Right from the start, Phil gives the reader a fair warning by quoting Flannery O’Connor: “When you can assume that your audience holds the same beliefs you do, you can relax a little and use more normal means of talking to it; when you have to assume that it does not, then you have to make your vision apparent by shock— to the hard of hearing you shout, and for the almost-blind you draw large and startling figures.” For those that hold the same belief as Phil, like I often do even though we have our disagreements, much of what he says rings true. For those that don’t, much of this book may be filled with coarse language, obscene vulgarities and overall, according to our American Evangelical Christian standards, inappropriate language (to say it mildly).
But I invite you to read past the language and find the meaning and heartbreaking personal experiences behind the veil of well written prose. And well written it is. After all, Phil is an English literature major and the subtle hints to famous works are interspersed throughout the book. I especially loved a twist on Shakespeare’s Hamlet, but it’s for you to find that quote lest I spoil all the fun. Continue reading
Last Sunday we confirmed a new lead pastor at our Church. My wife and I have been a part of this particular Body for quite a while and we were overjoyed that a long and painful chapter finally came to a close. We have a new pastor ! This is exciting news. He will for sure propel this Church to a new level, new initiatives, new heights. A new drive and vigor will permeate our Church and it will be the best thing ever ! After all, he is a great guy, caring, dynamic and an overall solid person. Or so I thought.
On this Easter Monday, for the US readers, the bunny has retreated to its unknown whereabouts, for the Belgians amongst us, the church bells have returned from Rome and for everyone, we’re stuffed with chocolate. And I would like to extend this season with just a couple of days and reflect on what Easter is all about.
Ah, the wonderful Christmas time. Decorations in the house, the smell of cookies and cakes, the music, the lights, the tree. The house seems to have a different atmosphere during this time of year when we commemorate the birth of our savior. God made flesh to take upon Him the sins of the world.
