Looking forward to this series at Jesus Creed. The ability to hold civil conversations seems to be what is missing, yet is so needed in the national healthcare discussion.
On to the irony: This comment from Barb (from above link) is one that should make those of us who identify as Christians think…
Why are we as Christians so afraid that someone may get something given to them that they don’t deserve?
Today the Philadelphia Eagles introduced Michael Vick as the newest member of their roster. Normally, players signed this late in training camp do not make for a very big deal. But this is a very different situation, and the signing has been the focus of local TV, sports talk radio, Facebook comments, and conversation around town. This was completely unexpected when the news came out yesterday. And the Eagles were probably the last team that most people thought would pursue a player with the troubled past of Vick, especially since they have no openings at the QB position. But there it was, and what a controversy it ignited! Continue reading ‘Michael Vick and Grace’
“Third place” was a term coined by sociologist Ray Oldenburg to describe a socially important location separate from the two usual places we spend much of our time, home (first place) and the workplace (second place). Common “third places” are pubs, parks, and cafes/coffeehouse. The coffeehouse is my preferred “third place”, and I thought I would share a little bit about the one I frequent. And it just so happens that recently they received some much deserved publicity from an article in the Times Herald.
I discovered Java’s Brewin’ in Limerick just before they opened a couple years back. Ever since moving to the Perkiomen Valley I longed for a cafe that served great coffee and offered space for conversation; essentially a fun place where people could gather and meet. I got spoiled during my college years on the Main Line, where there were many such places. This was also where I developed a bit of “coffee snobbery”-a love of good coffees and espresso – that you simply can’t find at 4 letter convenience stores 
OK, my friend Wezlo is partially responsible for this too…
While visiting Waltz’s golf center on the other side of Ridge Pike, I noticed that a sign had gone up on one of the new buildings across the street. After seeing the sign, I told my in-laws that night, “We finally got a coffee shop!” And we got a good one! Java’s is a great place to gather and to experience some fantastic food and coffee (I recommend the Organic Mexican Dark Roast, and the muffins are the best I ever had-it’s really not even close!). But the best part about the place is the staff. The cafe is owned and operated by the Barretta family and you simply won’t find a more friendly bunch. They really make this a fun place to be. That’s a major reason why so many of us keep going back (numerous times per week!).
Check it out when you’re in town. And I’ll probably see you there!
Found an article today about the health benefits of coffee. I’ll admit there’s a bit of my own rationalization going on here, as I’m always looking for ways to defend the amount of coffee I consume each week. But it is interesting to discover that from a number of recent studies, coffee may…
Rationalization completed, so I think I’ll go fix a cup! Right now I’m brewing “Cafe Blend”, from One Village Coffee-check it out.
Sammy Sosa’s name gets added to the list of those who used PED’s. Here’s two writers who get it, Rick Telander and Buster Olney, and I particularly love Olney’s suggestion for clean players. But Paul Konerko…you need to get a clue.
My friend Wezlo wrote a great piece on the current problems with much seminary/pastoral education in this country. Check it out. He raises good questions here, and I hope some seminaries are listening. But our churches need to be on board too for any kind of beneficial change to take place. I can say all I want about seminary having to change, but as a pastor, if the church isn’t buying a new model of leadership (and leadership development), it just ain’t happening. I’ve been pleased with how my denominations’ seminaries have had some conversation with pastors and congregations about tailoring their education model to better fit the context we find ourselves in today, and I hope we continue to find our way together.
Our baby was born on May 21! It truly was the best day of our lives, and just an absolutely amazing miracle. We praise God for this little blessing! There were some complications shortly after his birth (breathing issues), so our son had to be kept in the hospitals’ special care unit for 5 days. But the staff was wonderful and really helped my wife and I to remain calm and collected as they were running tests to make sure our little guy was ok. I am so thankful for the care they provided for my wife and son-they are the best. At this point my wife and I are getting used to a new schedule, adjusting our sleep patterns (or lack thereof) and schedules around activities like feeding, changing, and napping. And we’re loving every minute of it!
Tomorrow my wife and I head to the hospital for a scheduled induction. Our baby is coming early, and we are very excited to meet him! So probably no posts for a while (and much less sleep!). Keep us in your prayers as the big day approaches. Thanks!
If I’m in my car and it’s between 10am and 3pm, then there’s a good chance I am listening to sports radio on 610 WIP-I’m a fan of Glen Macnow and Anthony Gargano, the pair who host that time slot. I’ve always liked the fact that these two guys just really seem to be fans of the sports they cover, are very knowledgeable about them (just don’t ask Glen about soccer!), and are fun to listen to. I also greatly respect the civil and personable way they dialogue with their callers; If I was to call a sports radio program, it would be this one-no contest.
That being said, I heard a really cool thing on their show today, Continue reading ‘Missional Sports Radio?’
