There is something of a weight that descends on many people when the love (charity, service) they give moves from a voluntary response to, 'Do it, it's your job”. I wonder if doctors find it easier to care for the sick once they retire from "doctoring"? I wonder if nurses feel … [Read more...] about The Hounds of Love
Death Saves the Day
The Hogfather, a movie based on a novel by Terry Pratchett, tells the story of the Grim Reaper (death), who steps into the world of men in order to save it from eternal darkness. In the opening scenes we are told that things exist because people believe in them. That belief … [Read more...] about Death Saves the Day
Idols with Appetites
Toward the end of a declaration against Judah’s idolatry, which occupies every hill, mountain and leafy tree, Jeremiah makes this comment: ...the shameful thing has consumed the labour of our fathers since our youth, their flocks and their herds, their sons and their daughters. … [Read more...] about Idols with Appetites
The End of Darkness
In Isaiah’s day there were dangers all around. The Middle East, like today, was a place of ever-threatening war. The year is 734 BC. Syria and Israel had joined forces to attack and divide up Judah. The Reason? For some time Syria and the breakaway ten northern tribes of … [Read more...] about The End of Darkness
Lowly Shepherds
Jesus' birth was announced by angelic choirs. It was also greeted by shepherds, to whom the angels first announced the birth of the Christ. Why would the news go to shepherds first? Commentators commonly note that shepherds were not well-regarded in first-century … [Read more...] about Lowly Shepherds