Author: faithrootsdw

Listen to female theologians and scholars

There’s been quite a bit of discussion recently about how we make sure that we are listening to and hearing from a  more diverse range of authors and speakers. One specific question is about listening to female theologians and Biblical scholars. I’ve got some further comments to contribute to the conversation in a later blog… Continue reading Listen to female theologians and scholars

The Way of the Cross (Mark 9:30-37)

Jesus and his disciples are passing through Galilee. Along the way, he reminds them again that he is to suffer and to die. Their minds however are on other things.  When they get to Capernaum, Jesus asks them what they’ve been discussing. There’s an awkward silence. You see, the disciples had been debating or arguing… Continue reading The Way of the Cross (Mark 9:30-37)

Has Putin just threatened to nuke us?

The short answer is “no.”  In today’s speech, according to reports Vladimir Putin did two things. The first is that he extended the mobilisation and conscription of people into the Russian armed forces.  Secondly, he is reported to have said:  “Those who try to blackmail us with nuclear weapons should know that the prevailing winds… Continue reading Has Putin just threatened to nuke us?

In defence of grammar and grandma

My wife used to have a poster in her classroom. “Let’s eat Granny.” “Let’s eat, Granny.”… Punctuation saves lives. The comma in that sentence makes all the difference.  Sarah cares strongly about good grammar and punctuation. She’s probably a better person to comment on it as mine tends to be lousy due to a mixture… Continue reading In defence of grammar and grandma

In his name (Mark 9:38-41)

The disciples see someone who has been out and about working miracles, specifically they are casting out demons and it seems with good results.  It seems that this guy had at some point heard about Jesus, maybe witnessed him in action and maybe he had even encountered Christ’s healing power himself. Whatever had happened, it… Continue reading In his name (Mark 9:38-41)

What did you come out to see?

This is an expansion of some quick thoughts I shared on Facebook last night in response to some of the criticisms I’ve seen of the Archbishop of Canterbury’s sermon. I write both as someone who has given my fair share of feedback and criticism over the years, and as someone who has received plenty of… Continue reading What did you come out to see?

I believe, help my unbelief (Mark 9:14-29)

As Jesus and the small group of disciples are coming down from the mountain after the transfiguration, they meet quite the scene.  A man has brought his son to Jesus who is oppressed by a demon that frequently throws him into convulsions. Fascinatingly, I’ve always pictured the son as a young lad but the man’s… Continue reading I believe, help my unbelief (Mark 9:14-29)

Did the Archbishop preach the Gospel?

Before the funeral, there was a lot of talk about the fact that 4 billion people would be listening in and the responsibility therefore on the shoulders of the Archbishop of Canterbury to “hot it out of the court” and “smash it” by giving people the Gospel, full barrels. I must admit that I’m a… Continue reading Did the Archbishop preach the Gospel?

The Queen’s last lesson

There’s been a lot of talk about the Archbishop of Canterbury’s sermon at today’s funeral for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.  Some people have expressed hope that he’ll really hit home with the Gospel.  Others have expressed the same but with a strong conviction he will fail and almost a desire to see that happen. … Continue reading The Queen’s last lesson