Jeff Today we need a chorus of voices proclaiming the message of the universal family—the fatherhood of God and the brotherhood of man—in whatever words truly fit our discoveries and other’s receptivity. Core spiritual truth comprises themes of love, worship, service, doing the will of God, his indwelling spirit, being and becoming like God, faith, and more. The world is waiting for the living spiritual reality of this many-sided message.
This the article just published at www.PhilosophyOfReligion.org What can philosophy of religion offer to the modern university? Quick answer: Teach an experiential philosophy of living in truth, beauty, and goodness. A new opportunity on the horizon builds upon one of philosophy’s classical functions, interdisciplinary reflection. Philosophy of religion courses that include units on science and religion, … Read more
We could simply say “give.” “Bestow” is a word with more grandeur; it connotes a very special gift. Our most unique and total gift is to bestow ourselves. Jesus bestowed himself to reveal the Father to the people of this world (at least). He did not merely publish content. Most of all, he gave a … Read more
Last week I heard the American Boychoir perform “The Quiet Sea,” which I found very moving. May I suggest that you listen first to a recording (by a different group): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66CFFQdNe3o Next, look at the lyrics: http://www.west-windsor-plainsboro.k12.nj.us/cms/One.aspx?portalId=10639990&pageId=18331264 Now you have this extraordinary song. It starts with a spiritual voyage on a quiet sea. Then come … Read more
Giving thanks: we recognize something good, realize that some one else is responsible for it, turn to the giver in a person-to-person way, and give voice to our gratitude. Here’s my song of thanks based on Psalm 92.
Once the religious leaders had determined to destroy Jesus, and Jesus had determined to protect his followers by demonstrating his spiritual superiority over every intellectual and physical challenge they could bring to bear, the stage was set in Jerusalem. Presenting a list of grievances and redefining identity, Jesus’ declaration of independence announced a break with … Read more
For the experiential component of my world religions classes, the first project was to get in touch with “your wonderfulness within.” I made it clear that this is better known as the spirit of God within, and has different names and interpretations in various religions and secular psychologies. For the students, the simplest and most … Read more
A television clip showed convicts from a facility in the San Francisco Bay area. They were working in the rich soil of a field on a hill south of the city, participating in a program of cultivating herbs to sell to local gourmet restaurants. Many of them were learning new gentleness and patience. What does … Read more
“Walking in beauty” is a Navajo phrase that symbolizes a cosmically attuned and responsible way of life. Coping with hardship or gathering in celebration, our fulfillment comes as part of nature, through the arts, with others in society, and in relationship to the divine. At its best, every culture in its particular beliefs and practices … Read more