Thursday, November 1, 2007
Scroll Down!
After a few months in exile, this blog is finally fully updated to here and now. If you haven't recently, please scroll down through the most recent posts, and click "older posts" at the bottom right of the page to see if you've missed any. Since I have less than two months left, I will stay more on top of things from now on. Thanks for reading, feel free to leave comments, and be well!
Castel Sant'Angelo
The name of the LORD is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe. - Proverbs 18:10
If you've read any Dan Brown books, the mythology and lore of Roman art and architecture probably have a much different significance for you than what it really holds. While these ancient sites likely have more than their fair share of secrets and scandals, it's not likely quite the way he depicts it. Perhaps one of the best examples of this is Castel Sant'Angelo. In his book "Angels And Demons", he makes this place out to be the illicit lair of the Illuminati, complete with super-secret passageway to the Vatican. In reality, it's served many purposes throughout history - one of them being safe storage for the Pope, for which the "secret" passageway does indeed exist, albeit very visibly.
The building began its life as a tomb for the Roman emperor Hadrian in 138, and other emperors were also buried there. However, following the fall of Rome it was vandalized and fell into disrepair, as so many things did. It eventually became a military fortress, and by the 14th century it became a sort of Papal castle. It was generally intended to be used to house the Pope in times of crisis - something Clement VII was thankful for in 1527. It was also a prison, as immortalized in Puccini's Tosca, and is now a rather benign museum.
Nonetheless, I can hardly look at an old castle without thinking of the Bible's multiple references to castles and fortresses. Maybe these analogies don't work as well in our day, since we don't really have them around any more. But when I look at Castel Sant'Angelo, I know exactly what Proverbs intends us to hear: God is vast, secure, spacious, and most importantly, unbelievably strong. Just as the Pope would run to this castle in time of greatest need, so we run to our God when things seem most desperate. No matter what the crisis, God will protect. God will shield. When we are granted the faith to claim God as our God, we are granted everything that comes with it, including everlasting security.
One of my seminary professors noted that most people have trouble with this concept seeing as how much goes wrong in life: sickness, injury, war, famine, death. He noted that given all these horrors, it's remarkable that we are able to survive at all. He attributes this to God's eternal protection and guidance. It's the only thing that keeps things going. In a world of danger and disease, our God is a strong tower that gives us refuge.
Lord God, in you we are promised refuge. Your guidance and mercy give hope even when things seem darkest. Grant us the faith to trust you in all things, keeping the faith always. Please shield us from the terrors of life, and give us healing when they attack us. In all things, we praise you and your strength, no matter what. All these things we know and believe in your Son's gracious name, Amen.
If you've read any Dan Brown books, the mythology and lore of Roman art and architecture probably have a much different significance for you than what it really holds. While these ancient sites likely have more than their fair share of secrets and scandals, it's not likely quite the way he depicts it. Perhaps one of the best examples of this is Castel Sant'Angelo. In his book "Angels And Demons", he makes this place out to be the illicit lair of the Illuminati, complete with super-secret passageway to the Vatican. In reality, it's served many purposes throughout history - one of them being safe storage for the Pope, for which the "secret" passageway does indeed exist, albeit very visibly.
The building began its life as a tomb for the Roman emperor Hadrian in 138, and other emperors were also buried there. However, following the fall of Rome it was vandalized and fell into disrepair, as so many things did. It eventually became a military fortress, and by the 14th century it became a sort of Papal castle. It was generally intended to be used to house the Pope in times of crisis - something Clement VII was thankful for in 1527. It was also a prison, as immortalized in Puccini's Tosca, and is now a rather benign museum.Nonetheless, I can hardly look at an old castle without thinking of the Bible's multiple references to castles and fortresses. Maybe these analogies don't work as well in our day, since we don't really have them around any more. But when I look at Castel Sant'Angelo, I know exactly what Proverbs intends us to hear: God is vast, secure, spacious, and most importantly, unbelievably strong. Just as the Pope would run to this castle in time of greatest need, so we run to our God when things seem most desperate. No matter what the crisis, God will protect. God will shield. When we are granted the faith to claim God as our God, we are granted everything that comes with it, including everlasting security.
One of my seminary professors noted that most people have trouble with this concept seeing as how much goes wrong in life: sickness, injury, war, famine, death. He noted that given all these horrors, it's remarkable that we are able to survive at all. He attributes this to God's eternal protection and guidance. It's the only thing that keeps things going. In a world of danger and disease, our God is a strong tower that gives us refuge.
Lord God, in you we are promised refuge. Your guidance and mercy give hope even when things seem darkest. Grant us the faith to trust you in all things, keeping the faith always. Please shield us from the terrors of life, and give us healing when they attack us. In all things, we praise you and your strength, no matter what. All these things we know and believe in your Son's gracious name, Amen.
The Catacombs of San Callistus
Listen, I will tell you a mystery! We will not all die, but we will all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. For this perishable body must put on imperishability, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When this perishable body puts on imperishability, and this mortal body puts on immortality, then the saying that is written will be fulfilled: "Death has been swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" - 1 Corinthians 15:51-55
One of the great legends of Rome is its collection of catacombs just outside the old city walls. In New Testament times, the catacombs were a necessity, as burial of any kind was forbidden within city limits. Pagans and Jews alike had to transport their dead outside the city for burial, and since land was an expensive commodity then as now, they tunneled in layers below the surface to make as much room as possible. The land surrounding Rome is a volcanic soil which, once dug out and exposed to air, forms a hard, cement-like layer; this makes digging tunnels, niches, and tombs comparatively easy. After the fall of Rome, these layers of tombs fell into disuse and neglect until 1849 when an amateur Italian archaeologist named Giovanni Battista di Rossi accidentally discovered the entry to one of the biggest ones, San Callistus.
This particular catacomb started and remained a Christian burial place, as the land was donated by a wealth Christian convert to provide Christians (who were not often very affluent) a respectable burial. Nine popes were buried here, giving in the moniker of the Little Vatican, and St. Cecelia, patron saint of music, was originally buried here until she was moved to a different church in Rome. Numerous other bishops, martyrs, and early Christians were also buried here. Do not, however, believe the myth that the catacombs only existed for secret burials and worship. Any Roman was buried in a catacomb - this one was simply particularly Christian. Also, only occasional services were held in the catacombs, particularly on saint days and festivals. This was done without regard to persecutions or lack thereof.
The real mystery of the catacombs, if you can call it that, is the simple representation of early Christian faith. It has its own symbols, showing how early Christians truly believed in a full resurrection of the body. It represents a commitment to caring for the neighbor by providing burial for even non-Christians who couldn't otherwise afford a proper burial. While not as dramatic as some might believe, it also demonstrates the early martyrs in the faith who inspired other believers to be firm.
Inside the catacomb, you cannot but feel a connection to this faith. (Photos are not allowed; great pictures and explanations are available at this site.) The art is simple but evocative. Even the rows upon rows of burial places serve to remind you of an early faith which somehow spoke to the hearts of more and more people, in spite of its lack of popularity or sometimes outright persecution. Most importantly, it reminds you that death is not the end. These bodies might not be living, but as Christians we know that someday they will rise again and be united with Christ. Whether you believe that resurrection will be bodily or spiritual, the fact remains that death doesn't have the last word. We are promised a resurrection like Christ's, and we wait expectantly for that day.
Our powerful God, God of life and mercy, you sent us your Son so that through him we would not truly perish, but have eternal life. Grant that we might one day be together with him in glory, alongside all the saints, worshiping with joy. While we might mourn in death, give us comfort knowing that it is not final, thanks to the work of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
One of the great legends of Rome is its collection of catacombs just outside the old city walls. In New Testament times, the catacombs were a necessity, as burial of any kind was forbidden within city limits. Pagans and Jews alike had to transport their dead outside the city for burial, and since land was an expensive commodity then as now, they tunneled in layers below the surface to make as much room as possible. The land surrounding Rome is a volcanic soil which, once dug out and exposed to air, forms a hard, cement-like layer; this makes digging tunnels, niches, and tombs comparatively easy. After the fall of Rome, these layers of tombs fell into disuse and neglect until 1849 when an amateur Italian archaeologist named Giovanni Battista di Rossi accidentally discovered the entry to one of the biggest ones, San Callistus.
This particular catacomb started and remained a Christian burial place, as the land was donated by a wealth Christian convert to provide Christians (who were not often very affluent) a respectable burial. Nine popes were buried here, giving in the moniker of the Little Vatican, and St. Cecelia, patron saint of music, was originally buried here until she was moved to a different church in Rome. Numerous other bishops, martyrs, and early Christians were also buried here. Do not, however, believe the myth that the catacombs only existed for secret burials and worship. Any Roman was buried in a catacomb - this one was simply particularly Christian. Also, only occasional services were held in the catacombs, particularly on saint days and festivals. This was done without regard to persecutions or lack thereof.
The real mystery of the catacombs, if you can call it that, is the simple representation of early Christian faith. It has its own symbols, showing how early Christians truly believed in a full resurrection of the body. It represents a commitment to caring for the neighbor by providing burial for even non-Christians who couldn't otherwise afford a proper burial. While not as dramatic as some might believe, it also demonstrates the early martyrs in the faith who inspired other believers to be firm.
Inside the catacomb, you cannot but feel a connection to this faith. (Photos are not allowed; great pictures and explanations are available at this site.) The art is simple but evocative. Even the rows upon rows of burial places serve to remind you of an early faith which somehow spoke to the hearts of more and more people, in spite of its lack of popularity or sometimes outright persecution. Most importantly, it reminds you that death is not the end. These bodies might not be living, but as Christians we know that someday they will rise again and be united with Christ. Whether you believe that resurrection will be bodily or spiritual, the fact remains that death doesn't have the last word. We are promised a resurrection like Christ's, and we wait expectantly for that day.
Our powerful God, God of life and mercy, you sent us your Son so that through him we would not truly perish, but have eternal life. Grant that we might one day be together with him in glory, alongside all the saints, worshiping with joy. While we might mourn in death, give us comfort knowing that it is not final, thanks to the work of your Son, Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Water Fountains
Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city. On either side of the river is the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, producing its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. - Revelation 22:1-2
Being a thirsty tourist gets pretty easy in Rome. Throughout the city, you find tons of fountains ready and waiting for your empty water bottle. In fact, you can safely assume that any running water throughout the city can be safely consumed unless it is in the vast minority marked acqua non potabile (water not drinkable). You could technically climb into any one of the numerous ornamental fountains, but the bathing pigeons - not to mention your wet shoes and pants - would probably serve as sufficient deterrent.
Instead, you can walk up to any of the constantly-flowing water spigots found in numerous nooks, crannies, piazzas, and street corners in Rome. Being so close to mountain streams and pure springs, these fountains have no shortage of fresh, cool water. People walk up to them to wash their hands, splash some water on their face, fill a bottle, or even plug the end to shoot some water up through the tiny hole on the top, a la American water fountain. Everyone gathers to these fountains, especially on hot days, and everyone is grateful for them.
It brings to my mind the utopia in Revelation, where water flows through the city and healing trees grow on its banks. Rome is hardly the pristine New Jerusalem, and its fountains aren't exactly the water of life, but its the reminder and not the reality that counts. The ubiquity of water in this city, and the way it restores everyone from affluent tourists to thirsty beggars, constantly brings to mind the frequent Biblical references to water. Water brings death and destruction in abundance, brings suffering and pain in its absence, and gives life and renewal in simple presence. It's no wonder the river of life is such a powerful, peaceful image - water in this form gives life to life, and reminds us of our dependence on God's gifts.
I drink out of these Roman fountains often, having long since put aside my fears of germs. (You have to get over that pretty quickly in Rome, anyway.) Every time I do, I remind myself of God's graciousness. God provides us love and grace as overflowing as a fountain, and I can fill up at it any time. It washes away my dirtiness, quenches my thirst, and unites me with my neighbor in my need. Just as I was washed in water at baptism, I am renewed by it every time I take a sip. These fountains may not be the river of life, but they'll keep me going until I can sit on its banks.
God of abundance, you bless us with everything we need in this world and in the next. In water you claim us, clean us, and constantly renew us. Remind us of your call in our baptism, and keep us ever refreshed in its waters. Bring us together finally in the New Jerusalem, where we can gather at the shores of the river of life and be in your presence always. We pray this in your Son's name, Amen.
Being a thirsty tourist gets pretty easy in Rome. Throughout the city, you find tons of fountains ready and waiting for your empty water bottle. In fact, you can safely assume that any running water throughout the city can be safely consumed unless it is in the vast minority marked acqua non potabile (water not drinkable). You could technically climb into any one of the numerous ornamental fountains, but the bathing pigeons - not to mention your wet shoes and pants - would probably serve as sufficient deterrent.Instead, you can walk up to any of the constantly-flowing water spigots found in numerous nooks, crannies, piazzas, and street corners in Rome. Being so close to mountain streams and pure springs, these fountains have no shortage of fresh, cool water. People walk up to them to wash their hands, splash some water on their face, fill a bottle, or even plug the end to shoot some water up through the tiny hole on the top, a la American water fountain. Everyone gathers to these fountains, especially on hot days, and everyone is grateful for them.
It brings to my mind the utopia in Revelation, where water flows through the city and healing trees grow on its banks. Rome is hardly the pristine New Jerusalem, and its fountains aren't exactly the water of life, but its the reminder and not the reality that counts. The ubiquity of water in this city, and the way it restores everyone from affluent tourists to thirsty beggars, constantly brings to mind the frequent Biblical references to water. Water brings death and destruction in abundance, brings suffering and pain in its absence, and gives life and renewal in simple presence. It's no wonder the river of life is such a powerful, peaceful image - water in this form gives life to life, and reminds us of our dependence on God's gifts.
I drink out of these Roman fountains often, having long since put aside my fears of germs. (You have to get over that pretty quickly in Rome, anyway.) Every time I do, I remind myself of God's graciousness. God provides us love and grace as overflowing as a fountain, and I can fill up at it any time. It washes away my dirtiness, quenches my thirst, and unites me with my neighbor in my need. Just as I was washed in water at baptism, I am renewed by it every time I take a sip. These fountains may not be the river of life, but they'll keep me going until I can sit on its banks.
God of abundance, you bless us with everything we need in this world and in the next. In water you claim us, clean us, and constantly renew us. Remind us of your call in our baptism, and keep us ever refreshed in its waters. Bring us together finally in the New Jerusalem, where we can gather at the shores of the river of life and be in your presence always. We pray this in your Son's name, Amen.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Greenwich Prime Meridian
[The LORD said,] "Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding. Who determined its measurements - surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it? On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone when the morning stars sang together and all the heavenly beings shouted for joy? - Job 38:4-7
Not being much of a science person, I can't quite explain the difference between the latitudes and longitudes of the Earth. I know that the poles and the Equator have strange and unique characteristics that set them definitively on the planet. Conversely, I know that the same is not said for the lines of longitude. In fact, at the Prime Meridian, you will experience nothing more unusual than many different languages being spoken and a large red line across the pavement. This is because the Prime Meridian set in Greenwich, England was completely set by humans as an aid for navigation and telling time.
Today, this line generally sets the International Date Line and separates the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. The scientists at the Greenwich Observatory took the liberty of setting it, and by 1884 it was nearly globally accepted as the standard for navigation. The reason it goes through England is simply because in 1851, when it was established, English ships still held great influence on the seas and having a central navigational point served them well in their business.
Ironically, this well-marked line does not serve as the zero point in satellite navigation systems; the real center point is just over 300 feet to the east. Since I'm not a science person, I can't explain to you exactly how it was determined that this other line more clearly represented an actual center point on the globe based on star observations, gravity, and continental drift. Apparently, the actual zero point can be found by locating a possibly sarcastically-located garbage can on the Royal Observatory's grounds.
I may not speak science, but I can tell you what this realization makes me think about. When God admonishes Job at the end of his self-titled story, God does some serious head-shaking about Job's presumption that he is indeed the center of the universe and things really, honestly do revolve around him and his piety. God makes things pretty clear: humanity is not the be-all, end-all in creation. Any time humanity tries to do this, odds are things get seriously lopsided. God's reminder to Job is a reminder to us all: God made this world, and even if we think we could have done it better, we're just part of the grand scheme.
It's hard to be put in your place in a grand, cosmic scheme. We want to make it all about us and the way it should work to make things easier - but it's a lie. That's not the way the world works. Even the Prime Meridian, that great feat of human ingenuity, is sort of mostly wrong. No matter how much we don't like it, God sets those boundaries. At the end of the day, it's a job I'll leave willingly to God. After all, I'm not much of a science person.
God of all things, you have made all things and made them so good! We cannot understand everything, and sometimes we challenge you for the role of creator. Remind us gently that you are in charge, and help us to trust you in all things. Even as we try to understand the mysteries of creation, help us to see you as the source active in all of it. Amen.
Not being much of a science person, I can't quite explain the difference between the latitudes and longitudes of the Earth. I know that the poles and the Equator have strange and unique characteristics that set them definitively on the planet. Conversely, I know that the same is not said for the lines of longitude. In fact, at the Prime Meridian, you will experience nothing more unusual than many different languages being spoken and a large red line across the pavement. This is because the Prime Meridian set in Greenwich, England was completely set by humans as an aid for navigation and telling time.Today, this line generally sets the International Date Line and separates the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. The scientists at the Greenwich Observatory took the liberty of setting it, and by 1884 it was nearly globally accepted as the standard for navigation. The reason it goes through England is simply because in 1851, when it was established, English ships still held great influence on the seas and having a central navigational point served them well in their business.
Ironically, this well-marked line does not serve as the zero point in satellite navigation systems; the real center point is just over 300 feet to the east. Since I'm not a science person, I can't explain to you exactly how it was determined that this other line more clearly represented an actual center point on the globe based on star observations, gravity, and continental drift. Apparently, the actual zero point can be found by locating a possibly sarcastically-located garbage can on the Royal Observatory's grounds.
I may not speak science, but I can tell you what this realization makes me think about. When God admonishes Job at the end of his self-titled story, God does some serious head-shaking about Job's presumption that he is indeed the center of the universe and things really, honestly do revolve around him and his piety. God makes things pretty clear: humanity is not the be-all, end-all in creation. Any time humanity tries to do this, odds are things get seriously lopsided. God's reminder to Job is a reminder to us all: God made this world, and even if we think we could have done it better, we're just part of the grand scheme.
It's hard to be put in your place in a grand, cosmic scheme. We want to make it all about us and the way it should work to make things easier - but it's a lie. That's not the way the world works. Even the Prime Meridian, that great feat of human ingenuity, is sort of mostly wrong. No matter how much we don't like it, God sets those boundaries. At the end of the day, it's a job I'll leave willingly to God. After all, I'm not much of a science person.
God of all things, you have made all things and made them so good! We cannot understand everything, and sometimes we challenge you for the role of creator. Remind us gently that you are in charge, and help us to trust you in all things. Even as we try to understand the mysteries of creation, help us to see you as the source active in all of it. Amen.
The Book of Kells
Through [Christ] you have come to trust in God, who raised him from the dead and gave him glory, so that your faith and hope are set on God. Now that you have purified your souls by your obedience to the truth so that you have genuine mutual love, love one another deeply from the heart. You have been born anew, not of perishable but of imperishable seed, through the living and enduring word of God. - 1 Peter 1:21-23
When we took a city break in Dublin, we weren't entirely sure of what we planned on seeing. At the top of almost every list is a visit to the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from around 800 AD that is housed at Trinity College in Dublin. Being a fan of old books and interested in seeing something so reputedly gorgeous, I was sold. Granted, you can't exactly see the entire book. The four transcribed gospels and their corresponding illustrations are housed in two very fragile volumes, and on display at any given time are only one page out of each volume. Nonetheless, simply being to observe such a book is quite a gift.
Before seeing the book, you spend time in an exhibit that teaches you about the process and artistry of creating illuminated manuscripts at the time. Considering how much work went into putting the book together - everything from stretching the vellum to copying the text - it's almost amazing there were any books around at all. But the care with which these gospels were obviously reproduced and the fact that they have survived to this day are just an example and reminder of how dearly valued the Word of God is for believers.
Today, you can find a Bible in any hotel room, but it's as if its ubiquity prevents us from taking it seriously. Even as a seminarian, I cannot state with certainty if I have entirely read every book of the Bible. How would we consider the written word of scripture differently if books were so rare as to be worth more than a lifetime's earnings? How much more seriously would we take the opportunity to read the Bible? As I looked at the Book of Kells, I realized just how much we can take the written word for granted and just how vital it is for us to remain tied to the Word.
The Word of God is still living and active today. The words of the Bible are still vital for us now; furthermore, God's Word is moving in the preached word and sacrament every day. This Word forms us new every day. This Word brings us closer to God and helps us serve our neighbor more completely. This is not something to take for granted. It is something to treasure deeply and stay in close relationship with. May we each realize how we need to be constantly renewed by God's Word.
Lord of Life, your Word moves through us even today. We are constantly thankful for your presence with us in the sacraments and the preached word. Open our hearts and minds to your scriptures, so that we might come closer to understanding you and your will. Give us the boldness to approach you in study and prayer, as we come with humility to ask the Spirit's guidance. In all things, keep us dedicated to your will and way. We pray this in your Son's name, Amen.
When we took a city break in Dublin, we weren't entirely sure of what we planned on seeing. At the top of almost every list is a visit to the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from around 800 AD that is housed at Trinity College in Dublin. Being a fan of old books and interested in seeing something so reputedly gorgeous, I was sold. Granted, you can't exactly see the entire book. The four transcribed gospels and their corresponding illustrations are housed in two very fragile volumes, and on display at any given time are only one page out of each volume. Nonetheless, simply being to observe such a book is quite a gift.Before seeing the book, you spend time in an exhibit that teaches you about the process and artistry of creating illuminated manuscripts at the time. Considering how much work went into putting the book together - everything from stretching the vellum to copying the text - it's almost amazing there were any books around at all. But the care with which these gospels were obviously reproduced and the fact that they have survived to this day are just an example and reminder of how dearly valued the Word of God is for believers.
Today, you can find a Bible in any hotel room, but it's as if its ubiquity prevents us from taking it seriously. Even as a seminarian, I cannot state with certainty if I have entirely read every book of the Bible. How would we consider the written word of scripture differently if books were so rare as to be worth more than a lifetime's earnings? How much more seriously would we take the opportunity to read the Bible? As I looked at the Book of Kells, I realized just how much we can take the written word for granted and just how vital it is for us to remain tied to the Word.
The Word of God is still living and active today. The words of the Bible are still vital for us now; furthermore, God's Word is moving in the preached word and sacrament every day. This Word forms us new every day. This Word brings us closer to God and helps us serve our neighbor more completely. This is not something to take for granted. It is something to treasure deeply and stay in close relationship with. May we each realize how we need to be constantly renewed by God's Word.
Lord of Life, your Word moves through us even today. We are constantly thankful for your presence with us in the sacraments and the preached word. Open our hearts and minds to your scriptures, so that we might come closer to understanding you and your will. Give us the boldness to approach you in study and prayer, as we come with humility to ask the Spirit's guidance. In all things, keep us dedicated to your will and way. We pray this in your Son's name, Amen.
The Pools At Bath
Now in Jerusalem by the Sheep Gate there is a pool, called in Hebrew Beth-zatha, which has five porticoes. In these lay many invalids-- blind, lame, and paralyzed. One man was there who had been ill for thirty-eight years. When Jesus saw him lying there and knew that he had been there a long time, he said to him, "Do you want to be made well?" The sick man answered him, "Sir, I have no one to put me into the pool when the water is stirred up; and while I am making my way, someone else steps down ahead of me." Jesus said to him, "Stand up, take your mat and walk." At once the man was made well, and he took up his mat and began to walk. - John 5:2-9a
While England and Italy might seem worlds apart, they are linked in more than a few ways. One of the more interesting pieces is the way they both represent the spread of the ancient Roman Empire, that world power that saw the birth and death of Christ. Roman ruins are not just the realm of Rome, but of much of the European continent. So it should not be any surprise that even England boasts a large amount of remarkable Roman sites. One of these is the spring of Aquae Sulis and the city of Bath.
The spring that bubbles out of the ground here has been likely venerated for over 10,000 years. Keeping a constant temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit and flowing at the rate of a quarter million gallons a day, it's a natural event not likely to go unnoticed. The original inhabitants dedicated the site to Sulis, a goddess of water, and when the Romans arrived they co opted the site for Minerva. While the site had always been revered as a place of healing, it was also believed that the place was so holy that people could use it to communicate with the divine; prayers, petitions, and offerings were often thrown into the hot water. Even after the temple fell to ruin, Bath became the place to see and be seen by those treating the spring as a spa to soak in and drink up.
It's the first time I've ever seen something like it, and just being there gave me a better understanding of this story from John. At this particular site in Bath, there were numerous side pools, steam rooms, and cooling baths to be used in combination for the best cleaning and healing effect. However, this was typically reserved for the most wealthy or well-connected. Perhaps others found a way to the waters, but it is not likely. How were these most desperate people to find healing?
One of the most overwhelming aspects of Christ's nature is his ability to heal. Many people tend to focus on the otherworldly aspects of his teachings, making it easy to forget what he promises for us here and now. While he certainly points us to God and righteousness, he also grants healing and wholeness in unexpected ways at unexpected times. When we are most hopeless and broken, Jesus invites us to take up our mat and walk. This is not because we can afford it or even because we deserve it, but simply because God is that good.
Our heavenly Father, in this life our bodies are subjected to great physical pain and sickness. As your Son healed the lame man by the healing pools, so come to us in our need and grant us wholeness. Work through physicians of all kinds to bring this relief, and give patience to those still awaiting your healing. Remind us always that we are in need of the restoration only you can bring through your Son Jesus, Amen.
While England and Italy might seem worlds apart, they are linked in more than a few ways. One of the more interesting pieces is the way they both represent the spread of the ancient Roman Empire, that world power that saw the birth and death of Christ. Roman ruins are not just the realm of Rome, but of much of the European continent. So it should not be any surprise that even England boasts a large amount of remarkable Roman sites. One of these is the spring of Aquae Sulis and the city of Bath.The spring that bubbles out of the ground here has been likely venerated for over 10,000 years. Keeping a constant temperature of 120 degrees Fahrenheit and flowing at the rate of a quarter million gallons a day, it's a natural event not likely to go unnoticed. The original inhabitants dedicated the site to Sulis, a goddess of water, and when the Romans arrived they co opted the site for Minerva. While the site had always been revered as a place of healing, it was also believed that the place was so holy that people could use it to communicate with the divine; prayers, petitions, and offerings were often thrown into the hot water. Even after the temple fell to ruin, Bath became the place to see and be seen by those treating the spring as a spa to soak in and drink up.
It's the first time I've ever seen something like it, and just being there gave me a better understanding of this story from John. At this particular site in Bath, there were numerous side pools, steam rooms, and cooling baths to be used in combination for the best cleaning and healing effect. However, this was typically reserved for the most wealthy or well-connected. Perhaps others found a way to the waters, but it is not likely. How were these most desperate people to find healing?
One of the most overwhelming aspects of Christ's nature is his ability to heal. Many people tend to focus on the otherworldly aspects of his teachings, making it easy to forget what he promises for us here and now. While he certainly points us to God and righteousness, he also grants healing and wholeness in unexpected ways at unexpected times. When we are most hopeless and broken, Jesus invites us to take up our mat and walk. This is not because we can afford it or even because we deserve it, but simply because God is that good.
Our heavenly Father, in this life our bodies are subjected to great physical pain and sickness. As your Son healed the lame man by the healing pools, so come to us in our need and grant us wholeness. Work through physicians of all kinds to bring this relief, and give patience to those still awaiting your healing. Remind us always that we are in need of the restoration only you can bring through your Son Jesus, Amen.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
The Next Recipient
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. When I remember you in my prayers,always thank my God because I hear of your love for all the saints and your faith toward the Lord Jesus. I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective when you perceive all the good that we may do for Christ. - Philemon 1:3-6
When you're half a world away from your family, friends, coworkers, and classmates, you can start to feel a little bit lonely. When there's a chance to see a familiar face, even if it's just for a bit, you take it. And if that familiar face is actually an entire family who you've spent a seminary career with, it's more than just a little celebratory. So imagine my delight when Marc, my friend and classmate, let me know that he and his family had a day's layover in London on their way to their year as the next recipients of the Graduate Preaching Fellowship.
Marc and company had just 12 hours in London, but they were going from one overnight international flight to the next, so if nothing else they needed someone to keep them awake. Fortunately, I was up to the task - and the rain managed to hold off long enough for us to explore the heart of the city. We had plenty of time to see Westminster, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square with a quick stop at a local pub for some lunch. They seemed happy to have someone else think through their steps for a while, and I was happy to have friendly faces to tour with.
But even more exciting than that was the opportunity to connect about this great gift we've both been given. This year of study and travel is, for us both, an opportunity of a lifetime. We compared notes, discussed options, laughed about complications, and dreamed about what it will mean for our future in ministry. The fact that our years overlap a bit is even more exciting, as it feels even more like we're not in it alone. Certainly, his time in Tanzania and Israel with his entire family will be distinctly different than my time in Rome and London, but that's exactly the point. The church is a place of variety, and Marc and I are both called to share our diverse talents and experiences in more ways and places than we could ever imagine. Intimidating though it might be, it sure is exciting.
In lieu of a photo for this post (since I forgot my camera), I give you the link to Marc's family's blog. They've got plenty of pictures and stories already, so there's lots to look at. Be sure to send them a message of support. What an amazing journey!
Good and gracious God, you send us all out on daily adventures where we are constantly called to serve you. Be especially present with those in far-away places learning challenging and sometimes frightening new things, so that they might have the confidence and peace to use their knowledge in your service. Keep Marc and his family safe, and fill them with your joy. Grant us each the ability to see your wondrous world in new ways. Amen.
When you're half a world away from your family, friends, coworkers, and classmates, you can start to feel a little bit lonely. When there's a chance to see a familiar face, even if it's just for a bit, you take it. And if that familiar face is actually an entire family who you've spent a seminary career with, it's more than just a little celebratory. So imagine my delight when Marc, my friend and classmate, let me know that he and his family had a day's layover in London on their way to their year as the next recipients of the Graduate Preaching Fellowship.
Marc and company had just 12 hours in London, but they were going from one overnight international flight to the next, so if nothing else they needed someone to keep them awake. Fortunately, I was up to the task - and the rain managed to hold off long enough for us to explore the heart of the city. We had plenty of time to see Westminster, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square with a quick stop at a local pub for some lunch. They seemed happy to have someone else think through their steps for a while, and I was happy to have friendly faces to tour with.
But even more exciting than that was the opportunity to connect about this great gift we've both been given. This year of study and travel is, for us both, an opportunity of a lifetime. We compared notes, discussed options, laughed about complications, and dreamed about what it will mean for our future in ministry. The fact that our years overlap a bit is even more exciting, as it feels even more like we're not in it alone. Certainly, his time in Tanzania and Israel with his entire family will be distinctly different than my time in Rome and London, but that's exactly the point. The church is a place of variety, and Marc and I are both called to share our diverse talents and experiences in more ways and places than we could ever imagine. Intimidating though it might be, it sure is exciting.
In lieu of a photo for this post (since I forgot my camera), I give you the link to Marc's family's blog. They've got plenty of pictures and stories already, so there's lots to look at. Be sure to send them a message of support. What an amazing journey!
Good and gracious God, you send us all out on daily adventures where we are constantly called to serve you. Be especially present with those in far-away places learning challenging and sometimes frightening new things, so that they might have the confidence and peace to use their knowledge in your service. Keep Marc and his family safe, and fill them with your joy. Grant us each the ability to see your wondrous world in new ways. Amen.
Tree Of Life in the British Museum
In days to come the mountain of the Lord's house shall be established as the highest of the mountains, and shall be raised up above the hills. Peoples shall stream to it, and many nations shall come and say: "Come, let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; that he may teach us his ways and that we may walk in his paths." For out of Zion shall go forth instruction, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem. He shall judge between many peoples, and shall arbitrate between strong nations far away; they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more; but they shall all sit under their own vines and under their own fig trees, and no one shall make them afraid; for the mouth of the Lord of hosts has spoken. - Micah 4:14
In the British Museum, you don't just find culturally significant artifacts from thousands of years ago - although that is a pretty exciting thing for most people. You can also come across information of all sorts about society and culture today. In fact, some areas of the museum focus on this, giving us a better idea about people and places contemporaneous with us that we might not otherwise have the ability to see and learn about. The section on Africa, while small, paints a picture not just of a vast continent of the past, but a diverse region facing many challenges today - challenges that call the world community together.
One of the most powerful exhibits is the Tree of Life, a nearly ten foot tall sculpture made entirely of weapons. Its spreading branches are guns, the animals playing in its shade are guns, even the fish and mammals off to the side are, you guessed it, guns. It was created from decommissioned weapons collected after Mozambique's long civil war. People were encouraged to turn in their weapons for a small profit, while artists were commissioned to turn them into works of art.
A scripturally-inspired bishop first envisioned the project, and the British Museum ended up making a huge event around the installation when it first arrived in 2005. It shows a country and continent that not only faces great political turmoil, but has such abundant hope. This exhibition doesn't focus simply on the war and strife prevalent across so much of the continent, but also a cultural system that makes beauty out of anything available. For those of us who may never physically find ourselves in any part of Africa, we can still see the glorious cultures the continent holds and learn more about the challenges it constantly faces.
Perhaps even more amazingly, it shows that there are those people so inspired by their faith that they can take a singularly violent object and make it into a potently inspiring work of art. This tree shows us that good can come from evil, and we must never give up hope that it can happen especially to those who need it most.
God of peace, we face so much violence. Even though we are made in your image, we constantly reach out in anger and hatred to our neighbor. Be especially with those in Africa, which seems to hold more than its fair share of war, sickness, and poverty. Grant hope and healing to those who most need it, and remind us that our neighbor may be a world away. We pray these things in the name of your Son, who longs to gather us all together. Amen.
In the British Museum, you don't just find culturally significant artifacts from thousands of years ago - although that is a pretty exciting thing for most people. You can also come across information of all sorts about society and culture today. In fact, some areas of the museum focus on this, giving us a better idea about people and places contemporaneous with us that we might not otherwise have the ability to see and learn about. The section on Africa, while small, paints a picture not just of a vast continent of the past, but a diverse region facing many challenges today - challenges that call the world community together.One of the most powerful exhibits is the Tree of Life, a nearly ten foot tall sculpture made entirely of weapons. Its spreading branches are guns, the animals playing in its shade are guns, even the fish and mammals off to the side are, you guessed it, guns. It was created from decommissioned weapons collected after Mozambique's long civil war. People were encouraged to turn in their weapons for a small profit, while artists were commissioned to turn them into works of art.
A scripturally-inspired bishop first envisioned the project, and the British Museum ended up making a huge event around the installation when it first arrived in 2005. It shows a country and continent that not only faces great political turmoil, but has such abundant hope. This exhibition doesn't focus simply on the war and strife prevalent across so much of the continent, but also a cultural system that makes beauty out of anything available. For those of us who may never physically find ourselves in any part of Africa, we can still see the glorious cultures the continent holds and learn more about the challenges it constantly faces.
Perhaps even more amazingly, it shows that there are those people so inspired by their faith that they can take a singularly violent object and make it into a potently inspiring work of art. This tree shows us that good can come from evil, and we must never give up hope that it can happen especially to those who need it most.
God of peace, we face so much violence. Even though we are made in your image, we constantly reach out in anger and hatred to our neighbor. Be especially with those in Africa, which seems to hold more than its fair share of war, sickness, and poverty. Grant hope and healing to those who most need it, and remind us that our neighbor may be a world away. We pray these things in the name of your Son, who longs to gather us all together. Amen.
The Rosetta Stone
"For I know their works and their thoughts, and I am coming to gather all nations and tongues; and they shall come and shall see my glory, and I will set a sign among them. For as the new heavens and the new earth, which I will make, shall remain before me, says the Lord; so shall your descendants and your name remain. From new moon to new moon, and from sabbath to sabbath, all flesh shall come to worship before me," says the Lord. - Isaiah 66:18-19a, 22-23
Underneath the single roof of the British Museum you will find examples of culturally relevant artifacts from every single major era in history. While some cultures do indeed want their history back, the fact that all these things can be observed and experienced in one place makes an excellent argument for keeping them exactly where they are. Some of these things are so fabled that once you're actually able to come face-to-face with it, you can hardly believe your eyes.
For me, one of these things is the Rosetta Stone. As a kid, I was fascinated with all sorts of ancient cultures and myths, so of course I spent some time with the Egyptians. Their mysterious hieroglyphics and the single stone inscription that finally led to their translation, completely enthralled me. In fact, I suspect that some of my love for language stems back to this linguistic milestone. So it's pretty exciting that one of the first pieces of culture that you practically trip over is the Rosetta Stone itself.
It's not actually a terribly remarkable looking thing. It's only a couple of feet tall, and it's not even totally intact. Plus, since it's very prominent in the museum, it's always surrounded by a throng of tourists. But simply looking at it allows you to look back into history. It reminds you of the obscurity of ancient culture and the amazing fact that scholarship has slowly allowed us to understand our own history. In fact, the ability to read our own scriptures stems from the same kind of linguistic scholarship that opened up Egyptian culture to the world. In a way, the Rosetta Stone represents the partnership between piety and scholarship, language and worship, history and society, that makes faith such a remarkable thing.
While all of the world may not indeed be gathered together in this lifetime, at least there are places, people, and information that can help us better understand each other. Perhaps they can even help us better understand our God. Until then, we pray for enlightenment and patience.
God, our great teacher, through you we have all that makes us human. We are especially thankful for the intellect that you gave us, so that we can better understand each other, our histories, and most importantly you. Keep us from using our knowledge to oppress and condemn, but instead to celebrate and unite in your Son's name. Amen.
Underneath the single roof of the British Museum you will find examples of culturally relevant artifacts from every single major era in history. While some cultures do indeed want their history back, the fact that all these things can be observed and experienced in one place makes an excellent argument for keeping them exactly where they are. Some of these things are so fabled that once you're actually able to come face-to-face with it, you can hardly believe your eyes.For me, one of these things is the Rosetta Stone. As a kid, I was fascinated with all sorts of ancient cultures and myths, so of course I spent some time with the Egyptians. Their mysterious hieroglyphics and the single stone inscription that finally led to their translation, completely enthralled me. In fact, I suspect that some of my love for language stems back to this linguistic milestone. So it's pretty exciting that one of the first pieces of culture that you practically trip over is the Rosetta Stone itself.
It's not actually a terribly remarkable looking thing. It's only a couple of feet tall, and it's not even totally intact. Plus, since it's very prominent in the museum, it's always surrounded by a throng of tourists. But simply looking at it allows you to look back into history. It reminds you of the obscurity of ancient culture and the amazing fact that scholarship has slowly allowed us to understand our own history. In fact, the ability to read our own scriptures stems from the same kind of linguistic scholarship that opened up Egyptian culture to the world. In a way, the Rosetta Stone represents the partnership between piety and scholarship, language and worship, history and society, that makes faith such a remarkable thing.
While all of the world may not indeed be gathered together in this lifetime, at least there are places, people, and information that can help us better understand each other. Perhaps they can even help us better understand our God. Until then, we pray for enlightenment and patience.
God, our great teacher, through you we have all that makes us human. We are especially thankful for the intellect that you gave us, so that we can better understand each other, our histories, and most importantly you. Keep us from using our knowledge to oppress and condemn, but instead to celebrate and unite in your Son's name. Amen.
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