I recently attended a Texas Methodist Foundation (TMF) luncheon where the President and CEO of Huston-Tillotson University (HTU), Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, spoke about why HTU matters in our community. This historic black university started educating students in 1875 and predates the University …
The Mighty Quinn
I occasionally watch the evening news, but it is becoming harder to do because the majority of the news is negative: mass killings, divisive politics, destructive weather, etc. The world does have many problems, but it also has many inspiring events. More balance in the news is needed. The major …
The Feast of Christmas
Thanksgiving is over and we light the first Advent candle, a joyous season of festive music, fattening foods, and fun gatherings. I decided to read about the origins of Christmas during this year’s Advent season to gain a historical perspective on the incarnation and nativity of Jesus Christ. Dr. …
Saint Nicholas
We lived for two years in The Hague (Den Haag), the seat of the Dutch Parliament and the third largest city in The Netherlands. My wife and I worked in Royal Dutch Shell’s Head Office and lived in a nearby house. Located next to the North Sea, we experienced wet windy weather and little sunshine. In …
The History of Christmas
One of the reasons that I enjoy the Christmas season are the many festive activities. It starts with decorating the house, then proceeds to attending festive parties and shows, purchasing presents, and worshiping in our decorated church. I am fortunate to have many happy Christmas memories during my …
The Purpose and Passion of Work
I am researching God’s involvement in workers’ choice of vocations. Many people refer to this as a calling, although this term is used more often in reference to ministerial vocations than secular. My topical question is: does God call workers to vocations and if so, how? For many years, I have …
Honesty
I value honesty even when the truth is painful. Over time, I have learned that honestly confessing my failures is far better than disguising or hiding the truth. A pig with lipstick is still a pig: it is best to just call it a pig. Witnessing our grandchildren grow up is a joyful experience that my …
Redeeming Capitalism – II
In Dr. Barnes’ book, Redeeming Capitalism (William B. Eerdmans Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 2018, pages 11-20), he writes about theologian Thomas Aquinas’ cardinal virtues: “prudence, justice, courage (or fortitude), and temperance (that is, moderation).” Any action or policy that is …
Redeeming Capitalism – I
I am pro-capitalism but balance this position by stating that capitalism needs to be redeemed. I believe that capitalism has improved our community and made life better for both the poor and the more affluent. Post-modern capitalism has caused great income inequality which stokes the fire of …
Vocations in the Early Church – II
In Part I, I asked the following questions: Why accept God’s call into a life of faith and obedience when the surrounding dominant culture offers a different path? Why buck the current trends and risk alienation and possible harm? Why not just enjoy a Sunday meal and not discuss matters of …