NOTE: Also feel free to repost, so long as you include a link to readdB.com. Thanks!
The Use of the Bible in Dan Brown’s “The Lost Symbol”
Disclaimer: This book is a novel and should be treated as such. Whether the author, Dan Brown, agrees or disagrees with the views of his characters is a completely different story. You can investigate Dan Brown and/or his works at danbrown.com.
This information is provided as a personal analysis of the times the word “Bible” is mentioned in The Lost Symbol. It is based on a keyword search of the e-book version after having read the entire book in its context. As such, it is certainly imperfect and clearly biased (I am personally an evangelical Christian seeking to understand the influence of this book on culture.).
However, it will be helpful to readers, pastors and otherwise, interested in what is said about the Bible in this The Lost Symbol.
[NOTE: I refer to chapters rather than page numbers due to the fact that the e-book version I used included different pagination and the future paperback version will as well.]
Summary:
The word “Bible” in singular or plural form is mentioned a total of 52 times in The Lost Symbol. The chapters most focused on the Bible are, in descending order, chapters 131, 111, 133, and 49.
How is the Bible used?
A complete listing follows, but readers may find the following classifications helpful:
Bible used in reference to a physical book: 13 times.
Commentary or comments about the Bible: 24 times, or approximately half of the times the Bible is mentioned. Of these 24 times, all or nearly all would be considered negative or exaggerated from the perspective of evangelical or biblical theology (Again, this is a novel.).
Other various uses (passing references, etc.): 15 times.
Of the times the Bible itself is mentioned (not including commentary on specific books of the Bible, views of God, and other aspects of theology), the following are, in my view, the most concerning:
1. God and humans as co-equals: Chapter 49 notes a character named Bellamy, who reinterprets God’s reference that “God created man in his own image,” to mean we are co-equals with God rather than only being made in God’s image. Chapter 82 references Psalm 82:6 as “proof” of this point.
2. A call to search the Bible for hidden meanings and allegorical interpretations: Chapter 111: “The prophecy of the Apocalypse is just one of the Bible’s beautiful messages that has been distorted.” The context later discusses that the “real” meaning of the Bible is allegorical rather than literal, a so-called hidden knowledge that sounds very closely related to Second-Century Gnosticism.
3. The Bible as only one of many holy books: Chapter 131 discusses the Bible, specifically mentioning it as a holy book alongside the Bhagavad Gita and Koran. However, if the Bible is true, then other so-called holy books are only “true” when they agree with the statements of the Bible. In other words, from a biblical perspective, all holy books are not created equal.
4. An unnecessary skepticism regarding biblical miracles: In chapter 131, Langdon expresses his skepticism: “You can point to the alleged miracles of the Bible, or any other religious text, but they are nothing but old stories fabricated by man and then exaggerated over time.” The novel unfolds to point out that Langdon’s view is not taking all information into account, but later points to a human source of power for miracles rather than a perfect, all-powerful God.
5. All religions are created equal: A theme woven throughout the The Lost Symbol is that all religions are basically the same in their core beliefs. Those who seriously study world religions could offer a thousand reasons why this is not true. If one religion believes in one God, the next believes in two gods, and the third believes in thousands of gods, they cannot all be equally valid.
6. We are God? Though the novel launches with a rapid and intriguing pace, the last page ends with equating God with people (Humans=God?).
This fallacy, popularized by the teachings from books like A New Earth (Eckhart Tolle) and The Secret (Rhonda Byrne) simply repackage ancient religious teachings and so-called new age ideas to claim that God is all things (pantheism) and we are God (or gods or goddesses). Therefore, we do not sin, do not need a Savior, and the biblical idea of god is unnecessary for life. Such a worldview is certainly concerning for Christians who desire that all people would embrace Jesus as Savior of the world and acknowledge that all humans fall short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23).
[On a side note, The Lost Symbol includes much information on Freemasonry. Though beyond the scope of this article, there is much to investigate on this issue. See more in the Freemasonry section at www.johnankerberg.org.]
The Full List (52 occurrences of Bible or Bibles)
Chp. 24: A reference to an illuminated Bible manuscript chewed on by a dog.
Chp. 46: A reference to the Giant Bible of Mainz.
Chp. 46: A reference to the Gutenberg Bible.
Chp. 49: “Even the Bible concurs,” quotes a character named Bellamy, who reinterprets God’s reference that “God created man in his own image,” to mean we are co-equals with God rather than only made in God’s image.
Chp. 49: “Because most Christians want it both ways. They want to be able to proudly declare they are believers in the Bible and yet simply ignore those parts they find too difficult or too inconvenient to believe.” This comment, though used to further the character’s argument in the novel, is often all too true.
Chp. 49: A reference to a Latin mistranslation regarding Moses having a “horned face.”
Chp. 82: “Even the Holy Bible cried out in Pslams 82:6: Ye are gods!” The idea in this context is the message of man’s own divinity or humans as divine. Not a biblical concept, yet Langdon reflects on this verse a connecting point at this stage in his adventure.
Chp. 96: A reference to a televangelist quoting Bible verses about angels, demons, and spirits that ruled in heaven and hell.
Chp. 111: Peter Solomon encourages his students to “Study the Bible. …Especially the final pages.”
Chp. 111: “The last book of the Bible tells the identical story as countless other traditions.” A clear comment blending the end-times account of Revelation with other religious end-times traditions. Not exactly accurate, although it is true that similarities can be found.
Chp. 111: “The Book of Reveal-ation in the Bible predicts and unveiling of great truth and unimaginable wisdom.”
Chp. 111: “The prophecy of the Apocalypse is just one of the Bible’s beautiful messages that has been distorted.” The context later discusses that the “real” meaning of the Bible is allegorical rather than literal, a so-called hidden knowledge that sounds very closely related to Second-Century Gnosticism.
Chp. 130: The Bible referred to as the sacred book or “word” for Christians.
Chp. 130: “For America’s Masonic forefathers, the Word had been the Bible.”
Chp. 130: “…he placed his hands upon the Word—a well-worn copy of his own Masonic Bible.”
Chp. 130: “This treasured book, like all Masonic Bibles, contained the Old Testament, the New Testament, and a trove of Masonic philosophical writings.”
Chp. 131: Reference to a hidden Bible.
Chp. 131: An index finger pointed toward a large open Bible.
Chp. 131: “Why do you think the Bible has survived thousands of years of tumultuous history?” Christians are not going to like this character’s answer.
Chp. 131: “…Christian monks spend lifetimes attempting to decipher the Bible.”
Chp. 131: A cloaked figure pointing at a Bible.
Chp. 131: “If the Bible does not contain hidden meanings, then why do so many of history’s finest minds—including brilliant scientists at the Royal Society—become so obsessed with studying it?” I could think of some other reasons than the one given in this chapter.
Chp. 131: “…a 1704 manuscript that claimed he had extracted hidden scientific information from the Bible!”
Chp. 131: A reference to the making of the King James Bible.
Chp. 131: Sir Frances Bacon’s conviction that the Bible contained cryptic meanings.
Chp. 131: William Blake quote: “Both read the Bible day and night, but thou read black where I read white.”
Chp. 131: America’s forefathers allegedly warning of interpreting the Bible literally.
Chp. 131: “…Thomas Jefferson was so convinced the Bible’s true message was hidden that he literally cut up the pages and reedited the book.” Partly true, but is only part of Jefferson’s issue with the Bible.
Chp. 131: A reference to the Jeffersonian Bible.
Chp. 131: Another Jeffersonian Bible reference.
Chp. 131: “Robert, the Bible does not talk openly for the same reason the Ancient Mystery Schools were kept hidden. …This information is powerful, Robert.” Interesting take on why the character claims the Bible must be interpreted allegorically and sought for hidden meanings.
Chp. 131: “Peter, I’m talking about the Bible. Why are you talking about the Ancient Mysteries?”
Chp. 131: SIX times the Bible is mentioned here. I would comment, but that would spoil the surprise ending for you. (An interesting total of seven times on this one highly-controversial page.)
Chp. 131: The Bible mentioned as a holy book alongside the Bhagavad Gita and Koran.
Chp. 131: Langdon’s skepticism: “You can point to the alleged miracles of the Bible, or any other religious text, but they are nothing but old stories fabricated by man and then exaggerated over time.”
Chp. 131: Another physical Bible is referenced.
Chp. 131: A reference to the Bible talking about the power of the human mind.
Chp. 131: “Your brother tried to convince me that the Bible is encoded with scientific information.”
Chp. 131: TWO additional references to the Bible as a commentary on the study of the human mind.
Chp. 131: SPOILER ALERT: “When the Bible tells us to ‘go build our temple’…a temple that we must ‘build with no tools and making no noise,’ what temple do you think it’s talking about?”
Chp. 131: Langdon replies, “I’m no Bible scholar, but I’m pretty sure the Scriptures describe in detail a physical temple that needs to be built.”
Chp. 131: Katherine: “Pretty good recall for a Bible skeptic.”
Chp. 131: The Bible referenced regarding the story of manna from heaven.
Chp. 133: “The Bible, like many ancient texts, is a detailed exposition of the most sophisticated machine ever invented…the human mind.”
Chp. 133: “We’ve been reading the Bible too literally. We learn that God created us in his image, but it’s not our physical bodies that resemble god, it’s our minds.”
Chp. 133: (Last page of the book.) A Bible reference to God as a plural being. The conclusion? “God is plural,” Katherine whispered, “because the minds of man are plural.”
Please submit corrections, comments, or other thoughts to dillon@dillonburroughs.org or www.readdB.com. Thanks!
NOTE: Also feel free to repost, so long as you include a link to readdB.com. Thanks!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
The Lost Symbol Is Finally Here--Now What?
After years of waiting, Dan Brown's friends and foes can finally read the latest adventures of their favorite character Dr. Robert Langdon. What will happen? What controversial secret will be revealed next?
On another note, I'm curious what religious leaders will say about this one. "Angels and Demons" infuriated the Catholic Church. "The Da Vinci Code" agitated everyone who cares about the life of Jesus. Rumor is that Freemasonry will be a target and Washington, D.C. will be the location. Maybe the Vatican and Jesus-lovers can breathe easy.
If you have any info on a faith perspective from your first day or advanced reading, I'd love to hear it. I've had several people and networks asking what response I'm planning to give. My response has been that once I've read my copy I'll let you know (No Harry Potter-like midnight party for me on this one, though.).
I'm hoping Mr. Brown has chosen to show a friendlier attitude toward Jesus this time. We'll see...
In the meantime, if you're still wondering about The Da Vinci Code, check out some free stuff here.
On another note, I'm curious what religious leaders will say about this one. "Angels and Demons" infuriated the Catholic Church. "The Da Vinci Code" agitated everyone who cares about the life of Jesus. Rumor is that Freemasonry will be a target and Washington, D.C. will be the location. Maybe the Vatican and Jesus-lovers can breathe easy.
If you have any info on a faith perspective from your first day or advanced reading, I'd love to hear it. I've had several people and networks asking what response I'm planning to give. My response has been that once I've read my copy I'll let you know (No Harry Potter-like midnight party for me on this one, though.).
I'm hoping Mr. Brown has chosen to show a friendlier attitude toward Jesus this time. We'll see...
In the meantime, if you're still wondering about The Da Vinci Code, check out some free stuff here.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
The 1,000-Mile Tour
Last weekend, my family and I became temporary rockstars. Our little minivan with a quarter-million miles on it (affectionately named the Millennium Falcon) took off for my brother-in-law Doug's wedding in Indianapolis loaded with my wife, three kids, and enough luggage to clothe a small village.
Despite potty breaks, Starbucks stops, and McDonald's playgrounds, we made the seven hour trip in only eight and a half hours, a new three-kid record. We saw all of my wife's family (minus Marla, Cata, and new baby Evan), ate at BD's Mongolian BBQ, shopped at a toystore, and watched Doug and Courtney say "I do."
I wouldn't trade it for the world. Every road trip, my family and I both bond and argue. Relationships are like that. We argue, we laugh, and we share life together. Plus we now have Aunt Courtney, a great addition to the fam.
On the trip back, we even enjoyed an impromptu lunch at Chick-fil-a with my mom, my sister Tiffany, and her two girls in Evansville. We ate waffle fries, slid down the tube slide, and changed diapers together. It's still hard to believe I'm Uncle Dillon.
So it wasn't really a rockstar tour. More of a gratitude tour. As the miles passed by through Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee, I praised God for my wife and kids, my family now living across the country, and a blessed life. Despite a global recession and increasing gray hair, God is good.
"Live life to its fullest, whether you're a rockstar or not." -John 10:10, New Dillon Translation
Despite potty breaks, Starbucks stops, and McDonald's playgrounds, we made the seven hour trip in only eight and a half hours, a new three-kid record. We saw all of my wife's family (minus Marla, Cata, and new baby Evan), ate at BD's Mongolian BBQ, shopped at a toystore, and watched Doug and Courtney say "I do."
I wouldn't trade it for the world. Every road trip, my family and I both bond and argue. Relationships are like that. We argue, we laugh, and we share life together. Plus we now have Aunt Courtney, a great addition to the fam.
On the trip back, we even enjoyed an impromptu lunch at Chick-fil-a with my mom, my sister Tiffany, and her two girls in Evansville. We ate waffle fries, slid down the tube slide, and changed diapers together. It's still hard to believe I'm Uncle Dillon.
So it wasn't really a rockstar tour. More of a gratitude tour. As the miles passed by through Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee, I praised God for my wife and kids, my family now living across the country, and a blessed life. Despite a global recession and increasing gray hair, God is good.
"Live life to its fullest, whether you're a rockstar or not." -John 10:10, New Dillon Translation
Monday, August 24, 2009
PATTERNS, Part 2
Two weeks ago, I shared a copy of my speaking notes from a series called PATTERNS. Yesterday I shared part two with the singles at Woodland Park. Here are the notes for your enjoyment.
“…take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.” –Philippians 3:17
Following the Christ-Like Pattern (Philippians 3:15-17)
15 All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. 16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained. 17 Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.
The Christ-like pattern includes…
-Maturity (v. 15)
-Wisdom (v. 15)
-Perseverance (v. 16)
-Servant Leadership (v. 17)
Failing the Christ-Like Pattern (Philippians 3:18-19)
18 For, as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things.
How to Fail in Following Christ’s Pattern:
-Live as an enemy of the cross (v. 18)
-Be a taker (v. 19)
-Enjoy what is shameful (v. 19)
-Live for temporary pleasure (v. 19)
Ask yourself: Am I failing in any of these areas? If so, what must be done to follow Christ’s pattern?
Our Eternal Destiny (Philippians 3:20-21)
20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Eternal destiny includes…
1. Remembering your destination as a believer.
2. Eagerly awaiting Christ’s return.
3. Acknowledging Jesus Christ is God.
4. Realizing Christ has everything under his control.
5. Anticipating our new existence with Christ.
For Discussion
-Which of the four Christ-like patterns do I excel in the most? Which is my weakest area?
-In what ways do you see those who claim to follow Christ failing to follow Christ’s pattern?
-How can we improve in living with an eternal perspective in everyday life? (Be specific.)
“…take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.” –Philippians 3:17
Following the Christ-Like Pattern (Philippians 3:15-17)
15 All of us who are mature should take such a view of things. And if on some point you think differently, that too God will make clear to you. 16 Only let us live up to what we have already attained. 17 Join with others in following my example, brothers, and take note of those who live according to the pattern we gave you.
The Christ-like pattern includes…
-Maturity (v. 15)
-Wisdom (v. 15)
-Perseverance (v. 16)
-Servant Leadership (v. 17)
Failing the Christ-Like Pattern (Philippians 3:18-19)
18 For, as I have often told you before and now say again even with tears, many live as enemies of the cross of Christ. 19 Their destiny is destruction, their god is their stomach, and their glory is in their shame. Their mind is on earthly things.
How to Fail in Following Christ’s Pattern:
-Live as an enemy of the cross (v. 18)
-Be a taker (v. 19)
-Enjoy what is shameful (v. 19)
-Live for temporary pleasure (v. 19)
Ask yourself: Am I failing in any of these areas? If so, what must be done to follow Christ’s pattern?
Our Eternal Destiny (Philippians 3:20-21)
20 But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ, 21 who, by the power that enables him to bring everything under his control, will transform our lowly bodies so that they will be like his glorious body.
Eternal destiny includes…
1. Remembering your destination as a believer.
2. Eagerly awaiting Christ’s return.
3. Acknowledging Jesus Christ is God.
4. Realizing Christ has everything under his control.
5. Anticipating our new existence with Christ.
For Discussion
-Which of the four Christ-like patterns do I excel in the most? Which is my weakest area?
-In what ways do you see those who claim to follow Christ failing to follow Christ’s pattern?
-How can we improve in living with an eternal perspective in everyday life? (Be specific.)
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Tweets of the Week
I've decided to have a little fun on Twitter and Facebook this week. Favorites based on friend reactions are:
Dillon Burroughs...
is trying to fix the flux capacitor.
is wondering why his daughter's diaper holds nowhere near the 22-37 pounds it promises.
has broken his record for consecutive days alive.
no one knows I'm really a Jedi.
IS CELEBRATING NATIONAL CAPS LOCK AWARENESS DAY! (I was later informed this really IS a holiday!)
is working on the hyperdrive.
I'm considering writing an Amish vampire novel about the end times. Definite bestseller. Just need a title.
always show up on time for meetings. That way the other person will feel bad and buy you coffee.
Retweet as you please.
If you haven't joined me on Facebook or Twitter, here's how:
www.facebook.com/dillonburroughs
www.twitter.com/readdb
Enjoying the journey together!
-Dillon
Dillon Burroughs...
is trying to fix the flux capacitor.
is wondering why his daughter's diaper holds nowhere near the 22-37 pounds it promises.
has broken his record for consecutive days alive.
no one knows I'm really a Jedi.
IS CELEBRATING NATIONAL CAPS LOCK AWARENESS DAY! (I was later informed this really IS a holiday!)
is working on the hyperdrive.
I'm considering writing an Amish vampire novel about the end times. Definite bestseller. Just need a title.
always show up on time for meetings. That way the other person will feel bad and buy you coffee.
Retweet as you please.
If you haven't joined me on Facebook or Twitter, here's how:
www.facebook.com/dillonburroughs
www.twitter.com/readdb
Enjoying the journey together!
-Dillon
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
The Long Haul
An old friend of mine stopped in town for lunch while traveling back from Florida. He was a student in a ministry where I served 11 years ago. We had a lot of catching up to do.
When I asked him if he was still sharing his faith in Christ with others, he said, "I've shared Jesus with just about everyone I've worked with for the past 12 years. At some of my jobs, my nickname is Preacher, even though I'm not one."
Would I have ever guessed that students I had served over a decade ago would be sharing Christ across the country, Africa, Australia, Europe, Asia, and the Americas? Sure, I dreamed and prayed it would happen, but to experience it is something quite different. In a word, it is amazing.
All across the world today, people like you are pouring their lives into families and small handfuls of students, kids, classmates, or friends to make a difference for eternity. At this moment, you have no idea where you're efforts will lead.
In ten years, those you influence will likely be changing lives all around the world. What impact are you making in their lives now that will help them at that time?
Be the change you want to see in the world today.
When I asked him if he was still sharing his faith in Christ with others, he said, "I've shared Jesus with just about everyone I've worked with for the past 12 years. At some of my jobs, my nickname is Preacher, even though I'm not one."
Would I have ever guessed that students I had served over a decade ago would be sharing Christ across the country, Africa, Australia, Europe, Asia, and the Americas? Sure, I dreamed and prayed it would happen, but to experience it is something quite different. In a word, it is amazing.
All across the world today, people like you are pouring their lives into families and small handfuls of students, kids, classmates, or friends to make a difference for eternity. At this moment, you have no idea where you're efforts will lead.
In ten years, those you influence will likely be changing lives all around the world. What impact are you making in their lives now that will help them at that time?
Be the change you want to see in the world today.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
A Few Quotes for the Day
Here are some of my personal quotes I've rediscovered recently:
"True Christianity is more caught than taught."
"Gluttony is the most neglected sin in the American Church. If our bodies are the temple of God, then American Christians are the megachurch."
"Parenting is a full-time job with no paid vacations or holidays...or pay at all. But it's still the greatest job in the world."
"Every war is ultimately a civil war for we are all brothers and sisters, one to another." (This one is not original to me, but still a great one.)
"Prolife means I care about babies in the womb as much as babies out of the womb." (In defining what I mean by being prolife.)
"Church wasn’t designed by an architect (Technically, Jesus was a carpenter.). So why do we think of churches as buildings instead of groups of people who love Jesus?"
These are each short enough for your Facebook status or Twitter, so have fun.
If you have a good one to share, please do. It might just end up on my next blog.
+++
DILLON BURROUGHS is writer on issues of faith and culture. He is also an activist for Compassion International. He lives in with his wife and three children in Tennessee.
www.readdB.com
www.facebook.com/readdB
"True Christianity is more caught than taught."
"Gluttony is the most neglected sin in the American Church. If our bodies are the temple of God, then American Christians are the megachurch."
"Parenting is a full-time job with no paid vacations or holidays...or pay at all. But it's still the greatest job in the world."
"Every war is ultimately a civil war for we are all brothers and sisters, one to another." (This one is not original to me, but still a great one.)
"Prolife means I care about babies in the womb as much as babies out of the womb." (In defining what I mean by being prolife.)
"Church wasn’t designed by an architect (Technically, Jesus was a carpenter.). So why do we think of churches as buildings instead of groups of people who love Jesus?"
These are each short enough for your Facebook status or Twitter, so have fun.
If you have a good one to share, please do. It might just end up on my next blog.
+++
DILLON BURROUGHS is writer on issues of faith and culture. He is also an activist for Compassion International. He lives in with his wife and three children in Tennessee.
www.readdB.com
www.facebook.com/readdB
Friday, July 17, 2009
Obama at the NAACP
Some inspiring words to end the week. President Obama, speaking to the NAACP, shared:
"We have to say to our children, yes, if you're African-American, the odds of growing up amid crime and gangs are higher. Yes, if you live in a poor neighborhood, you will face challenges that someone in a wealthy suburb does not. But that's not a reason to get bad grades, that's not a reason to cut class, that's not a reason to give up on your education and drop out of school," he said, eliciting applause from the audience.
See the full article here.
"We have to say to our children, yes, if you're African-American, the odds of growing up amid crime and gangs are higher. Yes, if you live in a poor neighborhood, you will face challenges that someone in a wealthy suburb does not. But that's not a reason to get bad grades, that's not a reason to cut class, that's not a reason to give up on your education and drop out of school," he said, eliciting applause from the audience.
See the full article here.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
