Grace in 2015 Reform Indigenous ‘Underline the Words’ My haphazard devotional rhythms PAGE 4 Education PAGE 7 PAGE 13 PAGE 13

PM# 40009999 R9375 A Reformed Biweekly | 69th Year of Publication | December 22, 2014 | NO. 2999 | $2.50 News. Clues. Kingdom views.

Religious freedom at TWU Evil is always God’s enemy imperiled by Law Societies The thoughtful theology of David Bentley Hart

Hart (b. 1965) is an Eastern Orthodox theologian, philosopher and visiting professor at Providence College in Rhode Island. He emphasizes “deep readings” of ancient texts. The approval of Trinity Western’s law school has become a flashpoint in the debate between worldviews. People worth knowing Justin Cooper, Executive Director, created by God and revealed in race and religion are. What does today’s theological landscape look like? CHEC (Christian Higher Education the Scriptures, as the key to hu- Even more, in this view sexual Who is influencing modern churches? Canada) man flourishing. On the other is preference becomes the defining This is the second in our series of five contemporary Chris- The ongoing debate about the le- a secular, liberalizing worldview character of a person’s identity, tian theologians. Each piece will introduce a major figure in the gitimacy of Trinity Western Univer- committed to individual choice, now referred to by the sexual ori- theological world and explore his or her sphere of influence, most sity’s new law school should give us equality and self-expression as the entation of LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, well-known works and most helpful insight on God’s word. all pause, especially those involved bedrock of a free society. bisexual, transsexual, queer) in in Christian education. This is a key This clash is not new. We saw addition to straight (heterosex- Brian Bork fault line in a clash of worldviews it in the movement for sexual ual) men and women, rather than The contemporary Eastern Or- that is playing out in our day. freedom and then the push for a firstly as image bearers of God. thodox theologian David Bentley On one side is the traditional woman’s right to abortion. We’ve Hart was unknown to me when I first Christian view, which believes seen it in increasingly permissive Past precedent encountered The Doors of the Sea: in transcendent norms for life, attitudes toward casual sex and As the social consensus in- Where was God in the Tsunami? I cohabiting. And we see it now creasingly shifts in favour of was given the book – an advance in the movement for legalizing more choice, including a more proof – while working at a bookstore marijuana and euthanasia. open sexual ethic, a segment of in Michigan. There’d been a welter There has also been a rapidly the legal community in our soci- of less than inspiring theological emerging trend in relation to sex- ety is seeking to use this trend to commentary in the press about the ual preference and orientation. In force a reframing of individual tsunami that devastated Southeast this area, proponents have worked human rights. Individual rights Asia in 2004, and I cynically con- to convince our society that sexual related to sexual orientation, they signed it to that schlock heap. In November, the B.C. Law Soci- orientation is a human right which argue, override the freedom of in- What a nice surprise it was, ety reversed its decision to accept should be protected against dis- stitutions with a religious identity, then, to crack the book open a few future TWU law grads. crimination in the same way that Continued on page 2 Continued on page 2 PAGE 2 christian courier News

Religious freedom at TWU continued particularly universities, to define standards of conduct open and was based in part on the positive responses of the consistent with their religious beliefs. Canadian Federation and the B.C. Law Society. Another This issue was tested in 2001, when the British Colum- consideration may be that the legal challenges could impede bia College of Teachers would not accredit Trinity West- TWU’s ability to open the school within three years. ern’s teacher education program because of the school’s community standards, which state that sexual intimacy High stakes should be reserved for marriage (understood as traditional Prior to all this, TWU had also sued the Law Societies of marriage, hence the opposition of the LGBTQ movement). Nova Scotia and of Ontario in order to protect its religious This was overturned by the Supreme Court of Canada, freedom and ensure the accreditation of its law school and which upheld TWU’s religious freedom. the professional recognition of its graduates. The Nova The College of Nursing later accredited TWU’s nursing Scotia case was expected to have its initial hearing on Dec program, first at the bachelor’s and then at the Master’s 16, with a decision not likely to be made until the new year. level. And a variety of other programs at TWU are also rec- The Ontario case was scheduled to be heard in January but ognized for professional accreditation. All this is consistent has now been postponed in view of the other decisions that Is sexual orientation a human right that should be protected with the current legal landscape – the Charter, Sections 2 are pending. Minister Virk is expected to reach a decision from discrimination in the same way that race and religion are? and 15, has been interpreted as upholding communal reli- before January 5, and many anticipate that he will revoke gious freedom in relation to this issue, and human rights the initial accreditation. damaging for the credibility of these institutions, at least for legislation (which is provincial) in Nova Scotia, Ontario TWU is determined to pursue this issue to the Supreme a time. Were the liberalizing view to prevail, it would force and B.C. also has similar provisions. Court, if necessary, to protect the integrity of its religious changes that have the potential to undermine the Christian identity and freedom. Presently, it appears that either the ethos and academic integrity of these institutions, with New legal challenges Nova Scotia case, if it is not stayed, or a new suit that TWU possible implications for Christian schools, organizations Now the approval of Trinity Western’s law school has may launch against the B.C. Law Society’s reversal of its and churches as well. become a flashpoint in this debate, and some in the legal approval will be the arena in which this important matter is In fact, such incursions into religious freedom are al- community are again pushing to change the legal landscape debated and decided. As such, Christian Higher Education ready occurring. The Quebec government has dictated how to align with their permissive worldview. Their argument in Canada (CHEC), a non-profit association of 34 Christ- a Catholic school can teach world religions – the Loyola that TWU’s code of conduct is discriminatory (because it centred post-secondary institutions, is a co-intervener with case now at the Supreme Court – and there are pressures doesn’t sanction gay lifestyle and marriage), and therefore the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada in the case, along in Alberta for Christian schools to teach the provincially its law school should not be accredited, is designed to elevate with several other Christian organizations. mandated sexual education curriculum. the protection of sexual preference as if it were an identity Much is at stake. The view that TWU’s law school Given these considerations, the Christian educational on the same level as race. As they expected, this has led to graduates ought not to be recognized and the law school community and Christian community in general, as well as a struggle playing out in several law suits now before the itself not accredited goes to the heart of TWU’s religious all those who value the freedoms associated with Canada’s courts, which they are hoping will eventually overturn the freedom to hold and practice its beliefs as a community. pluralistic and democratic society, would do well to rally precedent set in 2001. Implied is the claim that, regardless of meeting all academic around TWU and the issue its law school represents. Initially, TWU’s proposed law school was accredited standards, a faith-based institution is not legitimate because This issue should also lead us to reflect on the ethos and by the review board of the Canadian Federation of Law it doesn’t subscribe to generally accepted sexual morality. practice on our campuses, in our churches and in the wider Societies and the Minister of Advanced Education of B.C., Christian community, as we seek to embrace and enfold as well as the Law Society of B.C., since provincial law Essential freedoms those who deal with sexual and other issues. Such reflection societies each set the standards for provincial legal practice. Such a claim is not limited to one professional degree but should continue to be pursued, regardless of legal challenges. However, when the Law Societies of Nova Scotia and On- rather has implications for all professional qualifications More importantly, it is a strategic opportunity to make the tario voted not to accept future TWU law school graduates, and university degrees granted by Trinity Western and all case, not so much for Christian morality, but for freedom the B.C. Law Society, based on a referendum, reversed its other Christian institutions with similar standards. As such, essential to a democratic society. May God grant us wisdom decision, and this in turn prompted several lawyers to sue if left to stand, it would put pressure on Christian universi- and courage to be faithful in these challenging times. B.C. Minister of Advanced Education Amrik Virk because ties and graduate schools to dumb down, in wording or in Dr. Justin Cooper served as President of of his approval of the school. substance, moral standards that reserve sexual intimacy for Redeemer University College from 1994 to This case was to have its initial hearing on December 3 traditional marriage, or else face exclusion from profes- 2010 and is currently the Executive Director and has now been postponed to January 5, 2015. In the mean- sional certification, possibly institutional associations, and of the Council of Christian Higher Education time, the Minister has now announced that he is considering even from accreditation. Canada (CHEC). He and his wife, Jessie, revoking the initial accreditation of TWU’s law school. The This would undoubtedly lead to more long and costly live in Dundas, Ont., have two married sons approval had a three-year limit within which the school could legal battles, which, regardless of the outcome could be and eight grandchildren and attend the First Christian Reformed Church. Evil is always God's enemy continued days later, and encounter a thoughtful, profound, trenchant in their attempts to rationalize and understand the disaster, theological voice. Hart’s prose initially hooked me; he’s a grant a legitimacy to the non-believer’s critique. Hart resists prodigiously gifted writer who composes sentences that finding a “moral intelligibility” in these horrors, affirming satisfy you like Christmas dinner. Rich, substantial and kind the ancient Christian insight that evil – whether natural or of exhausting, too. Reading Hart’s books will definitely, as human – is God’s enemy, parasitic on goodness, and a force they say in Reader’s Digest, “increase your word power.” that defaces our trust in God. The implication for Hart is that The content that supports the prose is just as substantial. we ought to be extremely careful in applying prepackaged In Doors of the Sea, Hart pushes back at two tidal extremes: theological insights to these sorts of events, lest we unwit- on one hand, the secular writers who, with peculiar, dis- tingly end up eliding the difference between God and his comfiting self-satisfaction, filled newspaper columns with enemy. The Doors of the Sea is a slim volume, yet it is thick the opinion that the tsunami’s wake was – at last! – God’s with insights into the thought of Voltaire, Aquinas, Calvin coup de grace. How could someone believe in a good God and Dostoevsky. Regarding the latter, Hart’s articulation in the wake of such a tragedy? On the other side were theo- of the force of Ivan Karamazov’s theological rebellion is a logians – purportedly speaking on behalf of the Reformed powerful check against blithely optimistic theodicies. Hart tradition – who obliquely affirmed the calamity in the South In the wake of great tragedy "charity is our portion," not ap- resolves his argument warmly and pastorally, reminding us Pacific by stating that it was, like all things, the outworking plying prepackaged theological insights. that in the wake of great tragedy, “charity is our portion,” of God’s sovereignty, and part of his good plan, no matter “inept cavils” that great Christian thinkers haven’t dealt and that God’s kingdom will be established here, though how inscrutable or baffling it may look to us. with time and again throughout the past two millennia. He creation roils and churns in so many ways. Hart dismisses the secular writers, finding little in their directs much stronger words at the Christian writers, who, Continued on page 3 My Window Seat The Public Square Mendelt Hoekstra Harry Antonides

Christ @ Culture From the 11th decembeProvincer 22, 2014 page 3 Lloyd Rang Marian Van Til Column

Toddlers to Teens From the Lab Denise Dykstra Rudy Eikelboom The comet mission: A window into life on earth

On March 2, 2004, in a

SU MO TU WE marvellous feat ofTH FRtech- Principalities SA Everyday Christiannology and engineer- & Powers ing, scientists sent a David Koyzis Cathy Smith spacecraft (Rosetta) and its lander (Philae) on a 6.4-billion kilometre, 10- year mission to meet and land on the comet Technically Speaking 67P/Churyumov-Gerasienko.Getting Unstuck On Novem- ber 12 this year, after circling the comet for Derek Schuurman Arlene Van Hove Scientists track incoming data from the space- six weeks, Philae was sent down to 67P and craft at the French space agency in Toulouse. landed successfully on its surface: bull’s eye! The comet is so far away that radio sig- that 64 hours was enough to accomplish 90 nals from the spacecraft sometimes took 50 percent of the mission’s aims. Intangible Things minutesFlowers to get and back Thistles to earth. Upon landing, Heidi Vander Slikke PhilaeCurt bouncedGesch twice and ended up leaning Comparative data against a cliff, getting very little sunlight This visit to 67P was designed to provide to recharge its batteries. Its primary batter- insight for several research areas. First, be- ies would last only 64 hours before Philae cause comets are composed of debris from Also in Toulouse, children watch a computerized version of Philae landing on the comet. Country Living wouldWords shut from down, much shorter than it the very early days of our solar system, wouldWild beHorses with the recharged batteries. and are believed to be largely unchanged hydrogen) found on 67P and comparing “sniffing” the molecules on 67P’s surface, Meindert Vander Galien WThisarkentins ambitious mission raised two ques- since their formation billions of years ago, them to the water found on earth, we can Philae detected organic molecules. Philae’s tions for me: why would we be interested in an examination of 67P’s materials can tell tell if they come from a common source. physical measurements of 67P revealed that landing a robot spacecraft on a comet, aside us something about long-ago conditions. Additionally, some simple organic mol- the ice of which it is composed is harder than from the human sense of achievement; and Second, it is thought that the ice and water ecules have been found to exist on com- expected; scientists were expecting a softer Patchwork Words wasOur 64 W hoursorld enoughToday to get meaningful in comets are responsible for much of the ets, and it has been suggested that these layer of something like compact snow. data? Apparently, there are good answers water found on earth. By looking at the molecules combining carbon, oxygen and Much of Philae’s data has yet to be ana- Melissa Kuipers toBert the first Hielema question, and some scientists say isotopes of water (the levels of deuterium hydrogen may have arrived on earth if it lyzed. The data it collected had to be digitized was hit many times by comets earlier in its then sent to Rosetta during twice-a-day, three- history. In this case, these amino acids may to four-hour windows. It is highly compacted, Evil is always God's enemy continued have been part of God’s method to create and mission scientists will require consider- life on earth. Philae was designed to gather able time to analyze its exact meaning. The ‘Christian revolution’ data about these molecules. There is also the possibility that as 67P A few years later, Hart published Atheist Delusions: The Chris- Finally, amino acids on earth are mol- comes closer to the Sun (its closest point tian Revolution and Its Fashionable Enemies, a book that arrived ecules that, like our hands, can have a right will occur on August 13, 2015), there will at the high watermark of the New Atheists’ popularity. Responses and left version. The vast majority of amino be enough light to re-power the instruments to the New Atheists formed an apologetics cottage industry for acids that occur in biological systems are and collect more data. Between now and Christian publishers, though Hart’s is the finest, by some mea- “left-handed,” meaning the proteins in our August, the main spaceship Rosetta will be sure. It’s also the largest in scope. Instead of moving through a bodies are all left-handed. From a chemi- collecting data from around 67P. As the Sun point by point rebuttal of the New Atheists’ arguments, Hart is cal point of view, these molecules could heats the comet and a tail is formed, there will more interested in history, in what the “Christian revolution” has just as easily be “right-handed”; why they potentially be considerably more data coming bequeathed to Western civilization (and what the ramifications are all left-handed and not 50/50 is a bit of to earth for several months from this very might be, should we choose to shuffle it off at Richard Dawkins’ a mystery. One suggestion is that if these successful space mission revealing the com- request). Hart argues that Christianity “invented the human” in molecules come from comets, the con- plexity and beauty of our Lord’s creation. Western culture; our conception of what sorts of creatures we are, What has Christianity ditions in comets would have promoted given the West? Rudy Eikelboom ([email protected]), who which includes such important concepts as charity and dignity, is the left-handed version because of the de- is amazed at what spaceships and robots a product of Christianity. Along the way, Hart cleans up some of the nonsense that is often structive effects of solar radiation on the can do, is a member of the Waterloo CRC circulated about the history of Christianity. His recollection of the conflict between Galileo right-handed version. Philae has tools to and Chair of the Psychology Department at and the Catholic hierarchy is a welcome clarification of one of the modern myths used to determine whether 67P’s amino acids were Wilfrid Laurier University. support the apparent antagonism between Christianity and science. left-handed like those on earth, potentially I suppose I should note that Hart isn’t a great fan of the Reformed tradition. In one solving this mystery rope in 2015 of his essays, he refers to John Calvin as his bête noire (as I say, increase your word of earth biology. vel to Eu power!). I suppose that’s to be expected, on some level, given his Eastern affiliation, since Tra

the Reformed tradition and the Eastern tradition have some significant differences. In We’d love to talk to you and help you plan your Beautiful and trip to Holland and beyond whether it be flight my estimation, that’s all the more reason to read him, though. Hart doesn’t criticize the complex only, car rental or travel by rail, river cruising, Reformed tradition from a lazy liberal vantage point, or by offering hastily constructed But having only coach tours and much more. caricatures. His tradition is a venerable one – perhaps the most venerable of all iterations 64 hours – less than Our experienced staff are pleased to serve you! of Christianity – and reading critical work like his is to our benefit. In addition to the two three days – to col- books I all-too-briefly described in this piece, you can check out his regular column in lect data and transmit Call us now the Catholic magazine First Things, and in the collection In the Aftermath: Provocations it to Rosetta and on VERSTRAETE TRAVEL & CRUISES and Laments. His latest book, The Experience of God: Being, Consciousness, and Bliss to earth is not very 300 - 14845 Yonge St, Aurora ON L4G 6H8 is a profound exploration of what we talk about when we talk about God. If you really long. Some experi- Reg. #3367728 Tel 416-969-8100 or 1-800-565-9267 want to sound the depths of Hart’s thought, his first bookThe Beauty of ments did not hap- email: [email protected] the Infinite: The Aesthetics of Christian Truthwill challenge you as much pen, such as digging St. Catharines Office: Tel 905-934-4414 as any piece of recent, serious theology. Much of it may sail over your into the comet to look or 1-800-405-6088 head, as it did mine. That’s ok, though; I’ve always found that the deep at molecules below Visit us at www.verstraetetravel.com. woods are lovely, even if I’m only able to climb a few of the trees. the surface. Many ex- periments were pos- Office space available at 36 Secord Drive, St Catharines. Brian Bork is CC’s Review Editor and a CRC chaplain at the Contact Ria at the St Catharines office. University of Waterloo and Sir Wilfrid Laurier University. sible, however. By PAGE 4 christian courier Editorials

Sights unseen in 2015 Blessed are the merciful

Monica deRegt Bert Witvoet I have always loved New Year’s Day. Although it is just another day, the change We were running a bit late one Sunday morning. Church of the calendar to the new year is significant in my mind, representative of all the was at 10, and we were locking the front door at 9:51. The possibilities that lie ahead and the closure of last year’s events. There is hope – drive to church can take anywhere from eight to 12 minutes, hope for spring and new growth, hope for a renewed enthusiasm to tackle life’s depending on what mood the gods of the traffic lights are goals and hope for new opportunities. For me, New Year’s has become a symbol in. They were in an excellent mood this particular Sunday and reminder that life is not, and should not be, stagnant. morning. We cruised through four lights without compress- This New Year’s, however, our family will be experiencing a lot more change than usual. As we ing the brake pads. I looked at my watch. Yes, we were going to make it. move across the country, from Ontario to B.C., we will be facing a lot of new things – new town, new Hey, what’s that? A flashing light in my home, new jobs, new school, new church family, new neighbours and, hopefully, new friends. As can be rearview mirror. Better pull over and let expected, our home has seen a wide range of emotions over the last several months, from anxiety over the police pass. What? He is stopping right decision-making to excitement about new careers; from joy over moving closer to extended family to behind me? Oh no, it’s not a he. It’s a she. fear of meeting new classmates; from sadness at saying goodbye to old friends to happiness and comfort A smartly coiffed and dressed police of- at seeing God’s hand clearly leading us. ficer approached my open side window and Along the way there have also greeted me. She politely asked for my driver’s been unexpected emotions such as license. Next, she requested the insurance cer- anger, bitterness, hope and relief. tificate. Next the ownership papers. I dutifully To say it’s felt like a roller coaster handed them all over. The officer then told is an understatement! While many me that she had clocked me at 22 kilometres of these changes are exciting, this over the speed limit of 50 k.p.h. She told us Will my clean record convince much change can be daunting to wait in the car for my own safety. her I'm a responsible driver? and scary as well. At times I have I looked at Alice and we both expressed the same idea. This is one ef- resisted and resented the changes. ficient cop, and she will probably throw the book at me. No small talk. Her Temporarily abandoning my love hair and appearance spoke of professionalism. But maybe my clean record Getting ready for a cross-country move means a roller coaster of emotions. of all things new, I’ve longed for will convince her that I am a responsible driver? It’s been ages since I have things to stay the same, for the stability and comfort that comes from a more predictable life. been charged with a traffic violation. And one look at the left bottom of my Finding a new house has been the most challenging part. After weighing many options, we found driver’s license will tell her that I am 80 years old. ourselves buying a place, sight unseen, just in the nick of time – something we said we would never do. Well, it took almost 15 minutes for her to write out my ticket. Finally she It took no small amount of effort to give up control and let go of the desire for things to go exactly the emerged from the cruiser, papers in hand. “You were 22 kilometres over the way we had envisioned. But the strangest thing happened when we did: relief, and peace! We discovered speed limit,” she said, “but I have decided to lower it to 10 so you won’t that it was far more stressful to have no home at all and to cling to our own ideals than it was to have a lose any points and the fine will be much less.” I thanked her and said that home waiting for us, despite having only seen glimpses of it in photographs. Seeing the home wasn’t as I appreciated her gesture. I did. A $40 payment without demerit points felt important as knowing we had a home. Suddenly packing was easier, purging was easier, saying goodbye like a gift from heaven. was easier and imagining life in our new city was not only possible, it was something to look forward to! Just in time Peace awaits us I slowly drove away, made dutiful stops at the next two stop signs and Many times in the last few months I have been reminded of Jesus comforting his disciples in John arrived at the church parking lot at 10:15 a.m. We were just in time for the 14:2, saying, “Do not let your hearts be troubled. . . . In my Father’s house are many rooms.” (The confession of sin part of the liturgy. KJV says “many mansions” – what a luxurious thought!) The truth is that this earthly house we’ve My first inclination was not to include my 22 kilometres over the speed purchased is not the only home we are journeying to, sight unseen. What peace waits for us in this limit in my list of sins that needed cleansing that morning. After all, I had chaotic life if we can not only accept this truth but allow it to shape how we live here and now! violated only a traffic rule, which is not a criminal offence, nor had I ex- Instead of attempting to create our own version of a perfect life, we can receive that which God has hibited anger or greed or given in to concupiscence, which according to the already worked out for us. With our minds focused on where we are going, perhaps it becomes easier Puritans is not a sin anyway as long as you don’t satisfy your sexual desire to view our lives through the lens of the in the wrong way. reality that God is making all things new, But then a niggling doubt surfaced during my prayer. Going over the Christian Courier and that his plans for us are far better than speed limit, set by experts who try to estimate at which speed a street be- Founded in 1945 anything we can imagine, whether that’s comes unsafe for the people who live there, is putting other people at risk. An independent biweekly that seeks to engage creatively in here on earth or in the mansion he has And what was the reason for my excessive speed anyway? Had it anything critical Christian journalism, connecting Christians with a network prepared for us. to do with the lofty sentiment expressed in Psalm 84: “My soul yearns, even of culturally savvy partners in faith for the purpose of inspiring all As I begin the position of Features faints, for the courts of the Lord”? Surely not. I had sinned by speeding, no to participate in God’s renewing work within his fallen creation. Editor for Christian Courier in January, doubt about it. There is an inherent contradiction in violating any law while EDITORIAL TEAM & PRODUCTION STAFF Editor: Angela Reitsma Bick [email protected] I am excited for the opportunity to dis- going to church. It’s a good thing the cop did not ask me where I was going Features Editor: Cathy Smith [email protected] cover and showcase God-given glimpses in such a hurry. It makes for a lousy testimony of faith. Church News Editor: Marian Van Til [email protected] of our eternal home through his renewing But that was not all that was flitting through my brain during confession- Reviews Editor: Brian Bork [email protected] and redemptive work, already happening of-sin time. I had been feeling a bit low that morning. Something was eating Contributing Editor: Bert Witvoet [email protected] all around us. Being “reformed,” for me, away at the joy I should feel for being alive and being loved by God and Contributing Editor: Michael Buma [email protected] celebrates the fact that God is constantly many loved ones. Earlier at home I had prayed for God to lift my Spirit. And Admin/ads/web: Ineke Medcalf-Strayer [email protected] Circulation: Rose der Nederlanden [email protected] renewing his world, in and through his behold, he heard my prayer. He stopped me in my tracks, and gave me a slap Social Media Editor: Rachel Baarda [email protected] people in the most unexpected and delight- on the wrist with a reduced ticket issued by a caring female police officer. A Christian Courier is published by the Board of Reformed Faith Witness. ful ways. I feel that through this new role, fine cop, come to think of it! And she had smiled at me. The publication of comments, opinions or advertising does not imply I have just been given a back stage pass to I didn’t spend much time thinking of all my sins during the time of repen- agreement or endorsement by Christian Courier or the publisher. Please contact circulation if you cannot afford the subscription price meet his players in this kingdom work and tance in church. I felt too blessed to bother. God’s grace is wonderful, I realized. of $65.00 but want to receive Christian Courier. to share the wonders of what God is doing And God has such a lovely sense of humour. Yes, I am a lousy witness when I The paper is published the second and fourth Mondays of the month. through them. I can’t think of a more fitting piously make my way to the house of the Lord at 72 kilometres an hour in a 50 Christian Courier Tel: 905-682-8311 way to ring in the New Year! kilometre zone. But God showed me a number of things that Sunday morning, 5 Joanna Dr 1-800-969-4838 St Catharines ON L2N 1V1 Web site: christiancourier.ca Monica Kronemeyer deRegt not the least of which was that love is also the fulfilment of a traffic law! ([email protected]) was Bert Witvoet is a bit puzzled by the Bible’s silence on exceeding the “We acknowledge the the New Year’s baby in her hometown of speed limit of 50 in a residential zone. Is it fair that Old Testament people [financial] support of the Smithers, B.C., in 1976 even though she didn’t have to obey impersonal stop signs made by human hands? Government of Canada.” wasn’t born until suppertime on January 2! Wouldn’t Isaiah have called that a form of idolatry? Hmmm! december 22, 2014 page 5

Letters

Why we shouldn’t prioritize a figurative reading WHAT’S YOUR STORY? Without making a caricature of the “figurative” section, seemingly having that family tree then possibly fictional Fifth Annual Christian “strict literalist” reading of the Bible (no difficulties with some literal passages. It also? He unduly narrows the message of Courier Short Story Contest! one really reads the Bible that way, even is not uncommon, of course, for serious the book of Ruth. And would he evaluate if they say they do), Michael Buma makes Bible students to have difficulties with other Bible books, such as Judges, by the I: Send in your original short fiction (1000 to some important points about how to read some literal passages of Scripture. But same standards? 3000 words) on any theme by May 1, 2015. the Bible (CC Oct. 13, 2014). Proper in- to advocate therefore to make “figurative It seems that Buma, by way of read- First prize receives $100 and publication in terpretation of the Bible indeed requires readings of the Bible an active priority ing more of Scripture as figurative, wishes a summer issue of Christian Courier. Please some knowledge of the culture in biblical in our churches” is hardly the solution. to create greater freedom for “engage- note that this contest is for fictional short times, of literary devices used by Scrip- That approach leads Buma to declare ment with new ideas and interpretations.” stories, not essays or articles. Second prize ture writers and of ancient conventions, that the book of Ruth is “a fictional story That, in turn, could lead to reading God’s receives a year’s subscription. All stories must to name just a few things. here rather than a factual re-telling of real message of his kingdom in a way that be submitted electronically to monica@ My problem with his article starts with events.” For Buma it doesn’t really matter brings the gospel more in tune with modern christiancourier.ca. Entries over the word his views on “the coexistence of literal whether it is historical or fictional. But thinking and to solve some difficult issues. limit will not be considered. and figurative truth within scripture” and where does that leave the conclusion of But that was never the approach of the II: Our readers 8 to 14 years of age can how he apparently sees that work out. He that book, which ultimate points to the apostle Paul, nor should it be ours. participate in the category for youth. There seems to put too much of Scripture in the human family tree of Jesus Christ? Is Adrian Van Geest will be two divisions: junior (Grades 3-5) Mount Hope, Ont. and Intermediate (Grades 6-8). Send your Don’t ignore Scripture’s literary aspects short stories (500-1000 words) to monica@ I was pleased to see the thoughtful let- brew writers did not seem to worry about honest – have to cut some corners when christiancourier.ca by May 1, 2015. Entries ters from J. Cameron Fraser and August such little details to ensure everything was citing sources, it seems to me that good over the word limit will not be considered. Guillaume (CC Oct. 27, 2014) and Adrian ‘factual’” the way we twenty-first century preaching has a great deal in common The first-place winner in each division will win Van Geest (above) responding to my guest Western rationalists may be inclined to. with a good academic lecture in that both a gift certificate to Chapters valued at $50. All editorial “Jesus was not a sheep.” Contribu- My belief is that the literal and figurative should be dynamic, interesting, instruc- stories will be considered for publication in CC. tions such as these are part of the larger and modes in Scripture coexist far more easily tive and edifying. Please include a photo of yourself, your mailing more frequent conversation I would like to than Fraser and Guillame understand me to I agree with Fraser that “throughout address and a short bio. see our denomination having on the issue have suggested, and that increased preach- its history, the Christian church has – for of biblical literalism. I was a bit puzzled, ing and teaching on these issues will bring the most part – managed quite well to though, by these writers’ reactions to my this harmony more fully to light. distinguish between various types of lit- comments on the book of Ruth. This is where Fraser and I seem to erature in Scripture.” Obviously no one The example I gave of the symbolic disagree most. After asserting his confi- thinks Jesus was actually a sheep, and meanings of Naomi’s sons’ names was dence that exposure to these topics actu- I’m sure most readers will recognize that New year’s wish meant to be purely illustrative, and I hope ally strengthens people’s faith rather than I was being (perhaps overly) rhetorical it didn’t come across as a rushed attempt the reverse, Fraser goes on to suggest he with this example. It’s certainly fair to I wish you a year, which soft as silk is; toward some sort of definitive conclusion still wouldn’t preach on them “because suggest, though, that biblical literalism is I wish you a year, which on the book’s historicity. I’ll be the first to the pulpit is not the place for an academic a significant current in the CRC, and so I white as milk is; tell you that I don’t know whether Ruth lecture on textual criticism.” Why not? stand by my original challenge to pastors I wish you a year, which is historically true or thematically true (or While pastors shouldn’t incorporate the to help us stay the course of historical far from sick is; both), but making a sustained case one more cumbersome conventions of aca- Christianity by regularly dealing with the a wholesome year, which way or the other was never the point. As demic discourse into their sermons (i.e., Bible’s figurative and literary aspects in strong and thick is. it happens, I find myself in perfect agree- the literature review, etc.) and will prob- their preaching and teaching. I wish you a year, which, ment with Guillame’s suggestion that “He- ably – without being intellectually dis- Michael Buma when it through is, Mount Brydges, Ont. a blessed year for me and you is; The eleventh commandment I wish you a year, which “What are you allergic to?” ing a little additional forethought [is] a with Splenda instead of sugar. so God’s law is, That’s one of the more frustrating ques- lot more doable than most people think. Ten years ago it would have been harder through Christ’s saving work, tions thrown at me. As Elizabeth Gesch For Thanksgiving dinner this year, with to find safe food for the people I love, but without a flaw is. writes (“Hospitality in an age of allergies,” 18 guests, I made sure that most of the even in our low-population province, glu- Guido Gezelle (1830-1899) CC Oct. 13), having allergies or intoler- food would be safe for a diabetic son, a ten-free bread, noodles and sweets are Translated from the Dutch by Bert Witvoet ances can sure limit the hospitality people gluten-intolerant grandson, two young readily available. The quality of gluten-free are willing to offer you. It leads people to vegetarians and myself (no sugar, among baked goods has improved significantly avoid feeding you entirely. other things). It wasn’t hard. during the past decade, a real help to the Yet this is entirely unnecessary. Hosts Thicken the gravy with corn starch, not grandson. merely need ask what I can eat, in the flour. Make the stuffing without home- As far as I’m Christian Courier way of a snack or meal. One neighbour made chicken broth in it (a bit of chopped concerned, “Prac- Canada mail: U.S. mail: here has learned that she can safely offer lovage does wonders). For the leek cas- tice hospitality!” Publications Mail Agreement No. 40009999 Christian Courier (USPS 518-090) me a Dutch rusk with real butter on it, or serole, use cheese with no colour or pre- ought to be the elev- Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to Second-class postage paid at a banana. One of my sons, who makes servatives. Have eggs available in some enth commandment. Christian Courier Lewiston NY 5 joanna dr me a meal weekly, comes up with endless form for the vegetarians, and make sure It’s not just a decora- Postmaster: send address changes St. Catharines ON L2n 1v1 to: Christian Courier, Box 110 combinations of chicken and vegetables. there are four or five choices of vegetables. tive flourish in that email: [email protected] Lewiston NY 14092 Gesch has discovered that the basis For dessert, [provide] meringue cookies, Bible we read. Subscriptions: Canada and USA Overseas for hospitality is love, and [. . .] exercis- a large bowl of fruit salad and a custard Anne van Arragon one year (24 issues) $65.00 $100 Hutten two years (48 issues) $120.00 Lakeville, N.S. Keep ministry simple Advertising deadlines: display and classified advertising: Tuesday, 9 a.m. (13 days before We make pastoring too complicated If you have any doubts about your abil- ethic, enjoyed peo- publication date) See classified pages or web site www.christiancourier.ca for more (“Raising the pastor-church relationship ity to satisfy any of these, please don’t enter ple and kept honing details. (ISSN 1192-3415) Published second and fourth Mondays of the month. bar,” CC Nov. 24). Assuming a deep and the ministry. If you have lost your ability to a creative and curi- Address all correspondence to: 5 Joanna Dr, St. Catharines ON L2N 1V1 abiding faith, the other prerequisites for a satisfy any of these, please leave the minis- ous mind. Tel: 905-682-8311 or 1-800-969-4838 successful ministry are three: Set an alarm try. I know of no troubled pastorate where John A. Tamming e-mail: Advertising: [email protected] clock. Like people. Be interesting. it can be said the minister had a solid work Owen Sound, Ont. Subscriptions: [email protected] PRINTED IN CANADA PAGE 6 christian courier News

Small Ontario CRC featured in video BURLINGTON/ST. THOMAS, Ontario (CRC people from all ranges of the social life in Ancaster, Ontario, hosted by Diaconal Min- Communications) – Destination Church in St. Thomas, are also interviewed. At the end istries Canada and by Christian Reformed St. Thomas, Ontario, has the mission of tak- of the video, which speaks of God's Spirit Home Missions. The theme for the Day of ing the “city for God in a brand new way,” stirring in the CRC denomination and local Encouragement was “Loving Your City.” says Pastor Beth Fellinger in a new video churches, words appear: The video was also shown at the recent telling the story of her church. “We are ready Imagine a ragtag collection of surrendered Glocal Summit, a gathering of mission-cen- to take the risk for whatever it takes to move and transformed people who love God and tred church leaders who met in Los Angeles Destination Church is a renovated bar. God forward in this community.” others. They are mesmerized by the idea that to listen, learn and reflect about what God is Destination was planted in 2011 in for the church, which is located in a former this is not about them, but all about Jesus. already doing in Christian Reformed com- partnership with Fellowship Christian Re- bar/restaurant. The video also shows the in- They are transfixed by His story and His heart munities in Canada and the U.S. and who formed Church and Christian Reformed side of the church, still set up with tables for their city. They are seed throwers and fire are helped to discern how churches might Home Missions. and chairs that people sit and stand at during starters, hope peddlers and grace-givers, risk address the opportunities and challenges The video intermixes an interview with worship. takers and dreamers, young and old. . . . to be missional in culturally diverse com- Fellinger with scenes of putting up the signs Members of the church, consisting of Fellinger was the keynote speaker at the munities, said James VanderLaan, director October 2014 Day of Encouragement in of advancement for Home Missions. Newfoundland: Pro-lifers call out CBC for manufactured stories re: abortion access problem

CC Staff, with files from LSN there haven’t been requests.” ST. JOHN’s, Newfoundland – The CBC Despite that, the CBC published not one in Newfoundland recently cited unnamed but two stories citing a need for expanded abortion advocates who complained that the abortion services in Newfoundland and low number of women seeking abortion in Labrador. It posted the two stories online the remoter regions of the province “may” on the same day, both featuring Rolanda point to lack of abortion services. Ryan, owner of the province’s only private Currently there are about 1,000 abor- abortion facility, the Athena Clinic. tions a year performed in Newfoundland Athena Clinic does 80 percent of New- and Labrador, all of them in St. John’s, the foundland’s annual abortions – but Ryan largest city (population 106,000). When the said nothing in either CBC story about national broadcaster raised the issue, provin- lack of abortion in outlying regions. On cial health minister Steve Kent agreed that he the contrary, in the second story, Ryan sug- would consider offering abortion services in gested that her clinic does so much business cities outside of St. John’s if any women or because people are concerned about the Meanwhile, beginning last year in Octo- defunded. Less than half (44 percent) be- doctors asked for it. Kent said: “If a physi- lack of privacy at the public hospital in St. ber, Hynes’ group initiated a campaign to end lieved abortion should be funded in all cases. cian in another health region wished to of- John’s, the Eastern Health Centre. taxpayer funding of abortion in Canada and A year later, an Abacus Data poll revealed fer therapeutic abortion services, we would Margaret Hynes, head of Campaign Life is still working toward that goal. Contrary that 59 percent of Canadians want a law encourage them to contact the Department Coalition Newfoundland, both called out to public perception, a majority of Canadian (none now exists) that protects the unborn of Health and Community Services through the CBC and criticized Ryan. “Sounds sides with the Campaign Life Coalition. A before birth. In that poll 45 percent favoured their regional health authority, and we could to me like she is trying to get more busi- 2010 Angus Reid poll revealed that 39 per- some public funding, while 42 percent felt certainly look at that request.” ness for herself,” said Hynes of Ryan. “If cent of Canadians said taxpayer funds should women themselves should pay the cost and The problem is, the CBC itself admitted, [women] are not coming, then they must cover abortion only for medical emergencies the government should provide funds only “There haven’t been any. [. . .] Frankly, not want abortions.” and 10 percent said it should be completely in extreme circumstances. Controversial pastor partners with Oprah in new show SILVER SPRING, Maryland (TCP) – Rob Winfrey for her “Life You Want Weekend.” was intended to air on ABC, but never did. Bell, the high-profile pastor who once led Bell’s show has a self-help focus, which is The pair then pursued a faith-oriented talk Mars Hill Bible Church in Grand Rapids, Winfrey’s primary refrain from a secular point show described as an extension of Bell’s ser- Michigan, and who has written several con- of view. Winfrey frequently tells her TV view- mons, videos and teaching tours, mixed with troversial books, was recently asked if he still ers to take responsibility for their own lives spiritual issues explored by Cuse in “Lost.” thought of himself as evangelical after ques- and “live their dreams” (A handful of her say- Religion News Service reported the tioning the biblical view of hell and express- ings with that theme can currently be found on observation by Kathryn Lofton, author of ing support for gay marriage in recent years. Starbucks coffee cup sleeves). A press release Oprah: The Gospel of an Icon that “in many “If we mean Jesus’ message of God’s revo- Bell’s new show will explore “the universal from OWN asserts that Bell “shines a bright ways, some elements of typical evangelical- lutionary love for every person, and we can desire to create a life of meaning.” light on the topics we most want to talk about ism are a good fit for Oprah’s lineup of pub- surrender and give our life to acts to loving to Bell’s unorthodox views. Shortly after the but don’t know where to begin.” lic confession and personal transformation. kindness, then man, sign me up,” Bell told book was released Bell stepped down from The show “focuses on the universal desire The difference, however, is that The Church Religion News Service. But he never really his position at Mars Hill Bible Church and to create a life of meaning, hope and joy – of Oprah incorporates as many religious con- bothers to think about it, he said. “I never spent began pursuing TV projects in California. making peace with your past, living and cepts as possible, while evangelicalism com- a minute wondering whether I’m ‘in’ or ‘out.’” Bell has now partnered with Oprah Win- thriving in the present right here, right now,” mits to exclusivity.” Lofton is a professor of Bell was a rising star in the evangelical frey. He has a new show – “The Rob Bell adds the press release. “Whether you’re religious studies at Yale. She concluded, “I world in 2006 when the Chicago Sun-Times Show” – that premiered on December 21 on spiritual, cynical, religious or not quite sure, think an interesting way to think about Bell wondered if he would be the next Billy Gra- Winfrey’s OWN channel (the Oprah Win- Rob invites you into the questions, wrestling and Oprah here is to observe how easily ham. That image of Bell shattered in 2011 frey Network, launched in 2011 as part of with what it all means and why we find she incorporates him into her pantheon of when he released Love Wins, which ques- Discovery Communications). OWN refers spiritual topics so fascinating.” spiritual advisers. She remains, as ever, the tioned traditional biblical Christian views to itself as “the network of self-discovery.” Bell’s first attempt at developing a tele- determining corporate deity. One way of of heaven, hell and salvation. The book even Bell’s show is an hour-long program that vision show began in 2011 with a series looking at this is less a merger of two equal solicited responses from other pastors, sev- features Bell and is co-produced by him. titled “Stronger,” which he co-created with powers than it is the acquisition by one large eral of whom wrote entire books in response He also recently toured the country with “Lost” producer Carlton Cuse. The show corporation of another small business.” december 22, 2014 page 7

News

CRC Indigenous leader calls for reconciliation among Canadians

CC Staff, with files from CRC Communications EDMONTON – Michelle Nieviadomy, Assistant Director of the Edmonton Na- tive Healing Centre, a Christian Reformed Church ministry, co-wrote an op-ed piece last month for the Winnipeg Free Press which calls for reconciliation between Indig- enous people and other Canadians. The piece especially addressed how reconciliation relates to education. CRC Communications called attention to the opinion piece on the

CRCNA website. They noted that the op-ed courtesy of KAIROS canada Office of Social Justice was also published in in the Edmonton Jour- Indigenous people need control of their own Schools on reserves receive between 20 to 50 percent less funding than off-reserve schools. nal and the Victoria Times Colonist. educational systems, coalition says. “To be truly reconciled, one [issue] that Mike Hogeterp, director of the CRC’s deserves our immediate attention is the edu- Centre for Public Dialogue, is helping to cation of First Nations, Inuit and Métis chil- organize the coalition seeking educational dren,” Nieviadomy and the others wrote. reform that, he says in an interview, seeks Nieviadomy is part of the Cree nation. reconciliation. “But,” he said, “reconcili- Those who shared her opinion were Terry ation is so much more than a statement of LeBlanc, a Mi’kmaq/Acadian and Executive apology. It’s an ongoing act of becoming Director of NAIITS; Lu Ann Hill-MacDon- neighbours, building trust and correcting ald, a Haudenosaunee; and Anglican Bishop injustice. And given the deep scars that In- Mark MacDonald, the Anglican Church of dian residential schools have left in Canada, Canada’s national Indigenous bishop. reconciliation is surely related to justice in The four are members of the “Reconcili- Indigenous Education. We are honoured ation in Indigenous Education Campaign,” to work with these Indigenous leaders for described as a coalition of faith leaders and reconciliation in and through education.” Indigenous people working for reconcilia- A news story citing the opinion piece was tion in the education system. also posted on the website of the Christian True reconciliation means fixing injustices, Nieviadomy co-wrote, most courtesy of KAIROS canada In their op-ed, the writers examined the Reformed Church in North America, draw- urgently in Indigenous education. need for education systems designed by In- ing several comments from Canadian read- was involved in the injustice and in creating ment to fund reserves appropriately, and put digenous people and the urgency of correct- ers. One commenter asserted that “seeking the wound” so “it makes sense that the church pressure on educational boards to arrange for ing the gap in funding between Indigenous educational reform is a responsibility of the should also be involved in reconciliation curriculum.” schools and off-reserve schools. They call two levels of government.” He continued, and healing; in fact it must be so.” Another This suggestion gives body to the closing for action, especially from churches. “I understand a major breakdown occurred commenter, known for being active in social call to action in the original article: “If the “Cause and effect of discrimination in when Shawn Atleo resigned as Chief of the justice issues, noted that “on reserves, the whole community would get behind justice funding cannot be denied: there is a 20 to First Nations a few months ago. Aboriginal federal government has the responsibility for for Indigenous children, reconciliation with 50 percent difference in funding between and educational organizations need to get education. They have underfunded education Canada’s First Peoples can become a reality. on-reserve schools and provincially funded involved here not churches.” compared to the provincial government, who Church, we need your help with this; busi- schools across the country; only 40 percent Other commenters disagreed. One wrote, are responsible for educating in the rest of ness, we need your help with this; citizens of of on-reserve First Nations students graduate “Maybe aboriginal and educational organiza- each province.” To help alleviate the problem Canada, we need your help with this. from high school compared to 87 percent of tions and congregations can be involved here, he believed churches can help “by putting Ensure Canada’s response toward Indig- the non-Indigenous population,” they write. together.” It was her view that “the church pressure on their MP’s to get the govern- enous children’s education is a just one.” Aramaic expert: Ancient Christian culture will disappear unless East and West unite WASHINGTON D.C. (CNA/EWTN) – Christians are reluctant to be interviewed that the West is facing now, such as living with The East and West must cooperate to save – or incapable altogether due to the trauma an influx of Muslim immigrants. Middle East- ancient Christian cultures in the Middle of recent events – and thus the Aramaic lan- ern Christians “can teach you and . . . Muslims East, to secure peace and to protect human- guage risks being lost to history in a “crisis how to communicate and how to live together ity as a whole, an expert in Aramaic culture of culture” which would be detrimental to in spite of all these problems,” she said. insists. “If Christian communities in the humanity as a whole, Marogy insisted. Marogy also shared stories of Chris- Middle East are targeted, you will be sure Stressing the importance of cooperation, tian heroism amidst the persecution. Some that other communities will follow soon,” Marogy cautioned against blaming Western Christians have “lost absolutely every- warned Iraqi-born Dr. Amal Marogy. negligence completely for the plight faced by thing,” she said, but they still maintain that LaurenCaterCNA A researcher and professor of Aramaic Middle Eastern Christians are the Eastern Christians. She warned of a mindset “it was worth it” to profess their beliefs and Middle Eastern studies at Cambridge link between East and West. that views the West as nothing more than rather than submit to the ISIS forces who University’s Kings College, Marogy cur- Calamity “immoral,” “corrupt” and “imperialistic.” demanded that they convert to Islam. rently heads the Aradin Charitable Trust The Aramaic language risks extinction Even some in the West hold this view, she In particular, she shared the story of that seeks to preserve the churches, art and now largely due to the displacement of said, and this is why some young Westerners two nuns who were taken hostage by ISIS language that form the Aramaic culture. whole communities in the region during the seek to join terrorist groups like ISIS. but would not convert to Islam and had no In a presentation at the Hudson Institute in last 50 years. This “cultural holocaust” was “If everyone is thinking that the West is money to pay the jizya tax for non-believers. Washington, D.C., she spoke of her work to expedited by the recent invasion of Islamic bad, then there’s no way of dialoguing,” Ma- “We are very happy to die for our faith,” they preserve the last vestiges of Aramaic Christian State (ISIS) forces into Northern Iraq. ISIS rogy told CNA in an interview after her talk. told their captors. But God preserved the culture in the Middle East. This includes a lan- displaced well over 100,000 Christians there nuns, and their guard was eventually won guage that has lasted for 4,000 years (which since this summer. As a result of the invasion Missing link over by their witness, visiting them in their Jesus and his disciples spoke) and which there was also mass looting and destruction Middle Eastern Christians are “that missing cell and asking them two days later if they relies upon families and religious figures to of Christian churches, art and shrines. link between the East and the West,” Marogy needed anything. “They were the ones who be passed down to succeeding generations. In the midst of the violence, the elderly said, and they faced challenges centuries ago defeated terrorism,” Marogy said. PAGE 8 christian courier Columns

God’s infiltration I have been experiencing a variety of cultures over the past few months, teaching in Lithuania and visiting Italy and France. I have explored the history of the church and seen its current struggles. Although there are significant differences in the cultures and histories, the issue for the church is very similar here in Lithuania as it is in North America. What is the My Window Seat The Public Square relationship between the church and its culture? Over 60 years ago, H. Richard Niebuhr in Christ and Culture set forth Mendelt Hoekstra Harry Antonides categories of how different Christian traditions have worked in the world (as Lloyd Rang discussed in CC Dec. 8). Some have retreated into their own isolated communities. Others have sought to conquer the world, and others cooperate with it. Some live in the tension Singing the of the two kingdoms. Others work for transformation. Many have pointed out that all Christ @ Culture Truth ‘We are his work, these strategies make sense at different times and different places. So what is to be our Lloyd Rang Marian Van Til and not our own’ strategy at this time and in these places? Whether you read these leaders, had “set up idols in their hearts and Secularism in church words before Christmas or put wicked stumbling blocks before their I am struck by the danger of secularism. Secularism leaves God out of the picture. not, in the church year we’re faces,” as Ezekiel puts it (14:3). Indeed, even Philosophers, like Charles Taylor, have written about our secular age. Os Guinness Toddlers to Teens From the Labstill in the Christmas season; in exile they were doing despicable things that decries its influence on the church in The Last Christian on Earth. What catches my Denise Dykstra Rudy Eikelboomit straddles the Old Year and not even most of the pagans thought of doing. attention is when I see it even in worship. the New, ending on January Babylon’s Nebuchadnezzar, despite Dan- Secular worship is when the focus is all on what we humans are doing and need 6, the feast of the Epiphany. iel’s steady and righteous influence, gave to do. Many contemporary worship services have removed the opening greeting and

The Epiphany – which stretchesSU MO to a whole periodic impressive lip-service to the power- closing benediction that set the context of God’s actions in worship. Prayer seems to be TU WE TH FR Principalities seasonEveryday between Christian Christmas and Lent, endingSA ful God of his Israelite exiles, but even after lessening in corporate worship. Of great concern to me are secular sermons. They are & Powers on February 15 with Christ’s Transfigura- God’s radical, shocking means of subduing his not overtly secular. They seek to bring the Word of God, but the focus is on our actions. David Koyzis tionCathy – celebrates Smith the spread of the Gospel to out-sized, self-regarded divine ego (his long I know the danger. I started preaching this way. My message was how we need to us Gentiles. Epiphany itself (January 6) uses stint in the fields as essentially an animal), he change ourselves to change the world. But this was my message, not God’s. The mes- as its primary symbol the wise men and their remained his arrogant pagan self who thought sage of Scripture is about how God is changing us and the world. The Good News is momentous arrival at the house where the by- he himself was worthy of worship. Ditto for that God is at work redemptively. I need to hear that God is infiltrating my world. I Technically Speaking thenGetting toddler JesusUnstuc lived k(as Matthew tells us, Belshazzar, who also thought he ought to be need to know that this is not a secular world. contrary to the traditional picture of the Magi worshiped. The list could go on. Derek Schuurman withArlene the shepherdsVan Hove at the manger). We’ve all experienced God working in Infiltration Though Matthew’s gospel doesn’t specifi- our lives as his people. But how often do we How does God infiltrate our world? cally say, it could only have been the Spirit of think much about God still being at work, He comes as a child, a baby – not as God who revealed the Star and its significance for his purposes, both in the nations of our we expect. This is the strange way Intangible Things toFlowers these pagan and seers, Thistles urging them to make the current world and in the individual lives of God’s Kingdom comes. It is such a long trek to Judea, not merely out of curiosity unbelievers – sometimes in blessing, some- strange way that Jesus had to give us Heidi Vander Slikke butCurt to bringGesc costlyh gifts, and to understand times in judgment (though we need to be pictures and stories of God’s coming that the child they saw before them when they careful about how we make pronouncements to break through our misunderstand- arrived was a king, and worthy of worship. about the latter). God has not changed. He is ings, because we want an invasion. WorAs dsthe yearfrom is nearly over, so my husband, still in sovereign control of his world, as he God comes liberally and in- Country Living Ed,Wild and Horses I are just about finished with our always was and ever will be. discriminately sowing the seed of read-through of the Bible begun on January As we look toward another year the knowl- his Word on all kinds of soil. God Meindert Vander Galien Warkentins 1. What has struck us in book after book edge that the God who created and saves us is comes to grow wheat rather than, (especially in the Old Testament) is how in control of all things, from cosmic star bursts at this time, pull weeds. God starts God uses his creation and us, not just his to sparrows falling and hairlines receding. with little seeds and enjoys the We want an invasion, but God continues to sow and grow wheat rather than pull weeds. Patchwork Words ownOur people World but T odayunbelievers – individuals That he works all things together for good to process of growth that will extend and nations – for his purposes. those who love him is indescribably comfort- to all nations. God mixes in the activating ingredient to ultimately affect the whole. The Melissa Kuipers BertSuch Hielema as the wise men. They appear to have ing, and a cause for gratitude and worship. value of God’s work is often hidden and mixed in the complications of our world. Read been changed – converted – by God’s use of Ye nations round the earth, rejoice the parables of Matthew 13. One day God will invade and conquer, but that is not now. them, by what the Star revealed, through their Before the Lord, your sovereign King, long trek, then culminating in their special Serve Him with cheerful heart and voice; Hope encounter with the God of heaven and earth With all your tongues His glory sing. I ask my students where they find hope. Here in Eastern Europe, and in the growing in tiny human form. They had to make the Libertarianism in North America, many people have given up on government. Twenty- journey. They knew ahead of time, through The Lord is God;’tis He alone five years ago it was hoped here that liberation would change things. It did, but not God’s revelation in the Star, that they would Doth life and breath and being give; enough. Government does not seem to have or be the answer. Most are despairing of pay homage to a king. They didn’t buy those We are His work, and not our own; real economic justice. They see value in education, but primarily to change their indi- precious gifts on the way or as an afterthought. The sheep that on His pastures live. vidual fortunes, not the world. Secularists still hold on to science and reason, contrary Enter His gates with songs of joy, to most evidence that this has not given ultimate meaning or hope, and some have given Idols in their hearts With praises to His courts repair; up hope. For Traditionalists there are still many strong extended family structures and Heart change, however, was far from the And make it your divine employ values, but this is often a way to retreat from the larger world. God plants seeds of hope case for many of the idol worshipers we learn To pay your thanks and honors there. and births visions of his infiltration, not invasion, a new infantry. of in the Bible who became agents of God’s What do Jesus’ stories tell us about our being in the world? They all start with God’s The Lord is good, the Lord is kind; will. Finally no longer withholding judg- action. Our hope is that God is present in our world. He infiltrates through his Spirit, his Great is His grace, His mercy sure; ment, God used Nebuchadnezzar, Belshazzar, Word and his church. The church is the hope of the world because it is the witness to God’s And the whole race of man shall find Cyrus, Darius and others to punish his own presence. We infiltrate the world with seeds of wheat and the strangeness of yeast. We can His truth from age to age endure. people “who were no longer his people” – because God has infiltrated our world and now Jesus brings our world into God’s and rep- Isaac Watts (Psalm 100) who, encouraged by their millstone-worthy resents us before the Father. We follow the infiltrating one. These are Christmas stories. Marian Van Til ([email protected]) is a former CC Editor now Dr. Wolthuis is a Christian Reformed pastor who was the Co-President of ICS in Toronto, living in Youngstown N.Y. She blogs at [email protected]. taught at Calvin and Dordt colleges and served churches in Michigan and Iowa. december 22, 2014 page 9

Reviews Jazz Resolutions – Open your ears to something new for the new year

Brian Bork Brian Blade + The Fellowship Band – Landmarks It’s almost 2015. Think of the possibilities You could make a strong case that Brian Blade is the finest liv- and the potential that await us when the cal- ing jazz drummer. His touch is at times lyrical and melodic – not endar flips over to a fresh new year! If you’re terms one typically deploys in conversations about drummers. The still looking for an attainable new year’s reso- Fellowship Band is aptly named, too; the communal interplay of lution, may I humbly suggest you bend your jazz is brilliantly on ear to something new. I’m thinking you should display here. Where so start listening to jazz! Or, if you’re already a much jazz evokes the bit of an aficionado, then I’d encourage you to sounds of big cities – car listen to more of it. You can’t overdo it. horns, the dense, inter- Ok, so jazz might not be in the midst weaving voice of crowds of a Taylor Swift-ian ascent up the charts. – Landmarks feels more Who cares – mass popularity is for the birds spacious, sounding anyway. Jazz is the greatest art form to be positively rural at times. produced in the Americas, and as such, it’s The closer, “Embers,” worthy of our attention. Plus it swings. It has a strong country cooks. It’s hip. It’s cool and hot too, often at vibe, and “Ark.La.Tex.” the same time. You might need to let your opens before the listener ears open up a bit; jazz musicians are fond of like the vista over a long difficult and dissonant harmonic structures, Cecile McLorin Salvant – Woman Child stretch of highway. but once you’re accustomed to it, you’ll real- The best jazz singers – Ella, Billie, Sarah, Nina – have ize how bland pop music pabulum can be. always been every bit the equal of their instrumentalist Remember the first time you ate a curry and collaborators. McLorin Savant is only in her early 20s, but James Brandon Lewis – Divine Travels exclaimed “I didn't know the world has fla- already possesses the vocal virtuosity of her legendary peers. James Brandon vours like that!”? Finding an appreciation for Woman Child is playful at times, and McLorin Salvant has Lewis has one jazz harmony is a lot like that, just centred great fun with classic tunes like “John Henry” and “What foot in the church around your ears instead of your taste buds. a Little Moonlight Can Do.” But she’s not afraid to disrupt and one foot in Jazz has been around for a century or so, easy-listening expectations with powerhouse performances, as the avant-garde. meaning there’s grounds for nearly endless is most evident on the title track. Even more curious and com- The interplay exploration. Here are some more recent sides, pelling is her take on “You Bring Out the Savage In Me,” a between Lewis recorded by contemporary musicians. track with troubling racial overtones – and not recorded since and his sidemen 1935 – that McLorin Salvant sings entirely on her own terms. draws a lot from the free jazz tradi- The Imagined Savior is Far Easier to Paint tion, but there’s Ambrose Akinmusire – blues figures and Trumpeter Akinmusire’s latest effort gospel evocations sits alongside Woman Child as the fin- on this album that est jazz offering of 2014. Akinmusire’s anchor listeners in playing is deeply rooted in the language something more of hard bop, and his jazzier composi- familiar, too. Lewis tions are moody and spacious like those avoids some of the written by the great Wayne Shorter. This screechier, harsher aspects of the avant-garde, resulting in album is even more stylistically diverse an album that is simultaneously inviting and challenging. than his previous offerings, serving up spoken word pieces – “Roll Call for Those Absent” is stirring and taken straight from recent headlines – and there are some Kenny Barron and Dave Holland – The Art of Conversation brilliant vocal performances too, including If James Brandon one from Canadian singer Cold Specks. Lewis pushed you to far, you can always The Bad Plus – Inevitable Western come back to pianist The Bad Plus are always take their Kenny Barron and listeners on an adventure. Inevitable bassist Dave Hol- Western finds the post-jazz, post-rock, land. An eloquent pigeonhole-resistant group back to dialogue between two more familiar terrain, after they tackled masters of the form, Stravinsky’s “The Rite of Spring” earlier the album is an even- in the year. There’s usually something handed, controlled loping and irregular about the group’s exploration of origi- compositions – unpredictable changes nal compositions and in meter, swift, dissonant crescendos – some bebop classics. which provides a wonderful challenge to Barron is a wonderful mere casual listening (one of my chief interpreter of The- annoyances is when people refer to jazz lonious Monk, bringing a supple smoothness to Monk’s acerbic style, as “background music”). Pianist Ethan and as such, the duo’s take on “In Walked Bud” is a standout track. Iverson sounds like a 21st century Thelo- nious Monk all the way across the album, and his work on “Self Serve” is a delight- ful tangle, and “You Will Lose All Fear” is hard driving and wonderfully messy. PAGE 10 christian courier

Features

Entertaining Gabe Harriet Mostert On the eve of 2015, this story offers our readers a warmhearted reminder about who is in charge of time . . . and it’s not chance.

She looked out the bay window for the fifth time in as many minutes. What was keeping John, she wondered. He said he would check on the lambs in the pasture behind the barn and be right in. What was taking him so long? She sighed in frustration as she continued her distracted task of making a shopping list. At times like this her thoughts would go back to life before she and John had made their home in the backwoods in ‘75. When Susanna had lived in town, going to the store was commonplace. Here, every 30-minute trip south to the nearest town of Orangeville was an John had developed his love of farm life working John had barely opened the front door when he event that needed advance planning. Susanna shied for Gabe each summer during high school. Since teased, “I could smell that coffee outside! How did away from their manual transmission pickup truck, Gabe now lived alone, he enjoyed the activity you know we’d be coming in?” Susanna smiled so she relied on John to drive. Because most of the and conversation he found in their young family. weakly, suddenly finding herself speechless. fields had been planted, he had offered to take her Silver hair peeked out from under his faded blue Knowing she was frustrated by the change in plans, to Bud’s Appliances today to buy a new stove on the cap, which clashed slightly with his patched green John’s eyes met hers. His characteristic wink said last day of the spring sale. coverall. he understood. How could they put off getting a new stove any “Hi, Gabe,” she called, opening the front door to Trying to make the best of the situation, Susanna longer? A week ago, their stove had stopped work- let in the somewhat muggy air. “John is out with the sat with the men at the kitchen table. She thought it ing, with all attempts at repair failing. Between sheep if you want to see him,” she said cheerfully, might help if she understood why Gabe had come. her electric frying pan and a camp stove set up on masking her annoyance. She did enjoy his visits and respected his wisdom. the porch, it was a daily test to cook dinner for “Thanks, Susanna,” he answered. “I’m sure I can She would do what she could to help with any prob- four people. Pioneer days did not seem so re- find him.” With a smile, he hobbled towards the lem he might have. mote. pasture, cane in hand. She took the initiative in the conversation. Today Susanna could picture herself using a differ- Maybe Gabe’s errand will be a quick one, she she couldn’t endure 20 minutes of small talk about ent pot on each burner of her new stove, but what thought. Or maybe John will tell him, “We’re on municipal politics, the price of hogs, the bridge would be cooking in those pots was another story. our way out the door.” Even so, she sensed that the replacement project down the road or the prospects She hadn’t been to a grocery store in 12 days, and whole afternoon was unraveling. of drought this summer. “So, Gabe, what brings you that would have to be part of today’s trip as well. At here this fine spring day?” she asked in a singsong other times of the year, this interval was normal and Neighbourhood coffee rites voice. expected. The cow and chickens meant there were There was a ritual whenever Gabe came by. Even “Oh, the quietness was getting to me at home, if always milk, butter and eggs. But in May home can- if he simply had to borrow a tool, the visit always you know what I mean,” he answered. “And I got to ning and root vegetables were nearly used up, while included sharing a cup of coffee in the house along thinking. I wonder what John and Susanna are up to the garden remained barren. with a broad ambit of conversation. these days. You know that I’m not one for picking Timing was critical, though. If they didn’t leave John would never tell Gabe they were about to up the phone, so I thought I’d come over and see for soon, there was no way they would be back in leave. He valued Gabe’s friendship more than plans myself. How are the boys doing? Are they getting time when the boys stepped off the school bus at or material things and he really lived it. Deep down tired of school yet?” 4:20. Aged five and seven, Jimmy and Steven were Susanna loved that about John, but today it was Susanna began to tell how the children were greeted at the end of the lane every school day. exasperating. enjoying the new junior playground at their school. Did John forget or get sidetracked with another Knowing they would be coming in for coffee, “It’s a wonder how they kept busy at recess before! chore? Susanna turned to the kitchen. Measuring tap water It’s all they talk about now – the twisty slide, the in the glass pot and pouring it into the coffee maker climbing bars and the teeter totter,” she added. No time for Gabe was a familiar task, but now she spilled twice. “I remember we had plenty of games at recess Susanna was pulling on her rubber boots to look Wiping up the counter with a cloth, she continued when I was a lad. No playground, though. One week for him behind the barn when a familiar maroon by measuring the coffee beans and grinding them it was marbles in the sand pit. Then a buddy would truck edged with rust slowly pulled into the tree- by hand. It was not that she was fussy about the bring an old tire to roll around, and we’d all follow lined drive way. She looked at the clock again and “freshly ground” taste of coffee, but this morning exhaled – it was now quarter after two. “Why, of all they had finished all the ground coffee. Susanna days, would Gabe show up today?” she asked aloud. was forced to deal with this bag of Costa Rican cof- Gabe, a retired farmer, dropped in from time to fee beans her sister had brought back from an exotic time to borrow something or just for the company. vacation. Is it so much to ask for a stove that actually works? Why can’t I shop for groceries regularly like other people? How much longer can I be expected to live like this? The boys are getting sick of pota- toes every single night! Susanna fumed and mut- tered under her breath. Serving coffee without baking amounted to a disgrace in her eyes, so she sliced the last pieces of spice cake she had surprised herself by making in the electric frying pan. Placing the tray on the table, she glanced out the window again and spotted the two figures chatting as they ambled toward the house. December 22, 2014 page 11

Features

suit. Or we played tag. No, sir, we were never bored! We just kept coming up with fun ideas on our own,” Gabe scratched at his left ear. Susanna tried to redirect the conversation, remembering that his hound had been ill last month. “Well then, how is Toby? Did you need me to come take a look at him?” Susanna had studied veterinary science for two years. Folks in the area often consulted her about the minor ail- ments of pets and livestock. “No, Toby has really perked up since you sug- gested I stop feeding him table scraps. You are one of the treasures of the county, Susanna, I always say!” She made a few more attempts to discern Gabe’s purpose in visiting by asking about his arthritis and about the tree that was affecting his drainage system. If only I could give him some pain reliever from the medicine cabinet or go over and help cut down that tree, Susanna thought. But Gabe didn’t need anything from her. Instead, he praised the delicious coffee and the homemade treats. “You know, your baking is one of the reasons I keep coming back here,” he joked.

Changed plans Not that it mattered anymore, but just then the cuckoo bird hopped out of a little door three times. As if it were an wavy hair. “I’m so impressed with how adaptable poured down. To be ready for their imminent return, alarm, Susanna stood and resourceful you are. I don’t always want to John put on his rain gear and ran out to the simple up quickly and excused share you with the others!” bus shelter he had built for the boys. When the bus herself to wash dishes as Susanna’s lip quivered. Gabe and John had been crept towards the driveway, he collected the boys the men carried on with speaking so kindly to and about her. “You don’t who were not at all dressed for the rain and wind. the topics she had tried know how I was fuming and muttering and wishing Half-carrying Jimmy and grasping Steven’s hand to steer them away from. we’d already left by the time Gabe got here. Then, in his own, John brought the boys into the house, The kitchen window above the sink revealed a when I knew we wouldn’t make it to Orangeville, I drenched but grinning. greenish sky. It sure didn’t look like that before, she wanted there to be a really good reason why Gabe thought, as she added detergent to the hot water and called on us.” Time well-spent watched the bubbles cover the breakfast bowls and “That was obvious!” John laughed. A news segment interrupted the radio’s repeti- lunch plates. Afterwards, Susanna began wiping the “Really? I was trying to be subtle. I know how tion of the weather warning and inane pop songs. counter, the fronts of the cupboards and the near- you are. You always say, ‘People come ahead of “We are getting reports of severe weather all over empty pantry shelves with the leftover water. agendas.’ Just this once, I wanted our agenda to the area. An unconfirmed tornado seems to have Her thoughts drifted to what she could make for come first. Is it such a luxury to have a new stove?” touched down and caused serious damage to a shop- supper. Since the potatoes had so many sprouts, she Susanna asked, looking down and pausing. ping plaza in Orangeville. Jolene’s Diner, Bud’s would have to start peeling. She overheard her hus- A sudden flash of lightning caught their attention Appliances and A-1 Used Cars were all hit. As well, band comment about an impending thundershower. as the power went out. The clap of thunder followed several vehicles in the parking lot were overturned. In the countryside, the clear view of the horizon immediately. “Shouldn’t you check on the sheep?” This seems to have taken place at about 3 o’clock, made it easier to predict the weather without being Susanna asked as her eyes turned to the blurred Eastern Time. Reports of casualties are sketchy, but a meteorologist and John knew the sky well. sight of rain streaming against the window. we will provide updates on this story as it develops. “Well then, I best be getting home,” Gabe said. “They’re fine. I knew there would be a storm, Elsewhere.…” “My wiper blades have seen better days.” so I was gathering them inside when Gabe came. Steven asked, “Is that the same restaurant we “It was great to have you, Gabe,” John answered, Sorry. That made me later than I wanted to be. You went to last year, the one with the curly French thrusting out his hand to say farewell to his friend. know – to get to Orangeville. Well, let’s get the fries?” “Hope we’ll see you again real soon.” battery-powered radio and see what’s going on. The “Yes, honey,” Susanna responded, hugging him As Gabe drove away, John came up behind sky looks pretty scary to the south.” close despite his wet shirt and pants. “Now, please Susanna as she peeled potatoes. “What are you After a few minutes of searching and adjusting change into something dry while Mommy gets you making tonight?” he asked with interest. the knob to the local radio station, they heard the some milk and dried apple rings.” “I decided to make mashed potatoes instead of weather warning: “I repeat, Environment Canada Susanna and John exchanged glances as the boys boiled for a change. There’s also the second last has issued a severe weather warning for the areas went to their rooms to shed their sodden clothes. Mason jar of peaches,” Susanna replied. “Would of Dufferin, Peel, Simcoe and Southern Georgian All her annoyance melted away. Now she knew that you be able to fry the lamb chops on the camp Bay. There is a possibility of hail, damaging winds making time for Gabe had been the right thing to stove? It’s kind of hard being two places at once!” and tornadoes.” do. He’d been heaven-sent. “That would work, I think. Maybe Steven will The voice droned on, but Susanna’s first thought want to help,” John said calmly. He placed his flew to their boys on the school bus. She clasped Harriette Mostert teaches Kinder- hands over hers to let the paring knife and potato John’s hands and asked him to pray. After a short garten in Kitchener, Ontario. She en- slip out of her hands and into the sink. Turning her entreaty for the safety of their sons and anyone else joys sharing stories to inspire others around, he surprised her with a tender hug. who might be caught in the storm, they opened their on her blog, www.providenceplace- “Did you know Gabe is right about you being a eyes with Susanna brushing away tears. harriette.blogspot.com. treasure in this county?” he said as he stroked her Outside the sky continued to darken, and the rain PAGE 12 christian courier

Features

Emotional stakes high in closures of facilities for people with intellectual disabilities

Will Braun ‘Warehousing’ is not acceptable “I don’t want to remember it,” Hugo Unruh says of the Two national organizations – People First and the grim spring day in 1972. Unruh and his wife at the time pulled Canadian Association for Community Living – lead the onto the grounds of the Manitoba Developmental Centre de-institutionalization push, saying “warehousing” of (MDC), a 40-hectare complex an hour west of Winnipeg that humans is simply not acceptable. But it’s complicated. then housed 1,000 people with intellectual disabilities. They Family members of residents at Michener are fighting were dropping off their 13-year-old son Nick. hard to keep it open. People who have loved ones in “I just about died when I saw it,” Unruh says of the stark MDC have responded harshly to public calls for the 30-bed dorm room that would end up being his son’s bed- closure of MDC. Huronia Regional Centre was operated by the Ontario room for the next 15 years. “My wife was in tears,” says the Unruh knows the complexity. As difficult as it was for government from 1876 - 2009. retired United Church minister. For various reasons, they his son to be in MDC, it was an improvement over Nick’s were simply not able to care for Nick, who has cerebral previous placement. There, he was “so medicated he couldn’t of their loved ones. Experience and studies also show that palsy and complicated medical needs. hold up his head.” MDC staff reduced his meds and taught medically fragile people can be well cared for in commun- The story of the Unruhs and of MDC speaks to a lin- Nick to communicate using a system of symbols, something ity settings. gering history of societal treatment of people with intel- that transformed his life, and, ironically, allowed him to com- lectual disabilities. It is a history that is anguished and municate his dislike for MDC. The church’s role sometimes awkward. Over its 124-year history, MDC has Driving Nick back to MDC after his visits home to The Brock researchers made recommendations that been called the Home for Incurables, the Manitoba School Winnipeg was a sombre task. He didn’t want to go. Since focus not on whether community living is preferable to for Mentally Defective Persons and the Manitoba School 1987, Nick has lived at a group home in Winnipeg. Hugo institutional life – that is no longer a question in most of the for Retardates. and his wife Carol (who he married in 1985) host Nick country – but on how to maximize the chances of smooth, Former residents speak of physical abuse, hunger, ab- every weekend and are an intimate part of his life. gentle transition. Careful, proactive, and highly individual- sence of privacy, lack of personal choice, a climate of fear Unruh says he sympathizes with people who have loved ized planning are key recommendations. and solitary confinement as a form of punishment. Former ones in MDC and chose to keep them there. He understands Where does the church fit in? I have found no evidence resident David Weremy told me how he once informed the emotional stakes. Families whose loved ones have spent of church groups speaking out on this topic, though various his mother of abuses he witnessed. After his mother asked decades in these places presumably do not want to feel like faith-based organizations provide services for people with staff about it, Weremy was locked up in solitary. Weremy they have done wrong by allowing this. Their concern must intellectual disabilities. An important and difficult recon- ultimately ran away from MDC. The 2008 National Film be applauded and given close attention. ciliation is happening with respect to the societal place of Board-sponsored documentary, The Freedom Tour, recounts The stakes for people who suffered abuse in institutions people with intellectual disabilities. The church should be many similar stories. are equally high. They deserve to see a clean break from there to provide accompaniment, practical support, wisdom An Ontario judge recently approved a $67-million that era. The knowledge that these institutions still exists and perhaps conflict resolution services. payment to survivors of the province’s last three MDC- consumes people like Weremy. Society owes these people In a 2010 interview, renowned ethicist and author like institutions, which closed in 2009. Premier Kathleen a generous measure of healing. Margaret Somerville, said: “You test the ethical tone of Wynne issued an apology to residents and families who And it owes an equally generous measure of grace to a society by how it treats its weakest, most in need, most were “deeply harmed and continue to bear the scars and current residents and their families. Many families say the vulnerable people.” That is the opportunity before us. the consequences” of the facilities. “Their humanity was institutions should remain open because many residents undermined,” she said. have lived in the facilities for decades so a move would be As recently as 2006, about 3,800 people with intellectual traumatic; and because medically fragile residents cannot be disabilities lived in 31 large facilities across Canada. Today cared for elsewhere. Will Braun is a Senior Writer for Ca- there are about 430 people, divided between MDC and the Advocates for closing the facilities point out that thou- nadian Mennonite. This article is based St. Amant Centre in Winnipeg. The Alberta government is sands of people have been successfully transitioned from on interviews and research done between in the process of closing its last large residential buildings large institutions to group homes or individualized set- 2010 and the present, parts of which at Michener Services in Red Deer, and Saskatchewan says tings. A Brock University study found that 93 percent of have been published elsewhere. It is used it will close Valley View in Moose Jaw by 2016. That leaves families studied following the last round of closures in with permission. only Manitoba stranded on the wrong side of history. Ontario “reported they were satisfied with the placement”

Braun recommends: story of survivors of institutions for people with “I offer an apology to the men, women and Winram, and my interview with former MDC intellectual disabilities. This film sparked my children of Ontario who were failed by a model resident David Weremy. Boy in the Moon interest in this topic. of institutional care for people with develop- The brilliant former mental disabilities. We must look in the eyes of Hugo and Nick Globe and Mail features Orillia Asylum for Idiots those who have been affected, and those they “Centre of attention” (winnipegfreepress. writer Ian Brown wrote That was the original name of the first large leave behind, and say: 'We are sorry.'” com/opinion) was my 2011 attempt at a nu- a candid and raw 2009 institution for people with intellectual disabilities anced look at MDC in the Winnipeg Free Press. book about his own pro- in Canada, according to the Government of Radio with a bow-tie It tells more of Hugo and Nick Unruh's story. foundly disabled son, Ontario website (mcss.gov.on.ca/en/dshistory). It Listen to two CBC radio documentaries on Walker. The Boy in the opened in 1879 and closed in 2009, when it was Huronia that aired on December 4, 2011 on The MDC should close Moon: A Father's Search called the Huronia Regional Centre. See archival Sunday Edition in 2011, here (Hour Three) (www. Last year I wrote a more direct piece about for his Disabled Son video (mcss.gov.on.ca/en/dshistory) and photos cbc.ca/thesundayedition) and on the same site MDC, making that case that it should be (theglobeandmail.com/boyinthemoon) won of Huronia. for November 27, 2011 (Hour One). thoughtfully closed. See “Development centre's two major literary prizes worth $65K. This New time is past” (winnipegfreepress.com/opinion): York Times review of the book (nytimes.com) We are sorry MDC up close “MDC provides some innovative program- gives a taste of Brown's heartbreaking brilliance. On December 9, 2013, Ontario Premier In a 2010 article for THIS magazine (this.org) ming and employs many caring staff. Still, it is Kathleen Wynne issued this apology (mcss. entitled “A Room of One's Own,” I wrote about literally and figuratively an aging left-over of Freedom trailer gov.on.ca) to former residents of Huronia and the Manitoba Developmental Centre. The piece an era that should make us shudder. I would Watch the trailer (youtube.com) for the 2008 two other Ontario institutions, as well as their draws on my interview with Ian Brown, a rare definitely not want to live there, so why should documentary The Freedom Tour, which tells the families: two-hour media tour of MDC with CEO Cynthia 220 people be forced to?” My Window Seat The Public Square Mendelt Hoekstra Harry Antonides

From the 11th Christ @ Culture Province Lloyd Rang Marian Van Til

Toddlers to Teens DFrecomembe ther 22, Lab 2014 page 13 Denise Dykstra ColumnsRudy Eikelboom

SU MO TU WE TH Principalities FR SA Every day devout tful Ey & Powers Everyday Christian Ar e David Koyzis Cathy Smith (more or less) As 2014 draws to a close, I’m looking ahead at ways in which I might strive to be a better person next year. Sanctification is the Holy Spirit’s purview, but accord- Technically Speaking Getting Unstucing tok the Heidelberg Catechism, it’s evidence of thankfulness to cooperate. My customary resolution – losing weight – has dwindled markedly in its capacity to Derek Schuurman Arlene Van Hoveexcite motivation as I face turning 60 next year. Past experience, several decades’ worth, has more or less resigned me to who I am physically. Another resolution has a similar pattern of failure – the determination to “do devotions” more faithfully. I’m humbled by the example of Anglican theologian John Stott who rose Intangible Things dailyFlowers at 5:00 and a.m. Thistlesto read the Bible and pray for hundreds of people before breakfast. Stott had this Heidi Vander Slikke toCurt say aboutGesc prayer:h “In prayer we do not ‘prevail on’ God, but rather prevail on ourselves to submit to God. True, the language of ‘prevailing on God’ is often used in regard to prayer, but it is an ac- commodation to human weakness. Even when Jacob ‘prevailed on God,’ what really happened is thatWo Godrds prevailedfrom over him, bringing him to the point of surrender when he was able to receive the Country Living blessing which God had all the time been longing to give him.” Stott is renowned for his influence on evangelicalismWild Horses – he was a major architect of the Lausanne Covenant of 1974 – but this description Meindert Vander Galien Warkentins of prayer strikes me as wholly Reformed. Prayer is not about me coaxing God to change things, but Deborah DeBoer God’s strategy to get me to change. This insight adjusted my prayer posture from a petulant “God, transform this world right now; here are some suggestions to get you started” to a more compliant Patchwork Words “YourOur Wwillorld be done.” Today But my devotions are not as regular as Stott’s, that’s for sure.

Melissa Kuipers NourishingBert Hielema routines Deborah DeBoer is a photographer living in Don’t misunderstand. Spiritual disciplines of prayer and Bible reading are to be commended. My Wyoming, Ont. Find out more information at laven- parents followed the traditional practice of devotions at mealtime and bedtime. That undoubtedly derrisephotography.com. contributed to my biblical literacy and faith formation. But, in my own family, I couldn’t sustain the practice, though I tried. My husband wasn’t supportive. The kids got older, got part-time jobs, got rebellious. The whole enterprise devolved, contentious and trivialized to the point where it did more harm than good. I gave up. Divulging that? Hurts. Of course, as a teacher in a Christian school, there was a routine of staff and student devotions that was spiritually nourishing throughout my career. That may have been another contributing factor Underline the Words to why I failed to establish a rigorous schedule of independent Bible reading and prayer. The very scaffolding of my work week was devotional. I thought I’d finally be able to commit to a serious program oflectio divina when I retired. I began Take your favourite pen an ambitious project of journaling through the Bible. Got halfway through Genesis. I used the Today devotional booklet, but found myself reading a whole month’s worth of meditations in one night. On or HB lead pencil with you the other hand, during my brother-in-law’s cancer journey, I faithfully wrote a prayer for my sister when you open the book for 462 consecutive days. of Psalms or Isaiah or Deuteronomy. You don’t have to begin at the beginning, but do begin to put lines under the words you need to hear now and again next time. Trace the lead against the paper so the ideas may explode in your mind not only this time No tallying required but when you read Psalm 34 again, I’m becoming more or less resigned to my own devotional rhythms, furiously haphazard as they are. Actually, I’m tempted to simply label all my reading and writing devotional. Any book qualifies now more familiar than last time. if it pushes me towards God, to wrestle with him like Jacob, jabbing an angry index finger into his inscrutable chest, or if it compels me to fall prostrate before him, adoring his profligate mercy, hands That comfort under your fingertips cupped to catch undeserved blessings. Everything I write underlined by consecration. like Braille for someone searching. Can devotion really even be divided into segments? God inhabits my waking moments relentlessly. Like some incognito mystic disguised as sedate grandma, I can scarcely stop myself from contem- plating every moment how the sacred clings indivisibly to everything earthly. G.K. Chesterton’s Linda Siebenga declaration resonates with me: “You say grace before meals. All right. But I say grace before the concert and the opera, and grace before the play and pantomime, and grace before I open a book, and grace before sketching, painting, swimming, fencing, boxing, walking, playing, dancing and grace before I dip the pen in the ink.” A copy of Seeking God’s Face is on my nightstand. In January, I’ll try once again to inculcate a Linda Siebenga is a poet living devotional habit that resembles Stott’s dedication. But if it doesn’t stick, I refuse to castigate my- in Central Alta. Her latest work is self. In 2015, I’m defining my whole life as devotional, no tallying required – of verses memorized, Earth Against Your Cheek. Find chapters read or prayers uttered. Gratitude for every single God-infused breath inhaled, exhaled. Linda's website at inscribe.org Sanctification ever materializing. under Members.

Cathy Smith is a retired teacher and contributing editor with CC. She lives in Wyoming, Ont. My Window Seat The Public Square Mendelt Hoekstra Harry Antonides

From the 11th Christ @ Culture Province Lloyd Rang Marian Van Til

Toddlers to Teens From the Lab Denise Dykstra Rudy Eikelboom

SU MO TU WE TH Principalities FR SA & Powers Everyday Christian David Koyzis Cathy Smith

christian courier Technically Speaking PAGEGetting 14 Unstuck Derek Schuurman ColumnsArlene Van Hove

Intangible Things Flowers and Thistles In which the intrepid columnist looks for flowers and Heidi Vander Slikke Curt Gesch thistles in St. John’s and finds a vibrant community We all have notions about the weather in and birds. Chickens were scratching with glee in the lee Words from any given place. Bermuda is sunny. In created by a real forest, on a floor composed of fallen Country Living Wild Horses Vancouver people don’t get tans: they rust. leaves and fruit. And we all know someone from Europe or But perhaps not enough fruit. In the late afternoon, sud- Meindert Vander Galien Warkentins the U.S.A. who thinks we all live in igloos. denly I saw a flash of white and the leghorn-descendants I had my preconceived notions about the flapped into some trees and inched out onto narrower branch- weather in St. John’s, Newfoundland: es to get at remaining fruit. Imagine that: chickens with extant Patchwork Words I Ourcould W expectorld T odaycold, wet, windy, miserable weather in instincts. They reminded me of ruffed grouse in B.C. November. Melissa Kuipers BertHere’s Hielema what I found in November: cold, wet, windy, Warm human reception miserable weather. And this is not cold as we experience Much more significant to me, however, than either the it in Central B.C. There we may have -20 C. But we walk wildlife or the wind were the people. Smithers. An older gentleman told me about the days when outdoors in slippers over dry snow and have coffee outside Your people, St. John’s, lived up to their billing just there were “fordy-two, fordy-tree” young people confirmed against the garage wall wearing only a quilted sweater. St. as the weather did. Most of the folks I met while walking at a time instead of only six. Another long-time church John’s cold blows up your kilt. St. John’s wind makes walk- returned a greeting: “G-day” or “Yep.” The lady who sold member replied, “And that’s about to change back again.” ing at a 45-degree angle seem a normal posture. I believe me taters and fried chicken squinted, looked both ways and Perhaps the archetypal Newfoundlander who most im- that taxis were invented for St. John’s. then whispered, “I gave yeh extra chicken ‘cause dey was pressed me was Terry, host of a monthly open-mike show Because my daughter Liz lives in an older part of town, sich small pieces, y-know.” at a coffee shop called Heart Gallery in the old downtown. there are not many trees – just buildings (all brightly The barber I visited was soft-spoken, goateed, red-haired Terry is a wizard of a piano player himself. He played a painted), cement, asphalt, shrubs and weeds. For my first and covered with tattoos. We talked about fishing, snar- variety of styles, from pop to jazz to blues. Terry and the few days here I saw gulls, crows, gulls, very fat pigeons. ing rabbits and investing in a business instead of owning small audience of about 20 had the gift of encouragement More gulls. I wonder if there is a way to use gulls as source a house. The walls were covered with patriotic posters: and used it well on those of us performing as amateurs. of renewable energy. Later I saw black-capped chickadees, one looked like an enlistment poster for World War II. It One man played publically for the first time in two years hairy woodpeckers, juncos and chickens. showed a young girl oohing and ahhing over a young man and received hearty applause. Our friend Derek played Yes: chickens. St. John’s allows urban poultry and we and begging him to enlist in the battle for freedom: The in public for only his second time and was thanked with visited the home of some elderly people who had one of bold slogan said, “FIGHT HARPER!” applause and Terry’s hearty encouragement. My daughter the largest lots we saw. Just up from the harbour, their On Wednesday, we drove to Signal Hill, the easternmost Liz (vocals) and I (piano) were also warmly received and house was located on a sloping hillside lot with confers, part of Canada. The wind was, one may say, brisk. When thanked for our music by our host and the audience. beech trees, some sort of crabapple tree, shrub plantings we stopped the car at the parking lot, we noticed that the few sad pedestrians were walking at a 60 degree angle and Having started this column on Sunday night, I awoke making more sideways than forward progress. I stepped Monday wondering how to conclude. I opened the drapes out for a timed 14 seconds and then we returned home. and found sunshine. One little strip of cirrus cloud. The Sunday was calmer, so we returned by car and walked tree tops were not fighting for their lives. at only a 15 degree angle to the top of Cape Spear. The I have begun the process of loving The Rock. If only slope was about 30 degrees so we almost matched the poor I can keep my personal warmth while walking bent over pedestrians of the day before. and sideways. At St. Thomas Anglican Church I was privileged to attend on a day when six people were confirmed. I heard a lovely Curt Gesch was a recent visitor to Newfoundland who was called me trout, me dear, b'y, me old cock, me ducky, organ chorale prelude – “Rejoice, the Lord is King” – played or merely fodder Gesch. He is sometimes right contrary on the pipe organ. Over coffee, I met the bishop who had but not a scobie. Curt and his daughter Liz. just met the Bishop of Caldeonia Diocese – our bishop in

Gathering Light To those who diet full of men and women It’s not lamenting their size, and about getting Emily Wierenga after Christmas none of it’s about health anything – – it’s all about the bottom thinner, or dollar, and meanwhile, b a c k i n t o There’s no doubt, Christmas hurts the we’re losing our sons and daughters to the industry. The mes- shape. It’s waistline. sage of Bethlehem forgotten. about giving, The chocolates, cinnamon buns Girls as young as four years old are dieting because long into the (Pioneer Woman anyone?) and sugar cook- mommy and daddy are complaining about their “Christmas New Year. ies, the turkey and potatoes and perogies. rolls,” and the damage of holiday excess lasts year long. It’s about Diet pill companies love January. For a former anorexic, the choices are But it’s not about the food; it’s about Jesus. It’s not about giving our overwhelming. Do I just take all five sal- the presents; it’s about Jesus. time, our food, our money and our homes. Like Magi we fol- ads? How many pieces of ham? And what about the dozens We can celebrate, yes, but let’s teach our girls and boys low the stars laden with presents for the Christ child. And the of desserts? how to do it with grace. Let’s show compassion towards pants will adjust, even as the feasting dies down. The fridge I’m far from those eating disorder days, yet not as far as ourselves when we eat too many chocolates because we are will one day be emptied of leftovers, the candy put away. I thought. human. And let January be a month of forgiveness. What But even as the tree is packed up and the ornaments I’ve got two boys now, and I know they’re watching me. better way to start the New Year? stowed, Jesus is still being born among us. Come to set us I’ve got a husband who loves my curves, yet when the pants free from the weigh scale, from food, so we might know life grow snug, I feel less-than. Life abundant abundant in him. And I immediately make plans to cut back in January, Let’s practise forgiveness – towards ourselves, towards And this, friends, is something worth celebrating. because it’s the magical month, isn’t it? The month to get each other – even as we stumble along and try to figure out Emily T. Wierenga is an award-winning journalist, back into shape? The month for women to reclaim that size this life, in our snug pants, the hospitals full of starving blogger, commissioned artist and columnist, and the six dress, to purge for all of December’s sins? youth, because it’s not about the size of our bodies. It’s about author of five books. She lives in Neerlandia, Alberta, with Diet pill companies love January. They make commercials the size of our hearts. her husband and two sons. My Window Seat The Public Square Mendelt Hoekstra Harry Antonides

From the 11th Christ @ Culture Province Lloyd Rang Marian Van Til

Toddlers to Teens From the Lab Denise Dykstra Rudy Eikelboom

SU MO TU WE TH Principalities FR SA & Powers Everyday Christian David Koyzis Cathy Smith

Technically Speaking Getting Unstuck Derek Schuurman Arlene Van Hove

December 22, 2014 My Window Seat The Public Square page 15 Intangible Things Flowers and Thistles Columns Mendelt Hoekstra Harry Antonides Heidi Vander Slikke Curt Gesch From the 11th Christ @ Culture Province Words from Lloyd Rang Marian Van Til Country Living Wild Horses Search me! Meindert van der Galien Kenny Warkentin A year-end reflection

What child is this, who, laid to rest, on TMary’soddlers lap is to sleeping? Teens From the Lab Whom angels greet with anthems sweet,Denise while shepherds Dykstra watch are keeping? Rudy Eikelboom Patchwork Words OurThis, Worldthis is Christ Today the King . . . What man is this, who, laid to rest, in Joseph’s tomb ‘midst weeping?

SU Whom angels greet with anthems sweet, while the world keeps watching? MO TU WE TH Melissa Kuipers Bert Hielema FR SA It’s Jesus Christ, our coming King . . . Principalities & Powers Everyday Christian A familiar song with a differentDavid twist. Koyzis Christmas is over, right? Or is it? Cathy Smith We still live with the anticipation of Jesus the Messiah, our coming Speak - Write King, who will rule and reign – every government upon his shoulders. We still long for the day when every knee shall bow and every tongue Paula Warkentin confess that he is Lord of Teall.chnically Speaking Getting Unstuck What makes As I reflect on this past year, I see it was a battle of my will. My prayer this year has been “Lord,Derek help Schuurman me be a giver and not consumer! Arlene Van Hove your heart sing? Help me, Lord, in my day-to-day existence to sacrificially spend my life generously on those around me.” As I look ahead to the New Year, my hope is that we all reflect When did you last see a glorious sunrise or sunset? When did you on the true meaning of our lives as believers and not forget the true meaning of Jesus’ laugh so hard your insides rebelled? Have you taken a young child birth, life, death and resurrection. Jesus cameIntangible in lowly stature, Things born in a stable, laid in Flowers and Thistlesto the park lately, and heard her cries of delight? a manger. This King walked among sinners and saints, serving, exhorting and spending All of the above, at one time or another, made my heart sing in a his life for all mankind. Jesus wasn’t a taker;Heidi he wasVander a giver, Slikke ultimately giving life up Curt Gesch way that infused my body with positive feelings and added energy here on earth in order for us to live to my day. These were much-needed tonics, since at that time I was eternally with him. Let’s think and caring for my aging and disabled mother. rest on that truth for a moment. WoRecentrds fr researchom on behaviour and health has shown that people who experience Country Living positiveWild Horses emotions act with more compassion, have greater life satisfaction and enjoy Not our own Meindert Vander Galien betterWarkentins overall health, making this a worthy topic for my year-end column. Jesus’ life was not one of glut- I do not only mean sprinkling positive thoughts among our already full and busy days. tonous consumerism. Yet if we I mean making an intentional effort to recognize and experience the good we have in our think about our own lives, do we lives and using it to help us balance the pain and sorrow that is also part of our earthly see that same reflection? When Patchwork Words existence.Our World This T simpleoday activity can become an ode to our Creator for the gift of our life. we look in the mirror, what do I may have mentioned before in one of my columns that when I was caring for my we see? When we look back over Melissa Kuipers motherBert Hielema during the last years of her life, I intentionally made an effort to recognize not our Christmas season or the past Examine our lives, O Lord. only the good things in my life but also to experience some of it on a regular basis. year, what did we see reflected? So I made a habit of walking the promenade in a neighbouring sea-side town where Psalm 139:23-24 (NIV) says “Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know I would feel pure delight at my lightness of being, which only the ocean breeze could my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way offer. And in the fall, especially on a sunny day, I would feel sheer joy walking under a everlasting.” These two verses should inspire in us a desire to be led in the way of canopy of golden glowing autumn leaves. It literally made my heart sing! eternity, the way everlasting. I don’t read this with a dread of punishment; I hear the Often I would take my camera and record the scene so that I could recall the moment love behind it, filled with grace and mercy for a sinner made into an heir. All of us at another time, when sorrow or tiredness tried to take over. I printed these photos out who have accepted the Lord Jesus as our merciful saviour have entered into this same and carried a little album of gratitude with me for several years. life. As we wait for Christ to come again, we call out: “Search me!” Later I realized that I was actively involved in neuroplasticity – a neurological process This life of ours is not our own; we are called to live differently. I know I get caught that allowed me to rewire my brain in ways that helped me to more readily appreciate up in what I call the human narrative and forget that there is this new life I have been the positive things in my life and process my sorrow in a good way. Looking back, my called to walk in – the spiritual narrative. I get caught in the grip of self and consumer- mother intuitively grieved the loss of her husband and my father in the same way. She ism, so to check that impulse I started reflecting on life at the end of each year. Was remained thankful for the time they had together touring Canada and the United States it pleasing to God or just to me? Was it a year of service to my wife and daughter, in their recreational vehicle. When she recalled moments of sheer delight, it softened the people to whom I am called to serve and give my life to? Did I speak words of her burden of loss. encouragement to those around me, or did I get caught up in the drum beat and rhythm of my own thoughts and the culture around me? Cultivating AWE And so here is my year-end gift to you. Try out the habit of AWE as outlined by New life Linda Graham in her book Bouncing Back: Rewiring your brain for maximum resili- It can be quite humbling to ask Jesus to go for a walk down memory lane as you ence. These simple steps add flavour to your experiences. reflect on the year. But it can also be a time of great encouragement. For as I see the Appreciate. Consider what you do have. Really consider. Practicing appreciation failures and missed opportunities, my saviour Jesus blesses me with his love and faithful has been shown to create positive moods and reduce depression. promise to continue the good work that he began in me. This is his gift to me, to us! Wonder. Look around and notice your environment, whether in nature, in the city Yes, he sees, hears and knows everything, even the hidden things that we won’t share or in between. You may find yourself in amazed admiration for what you see. with anyone – and he still loves us, despite ourselves. How far will our gratefulness Empower. Realize there is something you can do to help someone or some cause. go in our response to this amazing gift? Maybe the greatest gift given back to Jesus is Your actions can make a difference in this world. in proclaiming those two words, “Search me!” Examine my life, Jesus, and show me how to live it out here while I wait in anticipation for your return. A month ago my spouse and I walked the Sea Wall in Stanley Park, Vancouver. It’s So my encouragement to you, my dear brothers and sisters, as we say farewell to the same wall my mother and I walked for many years every Friday after my father 2014, is for you all to know the extravagant love, mercy and grace of our Lord Jesus passed away. It was a crisp, clear day. At Third Beach I saw the bench my mother and I Christ who has called you out and into a new life – one of service, sacrifice and gener- always sat on for lunch. It was empty and the sun was shining through the trees. I pulled ous giving. my camera out of my backpack, took this photo (above) . . . and my heart sang. Kenny Warkentin is Associate Pastor at Trinity Baptist Church in Win- nipeg, where he lives with his wife Paula and their daughter Phoebe. He Arlene Van Hove ([email protected]) is a therapist and member of the blogs at kennypwarkentin.blogspot.com. Fleetwood CRC in Surrey, B.C. PAGE 16 christian courier

News

This is the sixth question in our series on apologetics called Redemptive Windows, where Christian Reformed Campus Ministers answer faith-challenging questions sent in by CC readers. You can view earlier articles at christiancourier.ca.

Q: 'How do you know the Bible is true? It’s full of contradictions.'

Shiao Chong responds: lamp unto my feet” (Psa. 119:105) is not literal but still I believe there are underlying questions to this ques- true! tion: Can I trust the Bible? How do I know the Bible Contradictions? is truly God’s Word? How do I know it won’t lead me When we read Biblical passages in light of these his- astray? torical, cultural, linguistic and literary contexts, most The common line of reasoning goes like this: 1) God of its so-called contradictions resolve themselves. For is perfect, i.e. cannot make mistakes, knows everything example, the differences between Luke’s (Luke 3) and and does not lie. 2) If the Bible is truly God’s Word, then Matthew’s (Matthew 1) genealogies of Jesus are not con- the Bible must be free from any mistakes, and true about tradictions because in their historical cultures, genealo- everything it says. 3) For something to be true, it must be gies are expected to support theological or ideological proven as factual and not contradict itself. 4) Therefore, points, not necessarily for historical accuracy. Matthew, the Bible must be factually accurate in everything it says, writing to Christian Jews, was making the point that Jesus and cannot have any contradictions at all. To show or fulfills the ancestral criteria of the Jewish Messiah as a prove any factual inaccuracy and any descendant of David and Abraham. contradiction is to prove that the Bible And he structures his genealogy in is not God’s Word, hence, not true. Facts are a subset of truth. But sections of 14 generations (Matt. This may sound reasonable but there not all truths are mere facts. 1:17), fourteen being the double of are a few misconceptions and missing seven, a number symbolizing com- points that impair its logic. pleteness or perfection to his Jewish Luke's and Matthew's genealogies of Jesus make different theological points. I believe this following line of reasoning is more audience. Luke, however, was writing to a Gentile audi- accurate: ence with different theological concerns. 1. God is perfect, i.e. cannot make mistakes, knows As an ancient historical document, the Bible has also Jesus” (see 2 Tim. 3:15-16), and I believe the Bible is everything and does not lie. been shown to be remarkably reliable whenever histor- true, trustworthy and transformative in that purpose. 2. We are not perfect, and in fact, very limited and cul- ians and archaeologists can verify biblical accounts. Even turally bound in our ability to fully comprehend all when it can be shown to be factually contradictory or in- Shiao Chong is the Christian Reformed truth and reality. accurate (which are few), it is not God’s accommodation Campus Minister & Director of Leadership, 3. God is also all wise and gracious, knowing how best through the imperfect, culturally bound human thought Culture and Christianity, a student club at to accommodate and communicate to his limited patterns that we must adhere to, it is God’s spiritual truths York University, Toronto. He has published numerous articles for various Christian pub- creatures. conveyed that takes priority. Scripture’s primary purpose lications, including Christian Courier. 4. If God can accommodate by coming in the flesh as is to instruct us “for salvation through faith in Christ Jesus, then God can accommodate his revelation to particular human historical contexts and cultures. 5. If the Bible is truly the Word of a perfect God who Chemo brain and life stories also graciously accommodates, then the Bible should have the nature of conveying perfect time- less truths through historically accommodated hu- John Longhurst man language, culture and thought patterns. I spent some time on sacred ground recently. And I believe that is what the Bible is: God’s perfect No, I didn’t go to Rome, Jerusalem, Mecca or any Word conveyed through imperfect human words, analo- other holy place. It happened right here, in a Winnipeg gous to Christ’s incarnation – the Word made flesh. Such hospital room as I helped a dying friend tell her life story. a view of Scripture is supported by Calvin, Augustine, My friend, only 49, was dying of cancer. Like many Chrysostom and others in church history. Any contradic- people, she wanted to share the story of her life with tions, if any, in the Bible are at the level of the accommo- her children. Not for publication, or anything as gran- dated human patterns and forms, not at the level of God’s diose as that. Just something that told them who timeless truths. she was, what she did and why she did those things. But cancer is cruel, and so are the treatments that try to Common misconceptions cure it. Dignity therapy helps people document their legacy. Before proceeding I need to clear up some misconcep- One of the side effects is fatigue. Not just tiredness, but tions and common assumptions. The first misconception “something more mysterious,” as nurse Sallie Tisdale noted do many times. is reducing truth to empirically proven facts. Facts are a in her article, “Chemo World,” in the June 2007 issue of subset of truth. But not all truths are mere facts. For ex- Harper’s Magazine. “It’s . . . a loss of vital energy, or what Legacy ample, the claim that “love is better than hate” is not an some might call life energy, animation, reserve or power.” During our meetings, I asked questions, pull- empirical fact, as it is nearly impossible to measure and Added to this is something called “chemo brain” – the in- ing together the threads of her life: First prove it. Yet almost all of us believe this is true, even if it ability to think. school, first car, first love, first job, first child is not a proven fact. The Bible’s spiritual truths are most- For a long time, she writes, it was dis- and last wishes – and everything in between. ly truths of this kind, not empirical facts. missed by doctors as a symptom of stress. But to- Those times together were sacred and holy moments. I Secondly, we tend to confuse true statements with lit- day “oncologists accept that cognitive dysfunc- think it was also a form of therapy. In fact, it is increas- eral statements. Nonliteral statements can also be true. tion after chemotherapy is rather common and ingly being recognized as a form of therapy, called dig- For instance, statements like “you will always be in my surprisingly durable . . . people complain of difficulty nity therapy. heart” or “money talks” are not literal statements, but we in finding words or remembering what they’ve read.” Through dignity therapy, people who are dying are understand their intended meanings to be true. Similarly, When tiredness and an inability to focus set in, even the helped to go over things that are most meaningful to to read every Biblical passage or verse as if it is always simplest task, like writing down your memories, can them, document their legacy and bring closure to their literal, in order to be true, is ignoring the original hu- seem like climbing the tallest mountain. You want to, but life. man authors’ intentions and meanings in their choices of you can’t. “Dignity therapy can bring comfort and enable a genre, style, structure and the expectations of their ori- That was the case for my friend. Even just spending Continued on page 17 ginal historical and cultural audiences. “God’s Word is a time talking was hard; about an hour was all she could CMYK

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December 22, 2014 page 17

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Job Opportunities Principal Church Planter / Campus Ministry seeking full time In beautiful Ottawa, Redeemer Christian High School seeks a principal with a Ministry Leader love for Jesus and a passion for Christian for a Church Plant with a Meeting you where it matters. education, continuing a treasured heritage at special focus on Campus Ministry. the school since 1975. The goal is to develop a new self-sustaining With about 170 students and a fabulous staff, Christian community. Key roles will include Plan at your own pace. RCHS desires to educate for eternity, and to developing relationships and nurturing spiritual- see students come to know Christ and grow ity, evangelizing and discipling new Christians, In the comfort of your own home review our towards maturity in relationship with Him. establishing a permanent presence in the com- See www.rchs.on.ca. munity where people can regularly worship and FREE Plan at Your Own Pace Guide. Email [email protected]. hear God’s word, creating missional ministry Apply by Jan. 23 for August start. opportunities and developing Christian leaders > Make thoughtful decisions with your in service to Christ’s church. faith and family in mind Kanata Community Christian Re- The ministry will be located in Oshawa, On- tario near the University of Ontario Institute of > Discuss with your family under no pressure formed Church located in Kanata, COMPASS CREATIVE STUDIO INC TITLE: FLK_Logo_CMYK Ontario, part of the greater city of Technology (UOIT). 201-1040 south service rd CLIENT: Kitching, Steepe, and Ludwig > Takestoney creek,advantage on L8E 6G3 ofDATE: ourAugust 2014free plan Ottawa, has begun a search for a For more information please contact us www.compasscreative.ca DESIGNER(S): Nick Tenhage at [email protected]. registration process. Full-time Pastor We are in a redevelopment stage seeking to > Get additional information only if YOU want reignite the flame of hospitality, acceptance CALENDAR OF EVENTS and belonging. Contact us to get your free guideREV - SPOT - COATED sent to you.

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The successful candidate will share in our de- Dec 25 The CBC Christmas Sing-In will We promise there will be no hasslePantone 300 C (65%) or follow-up call! sire to be a Christ-centred community, seek- be broadcast on CBC Radio Two at Pantone 300 C (55%) ing to meet the physical, social and spiritual Pantone 136 C (100%) 9:00 a.m. and CBC Radio One at noon. White needs of those inside our community and, Concert also available online. See ad through this core strength, enable the con- page 19. gregation to be attractive, accepting, loving, caring and welcoming to those outside the Feb 15 Dutch Service will be held in the church community. Ancaster Christian Reformed Church Interested pastors can visit our website at 3:00 p.m. Rev. John Klomps will be at www.kccrc.com and can also request a preaching. church profile from [email protected]. Rick Ludwig Garnet van Popta Diane Vanderwoude It’s comforting to come home.

1-800-737-8275 | kitchingsteepeandludwig.com/faithlink Where there’s a Will, Vacations there’s a way... COMPASS CREATIVE STUDIO INC TITLE: KSL_Logo_REV_SPOT_Coated 201-1040 south service rd CLIENT: Kitching, Steepe, and Ludwig

stoney creek, on L8E 6G3 DATE: July 2014

www.compasscreative.ca DESIGNER(S): Joel Reynolds To help your family AND benefit charity, contact CSS for a free, confidential visit. Christian Courier's Holiday accomodation in Holland Carry Us Forward 1-800-267-8890 | [email protected] with vehicle rentals and tours. www.csservices.ca chestnutlane.nl Campaign 200 Keep this thoughtful ministry Life stories . . . continued from page 16. alive by helping us get 175 200 NEW SUBSCRIPTIONS sense of meaning and purpose . . . and allow people to start writing now, not to wait. Take 150 them to feel that their words will transcend five minutes each day to jot down a memory by January 2015. even beyond their death,” says Harvey Max about a significant event, a special relationship, 125 Chochinov, MD, a psychiatrist at the University a funny experience or anything else that comes of Manitoba. to mind. What do you want your family and Get a friend or family member to subscribe 100 In a study conducted by Chochinov, ter- friends to know about you when you are gone? OR give a gift subscription minally ill patients who participated in dignity Each life is a story. For people of faith, they Receive TWO FREE MONTHS yourself! 76 75 therapy were more likely to say the treatment are also stories of God’s actions in the lives of 50 improved their quality of life, and changed people. It would be a shame not to record them Email how their family members viewed and appreci- for your loved ones. 25 ated them. According to the old adage, the best time to [email protected] My friend is the sixth person I’ve helped plant a tree is 20 years ago or today. I think it 1-800-969-4838 0 write a life story. All of them intended to write holds true for writing life stories, too. their life stories one day. But that day never came. It was my privilege to come alongside and use my gift of writing to help them. John Longhurst directs com- Do you intend to write your life story some munications and marketing for day? You know, when you retire or the kids Canadian Foodgrains Bank, and have grown up or things are less busy. is also the Faith Page columnist for the Winnipeg Free Press, Maybe you’ll be lucky. But what if life where this article first appeared. doesn’t work out that way? That’s why I urge PAGE 18 christian courier

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2014 CBC Christmas Sing-In: LONGSTAY VACATIONS 2015 Recorded in early December at Montréal's Church of for 4 weeks Portugal, apartment St. Andrew and St. Paul, the 35th annual Sing-In will Hosted by Merit: be broadcast Christmas Day on CBC Radio 2 at 9:00 Spain and Portugal Galveston, incl. cruise a.m., and on CBC Radio One at 12:00 noon. Spain, incl. cruise Arizona , Mesa France, Cannes and Nice Hosted by Ben Heppner, the performers include organist Contact us for all your travel destinations! Jonathan Oldengarm, soprano Aline Kutan, conductor Jordan de Souza, the Choir of the Church of St. Andrew and St. Paul, and a brass and percussion ensemble.

The concert can be heard online as of December 10 at http://music.cbc.ca/#/The-CBC-Christmas-Sing-In.

Why Ebola fighters areTime Magazine’s ‘Person of the Year’

Husna Haq (CSM) Commissioner Roger Goodell, Alibaba founder and The courageous Ebola fighters around the world who CEO Jack Ma, the Ferguson protesters, Russian are responding to the largest Ebola outbreak in history President Vladimir Putin and Kurdish leader Massoud are Time Magazine‘s 2014 “Person of the Year,” the Karzani. In 2013, the magazine selected Pope Francis magazine’s editors announced December 10. as its Person of the Year. Ebola has now claimed more than 6,000 lives (most- This year, it picked a group of people rather than ly in West Africa), more than 17,000 people have been one individual, and its choice also cast the spotlight on diagnosed as infected and the disease has tested the one of the most pressing global health issues. world’s health-care infrastructure. Essentially, Time is The Ebola virus, which first emerged as a problem in paying homage to the brave caregivers, nurses, ambu- the west African nations of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra lance drivers, doctors and health-care workers who Leone, and was declared an outbreak in March of rose to this challenge. 2014, has ravaged regional economies, as well as test- “For their tireless acts of courage and mercy, for ing local and global health systems. As such, it has buying the world time to strengthen its defenses, dominated the headlines for much of the year. for the risks they took and the lives they saved, the It has also thrown the spotlight on the selfless indi- Ebola fighters are Time’s 2014 Person of the Year,” viduals who have cared for Ebola patients. According Time editor Nancy Gibbs said in a video posted on the to the World Health Organization, 622 health-care magazine’s Web site. workers are known to have been infected with Ebola In deciding upon their “Person of the Year,” the through the end of November; 346 of them have died. Press that the Ebola field work was “the ‘most diffi- magazine considers “the person or persons who most According to a report by the Centers for Disease cult, most pitiful’ work of his life.” But he vowed to affected the news and our lives, for good or ill, and Control and Prevention, the incidence rate of Ebola return to the field to fight the virus. “I don’t have re- embodied what was important about the year.” cases in Sierra Leone is about 100 times higher for grets because I’m enjoying my job, and I think it’s health-care workers than it was for other people in the been a blessing to other people.” Present company country. This year’s runners-up included pop music art- And yet, they continue to fight the virus. Redemption ist Taylor Swift, Apple CEO Tim Cook, NFL “Ask what drove them and some talk about God; Asked how surviving Ebola changed him, Dr. Kent some about country; Brantly, a missionary, told Time, “[W]henever we go some about the instinct through a devastating experience like what I’ve been to run into the fire, not through, it is an incredible opportunity for redemption away,” writes Time of something. We can say, How can I be better now Magazine. “‘If some- because of what I’ve been through? To not do that is one from America kind of a shame.” comes to help my As such, the Ebola outbreak has been both a source people, and someone of inspiration and a challenge for the global commun- from Uganda,’ says ity, suggests Time Magazine. Iris Martor, a Liberian “So that is the next challenge,” writes Time. “What nurse, ‘then why can’t will we do with what we’ve learned? This was a test of I?’” the world’s ability to respond to potential pandemics, Adds Foday Gallah, and it did not go well. It exposed corruption in African an ambulance driver governments along with complacency in Western cap- who survived infec- itals and jealousy among competing bureaucrats. It tion, “I am going to triggered mistrust from Monrovia to Manhattan. Each fight Ebola with all of week brought new puzzles.” my might.” For inspiration on the road that lies ahead in the Sierra Leone doc- fight against Ebola, the magazine points readers once tor Komba Songu- again to its “Person of the Year.” M’briwa, who con- “The rest of the world can sleep at night because tracted the disease a group of men and women are willing to stand and after treating a fellow fight. For tireless acts of courage and mercy, for buy- The magazine pictured five people on its covers, including Dr. Jerry Brown, a Liberian Sierra Leone phys- ing the world time to boost its defenses, for risking, for surgeon; Salome Karwah, an Ebola survivor whose parents died from the disease; and ician (who later died), persisting, for sacrificing and saving, the Ebola fight- Dr. Kent Brantly, an American missionary who became infected while in Liberia. told the Associated ers are Time’s 2014 Person of the Year.” PAGE 20 christian courier

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One Hundred years? So what? ODDS & TRENDS Lini Richarda Grol But many centenarians think that, on the whole, The going rate for drummers Whenever people meet a centenarian, they life is good. Even if you are a hundred years old, drumming often ask, “How did you do it?” And the re- they say, you can keep contact by telephone or How much for true love? If the famous suit- sponse is often a shrug, with the remark, “It just email with your far-away family or friends. or in the song had to buy all the items in “The happened.” Life remains interesting if you can talk with Twelve Days of Christmas” today, it would cost Of course, the answer will be different on like-minded people, and can handle and enjoy the him $107,300. A company called PNC Wealth certain days and at certain times. advances made in such electronic Management tracked the prices, estimating Some may say, “It certainly helps if media as TV, Internet and comput- An expensive fortnight that at $7,000 each, seven swans a-swimming you love people and are interested ers. These things bring fascinating begins with this bird. would come with the highest bill in the current in life as a whole.” Or they will say, knowledge and enjoyment, day economy. Leaping lords and dancing ladies are “Keep up with the news, by print or after day. not cheap either, mind you. Luckily, four calling birds are still a reason- electronic media. Keep in contact To become and be a hundred able $519; pear trees are a steal at $189 and partridges have been the with far-away friends, be part of years old simply means just go- same price for years – a modest $15. their life, support them or be sup- ing on living, year after year, and ported.” Then there is the advice to enjoying your work, as you have Not a secular conspiracy “exchange friendly remarks with done all your life and most likely Every December, bumper people passing by. Be fully aware still do. stickers and signs indignantly of being alive, and be part of the Normally, you don’t need power- declare that it’s time to “Put surrounding environment.” ful medicine to reach the age of one Christ back in Christmas.” Of course, getting old is not al- hundred years, if you are reason- They object to Xmas, seeing ways fun. People struggle on the ably healthy. Just eat and drink in it as an attempt to erase Jesus Put X back in Xmas. less-than-wonderful days when moderation, but be aware of what from the celebration of his Centenarian Lini Grol says things fall out of their hands, every- you do and enjoy it birth. But the word has roots in Christianity, not a secular conspiracy. life is "still interesting." thing goes wrong and the cleaning Believe me, to grow old at any As theologian R.C. Sproul explains on his blog, “There’s a long lady does not come. Or the dishes age, up to a hundred, really boils and sacred history of the use of X to symbolize the name of Christ, pile up and they are without a dishwasher. down to a lot of common-sense. and from its origin, it has meant no disrespect.” The first letter of the Life at hundred means losing family and I should know. I was born in 1913 and am now Greek word “Christos” is transliterated in English as an X. It’s a short- friends your age or even younger. But you go on, 101. hand symbol for the name of Christ, just as R.C. is for Robert Charles enjoy those you still have and make new friends, Thank God. Sproul, and – as he says – “nobody is too scandalized by that.” even though they may not understand if you talk about your past. Nor do you understand when Lini Grol lives in Holland Christian Homes in – Angela Reitsma Bick they talk about their background and youth. Brampton, Ontario.

A Christian University in Hamilton, Ontario

I believe deeply that as students learn to interpret texts, they also learn to read their own lives and to recognize the hand of God in whatever circles they are called to learn and live.

- Dr. Deborah Bowen, Professor of English

ReAd mORe at MyRedeemer.ca/DrBowen