This One's for Norm!

I originally started this blog about 6 months ago. I had many purposes in mind for it - some of them loftier than others. In part, it was to be a meeting place for the folks I'd met (online and in person) that shared a passion of mine - ministry in this emerging generation. I hoped it would be a forum in which theology, philosophy, and real-life issues could be discussed. And let's face it, I do enjoy a soapbox every now and then. I'd be lying if I said I don't get a thrill every time someone comments - and I know that for every comment I get there's readers out there who lurk and ponder what gets said while rarely making comments of their own (I know you're out there, Norm).

For the last 2 weeks I haven't touched this blog. Or any blog for that matter. I've read a few here and there - Jamie's new posts on homosexuality are excellent by the way - but I haven't commented. I've been spending time with my wife, my family, and my friends. I've been working on our house - well, on the stuff that I can work on, anyway. I've been to a few movies, watched alot of Firefly on DVD (love that show!), and gone out for wings. I've connected with a few old friends and resolved to make contact with more. So I've been busy, but I also noticed something... even when I did have the time to blog, I'd sit down at the keyboard, open up my page, and just draw a blank.

I haven't felt particularly bad about it, either. I mean, I'd love to be writing, but I have just felt like I've had nothing to say. Perhaps I am seeing the not-so-distant future in which this blog outlives its usefulness in my life and goes the way of the buffalo. We shall see... But I have missed y'all. So this is like my long drawn-out apology for being AWOL over Christmas. Here's what's on my mind.

Got the new Anne Rice book from my brother. Started it, taking a little break at the moment because it's not as smooth a read as her vampire novels. Jury's still out, though... we'll have to wait and see.

About a week until we can move into our new/first house, very exciting times... although I'm a little concerned that the builder won't be delivering everything they promised unless I drag it out of them kicking and screaming. I've already had to harass them to keep them doing what they said they'd do - not my favorite pastime. But my wife and I are thrilled, and we can hardly wait. BTW, if any of you are looking for an inexpensive place to get good quality curtains, area rugs and other house paraphenalia, try the Real Canadian Superstore.

Been spending a bit of time counseling teens, which is probably my favorite part of my job. Thankfully, I have several option for referral when it becomes necessary (as I am still gaining experience). But still, I've felt like God is very active in the lives of many of these young people, and seeing them turn to hope in Christ is a bigger thrill for me than I thought it ever could be.

Watched the new Narnia flick. Fantastic. Got a post up my sleeve about it. King Kong, on the other hand, was sadly forgettable. And full of giant bugs. Ugh.

I want to touch again on Jamie's posts on homosexuality. I haven't commented there yet, but I intend to when part 3 comes out. Part 1 has over 50 comments, and part 2 is gaining. What is most shocking is that the conversation seems to be devoid of hatred, name-calling and any of the general distastefulness that typically follows such a hot topic. I think this is in part to Jamie's level-headedness. Well done, Jamie! I'll be posting s summary of the best comments and such once part 3 wraps up.

Congrats to Wanderer on his 100th post - I hope he sticks around for 100 more. And I'd encourage everyone to check out one of his more recents posts; I for one appreciated the look into his past.

Emergent What?'s been taking up the topic of the Rev. Ken Silva, a fellow who's quite popular over at Slice of Laodicea. I'm not sure I'm entirely convinced the attention is necessary, however, as even a cursory examination of the man's writing and theology reveal a harsh bias and a disregard for truth. I doubt that any fruitful conversation can come about in such a context. I do hope, however, to engage with some genuine critics of the EC this year in hopes of dialogue and good times. Wish me luck.

Thanks to Cindy for checking to make sure I was alive, and alerting me to the existence of another Dan D making himself known in the emerging church. He's been recently spotted at Scot McKnight's site, and all I really can say to that is apparently us Dans think alike. Crazy.

This year I hope to finally wrap up my Ishmael posts, write something on inter-religious dialogue, and maybe buy a new hat. Stay tuned, and I'll try to be a bit more active. I'll try and make the rounds at some of my regular reads, and toss in a comment or two along the way. Pray for our house if you think of it, and thanks for dropping by.