Year 1 in the Books

Well, my first year of PhD studies is now over. It has been an interesting and fruitful year. I enjoyed my classes and learned a lot, though I am also thankful for the summer break. Lots of parish stuff to do and get ahead on, and need to prepare for language exams. But overall, a good year. I am looking forward to continuing in the Fall.

Interesting . . .

In 2 Kings 6:1-7, Elisha retrieves an axe head that fell into the water by throwing a stick in the water. What is the significance of this? Irenaeus writes that here we see a picture of the cross, which is the wood that has retrieved what was lost. "By means of a tree we were made debtors to God, [so also] by means of a tree we may obtain the remission of our debt." Interesting . . .

Best Cartoon Ever

I remember watching this cartoon growing up. Too bad they don't make 'em like this anymore.

Update: YouTube removed the cartoon I originally posted, so here's another version . . . with Hebrew subtitles!

Testing Moses?

In the Treasury readings for today, we hear this word of God to Moses: "I have seen this people, and behold, they are a stiff-necked people. Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may burn hot against them and I may consume them, in order that I may make a great nation of you."

What did Moses think of these words? Seems to me they may have sounded mighty tempting. In addition to being set free from this grumbling and complaining people . . . make a great nation of ME. A new patriarch. Greatness, recognition, honor. How often do we strive after and covet these things? I would think Moses would be tempted too.

But how does he respond? With prayer. He intercedes for the people, calling upon the honor of God's name and promises. He strives not after his own greatness, but that God's name be great in all the world. Here he is a type of Christ, who (Philippians 2) did not strive for greatness or equality with God, but made Himself nothing, interceding for us stiff-necked people, so that the wrath of God would not come upon us for our sins.

Lord, help me not think of myself more highly that I ought, but have this mind in myself as well: to serve and pray to the honor and glory of your name alone. Amen.

Another Good Quote

The Christian ideal has not been tried and found wanting. It has been found difficult and left untried. — G. K. Chesterton

HT: Pastor Greg Alms

Good Quote

John XXIII, when confronted by problems, at a certain point famously said, "Sometimes I just kneel down and say, Lord, it’s your Church, I am going to bed".

HT: Father Z.

The day after Easter . . . Holy Week behind . . . 75 degrees and sunny . . . what a great day to golf! After I got some things done this morning, went to the driving range and played nine holes. How good it felt to be out and playing. I played pretty well - only hit one shot I would really call a clunker. Didn't putt too good, but that will come around. I hope I'll play more this year. Maybe get the Peasant son out there playing with me this year . . .