McLaren Music Project

A group of song writers including Brian McLaren recently released a collections of songs titled Songs for a Revolution of Hope Vol. 1, these songs apparently are based on his new book. I am finding the songs very refreshing and helpful in my journey. I hope to post a lot of the lyrics over the next little while, if you are interested in the project go here.

The first song is called Atheist, it is probably the 'commercial' song on the cd.

Atheist

I am an atheist when it comes to the god of violent jihad.
I am an atheist when it comes to the lord who converts by the sword
I am an atheist when it comes to the mission of politicians using religion as ammunition.

I believe in you - the artist of trees and galaxies
I believe in you - the poet of oceans and rivers and streams
I believe in you - the god of compassion who calls us to action
I believe in you

I can’t believe what they believe but I believe in you (4X)
I can’t believe what they believe but I believe in you (4X)
I believe in you - majestic designer of space and time
I believe in you - composer of beauty and music of life
I believe in you - the holy forgiver and wild reconciler
I believe in you

I am an atheist to the gods of the greedy ignoring the needy.
I am an atheist to the gods who make others torture and suffer
I am an atheist when it comes to the view of the chosen few, who judge and condemn all who differ them.

I believe in you … mighty in meekness and gentle in power
I believe in you … the word who has spoken good news to the broken
I believe in you … Transcending mystery, with us in history
I believe in you

A date with Bruce..

Well my return to the Blog world isn't going so well. I keep on thinking of things I want to share, but can never find the time to write. I just wanted to share that I recently bought tickets to a Bruce Springsteen show in the U.S. I am really pumped about this, I can't wait to experience Bruce in person. I hope to share some deeper thoughts sometime soon.

A Return to the Blog world with Volf

Well it has been almost 6 weeks since my last blog. I am probably not the best blogger, because quite a bit has been going on at work and in my thoughts. I am just going to leave a quote I read yesterday from Miroslav Volf. A quick note on the context, Captain G. is a man who interrogated Volf for a couple months in the 80's.

Furthermore, what effect, if any, does the death of Jesus Christ to save the ungodly have on Captain F. as an abuser? Christ "died for all," says the Apostle Paul; therefore, in some sense " all have died," not just those who believe in Christ (Corinthians 5:14). Captain G. too? Then how should I remember his abuse, given that Christ atoned for it ? Or does Christ's atonement have no impact on my memory of his wrongdoing?

If One died for the salvation of all should we not hope for the salvation of all ? Should I actively hope for Captain G.s entry into the world to come? More, Christ died to reconcile human beings to one another, not only to God.....The banquet is an image the N.T frequently uses to describe that reconciled world. Captain G. and I sitting together at the table feasting with laughter and camaraderie? A very scary thought, but not an impossible scenario! What would it mean to remember his wrongdoing now in view of such a potential future?

Books and Music

Well my summer was really busy, which didn't allow for a lot of reading time. I hope to change this in the fall, these are some of the books I am working through at the Culleton-Koebel household.

Books:

Mission Al Jazeera by Josh Rushing - Follows Josh Rushing an ex-Marine turned Al Jazeera reporter. I am not one to find war books/movies as intriguing or interesting for that matter. However, Rushing does a good job showing how truth is subverted to support various political agendas. Rushing got his '15 minutes of fame' as he was unknowingly the star of Control Room, a documentary on the war in Iraq - I am hoping to watch Control Room in the next week.

The Last Word by N.T. Wright - In the last year Wright has become someone who I've turned to more in what it means to say the Bible is authoritative. I hope this book give insights in how a christian is to take the Bible as being authoritative with all we know about how the Bible's authors.

The Ground Beneath Her Feet by Salman Rushdie - Early this summer I read my first Rushdie book, I was blown away by the beauty of his storytelling. I hope that my second run is equally fulfilling. So far the words spring off the page and paint a mosaic of experiences and worldviews. I must say I have never read anyone who writes with the beauty of Rushdie.

A song from last night...

This is the song for communion.

Come to me by Mike Koop

I am weary
I am weak
I am thirsty
All you said was
Come to me
Come to me (3x)
All you siad was come to me

I am haunted
I am so vain
I am so filthy
All you said was
Come to me Come to me...

I said you're nothing
I said no, I'm right
I said I hate you
All you said was
Come to me
Come to me..

Going to see Bright Eyes

The last little while I've had a bit of bad luck with going to concerts. We we're gonna go to the Wilco show, but then the guitarist got sick. So I have been eagerly waiting for a concert to attend then the Kanye West show became known, but I work that night and the tickets are really pricey (the cheapest are $70.00). I was actually pretty irritated that due to my working evening I was going to miss Kanye, but my love for concerts will be fulfilled soon as Bright Eyes is coming to town. I have been a huge fan of Bright Eyes, which is a indie-rock/folk band. The lead singer Conner Oberst grew up catholic, but now questions his parents faith. His questions have helped and challenged my faith a lot. Anyways to make matters better our tickets are 12 rows back from the stage. This will be my second Bright Eyes show..so I am really pumped!

Shock Doctrine by Naomi Klein

I'm not sure what is about me when I hear about a Canadian doing thing I respect that makes me proud to be Canadian. I don't think its that I am not unpatriotic, but maybe being Canadian isn't a defying thing for me as a person. Nonetheless whenever I encounter the work of Naomi Klein in the little portions that I've read -- I am proud to say I am a Canadian. Here is a little video that introduces her new book - Shock Doctrine - enjoy.

9/11

Well I guess its that time of year again. I imagine it will sound trite whatever I say about 9/11, but every year it seems this day sticks out. I think the more I think about it all I can say is that I pray for those who've lost love ones through this tragic event. I include all those in my prayers: Americans, Iraqis, and all those other countries that have been attacked under the 'war on terrorism'. I think my only solace in thinking about the vast amount of tragedies in the world is a prayer for peace. Not praying to understand how God 'uses' tragedy to bring about redemption, because a God that uses violence is not a God I care to know.

All I can do is pray that those hurt turn to peace, not vengeance. I listen to Road to Peace by Tom Waits and prayer for peace. Peace for those suffering that they have people who will sit Shiva with them and not try to explain away the reason this and that happened. Mostly, because any answer fails to help and only creates perverse understanding of the way God works.

I watched a video a couple months ago sent to me by a friend posted on Juan Cole's Blog about an Iraqis response to the Americans bombing Iraq and her response hit me. She basically asked for God to repay these evil deeds. Maybe God responds this way, much like the Old Testament describes them(if that is the case I'm not sure how Jesus fits in with this God). It struck me that the Iraqis response is similar to many Americans response to being attack that God would seek revenge for their loss. Just wondering if there is a difference between and American/Iraqis plea....

Cranberry-Port Conserve

Well on my days off I try to cook dinner for Trisha and myself. Since, we bought some cranberries at the farmer's market a couple weeks back we wanted to try a cranberry sauce-chicken dinner. So last night I made a Cranberry-Port Conserve. I wasn't sure the conserve would turn out, but when all was said and done it was a success. So we had the conserve with grilled chicken and spaghetti squash. I imagine we will try this menu again and to end the evening I watch Monday Night Football with a couple of glasses of Sheperds Ridge Pinot Noir 2004, which went really well with the dinner. This was a bit of a surprise. This was a shocking because I hadn't really tasted a Pinot Noir that I enjoyed, but ever since watching Sideways Pinot Noir has a mystic that cannot be explained. Well hope everyone has time to try something new for dinner with some friends and family.

100 Mile diet....

Well Trisha and I are 11 days into our 100 mile diet, which will go till early December. It has been fun finding locally produced products, but some things such as soy milk does not have a local alternative. Thankfully, soy milk is really the only thing that doesn't fit into the diet, we found eggs, butter, bread, veggies, fruit, etc that is made locally.

The farmer's market has been a treat every time we can make it Saturday morning. I think the bread made locally is incredible, while the taste can be savoured through the weeks, it has been fun meeting the people as well. This week we bought a couple loafs and chatted with the producer, she shared how her week was rough so her co-worker would have count our money. Part of the reason to participating in the diet is to be more connected to the products. We often talk about the importance of relationships. I think by buying locally brings us in relationship to the product and the community that produces our food. David Morris notes this is the reason why eating locally is important, "community, which, to me, is the most important reason to prefer local food. Distance kills community."

I feel that the lack of pesticides and hormones in our food is a move in the right direction. It is also fun to try new things, we are able to get bison burger that have significantly less fat than the leanest burgers at Superstore, bread that is amazing(this week we got a Cranberry Pumpkin Seed Bread..yummy), great jams from lock port, Mexican sausages. Well the list would go one.....for a further theological discussion on eating locally and becoming Green download some sermons from Mars Hill Bible Church - the series is called 'God is Green. Well hope everyone has a good work, and are at work at redeeming the world.

Rap = Rape

In a class at college a prof made the statement 'Rap equals Rape.' At the time I wondered if this was true, as a person who grew up with rap/hip-hop/R&B. I think this statement has stuck with me as I continue to listen to rap, but definitely more aware of the lyrics. I think this is a struggle because I believe some rap/hip-hop is very prophetic, which I hope to blog about in a couple days.

This topic has been creeping into my thoughts with my work at BHF in Selkirk. Most of these boys are indoctrinated in Rap worldview from a very young age, through family members, music, music videos, etc. I think for most of these boys to view women as anything else than a sex-object is long task of reorientation. So this statement is very true, whenever we drive they are compelled to 'holler' at every female that is innocently walking the streets.

In my many talks with the boys about their interactions with females, the truth that glares back at me is that the girls I got to know during adolescents is not the girls these boys know. While their Sex Ed is probably learnt through porn and rap music, this creates a problem for their social interaction with females beyond their limited understanding of females. One boy keeps on sharing a story of how he encountered a married women at a baseball game and from my estimation she was merely being polite. However, this woman's politeness is communicated to the boy as a willingness for sex.

This view naturally leads to my professors statement. Not sure where this rant is going just a few thoughts....

Who is Josh Ritter?

The music industry is in a peculiar state. I find it hard to find artist who continually impress. Such is the case this past week with Ben Harper's new CD Lifeline, I have been a fan of Harper for 3 years now. While Harper is a brilliant artist, this last CD I got the feeling of 'I've heard this before'. While the CD is good, I expected more. I guess once you've found your niche in the market you stick to it.

One the other hand a new artist to me Josh Ritter was a pleasant surprise. I've been playing his CD The Historical Conquest of Josh Ritter nonstop. I find his songs meeting some deeper meaning that was missing from Harper's outing. The entire CD is great, particularly good for a road trip. So if your in a mood for something original give Ritter a listen.

Perks of the job

My new job is in Selkirk, which is a good 50 min. drive that I actually don’t mind this at all. It gives me time to listen to music and wind down after work so I don’t bring work home with me. Another positive is that 50 min is a perfect amount for a podcast/sermon. So I have the pleasure of listening to a lot of good conversations that have been quite thought provoking. I just wanted to share some of the highlights that have deepened some question that have I’ve been mulling over for quite sometime.
Emergent podcasts:
- Doug Pagitt from a recent emerging – mainline conference - A couple years back a friend asked me what would summarize Jesus’ message. My response was naturally ‘Kingdom of God’. This I found without any base is sort of a sell-out answer, mostly because it has no real understanding for too many Christians I’ve meet. As I described the Kingdom of God, it is obviously appealing to many with community, social justice, dignity, compassion, etc. (many of the reason why people say they like Jesus, but not church or Christianity) My friend then asks is this Kingdom of God only for people who believe in God or Christian—how can a non-adherent be involved in this kingdom? I think when we had this conversation I was stumped. The podcast begs the question why are is the church so concerned about keeping the lines of in and out so strict (sounds similar to many of the matter Jesus challenged the Pharisees about). I am no longer convinced that a need for commitment prior to inclusion is necessary or even congruent with Jesus’ message. I tend to align myself more with a Celtic model, which emphasis fellowship first and inclusion prior to any commitment. I can imagine many people from my evangelical past being wary of this model. However, I believe that Jesus was all embracing and to invite all to His Table because Jesus invites all.
- Scot McKnight: The Whole Gospel – McKnight is becoming on of my favourite authors/bloggers. For a long time the sinner’s prayer has been the cause of much frustration, mostly because it tells only part of the Gospel. McKnight begins his podcast sharing a conversation he has with a pastor of a mega church. The pastor asks why the college-age demographic is in constant decline. McKnight simply states because the sinner’s prayer does not really require it—Jesus’ has saved their sin—the church is nowhere in your gospel presentation. Not that no followers of Christ have come from a sinner’s prayer model, but I think it is a harder sell to go from say this and your sins are forgiven to well actually you have to give up all this and pick-up your cross. In a class on the emerging church last semester at Prov this idea of ‘hook and switch’ came up again and again. I think part of the problem is due to wanting to make the Gospel as appealing as possible, so we make it as simple as possible, which naturally takes away many central themes and stories found in the Bible.
- Mars Hill Bible Church – I have been a avid fan of Rob Bell and this community for about 2+ years now. I think the thing about Bell that is most appealing is his need to be authentic, which I tend to agree with. I want a faith that does not require me to neglect scholarship and affect my everyday life. Currently, they are going through a series called ‘God is Green’, which I am finding thought helpful on my journey. I continually identify with the sermons that emphasise how the bible continually talks about the redemption of all creation. The last preacher was Dr. Matthew Sleeth (http://www.servegodsavetheplanet.org/), who has an amazing story of making a huge lifestyle changes that include quitting his job as director of ER, after finding a link between the environment and various medical conditions. He questions that the rate of breast cancer in North America of 1 in 7 and in Northern China of 1 in 40 is purely a coincident. Give Mars Hill a listen I’m sure you’ll find it rewarding.

Theology by the Glass - Homosexuality and the Campolo's

As I continue on my journey at St. Benedict’s Table God continually challenges notions I have on various topics. During the summer St. Bens has ‘Theology by the Glass’ a meeting of people who discuss an article sent out a couple weeks earlier. In late July, Trisha and I attended a conversation where the topic was Homosexuality took centre stage. This is particularly timely with the recent discussion by the Anglican Church of Canada’s Synod in Winnipeg. The article is a conversation between Tony and Peggy Campolo discussing their differences on this matter. To briefly summarize the article- Tony takes the view that it is unbiblical for people to engage in homosexual activity. Thus, to abstain from sexual activity is a biblical mandate. Peggy takes the opposing view of the Bible never talks about homosexuality referring to a committed, monogamous couple.

I tend to agree with Peggy. Homosexuality is something that needs to be further discussed in Christian community. Not simply quoting the few verses that name homosexuality in an attempt to end the conversation. I think the matter is complex and Christian do a poor job knowing the dynamic of this complicated topic. Peggy’s view needs to be clarified—it is a monogamous relationship, not simply any relationship. I tend to think this would also be my view on any relationship and that sex should be reserved till a couple is willing commit to fidelity in front of people who will hold them accountable.

Some interesting points of the conversation:

- That most people in our group would not leave a community if they blessed homosexual unions
- That our actions need to be taken from the ‘Red Letter Christian’ perspective. Does our words/deeds reflect what we believe are central actions of Jesus.
- That we would prefer to err in the side of grace.
- That Christians need to have open conversation about sexuality, which I believe is part of the problem. Christianity has a awful history of engaging (or not engaging) matters of sexuality.
- That it is a hard to implement Old Testament imperatives to our time. The Old Testament talks about life in a drastically different way than Jesus. One of the group members mentioned that this could be due to the Old Testament dealing with matters of forming a distinct community. That possible the language of the Old Testament needs to be better understood for its implications for the 21st century so it does not look like a mere picking and choosing of the law we deem as important.
- Once we encounter people who identify themselves as gay or lesbian, they invariably do not meet the churches depiction of them (warning: paradigm shift needs to occur).

St. Norbert Farmers' Market...

Well on Saturday, Trisha and I got up early to check out a farmers' market just south of Winnipeg. Our trip was truly enjoyable as we were meet with many yummy veggies, breads, meats and other products. I am pretty sure the farmers' market will become a staple in our household during our stay in Winnipeg. Part of the reason we wanted to check out the market is due to an article that appeared in the Christian Week in May describing a 100 Mile Diet that they were organizing to begin in September. The idea is that you only eat foods that are produced within a 100 miles of Winnipeg. As I read the article something seemed 'right' about the idea of eating what is locally produced.

In the past couple years a couple of close friends have gone through quiet an ordeal in regards to health issues. I believe this is due to what goes into the fruits and veggies that we consume from the supermarket. As I thought more about this issues I think it is a justice issues to buy and support local business. I am looking forward to time at the market most Saturday mornings till Thanksgiving. My prize find from Saturday is a Cranberry Hemp Cinnamon Buns...so good..yummy

The two lenses of life.....

Well I got the latest issue of Geez (http://www.geezmagazine.org/). I always appreciate the perspectives that they present. As I was scanning the pages one image stood out immediately, a pair of glasses - each lenses with a list of views that dominate our world. I think the idea of consumerism is so prevalent in our society. I feel at I do an adequate job at fighting the urges and messages that the Powers That Be give. However, I wonder how much my success has to do with my debt that looms large over my head. Well here are the two lenses

Lens 1: 1. I need more stuff. 2. I will earn enough to fulfill every whim and avoid all things unpleasant. 3. I am defined by my stuff and my solid position. 4. I am an island. 5. The world is mine to use as I please. 6. It's all about what I want, I will only give if I get back. 7. I will do whatever it takes, no matter the cost. 8. Media is my tool to create want and make money. 9. Me and my country --we'll toss you some scraps. 10. It's not my problem. 11. What I want, when I want and where I want.

Lens 2: 1. I am content. 2. I will use only what I need and enjoy growth in community. 3. I am what I live. 4. i am part of the greater whole. 5. The world is a gift to be to be treated with care and shared. 6. I will only take what I need and give as much as I can. 7. I will work together with others to achieve a unified goal. 8. Media, is a way to share information and ideas. 9. My country and your are part of the same small earth. 10. What can I do to help? 11. I am connected and function in community.

New Job....

Well its been almost a month since my last post. I'm not sure if that is because of business, married, life. I think the most appropriate response is time, because I keep on meaning to blog event that have happened or something I read. I figure the best way back into the blog world is an update on my job.

On Tuesday, I started a new job, I think this one is a keeper. I am a Youth Treatment Worker at the Behavioral Health Foundation(http://www.bhf.ca) in Selkirk a treatment centre for males 12-17 suffering from addictions or from families with addictive histories. I am really enjoying the work so far, even though I am primarily reading policy and procedures manual. I think I will enjoy the challenges. Well that is my brief update....

All the best,

Chris

Trisha left me...

Well I am a bachelor again...well for a few days anyways. Trisha has gone to help her sister Jackie for her wedding this weekend in Moose Jaw. Should be a fun weekend, I'll head that way come Friday. I am excited because I get to spent sometime with Mrs. Jans, who was my 'second mother' during my years living in Swift Current. Yeah for another road trip

Church Fathers and Post-Modernism

Recently, Tony Jones (http://theoblogy.blogspot.com/)posted a paper he presented at a conference at Wheaton College. The paper is very good, in the role of ancient fathers for post-modern Christian communities. The paper was intended to be part of a publication, however people at Wheaton deceided not to include the paper. This is becoming the norm whenever emergent thinkers encounter a type of evangelicalism. Give it a read.