In a few months time I will be 58 years of age. As I grow older, I find myself reflecting more on my life. Where I’ve come from, where I’ve been, where and who I am now, and where I am going.… Read the rest
A Map of Life’s Journey
ORIGINS: Genesis Re-Visited
The book of Genesis is a narrative of the origins of the world, but in particular the family of Abraham. Three major world religions trace their roots back to Abraham – Christianity, Judaism and Islam. The first 11 chapters cover what is often referred to as ‘pre-history’: from the beginnings of the universe through just after Noah and the flood.… Read the rest
Do You Have a ‘Secular’ Job?
Every now and then when I am talking with someone, in the course of the conversation, they will mention their ‘secular job’. I always pause and think about that statement. It actually grates me. Why is that?
Unfortunately, many people have created a division between the “sacred” and the “secular”.… Read the rest
Is Our View of Retirement Still Working?
“Retirement” – what does that word mean for you?
Maybe you are young and retirement seems a distant, mysterious world for you. Or maybe you are working your butt off right now and can’t wait to finish? Or maybe you are already there. … Read the rest
Could You Live to 100 years of Age? (Part 2)
Today we continue our series of posts on the possibility of living to 100 years of age.
Areas on the planet where people regularly live to over 100 years of age today are often referred to as “blue zones”.
… Read the rest Do You Really Need MORE of God? (Part 7)
If you are a person of faith, do you really need MORE of God?
I am all for spiritual experiences but theologically the truth is that we already have all we need. The apostle Paul once wrote a letter to some people living in the city of Corinth who were always after MORE (especially supernatural experiences!)
… Read the rest Do You Really Need MORE Relationships? (Part 6)
As human beings, we are designed for relationship. No one is meant to do life 'alone'. We are all better off when we are connected with other people. It's part of our inner need to belong. Of course, experiencing a sense of belonging takes effort and time (the very word "belong" comes from two words "be … long").
… Read the rest Do You Really Need MORE Work? (Part 5)
My dad used to say, "The reward of work well done is more work!" How true is that.
Making a contribution is an important part of being human and adding value to society. We were created for meaningful work.
… Read the rest Do You Really Need MORE Money? (Part 4)
Do you really need MORE money?
Sometimes more money can be of help – especially to meet our needs and to do good in the world. There is nothing wrong with money. Contrary to the opinion of some, money is NOT "the root of all evil".
… Read the rest Do You Really Need MORE Success? (Part 3)
Those of us who live in the West are born into a world dominated by the religion of capitalism. From our early years, we hear it preaching its gospel of success.
… Read the rest Do You Really Need MORE Stuff? (Part 2)
We live in a world that continually seeks to make us dissatisfied with what we currently have and tries to motivate us to buy the latest and the greatest things. As a result, we end up with far more stuff than we really need.… Read the rest
Do You Really Need MORE? (Part 1)
We live in a society that continually encourages us to pursue MORE – more money, more work, more success, more relationships, more experiences and more stuff. Personally, I love working towards goals and continually accomplishing new things. But this constant achievement-orientation can become addictive and it takes a toll on us – physically, mentally, emotionally and relationally.
Church Life AFTER Marriage Equality: The Questions No One Is Asking
Right now, Australians are deliberating about just one question – “Should the law be changed to allow same-sex couples to marry?” A majority of conservative Christians (as well as Jews and Muslims) are campaigning for a 'No' vote, while less are saying it should be 'Yes'.… Read the rest
Finding Happiness (Part 3): Financial Control
The third ingredient contributing to our everyday happiness (read part 1) is financial control.
Money isn't everything but having enough to meet our own needs as well as to give away to others can create a sense of happiness and freedom in our lives. This has nothing to do with our 'net worth' or waiting until we get that next raise or bonus.… Read the rest
Finding Happiness (Part 2): Strong Personal Relationships
The second factor that contributes to our happiness (read Part 1) is Strong Personal Relationships.
Each of us is born into a family and a desire for a sense of belonging is a part of what it means to be human.… Read the rest