Fearless Kids revisited
Twenty-first century culture seems to be in hot pursuit of a “freedom” that has turned out to be more of a compulsory, self-destructive licentiousness. This chase to the cultural bottom has been particularly hard on children. Marital happiness is encouraged, but often...
Everlasting Torment Purposes
Bad Behavior Limiter What is the purpose of everlasting torment? We can argue that the threat of everlasting torment affects how people behave. Let us call this the “Santa Claus effect”. (You better watch out; You better not cry; You better not pout; I'm telling you...
Pluralism Lament
The survival of the United States as a fundamentally free country depends on a commitment to democracy, republicanism, and pluralism. Can these survive our present cultural polarization? Our differences are many but most critically we are separated over what it means...
Peace
Peace, 4/7/26
After the resurrection, Jesus appeared to his disciples two times in locked rooms. Among other things, three times he said to them: “Peace be with you.” This was not Jesus-the-hippie throwing off casual greetings. It was not even a Jesus come to calm the fears and anxieties of the disciples, who I imagine were still shell-shocked by the crucifixion, uncertain about their futures, and living in terror that they, too, would be rounded up by the religious leaders for tortuous, spectacular deaths. No, I think we look at this and understand that Jesus is saying, “Fellas, I’ve solved the BIG PROBLEM. You and the rest of the family of Adam were living under the curse. You were helpless in your sins. You were doomed to die. And the big problem? your relationship with your Creator was broken. Not now. I bring you peace. I am God. I have dealt with your problem. I have made it possible for you to live in peace. His repeated statement is a reprise of what he proclaimed on the cross: “It is finished.” When Jesus brings us peace, all shadows scurry out of the room. – Easton Omither
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