Advocate Judges

(The following is a letter written by a local Whitehorse resident that was published in our local paper. He has consented to allow me to place it on Limited Thinking.)

It's another blow to the fundamental unit of Canadian society: the home, by undermining the binding properties, upon which the foundation rests the cohesion and continuance of family life.

The Supreme Court of Canada has ruled that group sex among consenting adults is neither indecent or a risk to society, and, therefore, lifted a ban on "swingers" clubs.

In one instance, the court agreed that "criminal indecency or obscenity must rest on actual harm or a significant risk of harm to individuals or society."

And, it adds to the comment that the establishments are not necessarily socially harmful.

Further, saying that "attitudes in themselves are not crimes" and "the autonomy and liberty of members of the public was not affected by unwanted confrontation with sexual activity in question."

Finally, stating that individuals and couples are now free to exercise their "fundamental rights".

These are words of fools: those who do not understand the principles of family, of social and personal integrity and the Constitution.

"Whereas Canada is founded upon the principles that recognized the supremacy of God and the rule of law..." states the preamble.

Did anyone consult God on the matter? Does doing whatever one wants constitute freedom to exercise one's fundamental rights?

What, in truth, is the familial, individual and social impact of such permissiveness?

It denies the sanctity and unity of the home and the union of both husband and wife as an inseparable bond. The individual is free to choose his or her activities whether or not most Canadians disapprove of the activity, say the judges. Is this democracy in action?

People live together under rule of law for the express interests of the common good. When a few have rights contrary to this principle, society erodes, chaos ensues, anarchy reigns, unity is dissolved and a nation collapses.

Sexual freedom puts pressure on our social programs, like health care.

When, not long ago, pressure was put on the health care program of Canadian society from smokers, great action from government and anti-smoking activists was the attention across our nation.

Will not all this sexual activity put the same pressure on the program? Will not the increase of sexually-transmitted diseases burden the health care program?

Further, will not unwanted pregnancies increase, unwanted children be born, and, in turn, will not a burden be put on social services programs?

People need to take a stand for that which is right; does not righteousness exalt a nation?

The courts need not to wait until the problem arises before they take action. If morality is not at the centre of legislation - then what do we legislate?

God calls group sex "sin"; the Supreme Court judges call it "fundamental freedom".

Who is the wiser?

Ken Besler

Out of Jacob

As I promised earlier this month, I am posting photos of the ornament that I made for this Christmas.

This is it in the packaging that they all were shipped in.

And what they looked like outside of the package.

And lastly a shot in the process of finishing, along with two of the churches listed in this post.

The verse that I wrote that was on the card contained in the packaging follows.

Out of Jacob

Numbers 24:17

At a time appointed by the Father, there appeared a star. As it might have been known in such a small group, this was a miracle. It was the fullness of time. The Messiah had arrived. It was a sign to all, and a guide to some.

Not chasing rainbows, but in search of a treasure for all of mankind.

The Savior, Jesus Christ.

Album Review

Jamie Cullum
Catching Tales

The infamous third release. It seems that in this day and age there is a typical first three releases. The first being an unheard of indy release, followed by an immensely successful release number two on a well known label. This is followed by a number three release that is a bit of a departure from what most of the public refer to as the 'first one' which is of course the first major label release. The reason that I say infamous, is that the release in its departure from the status quo is not really well accepted. (note: this is actually his fourth release if you include a first that was limited to 600 pressings)

Well does this release pass that test? That is what I am here to answer.

At first flush I would have been quick to say no. I have to say that originally this album didn't sit well with me. It had one really important thing though. It had a hook. At first when I plugged it in, the hook on track one had me. It was about the only thing that brought me back to listen to it the second time. By then it was the off the wall interpretation of 'I only have eyes for you.' Once I had been through the album three or four times it was starting to stick. A bit longer than his 'first major label release' which I was into from the first note.

I am now glad that it kept me for the long haul.

Jamie Cullum has an amazing ability to interpret classic in a new way, a way that is not offensive. It is a way that is fresh yet respectful, and gives me hope that some of the music that I have heard over and over and over and over again, may just have life in it this side of the elevator. Whether it is Hendrix, Radiohead, or the classic aforementioned ' I Only Have Eyes For You,' Jamie has the ability to make it new.

What is more, the numbers that are original, blend with the classics. This may be because he has put his own jazz/pop stamp on the old stuff and his new creations, or simply because he is really good. More than likely it is a bit of both.

Lyrically there is a big plus here. You can understand them without a cheat sheet. First time through. More than that, they speak. Sometimes deep as in the lament ' Oh God' and other times a little lighter like in 'Photograph'. It is a good thing that you can understand them, since the liner notes are as poor as they come. At least when it comes to the lyrics.

A quick note on the liner notes. There is written here a very comprehensive dialog on each song and the thoughts behind it. I am not sure how much I like this. From one perspective it is a window into the artist. In another perspective, it takes away the magic of the music. For me I would skip it and spend more time tightening the written lyrics to five or less fonts.

The musicality is the thing that makes all, of what this album is, work. It of course doesn't happen in a vacuum. Every song has input from multiple members, and every song has multiple instruments. They work well together. Jamie Cullum himself is an accomplished pianist. That coupled with the previously mentioned song writing/interpreting ability makes the long term effect, a lasting production. Harmonies that run a little beatlesque and keys that run a little toward traditional jazz trio makes the sound signature.

Jamie's voice is the last piece. I can't say I fell in love with it instantaneously. I have learned to find it enduring. Of course I am quite sure that if Van Morrison came out sounding like he does on 'Brown Eyed Girl' today, we may all take a step back. That said, all the elements of a key note voice is there. Its different. Its unaltered. It has a hint of heart, and of husky. At moments you almost wonder if he is using a tube mic, just slightly overdriven. But that's not it. Its just that little bit raspy. Curiously, when he turns up the heat, it clears out. I hope this is a sign that he can keep his sound and mature it, rather than being at a point that he has blown it out already.

All this, and did I mention that he is only 26.

The recording, at first blush is quite decent. A more critical listen starts noticing differences in reverb at many occasions during single tracks. It is not that this cannot be used artistically, but in this case it is not. Further, it is just below the edge of being distracting. It appears that Cullum has not yet developed the consummate studio sound that an artist of his caliber should have. This may be a difficulty seeing he is trying to bridge two genre's. It would be nice to hear a more consistent recording. Even the changes between songs are far too abrupt. His long liner notes suggest that he had a hard time arriving on a track order. Maybe this is a result of not really recording all the tracks in a similar fashion. I am not sure what the answer is here, but it is a juggernaut that he needs to resolve to move into the realm of the truly great brits.

Without a doubt or hesitation, this album is a buy.

Genre: Jazz/Pop
Lyrics: Clear
Listenability: Fun and Enjoyable
Musicality: Fresh, Enlightening
Recording: Freshman

Ch.. Ch.. Changes

A few house keeping changes around the blog.

Permanent links for all of my regular features.

This is something I have been wanting to do for sometime. I have checked them all and they all seem to be working. Look at the sidebar and you should find the categories as well as the links.

A clock.

No reason really. I just saw one and thought that it would be a neat addition. The time of course is that of Whitehorse Yukon.

From the Right Side

This year as gifts for my family I produced five of these churches. This represents a slight departure for me in my artwork. Up until now most if not all of what I have done from the right side has been two dimensional.

The move to a three dimensional form is a bit different. This was a somewhat basic move for me since I work in three dimensions for most of the fabrication that I do. That said, I tried to stay with something that was relatively simple. Seeing that it worked out as well as it did, it may spur me to further look into multiple dimensional works.

Quote for Yesterday

Sorry that this is a day late!

dull as dirt
you can't assert the kind of light
that might persuade
a strict dictator to retire
fire the army
teach the poor origami
the truth is in
the proof is when
you hear your heart
start asking, "What's my motivation?"

and try as you may, there isn't a way
to explain the kind of change
that would make an Eskimo renounce fir
that would make a vegitarian barbeque hamster
unless you can trace this about-face
to a certain sign...

Newsboys
Going Public
Track #2
Lyrics by Steve Taylor

Merry Christmas

Although there may be much discussion about everthing from the date of Christmas to the political correctness of Christmas, tonight my family is celibrating the Incarnation of the Messiah.

Balaam's Last Oracle Blessing Israel

I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near: a star shall come out of Jacob and a scepter shall rise out of Israel; Numbers 24:17

Merry Christmas To You and Yours From The Klassen Family

Pet Peeve

As most who know me already know, I am not opposed to trade with other countries. International trade is very important, and in a way much of my income is of the international flavor.

I will say however that buying local is something that I find keeps the economy in our small town rolling.

That is why I find this slightly humorous.

This is a wristband from the Canada Games Centre in Whitehorse. It is a place that I and my family spend much time at.

When you turn the wristband over, this is what you find. (look carefully the print is light)

Interesting!

There may be none available in Canada, or they may be supplied by a local store, but boy does it look bad.

From the Right Side, Extra Edition

Last year I started what I hope to be a yearly tradition. I made Christmas ornaments. Last year's was called Simeon's legacy, and contained an abbreviated version of this writing.



They were limited to twenty. This year I have limited the ornaments to twenty-four. I am not showing them at this point yet though. They are not all distributed. So you can always hope that you are on the list for the last few!

A hint though, they are called 'Out of Jacob.' I will tell you more a little after the 25th.

Album Review

John Mayer Trio
Try

The liner notes say much in the first few words. And I quote: "Guitar, bass, and drums. Three guys, nowhere to hide. When it works...."

Any teeny bopper with a grade 8 education (much of his popular clientele) could read the liner notes on any other John Mayer CD and come to the conclusion that he is influenced by the blues. Any true blues lover could listen to the CD and they would be able to tell you that he is strongly influenced by the blues.

As soon as I heard about this album I couldn't wait to hear it. I would class myself in the latter group of people, and had wondered for a while what would happen if one could listen to John play his passion.

Did I mention that this CD is live? Recorded at the House of Blues in Chicago. That alone should give it enough pedigree to warrant a listen. As I was running this afternoon listening to this, I was overcome with an image of the past. Myself, probably a bit too young in a bar that I shouldn't have been in, there to hear the blues. Live. Eyes closed, drinking Guinness. I realized as I ran that closing my eyes may lead to a little more than a small problem on the track. I tried real hard not to. I had semi success.

The bulk of this CD is pure blues. There is a bit of pop sprinkled in. More on that later.

The lyrics are the blues. Not much to elaborate on there. Songs of lament. Quite interestingly the most pop like song on the album also has the most bluesy lyrics. That would be Something's Missing.

Can you handle this album? As for listening, I could easily lose myself in this one. It was good enough on the first listen to hook me in. Beyond that, it has what I consider to be the best attribute of any album...... The more I listen, the more I want to listen. Even the quirky little things that John usually does live, have been mellowed enough that they are at the least not distracting, and for most not noticeable at all.

Musicality. Where do I start. Steve Jordan on the kit and Pin Paladino on bass. What a rhythm section. Good doesn't begin to describe them. Consummate live performers. The rhythm is something makes me want to keep time on my thigh, just to make sure I'm not loosing it. At enough occasions the bass comes together with either the kick or the snare, so that you know that it isn't just pretty good and a bit lucky. This is really good, and pro. The timing reminds me somewhat of what occurs on Led Zepplin's 'Presence' album.

John shines here, and it is obvious that he is home. Blues works for him. He works with the Blues.

Ray Charles' "I Got A Woman" stands out. They are in the zone and you can't help but getting dragged along with them. Lots of original music here too. "Vultures" shows that these musicians can write and play. Talented bunch.

If there was any question of the talent the beginning of "Something's Missing "would answer that. The drummer picks the beat. The guitar player then pics the song. I have seen this tactic live, when working as a soundman. Anytime it works, it shows that the musicians are tight. Anytime it doesn't it's a grand flop. In this case the simple words, "IT ain't your TV" let the others know what song they have been playing up until that point. Of course the drummer and the bass have there fun changing the beat timing on the guitar enough so that it takes some care to navigate to lyrics.

The song itself is a little on the poor side for a three piece blues band. Rhythm and lead guitar seem to be important parts. John try's to cover for the lack of pieces by switching modes, and throwing in a some phase shifting. Leave this one for the pop crowd. The full band does an excellent job of it.

The other cover of his pop stuff is "Daughters" which slides beautifully into the genre. A bit surprisingly so. But it works enough so that your not longing for the original. In stark contrast one would assume that this is the way it was always to be played.

That just might be the case.

In any matter, it is good that he has a few familiar tunes so that those teeny boppers that show up at the House of Blues have something to sing along with when they realize the boy/man that they have a crush on, is far more three dimensional then they thought.

I hope that this album does for blues what Harry Connick Jr. did for swing, and Diana Krall has done for Jazz. Those teeny boppers will need something to listen to after real life takes hold.

Genre: Blues
Lyrics: Blues
Listenability: Dark Highway at Night
Musicality: Consummate
Recording: Live

From the Right Side

This is our Advent wreath. Like almost everything else I make, it is steel. Cold rolled mild steel to be exact. The method on this one was MIG welding as opposed to the brazing that I most commonly use now.

The wreath came quite a few years ago, and I have since made a few more for friends and family. The Celtic Cross that sits in the center for the Christ candle, came a year later. Both gifts to my wife.

I Told Them So

A year ago September a teacher from one of our local schools showed his AMAZING STUPIDITY, by taking students across the border to a military installation in Alaska. Not for any good reason mind you. The purpose was to attend a demonstration.

Now it was quite apparent to all but the MSM and this teacher and possible the parents of the students, just how utterly blind you have to be to do such a thing. Especially in the USA these days.

Well it has now happened. They now realize that they have been but on a list that considers them a risk, by the US defense department.

Are you surprised?

I'm not.

As the following article suggests though, the teacher is.

And again this fact does not surprise me either.

Read about it at CBC North.

Quote for the Day

It seems that for numerous reasons, the tragedy of September 11, 2001 has been on my mind a little more lately than usual. The opening track on what has commonly become known as the September 11 album, of Sting's is Fragile.

For those who are not in the know, Sting along with many of Europe's top recording artists recorded "....all this time" on 911. It is live, and the emotion of the day is captured to this day. The choice of Fragile to open is fitting.

If blood will flow when flesh and steel are one
Drying in the colour of the evening sun
Tomorrow's rain will wash the stains away
But something in our minds will always stay
Perhaps this final act was meant
To clinch a lifetime's argument
That nothing comes from violence and nothing ever could
For all those born beneath an angry star
Lest we forget how fragile we are

Sting
...all this time
Track 1 Fragile
Lyrics: Sting

I Love My Town

The ability to go for a walk in the afternoon and look at this. This is one of the special things that make this not Saskatchewan! (sorry flatlanders)

Fourth Advent

Today was a different fourth advent. Today we had a children's Christmas play. In all honesty I am not greatly into children's plays. That may be as a result of not really liking them when I had to be in them.

Regardless of that, there was a highlight in the play. It showcased musical talents of the teens at several points. There was a young lady vocalist by the name of Emma. I was wowed. I closed my eyes and was no longer at a play. It was a breath of fresh air.

There was one other thing that stood out more than a little. We had two baptisms this morning.

Glen and Daniel. I am sorry that I do not have decent photos. The ones of Dan are so-so, the ones of Glen are worse. I find excitement in both of these baptisms, since I know both young men.

Daniel has been an employee of mine for the last two summers and it is a pleasure to see him in the waters of baptism.

Dan and Pastor George.

Dan all wet!

Update: Daniel has agreed to let me post his testimony.

My name is Daniel Harms, I'm currently in grade 12 at Vanier School, and I have decided to be baptised today. First, I'll tell you a little bit about me. I was raised in a Godly household. Christianity therefore, was something that I grew up with. However, it seemed more like a routine and not the personal way of life that it should be. When I was around 8 years old I had gone to Camp Yukon and there I gave my life to Christ. This was one of the first steps that I took towards making Christianity a personal decision. Because I had been home schooled until I began public school in grade 10, Christianity had been the only religion that I had really learned about. My greatest struggle that I encountered occurred over that whole first year at Vanier as I wrestled with the reasons for why I believed in Christianity. I was in a mandatory religion class that studied various world religions and soonthere seemed to be more options than just the one. I began to doubt Christianity and struggled over which one religion was right or true (because they all couldn't be right). Eventually, near the end of that school year, I believe that God opened my eyes because I could accept Christianity as being the only way, as truth and as a personal commitment. I am now being baptised to show that I believe that there is only one way to heaven and that it is through Jesus Christ, who died on a cross for my sins, and then rose from the dead. I want to show others that I am willing to give my life to Christ and live for Him.

Lo How a Rose ‘er Blooming

Song of Songs 2:1

"I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys."

To quote Spurgeon:

"The exceeding delightfulness of Christ is suggested to our mind by his declaration ‘I am the rose, and I am the lily.’ And first he is in himself the delight of men."

As this song informs us, this rose is from Jesse’s lineage. This rose was foretold by the prophet Isaiah, and this rose was sung about by men of old.

I find comfort in the fact that as we look forward to Christ’s birth on this fourth advent, we look forward with many throughout history.

The rose I have in mind?
This rose is Christ.

Saturday's Project

Today's Project was to finish the outdoor Christmas lighting at home.

Of course there are a few other things that were done but you know the time of year and all....

I have to say that I was a little dismayed at the difference in colour of the led lights that are around the door. I guess white isn't always white.

And a Very Old Man Was He.

Nixon is a very old man. He turned 11 this November.

He was born outside at -40c in the Yukon wilderness. We brought him home 11 Christmas's ago. He lived outside. Unless it was below -40c, then -35c, then -30c, then.... you get the idea.

About 15 months ago Nixon decided he wanted out of the dog house, and that he was now an inside dog.

He is an old man in every way. This picture is how he looks 90% of the time. That is followed by eating, and brief stints of thinking that he is still a puppy. He is grouchy like an old man too. He knows what he wants, and you will too.

BTW he is the consummate inside dog. I have no idea how that happened.

Gracious Living

I just finished listening to a sermon that touched me.

Sermons on giving seem to be few and far between. Most that I hear don't really speak to me in a manner that I haven't heard before. This is the exception. It is the second in a two part series, and although I do not wish to belittle the first one, I found far more here. (that might have been due to sweating profusely during the first one as I was running)

I appreciate David Short's speaking manner, and find him captivating.

Download it!

Find more sermons from St. John's Shaughnessy Anglican Church here.

Album Review

Diana Krall
Christmas Songs

Right off the top, I have to admit that I am a long term Diana Krall fan. I own all her albums, save one DVD. From the first time I heard her sing 'Peel Me a Grape', I was hooked. Without a doubt, she has had many fine albums. Her last effort out was the stellar 'The Girl in the Other Room'. In my opinion an album where she out did herself, simply because we saw HER. It was gutsy and truthful. Fresh and appealing.

If you have been living in isolation for the past 10 years you may not know that Diana Krall's specific genre is Jazz. More specifically trio or quartet jazz. She has done some launches into grand orchestrated numbers, but we all listen to her for the basics. Rich voice, impeccable keys, outstanding bass and guitar, and sometimes the kit. It is always a tight sound, and if that is what you are looking for in a Christmas album, look no further.

The album cover has Diana looking all girly and pretty. The back has a far more sassy look for her, and anyone who has heard any interviews with her would know that, this is far more who she is. I guess one must give Kudos here for using the actual word 'Christmas' in the album title.

On a perusal of the songs, I am instantly disenchanted. In this day and age I am quite used to Christmas albums that have a certain amount of secular music on them. Even on those that come from a 'Christian' band. In this case though, there is not a single sacred song in the mix. Very sad. What is more, the mix of music reads like the what's what of department store music. Save for two tracks, (What are You Doing New Year's Eve, and Count Your Blessings Instead of Sheep.) I am not sure how many more renditions of White Christmas I can handle, before I start deleting them off of my hard drive play list. One saving factor is the lack of 'The Little Drummer Boy' which is beginning to be more over used than the McDonald's drive through. Of course that is a sacred song and therefore is in no danger of finding it's way onto this album.

The listenability is good. Not exceptional, not great. Good. You can put it on in the background and it will add the ambiance that a good jazz album always should. Nothing pops. Nothing on this album to me says fresh and different in a way that I could suggest that it is a must have.

The musicality of what is done here is as I alluded to before, the tight workings of a fine machine that one would expect. It does not falter and for all my complaints will be played as background music in my home for many years to come. One really key point. It seems that all the contemporary and jazz Christmas albums that I have, err in one way. Vocal intonation. I have to say that the intonation on this production is impeccable. That in itself makes this an addition to my collection that I do not regret.

As for recording, it is off the rack. No glaring errors. Nothing that stands out. This is not Steely Dan. That said, I suppose that in the genre, you are not really after anything other than an unobtrusive passive recording. That is what 'Christmas Songs' has in spades.

You won't hate it, you wont regret the purchase, but neither will you miss it greatly if you skip it. For the fan, buy it. For the penny pincher give it a skip. For the coffee bar it will work just fine.

Genre: Jazz
Lyrics: Secular
Listenability: Coffee Bar, Background at the Party
Musicality: Tight, In Tune
Recording: Off the Rack

Naw Really?

While quick to anger and perhaps a little hostile to strangers, your heart is in the right place! People will trust what you say, partly in fear of what you'll do if they don't!

Take the Quiz!

Truckin'

I don't really want to generalize, but it would seem that those that do not hold a high school diploma, may just want to go into an industry that may involve driving. It may be what is right for them. Ontario seems to think otherwise.

Ontario high school students who drop out won't be allowed to get their driver's licenses under a law to be introduced Tuesday.

This seems much like the government taking away the licenses of dead beat dad's, so that they cannot work or get to work. This insures that they will think more about their children. While they sit at home wondering why they can't get to work to pay the child support that they should.

The whole story at CBC.

Quote for the Day

The summer sun has come to stay
Bikinis, tans, outrageous legs
They're all retarded and they all look the same
And Barbie's body's melting down
On her face a big fat frown
Because "Mr. Cellulite" just moved into town

The boys they come here
With expectations for the summer
And I refuse to take any part in this barbaric ritual
Because God has given me a mind
That I will use from time to time
And I got more on my head than
what's made by Paul
Mitchell

Kendall Payne
Jordan's Sister
Track 2 Supermodels
Lyrics by Kendall Payne and Ron Aniello

The Other Side of the Lamppost

A review of the movie, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.

For a quick view of a side discussion of theology see my previous post.

For those who want to take their children to this movie, stop right now. Dust of the book and read it to them. You and they will be ever so happy that you did.

I do not believe that I ever really truly understood C.S. Lewis' statements about appealing to man's intellect and man's fantasy, before I saw this movie. The opening scene of the movie transported me to the land of a man compelled to do radio shows, presenting his Lord to his nation.

I am not sure that the vivid images that I have in my mind of 1940's England is more due to the writings of Lewis, or from Robert Ludlam's 'The Tristan Betrayal.' (I read Ludlam at the same time as the last time through Mere Christianity and it is set in WWII.) What I can say without a doubt, the contrast in the movie from this side to the other side of the lamppost brought great light to me as to why one might need such fantasy during such a time.

In the movie the landscapes are dreamy. The colours are vivid. More importantly the images did not conflict with those in my head. To me that is chief, and also indicates to me that the portrayal of Lewis's imaginary world is true to his writings. All I can say on this is well done.

Another thing that looked a little funny to me, was the fur coats in an environment of sentient animals. It is a little obtuse, although the idea of hunting non sentient animals is broached by Lewis in a later book, it is made light of here, when Peter threatens to make beaver into a hat.

One last image that I found striking was that of Aslan talking to Edmund after his return to the fold. It was Aslan and Him. That was all it took to be sufficient to not rehash the matter with the other three. I saw an image of Edmund being brought back, not of his own desire, but out of the direction of Aslan. It was to me a statement.

Lucy stole the show. When she smiles, frowns, weeps, laughs.... she is enchanting and an amazing pick for the part. As for the others, although at first they appear weak in their roles, it becomes evident as the movie progresses that they are cast well. Edmund walks with the guilt convincingly. Susan made me see the older sister sick of the younger and all too right in everything, much better than I ever have. Peter, slowly changes and steps up to the plate. All in all believable. At least as much as a movie with a talking beaver can be.

unfortunately the show is rushed, even at 2h4m. The transitions are abrupt, and I would have liked to dwelt in a few scenes longer. It did however keep my attention and that of the six year old, and that is in itself impressive.

Its intensity is lower than I expected, but that suits me fine since it is for the kids, and the kid inside. Take your children. They will love it. Mine did.

On the technical side:

The green screening is way too obvious and crisp. The theater I went to had the volume to low. The battle scenes global rather than individual. (lowering intensity) All, I am willing to live with for the sake of seeing Shasta and Bree.

This Side of the Lamppost

A preface to a movie review.

I need to preface my comments on this matter. First, I have seen this movie used as a tool to question anything and everything that C.S. Lewis wrote thought or did. I will not be doing this. If you do not think that Mr. Camp's review is all that bad (because it's not) a look through the posts preceding it you will know what I am heading at. The attack would almost be humorous if it was not so judgmental and pompous. A barely theologian, attacking a great apologist.

I have but three more things to say on that topic before I get to the matter at hand.

1. I myself have barely a laymen's understanding of the ideas of ransom atonement, penal substitutional atonement.... My wife has a little less, my 10 year old daughter has no idea what the conflict is or what the concepts are, and as you can guess my 6 year old daughter is as far away from even knowing the word atonement. That said I find no basis in the movie for Mr. Camp's objections.
2. I read and learn from great Christian Teachers such as Augustine, Calvin, Spurgeon, Lewis and MacArthur. I also vehemently disagree with them all when it comes to certain topics. They all disagree with each other at times too. Do we need a drag him out, throw out all his knowledge diatribe on Augustine? You do know his lifestyle was less than stellar!
3. In direct relation to C.S. Lewis, I believe that John G. Stackhouse said it best in the acknowledgement section of his book 'Humble Apologetics'

   Among authors, I am chiefly indebted to C.S. Lewis, the twentieth century's most popular apologist. After discovering Lewis in my teens, I flattered myself briefly (I am ashamed to say) that I had "gotten beyond him" in graduate school. Returning to his work once I became a professor, I have found over the successive years endless riches in his thought and expression. Lewis isn't right about everything, of course. But he is right about so many things, and suggestive about so many more, that I have found him an inexhaustible resource"

(I have nothing to add to that.)

Overheard

Mom in less than a charitable mood is giving blunt instructions to the 6 year old setting the table.

"Put the napkins on!"

"Yes Sir!"

Mom even more intensely,

"MA'AM"

(gotta go, it's lunchtime)

Simeon’s Legacy

From Luke 2:25

And behold, there was a man in Jerusalem whose name was Simeon, and this man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. And it had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that He would not see death before he had seen the Lord’s Christ. So he came by the Spirit into the temple. And when the parents brought in the Child Jesus, to do for him according to the custom of the law, he took Him up in his arms and blessed God and said:

"Lord, now You are letting Your servant depart in peace, According to Your word; For my eyes have seen your salvation Which You have prepared before the face of all peoples, A light to bring revelation to the Gentiles, And the glory of your people Israel."

O that we should be able to recognise, this season, the Salvation of the World. You see Simeon continues on and informs us that this Child would be a sign, that would be opposed. He did not see and easy path. I believe that as Simeon looked at the Babe he saw the cross. Not maybe specifically, but in a manner that, we now, all, understand to be the cross.

A quote, from a choral work:

Forgive us, Lord, and grant us eyes to see in every Christmas Calvary; implant it in our hearts.

Lord please implant it in our Hearts. Just as in your in servant Simeon.

Prepositions

(The following is something that my brother Steve wrote, and has graciously allowed me to post. I guess one could call it a guest blogger!)


I've had some recent thoughts on the use of prepositions within the church today.

There has always been a special language that distinguishes "Christians" from the rest. This proprietary dialect keeps out the unwanted and creates a nice tight clique where we can dialogue with each other. Past sentences that might have been heard but not understood could include: God showed up during my quiet time and gave me a fresh vision on our worship time for the body. Say what??? Or how about the confusion surrounding communion with the elements representing the body and blood of Christ. That must sound pretty strange to onlookers who know nothing about the specific metaphor.

Now in today's age, how are we doing?

I'm not exactly an English scholar but I do know that some of what I hear is clear butchery of the language. Most of the problem surrounds the unusual misuse of prepositions. You know, those little words for, into, to, about etc. Take this recent sentence that I've heard many times: I want to pray God's healing into your life. Just what does that mean?? Or, I want to speak truth into this situation. What's wrong with these seemingly strange thoughts? Plenty!

The Holy Spirit is the only thing that can come into our lives in such a personal way. We cannot enter into each other's lives in the same way. We can only speak to each other and allow God to do the work that involves the into part, otherwise we wouldn't need Him for anything except maybe a rubber stamp. My filter that works on all the to's and only allows passage of specific into's is called judgment. It's a good, God given filter and of course, I don't need it when the Holy Spirit is doing the work.

When I have something to say, I say it to the person. When I have a load of junk, I put it into your truck. When I have some food I put it into your cupboards. These all make sense, but just how do you put God's healing into someone? First of all, we have no control over God and what he does with His healing or anything else. Secondly, isn't it a bit presumptuous to think that we can appropriate God's traits whenever we feel like it?

More to the point, if I am sick then speak to me and invite God to do a the healing in me. God is the only one able to work or do anything into my very essence.

How about speaking to a topic? I find this quite confusing since I am not a topic, so it must not be for me. It is now time to leave the room until someone actually wants to speak to me about a topic. "All the best in your efforts to speak to that topic", I say on my way out.

Given the poor state of grammar in this country you would think the church could help. Unfortunately, in it's recent efforts to become more "relevant", the christianese has just gone to a new level, not to mention the poor Theology it represents.

We care for people, speak to people, put food into their cupboards, and ask the Holy Spirit to do work in their lives. Apparently that concept is to 'far out' for some relevant folks.

Fairy Dust and Elf Names

It would appear that Rebecca and I are related!

Christmas Elf Name My Christmas Elf Name is Get your Christmas Elf Name at JokesUnlimited.com

From the Ashes

Midnight Sun Coffee Roasters burned to the ground last month. Yesterday, exactly one month to the day after that very tragic event the new roasting location started operating.

Late this afternoon I happily took a phone call from Zola, the owner, to let me know that my dark roasted coffee was ready. (and it is the first dark roast to come out of the new premise)

This is a photo essay of what happened next.

(yes I know it technically is not espresso roast but I could not resist)

Cheers! I am quite happy to enjoy this fresh cup!

All the best in the new endevour Zola. By the way it tastes excellent.

Album Review

Madeleine Peyroux
careless love

Madeleine Peyroux. (pay-roo) A name that I heard for the first time while in a up scale French restaurant. I was having a special dinner in a private room with my wife. The music was dreamy, smoky and from another era. I had to know.

All I managed to find out that night was her name. Nothing more. I was so surprised as I started a search for a CD. It was new. She is young. She is American. How can it be?

It ends up that this CD was released in late 2004. When Madeleine was 30.

With some patience I finally received my copy.

The Genre is Jazz. Female vocal jazz. Like that of Billie Holiday. A sound reminiscent of Louis Armstrong, in his French days. You know 'La Vie en Rose' and all that. So impressively so, that you lose mind of the decade you are in.

I must say that this is a rare exception that the package so amazingly transcends the parts, that I really don't know the lyrics. The reason I say that this is rare, is that I ALWAYS listen to lyrics. I tend to over examine them. Perhaps the fact that they are not supplied with the album may have made me not dwell on them. In anycase, they are there, and they fit the music. I cannot say much more than that.

The listenability of this album is where I must dwell. Although you may find it enjoyable in many circumstances, to me it fits one to a 'T'. In my mind this album is to be listened to in a semi darkened living room late at night. No other distraction than close intimate company to talk of life and times. In your hands, a glass of wine or scotch. Maybe a bit cooler outside, but warm indoors. A candle, or a fire to punctuate the ambiance.

Do you feel relaxed?

In this instance the musicality is inseparable from the recording. As I have alluded to earlier, this album is one that sounds from a different time. This is in part the music, and in part Madelein's throaty voice. AND in part the recording. Is the musicality good? Sure it is. It is outstanding, even when you consider the incongruous elements of 1/2 a century old sound mixed with a wurlitzer. Even when you consider music written by the likes of Leonard Cohen, WC Handy, Bob Dylan and Hank Williams. If you get the idea that this album is not quite as traditional as I have led you to believe, perish the thought. It is Classic.

The recording is dirty, in a very clean dirty kind of way. It does not exemplify what could be achieved in cleanliness today. It shouldn't. This wouldn't be even half the album if it had that cleanliness to it. That said I would say that quite possibly modern equipment made this new old sound possible. Amazing times we live in. If you are looking for a Steely Dan perfect recording look elsewhere. If you are looking to be transported to another time and place, give Careless Love a listen. You wont be disappointed.

Genre: Jazz
Lyrics: n/c
Listenability: Quite Night, Glass of Wine
Musicality: Classic
Recording: Old Vinyl

Powerful

I came back from lunch yesterday to a strange smell. The office at the shop smelled like burning plastic. Since it is a welding shop this may not be as unusual for me as some, but the smell was very strong. After making sure that nothing in the shop was burning, I spent some time looking around the office to see if I could find the source. My search was to no avail. The electric heater was working fine, the fridge was too, and the water cooler was unplugged. All computer related items, and the phones were all ok too. At a loss I opened both doors in order to vent out the horrible smell.

After about 5 minutes the smell did not seem to be dissipating. I started looking a bit more carefully. This is what I found!

One simple lesson. DON'T BUY THE $10 POWER BAR. It was glowing red. I am so thankful that it was after lunch and not 4 hours later. I am so thankful that there was nothing combustible right near the bar.

Praise God.

I will be visiting the retailer where I purchased it tomorrow. I am quite interested in the reaction.

Quote for the Day

What do you say
When it's all gone away?
Baby I didn't mean to hurt you
Truth spoke in whispers will tear you apart
No matter how hard you resist it
It never rains when you want it to

You humble me Lord
Humble me Lord
I'm on my knees empty
You humble me Lord
You humble me Lord
Please, please, please forgive me

Norah Jones
Feels Like Home
Track 9 Humble Me
Lyrics and Music by Kevin Breit

(This song comes to mind on hard days, like yesterday. It holds a truth that has been, even in the early writings of David, right through to today. It never rains when you want it to.)

My Mistake

One week in and I can't get it straight. Yesterday I posted From the Right Side, when it should have been Quote of the Day.

I will make amends to this by posting a quote today.

Stop Thief!

Svend Robinson Gives a big thumbs up to Liberal Ethics

From the Right Side

As promised last Tuesday, I would continue showing a series of artwork that was created for my family last Christmas.

This weeks piece is a Loon from Ontario. It happens to be the representation that was hardest to arrive on, as I have spent little time in Ontario. My sister lives in Ottawa and therefore was the reason for an Ontario piece. This item was given to our parents and hangs on the diningroom wall. As they live in the same city as me I am able to see it often. I really like the way this one turned out.

Next week I plan on showing a bit of what I have made that is a bit more Christmassy.

Iffish Things

So my brother sent me the links to two sites. Disturbing sites. The first one is a bit more than appalling. If you have the guts go to the link that is in the door. It is more subdued than the home page but evermore so appalling. Warning, this site is not epilepsy approved!

The second link is more of a spoof. Definitely check out the 'for visually impaired section' The T-shirt at the right is a sample of the 'high quality' products from the store!

The Doxology

From Luke 2:12 - 16, and 20

"And this will be the sign to you: You will find a babe wrapped in swaddling cloths, lying in a manger." And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and Saying:

"Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men!"

So it was when the angels had gone away from them into heaven, that the shepherds said to one another, "Let us now go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has come to pass, which the Lord has made known to us." And they came with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the Babe lying in a manger.

Then the shepherds returned glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told them.

From Matthew 2:9 - 11

When they heard the king, they departed; and behold, the star which they had seen in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceedingly great joy. And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshipped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

So why the Doxology? This was my lesson in Greek this week: The word Doxology is formed from two words Doxa and Logos. Doxa means a good opinion, or praise. Logos means a statement or a word. So what we have here is a word of praise.

The very fact that it was angels, wise men and shepherds who were praising is not coincidence. It is of divine design. In representation of creation, We have the heavenly host from above. We have the highest of society in the wise men, and we have the lowly shepherd. Truly a complete cross section of creation.

Praise God.

Saturday's Project

Well today's project for me was far less exciting than some that I take on normally. But cleaning the office is a fact of life.

This is the after picture, and those who know me the best will be well aware that it is quite the improvement.

I will not be showing a before photo.

Well that is as exciting as it gets today.

I off to lift weights, and then hopefully play basketball.

Cool Tools

I found this little item at the local hardware store. Cheap too, it came in at about $5. Yes it is a lighter, which may not be all that exciting to you but the flex head and the refillable nature makes it perfect for .....


these!

These are candle holders that I made for the pews at my local church, and they are a little difficult to light. Never mind that the hurricane glass is very delicate and hard to find replacements for.

The ushers have always been a little apprehensive dealing with them, and this made the job a whole lot easier.

(I cannot remember the brand name but the lighter was purchased at Home Hardware.)

Album Review

As promised I plan on a regular feature for every day. Wednesday it is the album review.

First I will tell you what it is not. It is not confined to one genre. (I listen to almost everything) It is not confined to only Christian music. It is not always going to be a super current release.

As for what it will be: It will include an analysis of the genre, lyrics, listenability, musicality, and recording quality. And without further ado.

Alison Krauss and Union Station
Lonely Runs Both Ways

My first encounter with this group and this album was just over a year ago. It was the Tonight Show with Jay Leno Thanksgiving Episode for the troops. In simple terms, I was so impressed with the caliber of musicianship on that Thursday night, I tuned in the next night when they were playing again. I am not sure of one song they performed, but the other was the final cut from this album. A Living Prayer. It was at the least touching, but more moving. The single mic performance with Alison singing and then stepping out of the way so that the stringed instruments could huddle closer to the mic for instrumental sections, showed control, and ultimately musicianship.

Sold.

Bought this CD the next day.

The Genre is Bluegrass. Plain and simple. Classic, clean, and unadulterated. Bluegrass.

The lyrics are quite simply meaningful. You can listen and plug this album as background music, or listen at a critical level to the lyrics and it holds up. As I listened to it, I realized over many months that the lyrics are more overtly Christian than I had thought when I bought it. Which in turn made me look into one of the writers and band members. Ron Block, a Christian man and a thinker. From time to time I quite enjoy reading his writings.

For listening, you could plug this one on repeat all day and it would become the simple hum of the household. As well it suits laying on the couch on a Sunday afternoon, and immersing yourself in what it has to offer. (without outside disturbance)

The musicians are top drawer. Something that is layered deep enough that I still find neat little bits when I listen to it now, a year later.

As for recording quality, it passes the Sunday Afternoon couch test. Which in my level of thinking is only one step below testing sound system equalization. Quite respectable.

Sounds glowing doesn't it? It should. One complaint. Alison's clothing choice on the Album cover is one knotch below blush for me. Although they don't overtly claim Christian in their title, it is something that could be looked at.

Genre: Bluegrass
Lyrics: Thought Provoking
Listenability: Background, or Quiet Time.
Musicality: Eric Clapton
Recording: Couch Test

Still Nothing On

How many TV channels do you need before you realize that anything on Saturday night is lousy. It seems that Al Jessup hasn't figured that one out yet.

The last time he counted, he received more than 5,000 channels. He has stopped counting since.

I think he needs less dishes and maybe a lawn mower.

Read about it Here!

From the Right Side

As I have mentioned before, I love to engage my brain in the process of creativity. It is one of few things that consistently brings me pleasure.

What I have not mentioned is that it is my new found intention to put some structure into at least one basic post a day. Tuesday's will be specifically for those things that come from the right side of my brain.

Yukon Miner

This particular piece is part of a five piece set, that was sent to close relatives. Each piece depicts a characteristic from one of the provinces or territory that those five relatives reside in. As the title suggests, this depicts what is a very familiar image to those who dwell in the Yukon. In fact the miner is present on our license plate, and quite a stir occurred when there was a suggestion of removing it.

Purposefully this piece went to my brother who dwells in southern B.C. It is my intent that as each one in our family view their piece, they will be reminded to pray for the others in the family.

The next one, next week. From Ontario..... Any guesses what it is?

Quote for the Day

Randy and Danny Ray

They'll show back up any day

That's the one thing you can count on

But sometimes they'll be long gone

"I'd rather be hunting."

"Hooked on fishing."

Read it on their T-shirts

If you don't believe it

I live in my own mind

Ain't nothing but a good time

No rain, just sunshine

Out here in my own mind

Lyle Lovett
My Baby Don't Tolerate
Track 4 In My Own Mind

(I want to live where Lyle does!)

Fire!

Well the Government fell today. Strange, still feels like it did with a Government. Just a little more hope that my pockets wont be picked.

The usual came out right afterwards. NDP claiming that its ideals have been served. The liberals accusing anyone other than self, followed by flowery interpretation of the last 12 years. And the conservatives..... Yes the conservatives.

Much to my disappointment, Steven Harper's speech was a little on the lackluster side of things. The one bright spot was him likening the Liberal form of Government and Campaigning to a thief that shouts fire in a restaurant and then in the pandemonium empties the cash register.

Good comparison Mr. Harper. You keep watching that till, and I'll keep voting for truth rather than corruption.

Saturday's Project

In typical Baptist fashion, when we met at the church to decorate it for Christmas, some worked, and some drank coffee.




The finished product turned out quite well.

For Rebecca

Since I have batteries in my camera, and have already taken a picture, I thought that I would post it.

Rebecca forgot to mention the incredible amount of ice!

Warmer

Remember this photo? It was taken on November 5th this year.

This is what it looks like today. Of course it has been above freezing for days, and today the wind picked up even more, and the sun is out!

Good Read

Those who know me, understand that I have no time for Brian Maclaren. He is to me, the poster child for what is wrong with doctrinal teaching today.

Steve Camp has a post that without a doubt captures the essence of what I feel in this matter. He writes:

McLaren prefers the use of “community” in describing the One Triune God: “a Divine community of Father, Son and Spirit." Preexisting in an "eternal, dynamic, glorious and holy fellowship of love.” Did you hear that? This is foolishness beloved. Why not speak of a divine village? A quaint spiritual township? A beautiful nook in the eternal woods where They (the Trinity) communed in a gentle mutually beneficial spirit of harmonius love and holy nurtured relationship? I am not trying to be sacrilegious, but see how utterly absurd this is to describe the eternal Godhead of Father, Son and Holy Spirit in such sentimental, romantic, transient terms?

If you have only 15 or 20 minutes to read this week, read brother Steve's post. You will not be disapointed.

I was blessed.

PC at its best

If there was any question whether political correctness had gone to far, this has to put the lid on the question.

The National Ledger has a list of the top 10 PC and un PC phrases. Such as # 6

Deferred Success as a euphemism for the word ‘fail’. The Professional Association of Teachers in the UK considered a proposal to replace any notion of failure with ‘deferred success’ in order to bolster students’ ‘self-esteem’.

There are many more that point, in a fashion negativly on Christian tradition.

Read them all.

Scott and Gerry

As mentioned before, Scott Brison smeared the NCC. What I didn't mention was that the NCC followed up further and was looking for a better apology. Now here it is!

Saturday's Project

The job this past Saturday was to put this motor, (a turbo charged and super charged Volvo diesel)




Into this hole, (engine bay, not the one in my brother in law's head)

Which is in this boat. ('76 Bayliner 30')

Success!

Now it's only 6 months until the water isn't hard!