Other people's blogs

Well, I'm in my office -between grading, and have given myself a break to watch the pink streaky sunset, and write a little. The last little while has been/felt fairly insane. Last week flew by, and was consumed with people-ness. It was an interesting counterpoint to reading essays on 'Out of Solitude,' 'Encountering the Other' and 'In the Name of Jesus' (Nouwen, Vanier, and Nouwen again). The importance of solitude is underestimated I think - and this time of year always makes the issue arise in my mind: the need for solitude, and the difference between that and loneliness. It is quite a struggle for so many just now - who are alone

Today, I've spoken to "Rainbow Haven" a lot about destitute asylum seekers - it is hard to think of all the reasons they have heard over the last couple of days about why there is "no room for them" - and the need to open-heartedly offer hospitality - even at risk. I was put in mind of Victor Hugo's Les Mis, and the Bishop (or was he a priest) who offers the silver plates to Jean Val Jean as well as the candlesticks. It is hard to hold lightly onto things. It is hard to open your house to strangers. And yet, I suppose I've also been thinking about the "entertaining angels unaware" type of things - and serendipity (prevenient grace?!). And, the faith-imperative (or is it a gift?) to be welcoming.

So, apart from those kind of internal struggles, things are moving along... No new job for Andrew, but last night he came in and said that "Joe" had spoken to him for a while, and Andrew had lent him Avro Part's Te Deum (Andrew's favourite music just now - he listens to it all the time). I think that Andrew saw that as a really positive conversation. I'll be really interested to know Joe's response, since his favourite album is The White Album!

Random features of life

Hmm. Let's see, what else? I hit a post in the car today. Grrr. And have read a lot of interesting thoughts about the emergent church. For those of you who faithfully ask if I've written anything (yet)... the answer is a resounding No. Sometimes I feel sabotaged... But probably the saboteur is a strange combination of myself and that old tyrant, the urgent. However, I have high hopes for the next few weeks. I've also been reading the Genesis Trilogy by Madelaine L'Engle. Oh my, she makes me think so much. I've had a lot of arguments/debates with people about evangelism and the wrath of God. And have found myself asking all kinds of questions about my own assumptions relating to The Evangel. Also, finally got around to watching Garden State. Really enjoyed it.

And, between all of these things have been experiencing the subtle pressures of blog-world. Some blogs are so wonderful they make me think for ages... some are so good at regularly updating, it's great! Some are so full of good conversation it's amazing... . For those friends who do the daily-blog- thanks! You give me something to aspire to! For those of you who don't, thanks!! You don't make me feel so bad!

Meanwhile - may this week be one of blessed encounters for us all.